The Carolina Student Transfer Excellence Program, housed in the office of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, seeks to admit, identify, enroll and graduate high-achieving, low-to-moderate-income students transferring to Carolina from partnering community colleges.

Fayetteville Technical Community College became a partner college with UNC-Chapel Hill in the spring of 2011, and since that time, FTCC has had eight students matriculate. This year, the program will have its largest number of students entering class for the fall of 2015 with 15 students.

“I now feel more confident in my abilities to succeed at Chapel Hill because the C-STEP program has prepared me for the transition,” stated upcoming Radiologic Science major De’Quadre Hart. “C-STEP has given me the opportunity to grow as an individual, to grow academically, and to form new bonds with my cohort group. I have come a long way.”

The program holistically reviews potential candidates and consistently challenges students to put forth their best efforts to complete their two-year asociate of arts or associate of science degree, while maintaining at least a 3.0 grade point average. The majority of FTCC C-STEP students maintain at least a 3.5 GPA. Current C-STEP student Joseph Espinoza offers his views on how to be successful through the C-STEP program: “You have to give up something to get something in return, and you also have to stay on top of your grades. C-STEP is a lot of hard work, but I absolutely love it! I consider the C-STEP group members to be a part of my family, and we are not just one — we are a cohesive unit. And the experience is not just educational. It’s emotional — in and out of school — and the support the program gives you is amazing.”

“Attending UNC-Chapel Hill will be a testament to my dedication to school, the hard work to stay in the program, and how far I have come,” stated C-STEP student Brandon Perez. “I think about my mom and my family, and this is my chance for my mom to be proud of my accomplishments.”

According to C-STEP student Erik Carlos II, “C-STEP has given me a more positive attitude and an opportunity to grow as an individual. I have more pronounced self-confidence, and I now look forward to the new opportunities and challenges that UNC-Chapel Hill will offer me. This program has given me direction and a clearer perspective on life. I’m moving forward — progressing — and I now know where I am going.”

C-STEP currently serves more than 400 students, and more than 200 of those students have already enrolled at Carolina. Interested candidates seeking more information about the C-STEP program should contact L. J. Nelson at FTCC [(910) 678-8205 or nelsonl@faytechcc.edu].

Stop by the FTCC Campus in Fayetteville or Spring Lake or visit the FTCC office at the Bragg Training & Education Center for a face-to-face tour! Visit our website, faytechcc.edu, to learn more about how FTCC can change your life in positive ways.

Legends Pub is not like other bars. It’s a home away from home, a safe place in troubled times, a support network and a watering hole for the friendliest and most generous bikers you are likely to ever meet. “On average it takes me 15 minutes to get a drink. Not because of bad service — by no means. It takes me that long to say hi and share the hugs,” said Legends Pub Owner Holly Whitley. “So if we need four hugs a day for survival and eight hugs a day for maintenance and we need 12 hugs a day for growth, the average customer at Legends should be good.”

There is always something going on at Legends Pub and oftentimes that something is a fundraiser or other event to help a person in need or to support a nonprofit in the community. While the situations the fundraisers seek to remedy are often dire, the events are always high-spirited and filled with laughter. Whitley is the owner of the place but she credits her friends and customers for the great things that the group has accomplished over the past two decades. On June 6-8, Legends Pub is set to celebrate its 18th Annual Spring Fling. It is the biggest benefit of the year and something the community always comes out to support.

“The care and concern for others has always been a big part of my little bar tucked off Bragg Boulevard. I knew at the first Spring Fling what kind of people would come here to share their lives helping others,” said Whitley. “This place has a purpose. We’re family. Last year alone we raised more than $54,000 for our community. Kidsville News!was our heart for Spring Fling last year. We even had a visit from Truman the Dragon. This year it is for one of our own.”

Caroline Montague was recently diagnosed with stage-3 lung cancer. “I’ve known her for years and we were blessed to have her join our staff here at Legends a year ago,” said Whitley. “She is such a kind lady — so there was no question where we would direct the venue for 2014.”

Three days of frolicking and fun doesn’t happen without preparation and hard work. This is where the Legends Pub family shines. They knows how to roll up their sleeves and come together to create a memorable event.

“I could have never done any of this on my own. The support and volunteers have been amazing. Working with Trent by my side for 15 years along with Priscilla — talk about someone special. The time and effort she has put into keeping me organized is amazing.

“Mike has cooked thousands of pounds of pork and constructed more cornhole games than I can count. Axel — I can’t even count the times he’s jumped up to help. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to know each and every one of my friends,” said Whitley.

“And Shirley, wow, I remember the first time I met her she was hiding behind the big tree wondering what she was getting herself into. Ann, Dee, Carol and so many others are always stepping up to the plate. If I’ve heard it once from these girls, I’ve heard it 1,000 times — ‘What ya need?’ With such unencumbered passion and enthusiasm they all help so many in our community on a regular basis.”

To say that Legends feels like family is true; in fact, for Whitley it is a family affair. Whitley’s daughter Christy has learned from watching the pros around her what it means to give. Whitley’s love for her daughter is apparent when she talks about what Christy means to her. “She has worked so hard at her own job and always stepped up at Legends to do what was needed. She is my heart, my dear daughter. She and J.D. have always supported every adventured I have endured. Sometimes rolling their eyes at me, but still I’ve always been able to know they both had my back. I love them both.”

With this kind of dedication, it is no wonder that the Gypsy Women’s Spring Fling has been going strong for close to 20 years. The fun starts on Friday evening with pizza and a pool tournament. On Saturday, the Scott Sather Memorial Poker Run kicks things off. The first bike rolls out at noon. At the end of the ride, enjoy a pig pickin’ and an auction.

The auctions at Legends are always great fun.

“Do you remember the singing fish that people would hang on the wall? They were popular several years ago,” said Axel Rehme, one of Whitley’s friends and part of the Legends Pub family. “Holly’s been auctioning that thing off for years. It always goes for $100 or more and then, Flea, that’s who usually wins it, will donate it right back for next year’s auction. The fun is in the bidding.”

The Spring Fling continues on Sunday with a bike show, a cook out and a bike rodeo. There is a bike drawing on Sunday, too. For $50, get a ticket that entitles the winner of the drawing to a 2002 Softail Deuce. Only 250 tickets are available.

Call 867-2364 to find out more about the Gypsy Women’s Spring Fling.

Photos:Middle right; This year’s Spring Fling benefits Caroline Montague. Lower left; Holly Whitley (r) and her daughter Christy (l).

The “No Tax Manifesto”

Everyone who is familiar with the story of the Pied Piper remembers the greedy, ill prepared bureaucrats and uninformed villagers (citizens) who slighted and deceived a mystical musician who had done them a great deed by playing a magical tune on his ̀ute to rid their village of a terrible and rabid rat infestation. This act saved the village and their lives. In response, the bureaucrats and uninformed villagers slighted the piper (he wasn’t paid). In response, the Pied Piper once again played his magical tune. Only this time, all the children of the village began to dance and sing while gleefully following him directly into a mountain where they were never seen or heard of again. So, the moral of the story? Sooner or later the people of the village had to “pay the piper.” And, so it will go if this community blindly accepts a tax increase of any size before we have all the facts about how our tax dollars are currently being spent and managed — or mismanaged.

The “No Tax Manifesto”has been created from comments and criticisms heard from many Fayetteville citizens who do not feel that our City Manager and City Council are looking closely enough for ways to avoid what some people already think is a done deal — an inevitable 4.2- or 3.8-cent tax increase.

What difference does it make? Well, it makes a lot of difference to many citizens who think the increase is not needed and that there is not enough being done to maximize or conserve our current tax resources. They do not think that prudent decisions are being made on how to spend and allocate our tax dollars. Of course, this is hard work. So the City Council should insist that the City Manager get to work and take on this responsibility to produce an accurate assessment of our community needs and resources. The City Council should investigate all the needs brought forth to them and resist listening and marching to the music of a “Pied Piper” without proper due diligence. Fayetteville citizens ultimately know best. Here are comments and questions heard echoing throughout the community. Once compiled, these comments made the perfect “No Tax Manifesto.”Enjoy!

Residents would appreciate and respect being provided straight and honest answers to all questions referred to City Manager and Council members. i.e.

• What specifically are the reductions taken by city departments?

• What outsourcing opportunities have been identified that could save the City money and reduce the operating budget?

• How many budgeted unfilled positions does the city have open and how long have they been vacant?

• How many budgeted positions have been vacant for more than thirty months? $$$ Value?

• Why have these positions not been eliminated?

• If the positions are unfilled and have not been eliminated, what is the budgeted money being spent on?

• No doubt city residents are willing to fund and sacrifice for the funding of more police officers and staff. That being said, then what is the justification for proposing 4-10 percent salary increases for city management?

• Enlighten the residents about what we are paying our top city management. Residents should know how much of the proposed tax increase is going to increasing the iǹated salaries of the City Manager and City Management. Could this be an example of income inequality?

• Articulate in detail some of the potential savings from merging PWC and city departments.

• Discontinue ambiguous statements like the city “is lean” or “we just can’t cut anymore.” Talk in specifics about these situations

.• Provide specific assurances that all city departments are being managed and operated efficiently. Address areas that are not. Again, specifically.

• Specifically describe efficiencies and budget-saving measures found in all departments.

• Disclose and define what discretionary funding is. How will the City Manager use this money in the future? Why is it discretionary?

• It should be considered that only the loyal, hardworking rank-and-file workers of the City receive a 2.5 percent salary increase. All other city management, including the Mayor and City Council, should forego any salary rate increases.

• Assure Fayetteville residents that the budget proposed is specifically for funding police, reducing crime and providing essential city services to our residents and not for building bureaucracies like economic development or allocating funding to iǹate the salaries of upper management and hire more staff.

• Emphatically, fund the police department first. Then fund everything else.

• New revenue and funding sources. What are they? Who is coming up with innovative ideas?

•Transparency is a must. The taxpayers need to know what part of the tax increase is going to city management salary increases. Also, make sure all City Councilmen knowingly admit that they understand this. This way they cannot claim after the fact they were not aware of the process.

•Share with the residents how big the city staff has grown over the past three years compared to private industry in Fayetteville.

• Get a consensus from the Mayor and City Council: Ask the question, “Should the city government be iǹating itself at a time when the cost will be born largely by Fayetteville’s working middle class, seniors, retirees and our low income families — all of which cannot afford it?”

In conclusion, time is not on the citizens’ side. This is coming down to the wire and a rush vote with an unfortunate tone of “Oh well, a 3.8-cent increase is better than a 4.2-cent increase.” Then everyone votes for the compromise. No. This is NOT the way it should be done. Everyone must be held accountable. At this point, there are way too many unanswered questions and uninformed city councilmen who are not leading but being led. It is here that courage and backbone are essential. Step one: Get the facts. Step two: Stand up, take a position and be prepared to defend it with specifics. Not generalizations. This is real leadership. Within the week, we’ll see who has it.

Thanks for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

Photo: Before raising taxes, find out what the Fayetteville residents have to say.

The Fayetteville SwampDogs are off to a fast start this season, and are providing plenty of excitement on the field. But of course, at J.P. Riddle Stadium the game is not the only exciting thing going on.

This week, The Swamp was the place to be for a fun time for all members of the family.

On Saturday, May 31, the SwampDogs had their first fireworks extravaganza of the season, as they took on the Columbia Blowfish. Every year, the SwampDogs put on the best fireworks shows in Fayetteville, and this year it is better than ever. You’re not going to want to miss these spectacular shows — everyone is sure to be talking about them.

The fun continued on Monday, June 2, for Duke Night at The Swamp as the Dogs hosted the Catawba Valley Stars at 7:05 p.m. The first 500 fans in attendance received a free magnet schedule courtesy of Freeman & Barrett, CPAs, and fans wearing Duke attire received special discounts throughout the ballpark. That game was also a “Mug Monday.” Fans who purchased a 16 oz. souvenir mug got free entry to the Miller Lite Liberty Lounge, and could fill the mug up for just $1! While enjoying the game from the Lounge, fans enjoyed the $1 burgers and dogs with $2 wine and free popcorn, peanuts and soda.

Then on Wednesday, June 4, the Morehead City Marlins come back to town on Home Run Math Club Night presented by Fazoli’s, Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, Dunkin’ Donuts and The Little Gym of Fayetteville.

Make sure to make your way out to The Swamp for all this — plus a few surprises. It is sure to be fun for the entire family.

Don’t forget to register your young ones for the SwampDogs Kid’s Camp. From June 23-26, kids ages 5-13 will have four days of hands-on instruction and fun with the SwampDogs players and coaches. Spots are limited and going fast, so make sure your child doesn’t miss out on the most fun camp of the summer.

Be sure to follow the team on social media to keep up on everything SwampDogs. Like the team on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoSwampDogs, follow the team’s Twitter and Instagram accounts at @GoSwampDogs, and keep updated on highlights, player interviews, and much more at www.youtube.com/GoSwampDogs.

Follow @FunGosDugout on Twitter for live updates from SwampDogs players from the field as the game is happening. Get a unique insight into the personalities and quirks of your favorite players.

For tickets to all of these great games, to register your child for the kid’s camp or for more information, call the SwampDogs offices at 426-5900.

You can also check out the team website: www.goswampdogs.com.

It’s no secret that sports are a big deal in North Carolina but many may not realize that it goes muchdeeper than a basketball rivalry. For instance, this year is the centennial of Babe Ruth’s first professional home run, which took place right here in Fayetteville. To complement the centennial and other sports activities in the area, Assistant Professor Alex Macaulay, Ph.D., from Western Carolina University will speak about the subject in a presentation at the Museum of the Cape Fear. Titled It’s Not Just a Game: Sports and Society in North Carolina, the program explores North Carolina’s sports and the wide-reaching effects it has had on the state over the years.

“People attending this event can expect to learn the integral role that sports play and have played in the lives of North Carolinians. This is a humanities presentation that shares information that causes people to think about the way the past influences the present. During the presentation, people will find themselves asking questions about why, particularly in this state, sports has the impact that it does on our residents. Why don’t we have a professional baseball team? What attracts major sporting events like the women’s and men’s U.S. Open Championships to North Carolina, but in particular, to the Sandhills region?” Leisa Greathouse, the Curator of Education for the Museum of the Cape Fear, said.

This year is a big year for sports of all kinds in North Carolina. There is the centennial of Babe Ruth’s first professional home run as a paid professional in 1914 and the U.S. Open Championships that are scheduled for Pinehurst this summer. To embrace the convergence of events, the museum has focused on the history of sports in the area in multiple ways. “The museum has been promoting sports in the Sandhills to bring attention to the sports history of the area, and the state. Back in March, the museum created a small panel exhibit, currently hanging in the lobby, that talks about our local baseball history, including how a young George Herman Ruth picked up the nickname ‘Babe,’” said Greathouse.

Regardless of previous sports knowledge, the program is sure to be interesting for all sports or history fans. “Most sports enthusiasts will be aware of North Carolina’s sports history. Others will be surprised to learn about the significance North Carolina has played in sports. What will not surprise them will be the role sports has played in North Carolina society. I meet many people who associate North Carolina with college basketball, and Michael Jordan, and there are many who think we are sports nuts in this state. At this presentation, they can learn why,” Greathouse says.

The event is totally free to the public, thanks to a generous grant from the North Carolina Humanities Council, a nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The event will be on Sunday June 8 at 2 p.m. at the Museum of the Cape Fear. The Museum is located at 801 Arsenal Ave. For more information call or visit http://www.ncdcr.gov/ncmcf.

Photo: Baseball legend Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run in Fayetteville. North Carolina is home to many major sporting events.

Daughters of Christ Ministry presents a Christian Conference for Women on Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26 at the Holiday Inn Bordeaux Ballroom at 9 a.m. Daughters of Christ is a Christian counseling and teaching ministry that seeks to assist women “in being intimately connected with Christ through the sharing of his holy precepts in his word and via times of prayer to him.”

The event is open to women of all ages that would like to attend a Christian conference without regard to their affiliation to this ministry.

The schedule of the conference entails breakfast from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Vendor table browsing takes place from 7:30-8:45 a.m. The conference begins at 9 a.m. Lunch is served from noon to 1 p.m. Visit the vendor room from noon to 1 p.m. The final session ends at 4 p.m. Fellowship and vendor table browsing follow from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The keynote speaker of the event is renowned author and Christian counselor Leslie Vernick. She has been featured on Focus on the Family and her book titles include The Emotionally Destructive Marriage, Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy and Defeating Depression. “I am going to teach how people get their faith from their head to their heart in very practical and ethical ways — especially when their life is going wrong,” said Vernick. “It can be in a traffic jam, while we are burning dinner or when a teenager has a smart mouth.” Vernick added that she will teach how to respond by putting your faith into practice and understanding what God is up to at the moment and how it allows us to grow.

Vernick will also do a workshop about her book The Emotionally Destructive Marriage. “Twenty-five percent of Christian marriages report a lot of emotional or verbal abuse going on,” said Vernick. “I talk about the emotionally destructive marriage because it is the silent elephant in the Christian home.”

Vernick added that in the church people often do not like to admit it or talk about it but it is happening. It happens a lot and oftentimes women are told to try harder, submit and get your husband to love you and if you would only do it right, he would not treat you this way.

“The Christian marriage is supposed to be a picture of Christ and his bride,” said Vernick. “The husbands are instructed to lay down their lives or sacrifice for their wives yet traditionally in church teachings we have been giving husbands a selfish card.”

Vernick added that what she means by this is that the husband believes that because he is the head of their household it somehow gives him the right to get his way all the time and do whatever he wants and the wife is supposed to comply. That really is not the definition of headship or submission. Sacrificial leadership is the true definition of headship.

Several recording artists will provide the music and guests from San Antonio will share biblical messages and lead the songs. Vendors will set up their merchandise at the event.

Tickets cost $80 per person. Registration is open until June 30 and seats are going fast. For more information or a vendor application visit www.daughtersofchristministry.org. For more information about Vernick visit www.leslievernick.com.

Photo: Renowned author and Christian counselor, Leslie Vernick, is the Keynote speaker for the Daughters of Christ Conference on July 25 and 26.

The classic works of William Shakespeare have entertained audiences for centuries and are regarded by many as timeless masterpieces. Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, and many others have been adapted into almost every spoken language on the planet and performed countless times around the world.

This summer, The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, The Museum of the Cape Fear and Fayetteville State University sponsor the third season of a local group that performs works of William Shakespeare in our area, Sweet Tea Shakespeare.

Sweet Tea Shakespeare was founded in 2012 at Fayetteville State University by Jeremy Fiebig, who is an Assistant Professor of Theatre. He says he founded the group because he wanted to, “dig back into work with Shakespeare... I wanted to get Fayetteville interested in Shakespeare, too.”

To perform, Fiebig has assembled a cast of actors that he describes as, “a mix of local professionals, some of my students, students from Methodist University, recent alumni from FSU and Methodist, Campbell University and students at FTCC … We have actors who have worked with us before, who have worked at Gilbert Theatre, Cape Fear Regional Theatre and the university theatres in the area. People will recognize them from other work in the community. That is one of the things that we pride ourselves on, these people on stage are known.”

The group is set to perform two shows; one series in June and another in July. Love’s Labour’s Lost runs June 18-22, and is directed by Jeremy Fiebig. The Taming of the Shrew, the second show of the season, runs July 16-20, and is directed by Greg Fiebig, who is a Professor of Communication and Theatre at Indiana-Wesleyan University, and the father of Jeremy Fiebig.

Both shows begin at 7 p.m., and are performed outdoors on the grounds of the Poe House at the Museum of the Cape Fear on Arsenal Avenue. Fieberg has chosen to perform outdoors because, “doing any type of theatre is about making magic and there are a lot of ways to go about getting that magic; the play itself, the scenery, costumes, lighting, the effects, actors, music. For Sweet Tea, much of that magic comes from the beautiful environment of Southeast North Carolina. We are about beautiful spaces and beautiful words; we selected the Poe House because it is a beautiful environment. It adds to the magic of the play, the magic we bring as actors, musicians and artists.

“Sweet tea is something everybody has in common around here, it is everywhere, and it is something everyone can enjoy. Shakespeare can be, and is, all of those things, too. We want to be the best party in town. A lot of Sweet Tea Shakespeare is built around the idea of community and an event. When you come to Sweet Tea Shakespeare, you are getting a great production of a play but you are also going to get the opportunity to hang out with other people. We want Shakespeare to be at the center of that party. But that party doesn’t happen unless the community is there.”

Find out more about Sweet Tea Shakespeare at www.sweetteashakespeare.com.

If you follow Ben Franklin’s philosophy, then you have probably heard the phrase that “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” If that is the case, then you are not going to want to miss the Blues-n-Brews Festival on Saturday June 7 at Festival Park.

The festival is the only fundraiser held each year by the CFRT. The funds raised by this fun and musical event are used to stage the award-winning professional shows produced by the theatre each season. So while there is a very serious reason for this annual venture, the day itself promises to be anything but serious, with great food, music, games and beer on tap.

Co-chaired by Jenny Beaver Deviere and Karen Tinsdale, the festival will feature close to 60 breweries/beer distributors highlighting some of their top beers. The price of beer tasting is included in the ticket price, with each ticket holder receiving a glass specifically for tasting. Again this year, Dirtbag Ale, a local micro brewer operated by three soldiers, will be on hand to showcase beer made right here in the community, of course they will be joined by bigger brewers like The Mash House and Huske Hardware House.

Deviere pointed out that the festival has grown in size since its move from Campbellton Landing, and now in addition to lines of brewers, there are also lines of participants waiting to enter the gate when the festival opens at 5 p.m. If you want to bypass the lines and get a jump on tasting, you can opt for a VIP ticket, which will get you in the door at 4 p.m. VIP tickets inlcude early admission and a one-hour private beer sampling, the opportunity to judge the beer tasting contest to name the best of show, a catered dinner, snacks throughout the evening and a private lawn for listening to the music. The VIP area is open only to those 21 years of age and older. No children are allowed in the area. Deviere noted that while children are not prohibited from attending, it is designed to be an adult experience.

New this year is a game area where, for a small fee, attendees can play corn hole and a “beer pong”-like game for prizes. For those not purchasing VIP tickets, there will be food vendors on hand. No outside food or alcohol can be brought into the park.

The evening would not be complete without the Blues, and the three bands slated to play will keep the park rocking. Fayetteville’s own Ethan Hanson will take a turn on stage, followed by the Fat Bastard Blues Band, with the Holy Ghost Tent Revival wrapping the evening up.

Tickets, which can be purchased in advance at www.cfrt.org, are $30, which includes tasting or $15 non-drinkers. VIP tickets are $60.

VA Scandal: The Fox Is In the Hen House

As I write this editorial, many people are just waking up. Some of you may have planned to venture downtown and honor our fallen military at Memorial Day events. Even as we remember and honor their sacrifices, our government continues to dishonor them through cuts to benefits and most heinous their treatment at VA hospitals.

The VA scandal is rocking the nation and folks are lining up to either throw rocks at the VA, make excuses or demand answers. Sadly, it is the people who continue to cut the budgets for veterans care that are shouting the loudest and demanding the most answers. Except, of course, the talking heads from the White House, who once again noted that the President was shocked to hear about the problems at the VA, and in fact, didn’t know anything about it until he heard about it on television.

Is anyone really buying that line anymore? And, if you are, doesn’t it frighten you that our Commander In Chief finds out about the biggest problems facing our nation not from briefings from his staff, but from television journalists? But, I digress.

The VA has long been understaffed, under funded and kept in a state of disrepair. Veterans utilizing their services can expect long wait times — not just for primary care appointments, but also in the emergency room. All of which, is also true of many public hospitals today, but the VA’s shortcomings are complicated by staffing issues and administrators looking for shortcuts to meet goals that are quite frankly not achievable. (This is also true of military healthcare. I have often said that the care I receive at military facilities is top notch, the problem is the process you have to go through to get there.)

There are many who work in the VA (and in military healthcare) who are passionate about their jobs. And then there are those that just show up to get a paycheck. Thankfully, some of those employees worked at the Arizona VA and brought this national shame to light.

In a time line recently published in USA Today, the scandal is traced back to 2012 when a VA doctor went public with the problems. Early 2012, Dr. Katherine Mitchell, warned Sharon Helman, incoming director of the Phoenix VA Health Care System, that the Phoenix ER is overwhelmed and dangerous. Mitchell alleges she was told within days by senior administrators that she had deficient communication skills and was transferred out of the ER.

Later that year, the VA implemented the electronic wait-time tracking and promised to make improved patient access a top priority. In December, the Government Accountability Office tells the Veterans Health Administration that its reporting of outpatient medical-appointment wait times is “unreliable.” This is where the “secret” wait list came into effect.

In September 2013, Mitchell filed a confidential complaint intended for the VA Office of Inspector General, channeled through Arizona Sen. John McCain’s office. Her list of concerns instead goes to the Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs and eventually back to the VA. For her efforts, Mitchell was placed on administrative leave.

Several other VA employees go to bat for their patients, and each one who filed complaints was administratively punished. And that brings us to where we are today. The President says those responsible for the lack of care will be held accountable, yet the head of the VA keeps his post. And the White House keeps pushing for cuts to veterans benefits.

It’s kind of hard to protect our veterans, when the fox is in the hen house.

Lately, a lot of people are concerned about their social networking presence. Below are some tips on how to put your best public face forward on social networking sites.

Be selective in what you post. First, and probably most important, do not post anything on any social networking site that you would not want your current employer, coworkers, potential employers, parents or children to see. Unless you are an expert at changing the (sometimes) esoteric security settings on most social media sites, it is best to be selective in what you post. One very important reason to adhere to this standard is that most employers perform a general search for your name when you apply for a job.

Do not post defamatory remarks about others, especially your employer or coworkers. Online posts containing profanity or threats, whether they are your words or not, can lead to legal issues at your place of employment. Recently, a case in New Jersey involved a college professor posting a picture of his daughter wearing a shirt printed with the words “I will take what is mine in fire and blood,” ( a quote from the television show Game of Thrones). The professor was ultimately dismissed from his position, as his college perceived this as a direct threat.

If you cannot do without social networking sites, please try to follow these rules: Never disclose your physical location. This includes not posting items about when and where you are going on vacation, which can serve as an invitation to would-be thieves. Some social networking sites have a GPS feature that enables the sites to track your every move. This setting can be turned off. Normally, the setting can be found under location settings. The social-media sites do this for marketing purposes, which is why the sites are free to the public.

Configure the highest possible security settings when using Facebook or Twitter. Generally, this can be accomplished by choosing settings, then security settings. Be aware, however, that there are also some general settings that are security-related that are not listed under the security settings. For maximum security, turn on the setting that requires a secure log-on to access your account. This will require the use of HTTPS to log in.

Disable the auto-log-in feature. This will prevent others from using your credentials (and possibly submitting fraudulent posts).

Change the setting that allows others to search for you on social-media sites, if possible. This may help to keep your information from being seen by the general public.

To test your online privacy, start your own search — Google yourself. If you have a common name, you may need to narrow the search results by using specific terms, such as your location or current employer, as part of your Google search. For example, if your name is Betty Jones and you work at ABC Company, in the Google search field, type “Betty Jones ABC Company Fayetteville NC” to see more specific results that actually pertain to you. If you have a less common name (like mine), a simple Google search should reveal adequate results.TENETTE PREVATTE, Department Chair, Informa-tion Systems Security at FTCC, Contributing Writer. COMMENTS? Editor@upandcomingweekly.com. 910.484.6200.

Lace up those sneakers, runners! The Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation’s (ASOMF) 7th Annual Run for the Legend 5k/10K takes place June 7.

The 5K race begins at 8 a.m., while the 10K kicks off at 8:05 at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum on Hay Street in downtown Fayetteville.

Registration is $20 through June 6, when it increases to $25. T-shirts are limited to the first 500 people.

Competitive runners will start at the front of the start line, while those with strollers, wagons and well-behaved, leashed dogs will be asked to start in the back. Group rates are available by calling 910-643-2778.

The ASOMF Run for the Legend is sanctioned by USA Track & Field (USATF) and timed by the Atlantic Coast Timing Systems. The top three male and female runners will each receive trophies. Medals are provided for the top three per gender/per age group.

Paul Galloway, Executive Director for the Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation said, “All donations and proceeds from the event go to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation, whose mission is solely to support the U.S. Army’s Airborne & Special Operations Museum. The ASOM Foundation uses the funds to maintain and update exhibits and fund educational programs.”

The main tag-line for the ASOM is “The Legend Continues,” which refers to the paratroopers and special operations soldiers from past, present and future. While the race was first held in 2007, beginning in 2008, that tagline became the official name of the run.

The museum is free and open to the public, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Federal Holidays but open Memorial Day, July 4 and Veteran’s Day. Various movies are played throughout the day at no charge, while a simulator ride is available for $5 per person.

Something new for this year’s event is a pre-race pasta dinner at the ASOM from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 6. The cost is $5 for children 12 and under; $8 for registered runners; $10 for non-runners; $12 for day of runners. Reservations should be made by June 2, by calling 643-2778.

The dinner is being provided to the ASOM Foundation by The Fireside Restaurant.

Run for the Legend joins a host of other races in the area in the coming months, including The Color Run, The Glow Run, Firecracker 4miler and Color Me Rad. Race organizers are also looking for volunteers to help with the event. If you, or someone you know, are interested in volunteering, please contact Catherine Hodge at info@asomf.org.

The Run is being sponsored by MJ Soffe, The Fayetteville New Car and Truck Dealers Association, BB&T, and Fireside Restaurant.

To register for the race, please visit www.active.com and search “Run for the Legends.”

For more information about the Airborne & Special Operations museum, please visit www.asomf.org, or download the free smart phone app by searching “airborne & special operations” in the app store.

Photo: Run for the Legend supports the Airborne Special Operations Museum Foundation.

The Gilbert Theater founded by Lynn Pryer was a proving ground for local artists who continued to hone their collective skills through contributing their education and experience to promote Fayetteville’s community theater. The Gilbert’s current artistic director, Robyne Parrish’s formula has provided a training ground for aspiring young artists with the addition of guest directors and artists in lead roles with whom she has worked in the past. This season’s finale is the best of both worlds. The double-billed finale uses both experienced local favorites in lead roles with young aspiring actors in supporting roles. The plays are A Company of Wayward Saints (1963), George Herman’s best known play, and Sherlock Holmes: The Sleeping Detective(2013) by local playwright James Dean, which is making its Gilbert debut.

A Company of Wayward Saints is about a traveling commedia dell’arte troupe searching for a way to finance its trip home. The cast includes two of Fayetteville’s seasoned actresses, Joyce Lipe and Rhonda Brocki. Lipe is one of the Gilbert’s founding actresses, creating the role of the narrator six consecutive seasons in the Gilbert’s centerpiece production A Christmas Carol. Brocki has worked on both sides of the footlights as an actress, choreographer and stage director. She directed and choreographed The Rocky Horror Show at the Gilbert for four seasons.

Brocki stated, “I am excited to be back on the Gilbert stage since last performing in Long Days Journey Into Night, in 2011. This is my first time doing commedia dell’arte, which I find a very interesting type of theatre. It is fun and big with lots of physical movement. There are some very funny moments along with some moments that touch the heart. The group of actors has been very professional, hard working and kind. This is an ensemble piece and we are all working well together.”

Sherlock Holmes: The Sleeping Detective is a new work by local actor and playwright James Dean, directed by guest director David Little. The show takes place in September of 1930.

When asked about his play Dean replied, “Several years ago, I played the role of Sherlock Holmes at Harnett Regional Theater. I really enjoyed that experience but the play itself (Sherlock Holmes, the Final Adventure) merely stitched together two of the Sherlock Holmes stories. I thought I could do something more interesting with the characters, so I gave Sherlock Holmes a few personal problems: age (he’s 76 and retired), damaged legs and narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder. Because of the narcolepsy, there is a mixture of reality and dreams and often we are not sure what is real, what is dream or what is in the past. One thing we know for sure: Holmes is not the man he used to be and he has to constantly remind his good friend and caretaker, Dr. Watson, of that fact.”

This is Dean’s second experience with David Little, who directed him as Scrooge two years ago at the Gilbert. “We got on famously during that production. I happened to mention that I wrote this play about Sherlock Holmes and he said he wanted to read it because he loved Sherlock Holmes.”

The cast of Sherlock Holmes includes the playwright as Holmes and his colleague, friend and fellow actor, John Doerner as Dr. John Watson. Doerner is a drama teacher at Reid Ross High School and FTCC, a director and actor who has performed on stage in more than 100 productions. He is what many would call a consummate artist. When asked about the casting of the performance Dean added, “I always had John Doerner in mind for my Watson. We have worked together a number of times through the years but working with John is never enough. You always want more. Not only is he one of the best directors I have worked with but a fine actor and our on stage time together had always been in roles that did not allow us much extensive stage time together. The Sleeping Detective solves that problem, and now the action begins!”

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to see some of Fayetteville’s finest and most loved thespians. The performances take place May 29 through June 15, Thursday – Sunday, with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturdays and Sundays; Thursday – Saturday nights at 8 p.m. The shows alternate so contact the Gilbert for proper show times and reservations. www.gilberttheater.com.DR. GAIL MORFESIS, Contributing Writer COMMENTS? Editor@upand-comingweekly.com.

Fayetteville has a long and distinguished military history and its citizens have made contributions in all of our Nation’s conflicts. In conjunction with the 200th Anniversary (2012-2014) of the War of 1812, the Fayetteville Transportation & Local History Museum, offers an exhibit that examines the role of our local community and the Nation during what is often referred to as America’s “forgotten war.”

At the outbreak of the War of 1812, Fayetteville drafted a resolution in which they declared their support and this resolution read in part;… “we will aid and support our government against the enemy and against all other powers, for effective defense and protection from abroad and ensuring tranquility and union at home.” After the declaration of war in 1812, the Robeson Republican Volunteers, a local militia unit, 70 men strong, marched out of Fayetteville. Brigadier General Thomas Davis (1764-1822) was Fayetteville’s ranking military officer emerging from the War of 1812, and commanded North Carolina’s First Brigade, which included local militia units. By June of 1813, a British fleet established a blockade of the Chesapeake Bay Region. Soldiers came ashore at various times and places to seize goods and harass residents. They grew bolder in their excursions, sacking various coastal towns. A British naval squadron was sent to the Ocracoke Inlet and briefly occupied Portsmouth, creating a panic throughout eastern North Carolina. Governor Hawkins called up local militia units in defense of North Carolina’s coastal ports and cities. The Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry was deployed to Wilmington in defense of the state’s principal port city. Preparatory to their departure, the men of the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry were assigned the duties of obtaining bread, bacon, spirits, wagons, pots, kettles and all other things necessary for the deployment. In addition, each member was levied five dollars to handle the expenses. The men of Fayetteville not only served in various militia units but also volunteered for service in the regular army and navy.

Beyond the military experience, the exhibit at the Transportation & Local History Museum explores life on the home front. Various domestic artifacts featured in the exhibit give the museum visitor a feel for life during the Federal period. During this period the quintessential symbol was the American eagle and other popular motifs included Greek- and Roman-style portraits and busts of patriotic leaders like George Washington, urns and urn-shaped designs, stars and stripes. Federal style furniture was typically light, graceful and simple with clean edges and straight lines. The exhibit also explores other domestic topics to include period architecture, fashion and literature.

At the North Carolina Veterans Park six large banners from the United States Navy History Museum profile the contributions of the Navy and Marine Corps during the War of 1812. These banners will supplement the educational panels on the War of 1812 already on display in the Veterans Park Visitor Center. The War of 1812 strengthened the young United States and firmly established its position in the world. It preserved American territorial and political integrity and helped to set the fledging new Republic on the road to greatness.

To learn more about the War of 1812, visit the Transportation and Local History Museum located at 325 Franklin Street and the North Carolina Veterans Park located at 300 Bragg Blvd. Admission is free. For more information call 433-1457.

After the declaration of war in 1812, the  Robeson Republican Volunteers, a local militia unit, 70 men strong, marched out of Fayetteville.

In 2002, Project Safe Neighborhood came to Fayetteville under the Operation Ceasefire name. The program is part of a national initiative that was started under the Bush Administration in 2001. It is rooted in successes from programs that were implemented in Boston, Mass., and Richmond, Va., in the late 1990s.

On June 6, at J.S. Spivey Rec Center, Operation Ceasefire presents Escape from Planet Earth. The movie is free and open to the public. It starts at 7:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on and enjoy an evening with friends.

According to the Operation Ceasefire website, the goal is “To improve the quality of life for all residents of Fayetteville/Cumberland County by reducing gun and gang violence in our community.” Lisa Jayne is a part of the Fayetteville Police Department and serves as the Operation Ceasefire Coordinator; she describes Operation Ceasefire as having three core elements, “intervention, suppression and prevention.”

The intervention component comes from a series of meetings Jayne refers to as “Call-ins.” “We work with Probation Parole; they send us about 100 parolees that are currently on probation or parole for gun crimes … That list gets narrowed down to around 30 individuals. We meet at Kingdom Impact Ministries as the faith based aspect is a part of Ceasefire, too. The parolees are given an appointment for a follow-up assessment with me. They are then put into a resource room … to provide education resources, jobs, healthcare, anything that people with felony convictions on their records have a hard time with. I also have speakers who have been there and done that… to give them some hope for how things can be turned around. After the speakers, there is a panel of all the law enforcement agencies of the area, from federal to state; they give them some tough love.”

Suppression is a joint effort between local and federal law enforcement. From Jayne, “We have a very strong relationship with Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms... Any cases, tips, or anything done at the state level, we funnel it through the ATF to see if they can take the case federally. Federal sentences are much longer than state sentences … you don’t get out for good behavior… there is no parole or early release.”

Jayne says that prevention is accomplished by a number of initiatives including the Movie Night program, “In 2007, we purchased outdoor movie equipment … We go into neighborhoods that are disadvantaged with a free movie, popcorn and soda. The police are on hand, while the children are watching a movie … if the public wants to talk to the police about a certain area where they may see a problem or if there are people causing problems. It is over two hours of face-to-face time in a non-threatening, laid back and family atmosphere.” The program also utilizes a gang detective that goes and does presentations about gangs that are just for adults. To promote gun safety, gun locks are distributed at no charge to anyone who owns a gun that also has children.

For more information about Operation Ceasefire and any of its programs, including the Movie Night schedule, visit their website at www.ceasefire.ci.fayetteville.nc.us. Program Coordinator Lisa Jayne is available to provide information on the program, volunteering and donation opportunities at 910-433-1017 or LJayne@ci.fay.nc.us.

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is far more than a beautiful piece of cultivated green space among the concert landscape. It is a sustainable garden and a center for culture and education. It all began in 1989 with a shared passion amongst a few gardeners. Since its inception at a kitchen table, the garden has grown into 79 acres with more than 2,000 varieties of ornamental plants. One way that the garden provides the community with cultural activities is through its annual Spring Concert Series.

The concert series is composed of four concerts, each featuring a different band. June 13 features classic rock performed by the Coconut Groove Band. “People can expect to have a terrific evening. The blending of live music performances and the beauty of the garden is a wonderful experience for our members and visitors. Gates open at 6 p.m., and the entertainment begins at 7 p.m. We encourage everyone to bring a lawn chair or blanket, find a spot on the lawn, get situated, purchase food and drinks and settle in for a relaxing time — although sitting is not required. Everyone is invited to dance or take a stroll along the paths and enjoy the music as it floats through the garden,” said Meg Suraci, Cape Fear Botanical Garden marketing director.

The Coconut Groove Band is no stranger to Fayetteville. With a musical repertoire that includes easy listening, soul, rhythm & blues, Americana, rock n’ roll, hard rock, pop, funk, blues, country, bluegrass and jazz, the band provides a fun evening of light-hearted entertainment.

The concerts are rain or shine events. Preferably, the music is enjoyed beneath a beautiful and clear night sky, but in the case of rain, the fun continues in the Orangery. After several years of practice, the garden staff has mastered putting on a great event for the community. “This is the garden’s third year presenting the Spring Concert Series. We’ve learned by experience and have tweaked each event along the way. Our staff and volunteers have a pretty good handle on presenting a terrific event. One thing we can’t control is the weather, but we don’t worry about it,” Suraci explained.

Tickets for the concerts cost $15 for non-members and $10 for members. Along with discounted concert tickets, garden member receive many benefits. “Cape Fear Botanical Garden offers events of incomparable ambiance with great music in a beautiful outdoor setting, as well as fun, safe and affordable evenings out for the whole family — it’s something everyone needs to experience!” Suraci said. Members support these events and have greater access. For example there is free admission for a full year, special admission prices for workshops and events, and invitations to member only events. Additionally, $5 of every membership supports the garden’s Endowment of Sustainability. Members support not only the garden, but also the garden’s future.

The gates open at 6 p.m. and the concert begins at 7 p.m. Chair rentals are available. Food, beverages and wine are available for purchase. No outside food, beverages, coolers or pets are allowed. The garden is located at 536 N. Eastern Blvd. For more information visit www.capefearbg.org or call 486-0221.

What do you get when you cross Shakespeare, science fiction and rock-n-roll? An entertaining afternoon at the Cape Fear Regional Theatre.

Return to the Forbidden Planet, on stage now, was written by Bob Carlton. It is loosely based on Shakespeare’s The Tempest and also on the 1950s film Forbidden Planet, which was also loosely based on The Tempest. The show, directed by CFRT Artistic Director Tom Quaintance, is a quirky mix of rhyming script and feel-good music from the ‘50s and ‘60s that has the audience bopping in their seats, and patrons leaving with a smile on their face.

The May show is traditionally the River Show; however, flooding at the river made it impossible to hold the show there this year.

On a recent Sunday afternoon, the theatre was, unfortunately, almost empty. But that didn’t dampen the spirit of the cast who sang and danced as if the house was full. For some of the regular attendees to Sunday matinees at the CFRT, the show was a change of pace, but from the gentlemen sitting next to me who sang every word and those in front of me who were keeping time with the music, it was a welcome one.

The show takes some well-known rock anthems — “Great Balls of Fire,” “Born To Be Wild,” “Good Vibrations,” “Gloria” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” just to name a few — and tells the story of an adventure into the id and the heart.

The show starts with a takeoff of a spacecraft, piloted by Captain Tempest (played by Wilmington-based actor and physicist, David Lorek) on a routine mission into the universe. On this particular mission, a new crew member comes aboard — the Science Officer (Taylor Kraft) — who challenges the captain’s chauvinistic views about women, which leads into a campy production of “It’s aMan’s World.”

All is not as it seems, and when the ship is drawn to the planet D’illyria (the Forbidden Planet), the Science Officer abandons ship, leaving the crew to meet its fate. But all is not lost. The crew meets Prospero (played brilliantly by Newlin Parker), a scientist who was sent by his wife Gloria to wander outer space along with his daughter, Amanda (played enchantingly by Fayetteville’s own Halle Vargas Sullivan.)

The twists and turns that follow make for a wild ride on Capt. Tempest’s ship and a great time for the audience.

The music provided by Bill Joyner, Milton Smith, Danny Young and Richard Gates, is obviously what drove this ship; however, at times, the sound did not seem to balance and the music overrode the lyrics and the speeches of the cast.

That being said, if the worst thing I can say about the play was that they were playing that rock music too loud … then rock on! This is an out-of-this-world production that you do not want to miss.

The production runs through June 1, with shows Thursday through Saturday beginning at 7 p.m. and the traditional Sunday matinees. Tickets range in price from $18 to $25. To make reservations, visit the website at www.cfrt.org or call the box office at 323-4233.

Photos: The Return to Forbidden Planet, directed by CFRT Artistic Director Tom Quaintance, is a quirky mix of rhyming script and feel-good music from the ‘50s and ‘60s that has the audience bopping in their seats, and patrons leaving with a smile on their face.

4.2-Cent Tax Increase - Really?

I’m not proud of the fact that we have not had a tax increase in Fayetteville for more than 13 years and, right-minded Fayetteville residents shouldn’t be, either. No wonder we lag behind other major municipalities of our size in infrastructure and quality-of-life amenities.

For decades this community has been grossly deprived by elected leadership whose priorities were obviously elsewhere. Perhaps at the beach? In 2014, we have gotten to a point where we are forced to deal with the consequences of this neglect. Now we hear that the only solution seems to be the inevitable 4.2-cent tax increase recommendation coming from City Hall and career bureaucrats well-versed and aptly conditioned at spending and allocating other people’s money.

To say it’s “government gone wild” would be an understatement. And, for you lemmings and advocates of the tax increase, for heaven’s sake, please stop telling us this is for our own good and it is only $63 a year (on a $150,000 home) or a cup of coffee a week for a year — unless you frequent Starbucks — then you only have to give up one latte a month for a year.

In any case, tax advocates claim these are meager amounts that everyone should be able to afford and gladly pay “for better police protection.” Really?

Well, since crime is our number one priority, how about we fund police protection first. Wow, now there’s a novel idea. Here’s the point, many Fayetteville residents (I for one) do not feel the city is being prudent in identifying efficiencies in our local government departments and operations. Little has been done to discover and identify economies of scale to eliminate or reduce redundancy.

Since the recession began in 2008, local businesses, organizations and institutions have been forced to adopt prudent spending plans and identify efficiencies just to survive the difficult and stagnant economy. Local businesses reduced staff, salaries and hours and sought other ways to enhance their intake or to cut their budgets merely to survive.

Reducing crime is our mandated highest priority. Let’s deal with it using the resources we currently have. Subsequent priorities, as mandated by the citizens, can then be dealt with using the city’s remaining funds. If there is no money left, and a tax increase is needed, then our elected officials can assess and evaluate our options. I’m sure if the needs are imminent, a legitimate tax increase would be recommended without regard to political consequences. As it stands right now, it is difficult to support such a recommendation when we are subjected to shallow reasoning void of facts and deprived of alternatives.

Before such a decision is made, Fayetteville residents need to know how this newly created 4.2-cent hike in revenue is going to be allocated and spent. Remember, many Fayetteville residents (think Big Bang annexing) are getting very little for the taxes they are paying. For the most part, many Fayetteville residents believe asking for a spending plan before taking the money is a pretty simple request.

I hope the city staff and our elected city officials don’t think it is the taxpaying Fayetteville residents who are simple.

We’ll see how this plays out.

Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

Photo: Since crime is our number one priority, how about we fund police protection first.

As we wrap up another successful academic year at Methodist University, we congratulate the Class of 2014, our largest class of undergraduate and graduate students in the university’s history. We were honored to have members of the first graduating class in attendance as we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Class of 1964 with 17 of the 43 original class members on campus to participate in the hooding ceremony.

Throughout the year, we are committed to a “culture of excellence” at the University in everything we do. Let me share just a few highlights that have helped “redefine excellence” for everyone associated with Methodist and have set the stage for a bright future as we move forward:

- In addition to a record enrollment (2,478), we experienced a record number of residential students (nearly 1,100) and international students (150 from 55 different countries).

- The graduation of the first cohort of students from our new Nursing Program and the Master of Education program.

- Progress on our first doctoral program in Physical Therapy and the receipt of a naming gift from the Thomas R. and Elizabeth E. McLean Foundation for our new Health Sciences Building.

- New majors in Entrepreneurship and Applied Forensic Science and further development of our Cyber Security and Digital Forensics program, thus responding to increased interest in these areas by prospective students and employers. This demonstrates Methodist’s continued commitment to creating and expanding academic programs to meet demands from current and potential stakeholders.

- The opening of the newly renovated library and expanded Trustees Building.

- A spectacular Igneous Expressions glass exhibit and Picasso ceramics show in the David McCune International Art Gallery.

- Held the third annual Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium, featuring students’ research projects, and the addition this year of a graduate and faculty component to the program.

- Winning the USA South Athletic Conference Overall and Men’s President’s Cups after winning conference championships in football, men’s soccer, and women’s tennis along with strong seasons in our other sports. Women’s tennis and women’s and men’s golf also qualified for the NCAA national championship competition

.- Kicking off our $35 million Building Excellence Campaign with over $25 million raised. This would not have been possible without the generosity of so many individuals and organizations who believe in the mission of our University.

- Hosting Dr. Sanjay Gupta as the inaugural speaker in the Presidential Speaker Series.

There have been so many memorable moments this year at Methodist, but none surpass the expressions I saw on the faces of the graduates and their sponsors as they crossed the stage at Commencement to be hooded and receive their diplomas. The true measure of excellence at a University should be the success of its students, beginning with their undergraduate experience, followed by earning their degrees and embarking on their chosen careers or graduate school. The expressions that day conveyed a mixture of pride, accomplishment, sadness in leaving MU, and excitement about what lies ahead. These are the ones who will go on to “redefine excellence” in the next leg of their journey, fully equipped to do so, thanks to their MU Journey.

Indeed, I have the best job in America, as our University meets America’s needs while raising the bar on excellence. Record enrollment, record graduates, and record financial support confirm we are getting it right where it matters the most—providing transformational experiences and preparing tomorrow’s leaders.

Photo: This year has been a year of excellence in many ways at Methodist University.

After another successful season in 2013, the SwampDogs look to continue their winning tradition this year. Although last year ended with a heartbreaking loss in the third game of the East Semifinals, the SwampDogs have been hard at work assembling another talented group of decorated ballplayers. With a host of heavy hitters and a sound pitching staff, the Petitt Cup is on the mind of all within the organization.

The team will be led by David Tufo, in his first season as SwampDogs manager. Fans may remember Tufo as an assistant coach for the ’Dogs in the 2011 and 2012 seasons. He returns to the SwampDogs this season after spending 2013 as the skipper of the Forest City Owls. Tufo served for a time as the interim manager of the SwampDogs in 2012, guiding the team to an 18-10 record.

“The Swamp” will host 32 unique theme nights, including four fireworks extravaganzas, 12 giveaway nights and three weekly promotions. New to “The Swamp” this season, teachers and students will enjoy 2 Cool For School Tuesdays, where you get two general admission tickets for the price of one with student or teacher ID! Also returning this year is Dunkin’ Donuts Wake-Up Wednesdays — Start your day off at participating Dunkin’ Donuts locations to meet Fun-Go and SwampDogs players. Be sure not to miss out on the return of fan favorites such as StriKing Out Cancer Night, Scout Night, and Faith and Family Night. Debuting at “The Swamp” are Country Night and our Salute to Tom Hanks, along with many other exciting themes.

Once again, the SwampDogs will host the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team on June 24, and one month later will be the 10th Annual Family Fun Night and Fun-Go Bobblehead giveaway powered by BOB FM 96.5. Make sure to be a part of what promises to be the most fun-filled season yet.

Be sure to follow the SwampDogs on social media all season long! Like our Fayetteville SwampDogs Baseball Facebook page and follow us @GoSwampDogs on Twitter and Instagram!

Memorial Day is a day to honor all of those who have died in America’s Wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. Fayetteville is no stranger to the military and has lost many soldiers to war. The community routinely holds events to honor military members and their families and the month of May is the perfect time to reflect on the price that has been paid for our freedom.

The Fayetteville Downtown Alliance hosts the Field of Honor, which is a living display of heroism that flies as a patriotic tribute to the strength and unity of Americans. Paul Swenson is the creator of the Healing Field and the Field of Honor. He wants to acknowledge the scale of the sacrifice with a positive image that would offer hope and comfort. Every flag honors someone who is currently serving, those who have served and the men and women who have made the supreme sacrifice for our nation’s security and freedom. Each flag comes with its own story and displays a tag identifying the person who sponsored the flag and the flag honoree. This is the fifth year of the Fayetteville Field of Honor. The 2014 Field of Honor will fly May 10 through June 28.

On Monday, May 26, at noon there will be a Special Operations Forces K9 Memorial Ceremony at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum. The Special Operations Community would like to recognize and remember the canine soldiers killed in action. The dogs have saved countless lives and have earned a hero’s memorial. There is a memorial statute in honor of the fallen K9 heroes that were killed located at the museum.

The Army’s Army in partnership with the Fayetteville Area Convention will host an Eve of Remembrance, a two-day event, on May 20-21 leading up to Memorial Day honoring the 92,000 Americans taken as prisoners of war(POWs) since World War I. “The bravery and sacrifice of our country’s POWs deserves unmeasurable amounts of recognition and we are proud to be hosting an event in their honor,” said Janine West, Executive Director of the Army’s Army. The event kicks off with an invitation only VIP dinner on May 20 for surviving POWs as well as the premiere of the documentary, Never the Same: The Prisoner of War Experience, on May 21 at 7 p.m., followed by a live question and live panel discussion with the director and actors Loretta Swit and Ed Asner. The dinner will bring North Carolina POWs and out-of-town veterans that served during World War II and the Vietnam War to be recognized from their bravery and service. “We would like to thank those involved with the film, as well as our partners and sponsors for participating in this moving pre-Memorial Day tribute to POWs,” said West.

General admission is $12. A limited number of complimentary tickets for POWs, active duty soldiers, veterans, and military spouses are available at the Crown Box Office. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, the Crown Box Office, or any Ticketmaster outlet. For more information call 483-5311.

On Monday, May 26, don’t miss the Memorial Day Ceremony at Freedom Memorial Park. It starts at 10 a.m. Visit www.freedommemorialpark.com for information.

Photo: There are events and celebrations honoring America’s fallen soldiers throughout the month of May in the Fayetteville area.

Blindness and visual impairment are conditions that can take away the independence of an individual that has otherwise led a life of self-reliance. The National Federation of the Blind has stated that there are more than 1 million people in the United States that are blind or visually impaired. The statistics break down to show that around 50 percent of the blind or visually impaired are over the age of 65 with around 10 percent being school-aged children.

On Friday, June 6, Cape Fear Eye Associates will host the 3rd Annual Out of Sight Dining Event at the Metropolitan Room in downtown Fayetteville to benefit the programs offered by The Vision Resource Center. “We have hosted the event every year … It is one of the things we do to give back to the center” according to Cory Worrell, who is also the Marketing Director for Cape Fear Eye in addition to her Volunteer Youth Director role.

The Vision Resource Center is an organization working to address the needs of those who have lost their sight. They trace their origins back to 1936 when the organization was founded as the Cumberland County Association of the Blind. The organization also holds the distinction of being one of the first four organizations in the United Way of Cumberland County.

Terri Thomas is the Executive Director of the center. When asked to describe the work they do, she said, “We work with adults and kids from age 4 to our oldest member, who is 86, who are visually impaired or blind. We provide programming to help them socially, to live independently, and with individual wellness.”

Thomas also described services they provide that can also benefit caregivers and the family as a whole, “For children, siblings of those that are blind or visually impaired are encouraged to come in and volunteer to gain experience with those that are visually impaired. They can see what it is like for others and gain perspective. We also have a support group that we don’t really refer to as a support group. Anything Is Possibleis a rap session about what it is like to be visually impaired; they talk and just let us know what their needs are and how we can help. “

According to Thomas, the center currently serves 150 people but is fully capable of helping many more, “The biggest thing is letting people know we are here. We need to get the awareness out about what the Vision Resource Center is, why we are here, and that it is a safe place to come to. We receive referrals from other agencies or by word of mouth … but we have a problem with getting them in. If we can get the funding, we can get them in. We have the programming to meet the needs.”

A challenge for the visually impaired that Thomas feels is the most limiting is in transportation. It is also an area she feels the center can grow into, “We would like to be able to do shopping trips and medical trips. A lot of them can’t get to Duke or Chapel Hill where most of the specialists are.”

Another challenge that Thomas has found lies in the individuals in need themselves, “People who are visually impaired become comfortable in their own surroundings and don’t want to get out of their homes. Once we get them in and they try, they like it. We can open a window to activities that they thought they would never be able to do again. You will be surprised at what you can accomplish when you set aside fear and try it anyway. “

Worrell was inspired to take on the role of Youth Program Director for the center after her interaction with a young boy named Michael Macias, “When I met him, he was so soft spoken.” She said that after his participation in the programs offered by the center “he gained confidence in himself and inspired me to get involved.”

When speaking with Worrell about the youth programs, it is clear that they are her pride and joy. “We started by taking kids out of their comfort zone, we take them surfing, deep sea fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding, flying... they just excelled. It’s crazy to see the confidence they have gotten… half the time I forget they are visually impaired; they are just normal kids.” When asked how the responses to the programs by the youth compare to the responses of their adult counterparts Worrell said, “The kids adapt so well, they learn instantaneously. They have each other for their support group. I have never had a kid say they wouldn’t try something.”

Despite the confidence that the young people gain from the programs, Worrell still has concerns about their long-term needs, “I would like for them to have jobs available, college and other resources available.” One more immediate area of need that she identified resides in the public school system, “I would love to see them have the resources they need in their schools, so they don’t have to be labeled as special needs or anything like that.”

The Out of Sight Dining Event is a night of dining, dancing and entertainment. While dinner is served, the guests will all wear blindfolds as a simulation of blindness. Thomas said that, “We would like for you to wear the blindfold for as long as you can whether it is for one second, two minutes or whatever.” She described the true purpose of the event as, “not only a way to raise money but to drive awareness of what it is like for this population. “

The musical entertainment for the night will be provided by the blind young man that originally inspired Worrell, Michael Macias. At 15 years old, Macias is already an accomplished pianist and composer having composed 22 original works. He returns once again to the Out of Sight Dining Event to provide the crowd with a sample of his amazing talent. Additional musical entertainment is provided by the band, 80s Unplugged.

Dan Nelson, who is billed as “The Largest Plein Aire Painter in the World” will be in attendance performing his skill in live art entertainment. He plans to paint a portrait of the event as it occurs. Nelson said, “My parents did a good job of exposing me to people with various disabilities … I learned at a very young age to accept and relate to the visually impaired as normal people.” Nelson has been known to take the visually impaired on tours of his artwork by guiding them through the piece by touch and description, “I have done that type of thing more than once to try to bring them into the world of visual arts; it is always appreciated.”

Thomas asks that the community, “come out and be a vision for someone with visual impairment. Anytime you do something to help someone with a visual impairment you are helping them visualize a world they cannot see. If you help by volunteering or by donating money you are helping to build that vision. We want to raise $25,000 from this event, that will put us in a very good position to do some of the things we have never been able to do, but the main thing is to get the awareness out.”

Tickets for the event are $75 for individuals and $125 for couples. More information is available at www.visionresourcecentercc.org.

Photos: The Visions Resource Center’s Out of Sight Dining Event offers an evening of dining, dancing and entertainment, including a performance by 15-year-old Michael Macias (pictured at right).

Executive Editor Upholds Ideals of the Fourth Estate

I read with great interest and remorse the Fayetteville Observer’s Executive Editor Michael Adams’ “admission of omission” (Fayetteville Observer, Sunday, May 11) as it pertained to his brother’s unfortunate situation in Durham County. I admire his forthrightness but, then again, we are three weeks out on this story. Even though the Associated Press might not have picked it up, the WRAL TV offices are located in the Observer’s offices on Whitfield Street. Nonetheless, as painful as it must have been for Adams to share his story, he did it with sincerity and with style.

I also found it very interesting and relevant that he made reference in his article to the way newspapers are doing, or, in many cases, not doing their jobs. His observations are absolutely correct. Having dependable access to news and information is the bedrock of democracy. And, from where I sit, that is a much bigger and looming issue undermining the effectiveness, trust and integrity of our beloved Fourth Estate.

For those of you who are not familiar with the term Fourth Estate it refers basically to the media creating “checks and balances” on government. Thus, being the “fourth branch” of government. Sir Edmund Burke, while addressing the English Parliament, originally coined the term in 1787. At the time, Burke is reported to have said that, “There are Three Estates in Parliament, but in the Reporters’ Gallery yonder, there sits a Fourth Estate more important far than they all.”

Yes, it is the media that are supposedly safeguarding our democracy; making sure ill intended politicians don’t abuse or game the system. We the media, the Fourth Estate, are supposed to be the watchdogs, reporting the news, stating the facts and uncovering wrongdoing. Instead, we are now tending to mold the news, report selectively, omit the facts or just blatantly refuse to tell the story. Sometimes people forget that news reporting is supposed to be objective. Well, here’s some news, no one expects the Fayetteville Observer to be perfect. Yes, we all make mistakes and no reporter to my knowledge has ever lost their job over making an “honest” mistake. But, more and more we see reporting becoming politically or racially biased omitting obvious facts and generating slanted stories.

It’s almost at a point where the politicians have manipulated the media to a point where they have become their pawns with the determination to render the Fourth Estate impotent. Adams reminds us all that it’s hard to reflect fairness and build a public trust in the absence of integrity and transparency. I admire him for coming forward about the Durham story. It gives us hope and confidence knowing that our daily newspaper, which is the oldest in North Carolina, still has a conscience as well as journalistic integrity and strives to reflect the values, traditions and ideals of the Fourth Estate.

Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

Photo: The term Fourth Estate refers to the media creating “checks and balances” on government. Thus, being the “fourth branch” of government.

On Thursday, May 22, Mayor Robertson and the Fayetteville City Council will host a reception for Miss North Carolina U.S.A., Olivia Olvera as she prepares to compete in the 63rd Miss U.S.A. Pageant on June 8 in Baton Rouge, La. A strong community advocate and selfless volunteer, Olvera hopes to continue to make a difference in whatever capacity she can.

Olvera’s journey to winning the Miss North Carolina, U.S.A. title was unconventional to say the least. A self-described tomboy, Olvera is a South View High School graduate, an Army brat and the former Operations Manager at Bell’s Seed Store. She never considered herself the glamorous type but a $100 bet with her mom changed that. “My mom bet me $100 that if I entered a pageant at school I would win,” said Olvera. “I didn’t believe her, but I took the bet … and I won. It was fun.”

After high school, Olvera attended Methodist University for a year before moving to South Carolina to attend the University of South Carolina. She didn’t expect to be entering any more pageants at this point. “I went to USC and some of my girlfriends were entering pageants, but I didn’t think much about it,” said Olvera. “But then I got stopped in Belk and was asked to compete for Miss South Carolina. I laughed. The person who stopped me was the (pageant) director and owner of four states. I said ‘yes’ and ended up in the top five for three out of four pageants.”

According to her webpage, Olvera held the Miss Sun Fun 2011 title and won third-runner-up at Miss South Carolina U.S.A. 2011. The following year, she won the Miss Charleston U.S.A. 2012 title and claimed first-runner-up at Miss South Carolina U.S.A. 2012. Before moving back to North Carolina, Olvera competed one more time at the Miss South Carolina USA pageant as Miss Summerville USA and was again named third-runner-up. She was crowned Miss North Carolina USA 2014 on November 9, in High Point, N.C.

While the pageant scene is rigorous, the hard work really begins after the winner is crowned. As Miss North Carolina U.S.A., Olvera has the freedom to make the most of her time in the position. She spends countless hours volunteering all over the state. “My agenda is not about fame or having a modeling career,” said Olvera. “My agenda is to help small businesses, promote charity organizations and events in the state and to be a voice for those with no voice.”

Mayor Nat Robertson sees Olvera’s reign as a boon to the greater Fayetteville area and another thing for people to appreciate about the community. “I think Olivia is just one example of the many beautiful things that Fayetteville has to offer,” said Robertson. “She does a great job representing our city and she is a wonderful person, as well. This is especially good for Fayetteville to be so well represented on a national level.”

During her reign, Olvera chose to spend a lot of her time in support of wounded warriors and children’s literacy. One of the causes she partners with is Helping a Hero, an organization that builds specially adapted homes for severely injured military personnel and their families. Helping a Hero adapts these homes for the specific injuries and challenges of wounded heroes. Locally, McKee Homes is building such a home for a wounded warrior. The home will be in Legacy Lakes in Aberdeen.

As the daughter of a soldier, Olvera understands the hardships that come with military service. She knows first hand the effects of the long separations that military families endure and feels a connection to the wounded warrior cause. “My dad is retired now and recently we went on a fishing trip. I was excited to spend some time with him. He was gone a lot when I was younger and this seemed like the perfect way to reconnect,” said Olvera. “At some point he asked me to grab a drink for him and so I went to get it and I grabbed a Coke. Then my brother said, ‘No. He likes Dr. Pepper.’ That really hit home. That’s my dad and I didn’t even know what he likes to drink.”

Olvera said her dad has been supportive of her reign as Miss North Carolina U.S.A. “Once dad said ‘do it,’ there was no way I couldn’t run,” said Olvera.

At the pageant on June 8, if Olvera wins the crown, she will have just ten minutes to say goodbye to her friends and family and then will be whisked away to start her new life in New York. The newly crowned Miss U.S.A. will spend her time raising awareness for breast and ovarian cancer and supporting the U.S.O. and Best Buddies, a nonprofit organization that is “dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

The Miss U.S.A. Pageant airs live on NBC at 8 p.m. The reception for Olvera is set for 3:30-5 p.m. at City Hall. The public is invited to attend. Find out more about Miss North Carolina U.S.A. at http://www.missnorthcarolinausa.com.

Photo: Olivia Olvera, Miss North Carolina U.S.A. and Fayetteville native is set to compete in the Miss U.S.A. tournament on June 8 in Baton Rouge, LA.

In the minds of many people, there is no more noble a gesture than caring for the needs of the children in our community. There are so many children and so many needs that people feel should be addressed. If an individual can make a sustained effort to make a difference, some of those needs can be filled. If a group of individuals comes together to take up the cause, the effect of the individual can be multiplied several times over. If that group can sustain the effort for an extended length of time, it is possible to make a substantial difference.

The Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville is an organization of individuals from our community that have taken the gesture of caring for the needs of children and embraced it as a mission. Bill Bowman, publisher of Up & Coming Weekly, is a member of the club who describes it as, “dedicated to the community and improving the lives of youth.” Since its formation in 1921, the Fayetteville Kiwanis Club has worked to better the community and serve children, preschool to high school, by offering and supporting many programs in varying areas of interest.

For the Kiwanis Club of Fayetteville, one program has become particularly endearing to the community, the annual Talent Night Showcase. The showcase has returned for its 63rd year and will be held at its traditional home at the Cape Fear Regional Theatre on June 13. The event is a showcase for talented young people from pre-school age though high school that serves as a fundraiser to support other Kiwanis programs like; Reading is Fun, Little League Baseball, and Key Clubs.

Bowman credited the community for the longevity and enduring success of the event, “When you have an event like this that draws the crowds it draws and serves the community it serves, it perpetuates itself. It’s not us that keep it alive; it’s the fact that it is a successful and prestigious event and this community that keeps it alive.”

Youth from all corners of the area will descend on the Honeycutt Recreation Center on May 31 for auditions. If they are selected as finalists, they will perform on the stage at Cape Fear Regional Theatre on June 13. The competition for those spots in the main show will be intense according Bowman, “We will audition hundreds of children who will vie for five or six spots in each category. We have them broken down by grade level but only five or six, depending on the competition, will be chosen. This is not just a talent show; this is the best of the best.”

In speaking about the type of talent that is selected, Bowman elaborated, “It is some amazing talent. We have had winners from the Kiwanis Talent Night go on to hold positions in the Boston Pops, go on to Broadway, and even become Miss North Carolina. We have a long tradition of turning out some of the best talent the county has to offer... For $7 you should not pass up the opportunity to see these young performers. “

For more information about attending or performing, please visit the Kiwanis Talent Night Showcase website at www.fayettevillekiwanis.org/talent.

Photo: Local students are invited to compete in the 63rd Annual Talent Night Showcase.

Presented by R.A. Jefferies, a local distributer of Budweiser products, and organized by the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival, the Fayetteville After 5 concert series is a huge hit throughout the community. “This has become like a tradition for families. They come to the concert every month. We have two sisters who go to every single event and always give us feedback. It is a tradition for our community,” Carrie King, executive director of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival explained. Every third Friday during the summer season, Festival Park is full of talented musicians performing for the community — and it is absolutely free to attend. It is a great family-friendly event that is perfect for sitting back in the grass and relaxing or dancing with friends.

For this next season, the event will keep the changes made the previous season. The concerts are on Friday and there is a variety of music scheduled. These changes were made to the concert series in order to make it more accessible to the community. Friday evenings is often easier to go to a concert — and now there is some music for everyone. These changes have been met with great success. “We feel that the community has really embraced these changes. It was a change in format as well as a change from the type of music, beach music. Now there is something for everyone regardless of preferred genre,” said King.

Fayetteville After 5 brings a lot to the community. It provides a free place to spend a fun evening with family and friends. It also brings talented and skilled performers into the area. According to King, even though the concert is free, it still brings business into the downtown area, which stimulates the local economy. Dinner and then a concert is the recipe for an incredible evening. There are also refreshments sold at the concert and the proceeds are used to help support the nonprofit Fayetteville Dogwood Festival organization.

This summer’s concert season offers several musical genres and styles. To kick off the season, the May 16 concert begins with Josh Thompson and the Erin Nenni Band. Both of these performers are country musicians. The theme for the June concert this year is Funk. The concert is on June 20 and will feature Liquid Pleasure and Big Rick and the Bombers. July 18 hosts Captain & the Keels, a BeeGee’s tribute band, and Heart Brigade, a Heart tribute band. August 15 brings the Eagles tribute band On the Border and the Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band Tuesday’s Gone.

The gates of Festival Park open at 5 p.m. for Fayetteville After 5 events and the first acts begin between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. The concert closes at 10:30 p.m. No outside food or beverages are allowed. Bring chairs or a blanket to relax on. For more information visit www.faydogwoodfestival.com/p/Events/211 or call 323-1934. Festival Park is located at 225 Ray Ave.

Photo: top left; Josh Thompson, bottom right; Erin Nenni.