https://www.upandcomingweekly.com/


  • 18There are few things more delightful than a child’s smile and few things more heart wrenching than a child who can’t smile because of dental pain.

    Sadly, one out of every four kindergarten-aged children in North Carolina suffers from untreated tooth decay. When left untreated, tooth decay can lead to severe pain, oral abscesses, and depression, and in extreme cases, untreated tooth decay can even cause death.

    If you are concerned about your child’s dental health or if you just want a fun educational activity that will encourage your child to get excited about staying healthy, we have great news. Fayetteville Technical Community College can help you and your child.

    Please join us for the second annual Dental Health Fair at Fayetteville Technical Community College, courtesy of the United Way’s Youth Trust Stock Fund.

    When: Saturday, Oct. 21, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

    Where: Tony Rand Student Center, 2220 Hull Road, at the Fayetteville campus of FTCC

    Who: This event is primarily for children ages 3 to 12, but children of all ages are welcome to attend and to participate in all the day’s great activities.

    Activities will include:

    • Oral Health Screenings: Conducted by FTCC Dental Hygiene Students and Faculty
    • Microscope Station: Children can view plaque samples
    • Art Activities: Arts and crafts available at each activity station
    • Dental Instruction: Children will learn how to care for their teeth

    This event is free. There is no charge for the event or any of the fun activities. In addition to helping your child get or keep a great smile, this event will also help children realize that science can be great fun!
    Questions? We are eager to help your child get and keep a beautiful, healthy smile.

    Jessica Jones, Dental Hygiene Instructor
    Email: jonesj@faytechcc.edu
    Phone: (910) 678-8552
    Office: Health Technologies Center, Room 101A

    Michelle Ping, Chair of the Dental Department
    Email: pingm@faytechcc.edu
    Phone: (910) 678-8575
    Office: Health Technologies Center, Room 101D

  • 17When it comes to things to do in Cumberland County, there is no shortage. A growing list of niche groups from comic book fans to the great outdoors proves there is something for everyone.

    Life's A Trip Adventure Club is one of the newly formed groups in the county. It was established in 2022 by founder, local photographer and adventurer, Keith Sykes. Skyes started the group because of his “love of travel and adventure” and sharing that with others.

    The adventure club wasn’t created on a whim. Skyes had received encouragement to start the group three years ago, but lacked the time.

    “Honestly, I was a little intimidated about what it would take to put it together and run it,” Sykes said.

    Thankfully he took the leap and created a Facebook page with the sole intention of bringing people together outside in nature. Life’s A Trip Adventure Club now boasts a membership of almost 800 people. There are planned events and meet-ups just about every weekend.

    Saturday Strollz is the group’s weekly meetup at Jordan Soccer Complex. Members meet at 6:30 a.m. and walk the path at the soccer complex. Some “strollz” include yoga sessions. This meetup is completely free and offers a space for members to encourage one another in their health and wellness journey.

    Life’s A Trip Adventure Club wouldn’t be an adventure club without the adventure. While there are plenty of local events to participate in with the group, they also travel. On the schedule are several events. The group's calendar is filled until the end of the year with one-of-a-kind experiences for local adventures.

    October alone will be a busy time for the group. They have trips planned to the NC Seafood Festival, a train trip to Washington D.C. for a weekend, as well as Saturday Strollz. In December they will head to the Biltmore to explore the grounds during the festive Christmas season. The most anticipated trip is the one to Greece next September.

    Sykes looks forward to the future of the group and to “give more individuals access to a community of positive people
    and adventurous opportunities.”

    “I have been privileged enough to hear stories of the positive impact the group has made on many of the members,” he said.

    Even though he is the founder of the group, Sykes recognizes that Life’s A Trip Adventure Club has many members who have contributed to its success and cultivating a safe and healthy atmosphere.

    “Angela Lewis is a positive and spiritually uplifting personality. She has invited many people to the group, and she is the perfect representative. Genise Price overcame her fear of heights. She joined the group in the beginning stages and has been another recruiter who has brought other positive individuals into the fold,” Sykes said.

    “Belinda Wilkerson has been a role model for healthy living and someone who constantly shows others that they can do it. Her bright smile and positive attitude are infectious, and it is motivating to the group. Mary Hinton is an encouraging spirit. She has recently joined the group, but she is one of our most uplifting members. She is constantly pushing others to give it their all, and she does it all with a smile.”

    Life’s A Trip Adventure Club is a positive group that is continuing to grow not only in its number but in its impact.

    To join the club, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/5735624283194004/.

  • 16Home is a sacred place where families can build memories, find comfort and create a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, not everyone has the opportunity to experience the joys of owning a home.

    Connections of Cumberland County’s mission is to help families realize their dream of "home sweet home" by providing the necessary resources and support.

    They are an active lifeline for many families in the area, and offer tailored stabilization plans for each family, recognizing that every family is different. Their focus is on single women with children facing or at risk of homelessness, a demographic that is often overlooked. A team of professionals conducts one-on-one assessments to create personalized stabilization plans that cater to each family's specific requirements.

    To assist these families, various empowerment groups, budgeting workshops, computer labs, mail services, hygiene closets and birthday/reward closets are provided.

    Connections of Cumberland County offers a minimum of 12 months of case management services to ensure long-term improvement. The level of support and aid a family receives is determined by their specific needs, with an average of $600 to $750 allotted to each family.

    Connections of Cumberland County believes that everyone deserves a place to call home.

    They are committed to making this a reality for families by offering education on home maintenance and repair, financial management, and community resources to help families maintain their homes and improve their quality of life.

    All of these great opportunities are not available without the active community support. On Oct. 5, at Studio 215, Connections of Cumberland County will be holding one of their most significant fundraising events of the year.

    Their 6th Annual Art Auction, "Home is where the HeArt is" will be held from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., and the community can be a part of it.

    The auction will feature original works of art donated by local and regional artists, which will be available for both live and silent auctions. It is an excellent opportunity to own a unique piece while also contributing to a good cause. All the proceeds from the fundraiser will go towards supporting CCC's mission of providing vital services to those who need it most.

    Apart from the auction, guests will also be treated to delicious hors d'oeuvres, refreshing beverages and live music that will keep the atmosphere buzzing all night long. The event promises to be an enjoyable experience for everyone.

    To learn more about Connections of Cumberland County's case management services, support resources or to visit the Day Resource Center, feel free to do so by visiting https://www.connectionsofcc.org/.

    By attending the art auction, the community can help make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Join the community in supporting a great cause on Oct. 5.

    Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to come together as a community and help those in need. Let's make Home is Where the HeArt Is an event to remember.

    For more information, visit https://www.connectionsofcc.org/annual-art-auction

  • 14October is National Bullying Prevention Month. The premise is the reduction of childhood bullying incidents.

    “One in six students will experience bullying on or off school property,” reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. October 2 is World Day of Bullying Prevention Day.

    “Bumps and bruises are the rite of passage for childhood bullying. The consequences of childhood bullying and depression can persist forty years after the bullying occurs. The reaction of depression from bullying can cause multiple psychological symptoms and in extreme circumstances, bullying-inducted suicide. Children and adolescents experiencing bullying have significant rates of self-harm and anxiety,” according to recent studies.

    The observance of the day is “to encourage schools, communities and organizations to work together to stop bullying and cyberbullying by increasing awareness of the prevalence and impact of bullying on children.”

    Bullying is a public health issue. Bullying is a form of aggression. It is continuous and deliberate misuse of the power dynamic in a relationship. Bullying can be physical, verbal, social and cyber.

    Physical bullying is a person using their body as a tool for intimidation. Hitting, pushing, tripping, pinching and damaging property is a concise list for physical bullying tactics.

    Verbal bullying uses words as weapons. The words are used to threaten, to offend and to hurt the victim.

    Social bullying includes teasing, nasty looks, spreading false rumors, spreading gossip and physical gestures. The victim experiences alienation. Gaslighting is a widespread practice of social bullying perpetrators.

    Those who use gaslighting attempt to have a person question their reality. For instance, a person can purposely ignore an individual within a meeting. The confrontation with the perpetrator creates the comment, “I didn’t see you.”

    Cyberbullying is the evolved technological level of bullying. Cyberbullying is intimidation and harassment on multiple platforms. The messages are sexual comments or gestures, threats of harm to the target, offensive videos about the victim.

    “Cyberbullicide” is a term created by Sameer Hinduja and Justin Patchin in 2009.

    “It is a descriptive term for suicides that are directly or indirectly influenced by online bullying. Students who participate in bullying and cyberbullying, both offender and victim, have a significant likelihood of experiencing suicidal thoughts, suicidal attempts and completed suicides.”

    “In 2013, 12-year-old Rebecca Sedwick was extensively bullied on multiple online platforms by girls from school, including her former best friends. She switched schools, but cyberbullying continued, and after a year and a half, Ms. Sedwick took her life,” according to news sources.

    Bullying has three roles: perpetrator, target and bystander. The Bystander has multiple options. The person stays and watches the event. The bystander has a passive response to the perpetrator and target.

    The supportive role for the perpetrator is cheering, encouraging and laughing at the intimidating actions. Defenders could ask the perpetrator to cease torturing the target. However, there is the possibility for the perpetrator to torture the intervening individual. Some onlookers are unsure of an effective action. Often the question is, what can I do?

    Bullying impacts health habits such as frequent tears and angry outbursts, changes in eating and sleeping habits, stealing and substance misuse.

    Help is available. The United States Department of Health and Human Services sponsors the Stop Bullying Now Helpline. The Helpline contact number is 1-800-273-8255.

    A second option is 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The 988 Lifeline is sponsored by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and V! brant Emotional Health.

    Counselors are available 24/7 on the 988 Lifeline. Spanish and English counselors are available. The Lifeline can be contacted by the website Lifeline-988lifeline.org, 988 for text and chat, and SMS:988.
    You are not alone. Reach out and connect for support.

    The October 2, World Day of Bullying Prevention and the October, National Bullying Prevention month features community engagement activities.

    Blue shirts and banners can commemorate the World Day of Bullying Prevention.

    Educators can create bulletin boards about anti-bullying topics. Free sample lessons with multimedia slides and videos about anti-bullying activities are available on School Connect at https://www.school-connect.net>anti-bullying>curriculum.

  • 12bOktoberfest is a time for celebration and camaraderie, and this year, military servicemembers are invited to join in on the fun. The Oktoberfest on Fort Liberty will be held on Sept. 30 at the Iron Mike Conference Center. It will feature all of the traditional Oktoberfest activities, including live music, dancing, food and beer.

    “We're looking to have a variety of alcohol and food. We have a certain amount of German beers as well as domestics. For the food, we're going to have our Jumbo pretzels with our world famous beer cheese sauce, and also Schnitzels, brats... all the German style food,” said Keith Rigby, Deputy Director of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

    The kick off to Oktoberfest will be a Volksmarch (non-competitive walking). The Volksmarch will start and end at Iron Mike Conference Center beginning at 11:30 a.m. Food, beer tents and bounce houses will open at 12 p.m. A live polka band will be playing two to three sessions throughout the day. There will also be a raffle going on throughout the afternoon and evening, giving out prices once an hour.

    The Fall Market will be open during the afternoon as well. The market will be located inside the Iron Mike Conference Center. There will be at least 13 vendors on-site offering different items, perfect for anyone wanting to get holiday shopping done.

    “There will be a variety of vendors in there. Selling anything from popcorn to laser engraving, to Oktoberfest goods, as well as crafts and supplies,” Rigby said.12a

    For those who love to dress up, there will be an Oktoberfest costume contest. There will be three categories: 12 and under; 13 to 17 years old and 18 and over. Prizes will be awarded to the winners of each category. The costume contest starts at 4 p.m.

    For those who want to attend Oktoberfest closer to the evening, there will be a free German meal to the first 250 people in line at 5 p.m. Following dinner, the atmosphere will be focused more for adults only. There will be a DJ and a Stein Holding contest. The first 20 men and the first 20 women to sign up will be able to showcase how long they can hold a full stein of beer. The contest starts at 7 p.m.

    Oktoberfest is the kickoff event for the fall season on Fort Liberty. Col. John Wilcox, the Fort Liberty garrison commander, told Up & Coming Weekly that MWR and Fort Liberty plan on holding more events throughout the season for families and for soldiers.

    “We are going to focus really heavily, especially getting into the fall season, on making sure that there's plenty of events for families and our soldiers, sailors and the Marines and Space Force guardians to go do on the installation. The focus has been to provide soldiers opportunities to come on post and enjoy themselves,” Wilcox said.

    12Fort Liberty’s Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Gregory Seymour wanted to ensure families that this is not only a family-friendly event, but there will be plenty of security as well.

    “This is a safe environment. There will be security. [Military police] will be patrolling around so it, it will be a very, very safe event,” Seymour said.

    Everyone organizing the event all agreed they hope people come out and have a good time. Last year was the first time Oktoberfest was celebrated on Fort Liberty, and there was a good turnout, despite there being hurricane-related weather. The hope is that the sun will be shining on Saturday and people can come out and enjoy themselves.

    Oktoberfest starts at noon and will go through 10 p.m. The Fall Market will run from noon to 6 p.m. Entrance is free, but there will be items available for purchase. The event is open to the public. Non-DOD ID cardholders will need to get a visitor pass at the All American Gate Visitor Center. This can be done in person or folks can pre-register for gate access by going to https://home.army.mil/liberty/application/files/6816/8372/2450/FORT_LIBERTY_VISITOR_PASS_REQUEST_USING_ONLINE_PRE.pdf.

    For a list of vendors at the Fall Market, go to https://liberty.armymwr.com/calendar/event/fall-market/5959929/65056. For more information about the event, go to https://liberty.armymwr.com/calendar/event/72037 or call (910) 907-2582.

  • 11aOn Saturday, Sept. 30, the Airborne and Special Operations Museum Foundation is hosting the Mogadishu Mile 5K, a poignant event dedicated to paying tribute to the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Mogadishu. Also known as ‘Black Hawk Down' or Operation GOTHIC SERPENT, the Battle of Mogadishu occurred 30 years ago.

    Legacy and Lesson Learned

    In the annals of modern military history, the Battle of Mogadishu, remains etched as a tragic and heroic event. The battle, which took place on Oct. 3 and 4, 1993, was a harrowing clash between the U.S. and United Nations forces against Somali militias and armed civilians in Mogadishu, Somalia.

    This operation sought to capture key lieutenants of the Somali National Alliance and restore order to a war-torn city. However, what transpired was a grueling firefight that resulted in significant loss of life and countless injuries. Operation Gothic Serpent was part of a larger United Nations peacekeeping mission, UNOSOM II, aimed at stabilizing Somalia, which had descended into chaos following a civil war.

    On the fateful day of Oct. 3, 1993, a group of U.S. Army Rangers and Delta Force operatives set out to capture several high-ranking lieutenants of a Somali warlord, Mohamed Farrah Aidid. The mission, however, took a perilous turn when two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters were shot down by RPGs.

    The unexpected downing of helicopters and the subsequent intense urban firefight changed the course of the mission, resulting in unforeseen consequences. The heroism and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in Mogadishu are immortalized in military history. Their bravery, resilience and dedication to their fellow soldiers continue to inspire generations of military personnel and the broader public.

    In memory of those lost, we honor their sacrifice and reflect on the lessons learned from this tragic and pivotal event in American military history.

    The Mogadishu Mile’s 5K Objective

    The "Mogadishu Mile" refers to a route traversed by U.S. Army Rangers and Special Forces soldiers from a helicopter crash site to a designated rally point held by the 10th Mountain Division on National Street during the Battle of Mogadishu, Oct. 3, 1993.

    This heroic journey served as the inspiration for the impactful 2001 movie, Black Hawk Down. The MOG Mile 5K is a symbolic event and is not a timed race. It is devoid of prizes or recognitions for the top finishers.
    Age groupings have not been considered, allowing participants to traverse the route at their own pace. Registration cost for this event is $40.00, plus a $3.40 service fee. This event is open to individuals aged 18 and above.11

    Children under 18 can join at no cost, provided they are accompanied by a registered adult. The registration period will close at 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 28th. The location for the event is the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in downtown Fayetteville.

    Sign-up at https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/NC/Fayetteville/MogadishuMile5K For those who wish to contribute without participating in the race, there is an option to "Sleep In and Donate." By choosing this option, participants will still receive a Mogadishu Mile T-shirt. Interested individuals can share their preferences by emailing info@asomf.org.

    Join in honoring the brave individuals who demonstrated unparalleled courage and sacrifice in the face of adversity during the Battle of Mogadishu. Let us stand united as a community to pay tribute and commemorate their valor.

  • 10The Community Action Committee for Fort Liberty met for its monthly meeting Sept. 20. The meetings are aimed to convey information from the post's leadership.

    Child care services may expand

    A possible return of evening and weekend hours at Chay Youth Center, which provides activities for kids and teens, typically in middle and high school, as well as free programs for students, was brought up.
    The facility has a full-size gymnasium with a 20-foot climbing wall, a gaming lounge, an outdoor pool table and computers.

    Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chay Youth Center was open until 10 p.m. on Fridays and from 1 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays. These expanded hours were beneficial for parents who worked later shifts. Now, the center is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and closed on the weekend.

    “We are looking at the extended hours for Friday night, expanding them, looking at that initially first, and working our way onto Saturday,” said Margaret Lilly, chief of child and youth services.

    Lilly was asked about the hourly program for day care, which was cut during the pandemic.

    “We have a desire for all of our programs, but we need staff,” she said. “And the hourly was a result of the staff shortage. But with the increase of that, we will see additional hours within our program.”

    Lilly noted onboarding is trending upward. At a hiring event earlier this week, 42 child and youth program assistants were added, a trend she hopes to see grow.

    One ongoing issue is the lack of sensory-friendly classrooms within CYS’ child development centers. As of March, there are nearly 5,000 families enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program at Fort Liberty, the highest for any military installation, according to the garrison command team.

    The directorate of the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation office reported a lack of child care to support children; a retention issue for soldiers and child-care personnel.
    CYS is also looking at creating more sensory-friendly classrooms with a reduced ratio on Fort Liberty.

    It has addressed the issue with Installation Management Command headquarters in San Antonio but has yet to receive a response.

    Neighborhood community mayors return

    Now that many organizations are moving past COVID restrictions, Wilcox says, it’s time to bring back community mayors for neighborhoods on post.

    Each Fort Liberty neighborhood will be represented by a community mayor selected by the garrison commander. Each mayor will undergo training from the Army Residential Communities Initiative Team, including information on regulations, housing policies, customer service and conflict resolution.

    Residents of those neighborhoods will be able to reach out to the mayors about any concerns they have, and the mayors will then talk to Corvias and Fort Liberty leadership about resolving those issues. The mayors work on a voluntary basis. Eight mayors were announced during the meeting. There are still vacancies for the Linden Oaks Clubhouse, Ste Mere Eglise, and Randolph Pointe neighborhoods.

    Multiple 911 system outages reported

    Emergency Services staff confirmed a number of 911 center outages on post but said the outages may have been caused by a fiber cut. The outages affected calls using hardwired telephones. according to Deputy Director Dean DeMarks.

    “If you call 911 from a hard line and you get a constant busy signal, call via your cellphone,” DeMark said. “We are in the process of getting systems upgraded here in the near future.”

    DeMark also said 911 callers should tell the center they are on Fort Liberty because the call could be forwarded to the city of Fayetteville or Cumberland County, depending on where the caller is on post.
    The October meeting of the Community Action Committee has not been scheduled. Meetings are open to the Fort Liberty community and are typically held at the Soldier and Family Readiness Group Center.

  • 8In today's fast-paced and digitally connected world, one might assume that loneliness and isolation would be rare occurrences. Yet an alarming epidemic of loneliness has gripped societies across the globe, with individuals of all ages and backgrounds falling victim to its insidious grasp.

    The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated this issue, leaving many feeling more isolated than ever before. However, there is hope. As we navigate this challenging terrain, we can uncover the keys to defeating loneliness and reclaiming the vital social connections that are essential for our health and well-being.

    The Loneliness Epidemic: A Silent Plague

    Loneliness is not just a passing feeling of solitude; it is a pervasive sense of disconnection from others, often accompanied by sadness and a lack of purpose. Its effects are far-reaching, impacting not only mental health but also physical well-being. Studies have shown that chronic loneliness can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety, and a weakened immune system.

    The COVID-19 pandemic amplified the problem. Lockdowns and social distancing measures forced many to isolate themselves physically from friends and family. The absence of social gatherings, face-to-face conversations, and physical touch took a toll on mental health. A global survey by the United Nations found that one-third of respondents reported experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety during the pandemic.

    According to the 19th and 21st U.S. Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, loneliness and isolation harms both individual and societal health. The Surgeon General Advisory calls the American people’s attention to urgent public health issues and provide recommendations at /www.SurgeonGeneral.gov/Connection.

    He calls attention to the importance of social connection for individual health as well as on community-wide metrics of health and well-being, and conversely the significant consequences when social connection is lacking. In his advisory titled, Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community states that,

    “People may lack social connection in a variety of ways, though it is often illustrated in scientific research by measuring loneliness and social isolation. Social isolation and loneliness are related, but they are not the same. Social isolation is objectively having few social relationships, social roles, group memberships, and infrequent social interaction. On the other hand, loneliness is a subjective internal state. It’s the distressing experience that results from perceived isolation or unmet need between an individual’s preferred and actual experience.

    The lack of social connection poses a significant risk for individual health and longevity.”

    The Importance of Social Connection

    It is crucial to understand the significance of social connections for individual health and well-being. Human beings are inherently social creatures; our ability to form bonds and maintain relationships has been essential for our survival as a species.

    Strong social connections provide numerous benefits:

    • 1. Mental Health: Engaging in social activities and forming meaningful relationships can reduce the risk of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.
      Social interaction stimulates the release of oxytocin and dopamine, which promote positive emotions.
    • 2. Physical Health: A robust social network is linked to better physical health. It can boost the immune system, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and even increase lifespan.
    • 3. Emotional Support: Having a support system in times of crisis or stress can make all the difference. Knowing there are people to turn to can alleviate emotional burdens and provide comfort.
    • 4. Enhanced Quality of Life: Sharing experiences, hobbies and memories with others enhances the quality of life. It provides a sense of belonging and purpose, contributing to overall life satisfaction.

    Victory Over Loneliness: The Path Forward

    • 1. Reach Out: Breaking free from loneliness often begins with taking the first step—reaching out to others. Call a friend, send a text or schedule a virtual meetup. Small acts can have a significant impact.
    • 2. Embrace Vulnerability: Acknowledging loneliness can be difficult, but it's essential. Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness; it's a strength that allows for authentic connections. Share your feelings with trusted individuals.
    • 3. Volunteer: Helping others is a fulfilling way to combat loneliness. Volunteering allows you to connect with people who share your values and provides a sense of purpose.
    • 4. Limit Screen Time: While technology can connect us, excessive screen time can also foster feelings of isolation. Set boundaries for screen time and prioritize face-to-face interactions when possible.
    • 5. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Loneliness is a common human experience, and it doesn't define your worth. Treat yourself with the same compassion you'd offer a friend. Communities and governments have a role to play in addressing the loneliness epidemic.

    The following initiatives can foster social connections and help individuals overcome isolation:

    • 1. Community Centers: Expand and support community centers that offer a range of activities and services to promote social engagement.
    • 2. Mental Health Awareness Programs: Raise awareness about the importance of mental health and offer resources for those in need.
    • 3. Peer Support Programs: Implement peer support programs that connect individuals who have experienced loneliness or isolation with those currently struggling.
    • 4. Accessible Mental Health Services: Ensure mental health services are accessible and affordable, allowing people to seek help without barriers.
    • 5. Education and Training: Provide education and training to healthcare professionals, teachers, and community leaders to recognize and address loneliness effectively.

    The Road to Victory: A Collective Effort

    Defeating the epidemic of loneliness requires a collective effort. It involves individuals reaching out to one another, communities providing support,and governments implementing policies that prioritize mental health and social well-being.

    By recognizing the importance of social connection and taking proactive steps to combat loneliness, we can create a world where no one feels alone. In the words of Mother Teresa, "Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible poverty." Let us join hands and work together to eradicate this silent plague and build a society where loneliness finds no fertile ground to take root.

    Note: If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness or mental health issues, please seek help from a mental health professional or a trusted individual in your life.

  • 6Charlotte and Raleigh certainly have their problems — as discussed regularly in, among other places, this very spot on the opinion page! But as someone who grew up near Charlotte and now lives near Raleigh, I will also say there’s still more going right than going wrong in our state’s two most-populous communities.

    Consider the findings of a new report from the California-based Pacific Research Institute. It ranked America’s 50 most-populous cities on a variety of policy measures related to economic growth and opportunity.

    The top three cities on the PRI list were Fort Worth, Austin, and Colorado Springs. Raleigh and Charlotte tied for fourth place.

    The study used seven bundles of data: marginal state and local tax rates, average state and local tax rates, the regulatory burden, the business environment (including the quality and availability of labor), affordability (consumer prices compared to median income), quality of life (including crime rates and the availability of high-quality services), and poverty (homelessness and other measures of material deprivation).

    As should be readily apparent, many of these factors aren’t under the direct control of city policymakers — or of any policymakers, for that matter.

    One reason Charlotte and Raleigh fare well in the study, for example, is that the North Carolina General Assembly has spent the past dozen years reforming and reducing state tax and regulatory burdens.

    That’s why the Tax Foundation ranks our business tax climate 10th in the nation, a vast improvement from where we were before the legislature enacted its first round of tax reforms in 2011. We also do a better job than most ­— of building and maintaining transportation assets — which in North Carolina is primarily a state responsibility, not a local one.

    According to a study by the Reason Foundation, North Carolina ranks second in the cost-effectiveness of our expenditures on highways, behind only our northern neighbor, Virginia.
    Still, when the leaders of Raleigh and Charlotte do make critical policy decisions, they usually make wiser ones than their competitors do.

    It’s easier to build new homes in our cities than in theirs. Our quality of life is higher. Our homeless populations, though challenging to manage, are smaller and less injurious to public order and safety.
    I bet you can guess most or all of the lowest-ranked cities in the PRI study, but here’s the bottom 10, in descending order, just to make it official: Chicago, Detroit, Milwaukee, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Long Beach, Baltimore, New York, Los Angeles, and Oakland.

    While each of these places retains some economic vitality, stable neighborhoods, and beautiful places, they are clearly in relative decline.

    Moreover, their decline is not wholly, or even mostly, a consequence of forces beyond their control. The leaders of their state and local governments routinely make foolish decisions that squander the money, freedom, and trust of their residents — many of whom are, in turn, voting with their feet.
    Among those 10 lowest-ranked cities in the PRI study, the average population change from 2020 to 2022 was a 3.4% drop. For the top-10 cities, it was a 1.6% increase. The population growth for Charlotte was, in fact, third in the country by this measure. Raleigh’s was eighth.

    San Francisco and New York posted the biggest declines. Of the 14 cities posting significant population growth, three were in Texas. North Carolina, Florida, and Arizona were each home to two. The rest were in Nevada, Oklahoma, Colorado, Washington (Seattle), and California (Bakersfield).

    “Many factors inform people’s location decisions,” wrote the study’s author, Wayne Winegarden, but most desire “cities that are affordable, foster economic opportunities, and offer residents a high quality of life. The cities offering families these attributes are growing while the cities that are unaffordable and offer a declining quality of life are losing families.”

    Can we make Charlotte and Raleigh better places to live, work, play, rear children, and create new enterprises? Of course! But they could also be much, much worse. Just ask some of their newly arrived residents.

  • 5Early voting for the Oct. 10 Fayetteville primary election begins Thursday with new requirements for voters.

    For this election, voters will be required to show photo identification. Those without a photo ID can get one free at the Cumberland County Board of Elections Office.

    The early voting schedule is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Sept. 21 to Oct. 6, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Cumberland County Board of Elections Office, 227 Fountainhead Lane.
    Three contests for Fayetteville city office have primary elections this cycle: City Council Districts 2 and 5 and the mayoral race.

    Residents can register to vote on the same day they vote during the early-voting period. Voters must be a U.S. citizen, 18 or older, and a legal resident of Cumberland County for 30 days before the date of the next election.

    To be eligible to vote in a municipal election, voters must be a city resident. Go to the State Board of Elections website to use an interactive map to see municipal elections by location at www.ncsbe.gov/voting/upcoming-election.

    Voter ID requirements

    As of 2023, all voters in North Carolina will be required to show photo identification in order to vote.

    Acceptable forms of ID include:

    • North Carolina driver’s license.
    • State ID from the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (also called non-operator ID).
    • Driver’s license or non-driver’s license from another state, District of Columbia, or U.S. territory (only if voter registered in North Carolina within 90 days of the election).
    • U.S. passport or U.S. passport card.
    • Voter ID card issued by the county Board of Elections.
    • College or university student ID approved by the State Board of Elections.
    • State or local government or charter school employee ID approved by the State Board of Elections.

    To learn more about the photo ID requirement, acceptable forms of identification and how to get a free voter ID, visit www ncsbe.gov/voting/voter-id.
    For more information, contact the Cumberland County Board of Elections at 910-678-7733 or visit www.cumberlandcountync.gov/elections.

  • coverFor 27 years, the Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper has served residents, visitors and guests by providing timely, accurate and trustworthy news, views and relevant community information to enhance the quality of life in Fayetteville and Cumberland County.

    The Best of Fayetteville initiative recognizes those people, businesses and organizations who have gone the extra mile by investing their time, passion and financial resources into defining value and excellence in our community. Annually, we receive thousands of ballots and painstakingly record the comments and sentiments of our dedicated readers.

    The Up & Coming Weekly Best of Fayetteville reader’s survey is not scientific, but it is an informal, well-executed and documented survey that has proven incredibly reliable. Its longevity, popularity and success bear this out.

    It is imperative that Up & Coming Weekly’s Best of Fayetteville survey not be confused with other local advertising, marketing and promotional programs. Our readers decide the merits of our winners by their survey entries.

    We do not accept nominations; no person, business or organization is required to purchase advertising space, sponsorships or event tickets to find out who the winners are. Best of Fayetteville does not award or recognize 2nd or 3rd place finishers or honorable mentions.

    We use well-defined, regulated voting guidelines that ensure and elevate the value, honor and prestige of the Best of Fayetteville designation. There can be only one Best of Fayetteville winner for each category.

    We celebrated the occasion with our annual Best of Fayetteville Awards Party at the Crown Coliseum Complex on Sept. 26 to recognize and honor these outstanding people, businesses and organizations. Up & Coming Weekly, Transworld Business Advisors, the UPS Store, and the Greater Fayetteville Chamber hosted the event.

    Our community, like our newspaper, has changed over the last 27 years. However, our Best of Fayetteville survey and our commitment to our readers have not. We continue to accentuate the “Best of the Best” aspects of the community. And, we thank you for being part of it.

    The Up & Coming Weekly Best of Fayetteville edition you are holding in your hands will serve you well throughout the year. It is a valuable visitor’s guide, service directory, event and cultural resource. In print and online, the visitors bureau, the City, County and Chamber will use this special edition throughout the year to promote the Fayetteville community and the people, businesses and organizations that define it.

    Since the first ballots were cast more than two and a half decades ago, Up & Coming Weekly has proudly told the Best of Fayetteville winners’ stories. With your votes and support, we are incredibly proud to share this year’s Best of the Best winners. Please join me, the Up & Coming Weekly staff, and all our 2023 Best of Fayetteville winners and sponsors as we begin this year-long celebration.

    This special edition will be posted online at www.upandcomingweekly.com with 24/7, 365-days-a-year access to the Best of Fayetteville winners directory. While on the website, sign up for your free electronic subscription to the Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper and receive it on your home or work computer.

    I want to thank our sponsors for their support and participation in making this year’s BOF a success. Nat Robertson, President of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber, and Debbie and the late Steve Milburn of The UPS Stores in Westwood Shopping Center, Hope Mills, and Fort Liberty, for their support and the creation of the beautiful Best of Fayetteville awards. Ashley and Thomas Kelsey, owners of Transworld Business Advisors, make their living providing expert information and consulting on all aspects of business success. Every legitimate survey needs the oversight of a competent CPA, and we have the best. Lee Utley of Utley & Knowles CPAs has partnered with us for over two decades. His services have been invaluable in maintaining the integrity of the survey. General Manager Seth Benalt and Assistant Manager Dorothy Strahley of the Crown Coliseum Complex did an outstanding job coordinating and setting up the Awards Party.

    Last but certainly not least, a very special thank you to Don Garner and the entire Up & Coming Weekly staff, who have spent months working tirelessly on this major undertaking. Best of Fayetteville is our most significant and challenging event and the most popular and most-read edition of the year. With pride, they have gone above and beyond their duties to produce this award-winning publication. Keep it handy and refer to it often.

    We sincerely thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly and supporting this community newspaper.

  • CFRT Logo BlackandPlumbOn any given night lately, Cape Fear Regional Theatre can be found with a packed audience roaring with laughter. On stage, everything is going wrong. While in any normal play circumstance, this would be a disaster, here its a beautifully crafted, well-acted body of art. This time, everything that goes wrong feels oh so right. 
     
    While CFRT usually puts on a good show, this one is an exceptional work of comedy. Farce is always hard, according to its director, Laura Josepher, but the actors in The Play That Goes Wrong have hit the mark wonderfully. From the fake snow to a lost dog, each mishap during the scenes brings a new bout of laughter from the audience that may keep them laughing for days after. 
     
    Sometimes in plays it is easy to pick out key actors who steal the show; it would be hard to say any one actor out-performed his or her counterparts. Jonathan-Judge Russo, a returning actor to the stage at Cape Fear Regional Theatre, and Charlie Turner are seemingly meant for farce. The timing of jokes, expressions and line delivery was on-point for both of these actors. Mitchell Stephens, who plays in the show as the "director" and is the choreographer for the play as well, embodies a worried, at-wits-end play director that at some point seems to give up on trying to keep his show together. Matthew Stuart Jackson, Amber French and Cerina Johnson are ridiculous, as needed by their parts, and will keep any scene filled with laughter from the pure bad acting their parts demand. 
     
    The props and stage decorations for The Play That Goes Wrong were probably either the least impressive part, only because the bar was set so high by its actors, or perhaps one of the most. While this may seem contradictory, in a play pretending to be a play where everything goes wrong, it is very hard to tell what is intended to be roughly made and not hit the quality that the production company usually strives to hit. Now, the disintegration and destruction of the set are absolutely hilarious, well-timed and 100 percent intentional. This will provide a few enjoyable surprises for any show-goer. Again, however, it in no way outshines any of the actors' performances. 
     
    The Play That Goes Wrong is a beautiful, non-stop-laughter-inducing performance. If ever there was a time to visit the local theatre, now is the time. If facial pain from laughing and tight stomach muscles in the morning are the best course of treatment, it is definitely the prescription. 
     
    Note from the editor: The Play That Goes Wrong is being put on at Cape Fear Regional Theatre until Sept. 24.
  • 11Stanton House and the Pork Butt Festival share the concept of hospitality. The root word for hospitality is hospitalitas.

    Hospitalitas is defined as receive as guest. The Pork Butt Festival is hosting a fundraiser for the Stanton Hospitality House on Saturday, Oct. 7. The Pork Butt Festival offers the hospitality of charcoal, barbeque, beer, country music, meat and a tee shirt. It is a party with a purpose.

    Stanton Hospitality House is a “home away from home.” The mission statement of this private, non-profit organization is that it provides home away from home to families of patients and outpatients receiving medical treatment in the area hospitals.”

    It is a temporary residence for those living outside of Cumberland County. People have the option to bathe, to prepare a meal, to wash clothes, to rest and to reduce stress.

    “For the past ten years, we have provided so much help for those in need. We see so much pain and grief but also love and joy. We provide a home away from home. We provide accommodations for those receiving treatments such as cancer and surgery,” said Martha Brock, executive director, Stanton Hospitality House.

    Danisha is an example of such care hospitality. She resided there for two months during her father’s illness.

    Elizabeth, another resident, experienced a residency of five years. She was fourteen, unable to walk or talk and was diagnosed with Lymphoma Cancer. She experienced recovery. She can now speak and walk.
    Elizabeth graduated Terry Sanford High school and will be attending college.

    The Pork Butt Festival is adding the fun component to the Stanton House fundraiser.

    The Pork Butt Festival is receiving the community as guests to a public event. Beer and country music are a cultural legacy, and both will be represented at the festival.

    Featured country music artists are Bobby Gilstrap, Brooke McBride, KasCie Page and Dalton Davis. Healey Wholesale and Craft Brews from Heckler Brewing Company are providing the beer for this festival. Attendees have a choice of craft and regular beers.

    Pork Butt has an American story. The colonial New England butchers packed inexpensive cuts of meat into large barrels called “butts” for storage and transportation. The shoulder meat packed in these barrels became known as “pork butt.” Pork butt is a meat cut from the upper portion of a pig’s front shoulder.

    The shoulder is slow cooked over coals or wood. The meat is seasoned with custom-designed spices and sauces. Southern Coals will be providing the pork butt for the event. The Pork Butt Festival features cornhole, kid-friendly activities and a tee shirt.

    The Pork Butt Festival is a complete day of entertainment. The event is Saturday, Oct. 7, at 4058 Legend Road. The festival will be held from noon to 8 p.m. The music begins at 12:30 pm. Ticket price is $45 per person.

    The ticket price includes admission, food, tee shirt, and two beer tickets. Children five and under are free. Event and ticket information are available at www.stantonhouseporkbutt fest.evenbrite.com

  • 17Behind the bustle and rumblings of the busy streets, beyond the neon lights of the nightlife, lies the secret heartbeat of the city. Small, intimate venues set the scene for most events, patrons find places to settle before the show starts.

    Poetry nights are not new to Fayetteville, but they are slowly becoming more popular, as more businesses open their doors for the words to flow.

    Anyone looking for a night of good poetry can find a multitude of places and poets to fit any palate. Fayetteville hosts an array of poets from every background, all with their own unique flow and style.

    If you want to know anything about what's going on in the city, there’s only one person to talk to, LeJuane Bowens, better known as “El’Ja,” pronounced L.J.

    Like a lot of Fayetteville residents, El’Ja got here by way of the military, originally hailing from Lima, Ohio by way of Detriot, Michigan. While his style and flow are eclectic, from Freewrite to Tankas to spoken word, there is always a story being told.

    If you want to hear him perform, you are in luck. El’Ja hosts multiple monthly events in Fayetteville. Every third Thursday is T.A.P at Winterbloom Tea, located at 203 Hay Street.

    Arts Meets Life, an event in conjunction with The Sweet Palette, is every first Friday at Blanc Coffee Roasters, located at 103 Person Street. He also hosts poetry workshops, for schools, universities and nonprofits.

    Booking can be done online at www.poetrynmotionnc.com. As for the future of poetry in Fayetteville, El’Ja says he hopes for “more recognition and the city having a Poet Laureate.”
    Another staple in the poetry scene is Andre Sansbury, also known as “Suavethepoet.” Raised in Fayetteville, he has been writing since 10th grade when he was introduced to Haikus.

    “I picked the pen back up as a senior in high school when I was going through challenging times and I never put it back down,” he said.

    A true performer, Suavethepoet doesn’t claim a particular style of poetry, he just performs his work from his heart. Heavily influenced by Just Mike the Poet out of Philiphedia and Raleigh’s own,Nick Courmon,

    Suave considers his poetry a healing experience for audience members, a sentiment he said drives his passion to write and perform. He can also be found in multiple venues around Fayetteville hosting poetry events.

    Trap N Paint: Poetry Paint is every second Thursday at 402 E. Russell Street, and Sessions with Suave: Open Mic is once a month. The date of the event can be found on his Instagram page, @suavethepoet2.0.

    He is working on a third monthly location on Ramsey Street. More details will be coming soon.

    “I just want to see poetry continue to grow and the support to get better… We are doing something positive and trying to change the dynamic of entertainment,” said Suavethepoet.

    “I am constantly thinking of ideas with my brother Poetic Zae on how we can do events that will catch people's attention. I just want people to experience the magic of poetry.”

    There are other monthly poetry events scheduled around town, hosted by other talented poets.

    The Sip Room holds a poetry event the last Wednesday of the month hosted by Poetic Zae, and Word Playis held every second Friday hosted by Nick Courmon. Fayetteville will be hosting two major poetry slams as well.

    Southeastern Regional NC Poetry Fest will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23 at the Fayetteville Arts Council. Tickets are $10, and doors open at 7:15 p.m. The show starts at 8. Suavethepoet is hosting a Youth Poetry Slam in October. Those interested are encouraged to contact him via email andresansburyjr@gmail.com.

  • 19As you go through life, you’ll have various financial goals — and to achieve them, you’ll need to invest. But just recognizing the need to invest is not as useful as matching specific types of accounts or investments with specific goals. How can you make these connections?

    Let’s look at some common goals and how they could possibly be met with appropriate accounts and investments:

    • Saving for a down payment on a house – When you’re saving for a down payment, you want a certain amount of money available at a certain time — so, for this goal, you won’t want to take too much risk. Consequently, you might consider investing in certificates of deposit (CDs), which will pay you regular interest payments and return your principal when the CDs mature. CDs are issued in a range of maturities, from one month to 10 years. Other vehicles you might consider are money market accounts or other cash equivalents.

    • Saving for a child’s education – If you have children, and you’d like to help them pay for some form of higher education, you may want to consider a 529 education savings plan. Any earnings growth in a 529 plan is federally tax free, provided the withdrawals are used for qualified education expenses, and you may also receive state tax benefits. A 529 plan can be used for college, approved trade school programs, student loan repayments and some K-12 costs. And if the child you’ve named as a beneficiary chooses not to continue their education, and doesn’t need the money in a 529 plan, you can generally switch beneficiaries to another immediate family member.

    • Saving for retirement – This is the one goal that will remain consistent throughout your working years — after all, you could spend two or even three decades in retirement, so you’ll need to accumulate as many financial resources as you can to pay for those years. Fortunately, you likely have access to several good retirement-savings vehicles. If you work for a business, you might have a 401(k) plan, which offers you the chance to put away money on a tax-deferred basis. (If you have a Roth option in your 401(k), your withdrawals can be tax free, although, unlike a traditional 401(k), your contributions won’t lower your taxable income.) If you work for a public school or a nonprofit organization, you may be able to participate in a 403(b) plan, which is quite similar to a 401(k), and the same is true if you work for a state or local government, where you might have a 457(b) plan. And even if you invest in any of these plans, you can probably also contribute to an IRA, which gives you another chance to invest on a tax-deferred basis (or tax-free basis, if you’re eligible for a Roth IRA). Try to take full advantage of whatever retirement plans are available to you.

    Here's one final point to keep in mind: While some investments and accounts are appropriate for certain goals, they may not necessarily be suitable for your individual situation — so keep all your options in mind and take the steps that are right for you.

  • 7College and university rankings are a Massive Deal, as Regina George might say — and not just during football season.

    U.S. News & World Report was once a weekly newsmagazine. Now its primary business is to publish rankings of college and university programs, as well as hospitals and other institutions. It has many competitors, as the demand for rankings is both broad and deep. Young applicants and their parents use them to make momentous decisions. So do many employers, donors, and policymakers. The schools themselves sift through the rankings to find flattering statistics for their marketing campaigns.

    I’ve never put stock in rankings based on inputs such as revenues or endowments. Nor do I find it useful merely to look at completion rates or average salaries of graduates, since such measures may reflect the policy choices of institutions — grade inflation and admissions strategies, respectively — more than they do the true value of the education delivered.

    In recent years, I’ve used studies from the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity to assess the return on investment for dozens of North Carolina colleges and universities. Today I’ll discuss two new studies that reveal valuable — and sometimes awkward — truths about some familiar names.

    First, the Wall Street Journal has just published a revamped set of rankings for 400 institutions. For 70% of the score, the Journal and its partner, the survey firm College Pulse, compared the net price of attendance (tuition, fees, and charges after subtracting financial aid) to an estimate of income gains after graduation. The rest of the score reflects surveys of students and recent graduates as well as measures of student diversity.

    Among the 400 colleges and universities studied, North Carolina’s highest-ranking institutions were Duke University (16th), Davidson College (30th), UNC-Chapel Hill (83rd), Wake Forest University (85th), and North Carolina State University (106th). Closer to the middle of the pack were UNC-Greensboro (215th), Elon University (232nd), UNC-Charlotte (235th), East Carolina University (248th), and Appalachian State University (289th).

    Also this month, the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) released a new study of free speech on campus. In another partnership with College Pulse, FIRE used student surveys as well as its assessment of institutional speech policies to rank 248 colleges and universities.

    North Carolina’s highest-ranking institution in this study was UNC-Greensboro (9th). Four other institutions — N.C. State (11th), UNC-Charlotte (21st), East Carolina (24th), and Appalachian State (36th) — had above-average scores. Davidson (64th), Wake Forest (88th), and Duke (124th) fell in the middle tier. UNC-Chapel Hill (174th) got a below-average score.

    Nationally, FIRE concluded that the campuses mostly friendly to free speech were Michigan Tech, Auburn, University of New Hampshire, Oregon State, and Florida State. The least friendly were Fordham, Georgetown, University of South Carolina, University of Pennsylvania, and — dead last with a zero score — Harvard. (Six additional “warning” campuses don’t even pretend to prioritize free speech, as Harvard does.)

    I have some reservations about both studies. The Journal doesn’t adequately adjust for the likelihood that students admitted to highly selective institutions are likely to earn substantial wage premiums over non-college-graduates regardless of the quality of the education received. If we want to measure the value added by university courses and programs, there really is no alternative but to make use of formal tests or other assessments administered upon admission and then again after graduation.

    As for the FIRE rankings, they primarily reflect the perceptions of students who are not themselves randomly distributed. In other words, university leaders may truly believe in free speech, and even do a reasonable job of fostering constructive engagement across the political divide, and yet rank poorly because the political divide happens to be deeper among the students who choose to attend.

    Neither objection is sufficient to reject these studies outright, though. They convey important information — such as the fact that only 23% of students at Chapel Hill, my alma mater, say it’s “never acceptable” to shout down speakers to keep them from speaking on campus.

  • 10a4th Friday in September is an opportunity for the public to visit the Dürer to Picasso printmaking, an exhibit that runs until Sept. 30. Rosenthal Gallery, on the campus of Fayetteville State University, is extending its gallery hours for the public to view Dürer to Picasso, a printmaking exhibit from the Ackland Art Museum’s print collection in Chapel Hill, North Carolina during September’s 4th Friday evening.

    From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., on September 22, Rosenthal Gallery will remain open and free to the public to see thirty-six original prints by the most recognized European artists from the late fifteenth to the early twentieth century.

    Original works by Albrecht Dürer, Pablo Picasso, Rembrandt van Rijn, Francisco de Goya, William Blake, Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt, Käthe Kollwitz, Salvador Dali and Vincent van Gogh, among others, demonstrate the power of the print media to document events, spread ideas,and influence public opinion.

    An additional viewing time and a lecture have been scheduled for the public on Saturday, Sept. 30, the last day of the exhibit. The gallery will be open between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the lecture will take place between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the gallery.

    Professor Soni Martin’s presentation references the artists in the exhibit, their influences and little-known facts about how the artists pushed the boundaries of their artistic expression in innovative ways.

    Printmaking, the process of reproducing the same image from a matrix (metal, stone, wood, and other materials), allows artists to create hundreds, if not thousands, of reproductions of the same image.

    Considered collectible fine art, each work printed from the same matrix is considered a limited edition original. Due to printing multiples of an image, the medium is valued by artists as a way to share their work with a much larger audience, including international audiences.

    Valued by the public, prints are an affordable way to collect the work of an artist or invest in original art and encourage the broad dissemination of knowledge, spread an artist’s expressive vision, and document works in other media like painting and sculpture for a wide public.

    In the centuries before photography, prints then became some of the most effective conveyors of contemporary ideas, knowledge and art.10b

    The exhibit was installed chronologically by decade. The gallery begins with Andrea Mantegna, an early Renaissance artist from the 1400s. The last print hanging sequentially in the gallery is by Salvadore Dali, a surrealist artist in the modern period.

    Entering the gallery, visitors will have to stop to look at the draftsmanship of Hendrick Goltzius, a Dutch artist who lived between 1558 and 1617. Influenced by printmakers Lucas van Leyden and the well-known Albrecht Dürer, Goltzius takes the art of cross-hatching with a line to a heightened level of describing volume when representing the figure.

    In the engraving titled The Followers of Cadmus Devoured by a Dragon, 1588, the details of the line work swell and taper around the figures and in the background to create incredible volume and fullness. Goltzius's subjects and handling of the figure are moving us away from the conceptual period of the Renaissance towards the drama of the Baroque period.

    There are several overarching themes when looking at the works from the Renaissance, Baroque to the Romantic period compared to the modern prints.

    Artists like Albrecht Dürer to Rembrandt focus on the effects of light on a subject and in the pictorial space, whereas modern artists from the post-Impressionists to mid-modernism focused on the expressive quality of the mark to evoke emotion instead of describing the figure.

    Seeing the small black and white etching by Van Gogh titled Portrait of Doctor Gachet, from 1890, is very different than seeing his colorful paintings. Yet we get to experience the artist's hand in mark-making, how he expresses a type of shorthand in the line quality to evoke meaning in a portrait of his doctor created only six weeks before his death.

    Due to postmodern sensibilities, many of the early works are more conceptual than emotional but important to see as a way to understand the evolution of European culture. Yet, there are many works in the exhibit, especially from the Romantic period, that easily move you emotionally.

    For example, Käthe Kollwitz used the print medium as a powerful instrument of political loyalty to her anti-war and anti-violence position in the early years of the 1900s.

    Her large etching titled The Battlefield, from 1907, depicts a mother searching for her dead son in the soft light of a lantern among a field of corpses. The genius of Kollwitz is to portray the rawness and brutality of the aftermath of a war battle and personal loss, instead of depicting the chaos and numbing of the actual battle taking place.

    Kollwitz is one of only two women in the exhibit. The other woman in the exhibit is Mary Cassatt, an American who lived from 1844 to 1926. She lived her adult life in Paris as an artist among the post-Impressionists.

    One of Cassatt's contributions to the history of art is her preoccupation with a genre that had not been investigated by a woman artist: the private space of women, telling the story of motherhood, women and children living and growing together.

    Like several other post-Impressionists, Cassatt was influenced by the ukiyo-e style of the Japanese print. Another artistic contribution was interpreting her subject(s) only using flat planes of flat color, bright hues, asymmetric compositions, drastic foreshortening, decorative patterns, fine lines and simplified figures.

    Visitors to the exhibit will find information panels next to each work. Visitors should plan on taking the time to read each brief panel since they contextualize the artist in their period and share the story about their subject and its relevance in history.

    FSU Professor Dwight Smith coordinated with the Ackland Art Museum at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for the exhibit to come to FSU and would like to acknowledge Dana Cowen, Sheldon Peck Curator for European and American Art before 1950, for curating this exceptional exhibit to share with the Fayetteville area.

    “This collaboration underscores the importance of fostering cultural exchange and enriching the artistic experiences between universities and agencies,” Smith said.

    Rosenthal Gallery is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information or if groups would like to schedule a time to come to Rosenthal Gallery, please contact Professor Dwight Smith at dsmith46@uncfsu.edu or call 910-672-1795.

  • 16aThe Fayetteville Woodpeckers are hosting their 5th annual Pecktoberfest at Segra Stadium on Saturday, September 30th, from 5 p.m. to
    9 p.m.

    There will be over 20 breweries with over 40 cold beers to sample, food served on the field, live music performances by Blazin' Keys Dueling Pianos, a Woodpeckers' Kids Zone and additional activities.

    Tickets for adults 21 and over are $35 per person and include 15 drink sampling tickets. One drink sampling ticket can be exchanged for a three ounce sample, and five drink sampling tickets can be exchanged for a 16 ounce pint.

    Additional drink tickets will be available on site for $1 per ticket. Children two years old and younger enter for free. Adult tickets that do not include alcohol are $20.

    Tickets for children between the ages of 3 to 12 are $5 per person, and tickets for ages 13 to 20 are $20 per person. All ticket prices will increase on the day of the event by $10.

    Southern Pines Brewing Company is presenting an exclusive VIP experience for $75 per person.

    This VIP experience includes early entry at 4 p.m., a 2-hour buffet, unlimited samples of VIP exclusive beers, a Pecktoberfest gift and access to a private area. The VIP tickets without alcohol are $50 per person.

    Tickets are available and can be purchased at https://www.milb.com/fayetteville/tickets/promotions or by visiting the Truist Box Office at Segra Stadium.16b

    Military discounts are available. Current or former military can use the CANarch Brewing Military Discount, available through GOVX at https://www.govx.com/tickets/entertainers/260557/pecktoberfest. GOVX provides exclusive discounts for current or former military, first responders and law enforcement.

    The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are a local Minor League Baseball team, part of the Carolina League, and a Class-A affiliate of the Houston Astros.

    Pecktoberfest offers  an opportunity to experience a variety of beers while enjoying food and a live music performance. Pecktoberfest has it all. Don't miss out on this year's Pecktoberfest hosted by the Fayetteville Woodpeckers.

  • 8bCape Fear Botanical Garden will serve the community as a resource for 2023-2024 environmental education and cultural arts programs - with Cultural Organization Resource grant support from the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County.

    As a reflection of society and individual identity, art brings meaning into people’s lives. Cornerstone cultural programs and public events include Halloween at the BOO-tanical Garden, Holiday Lights in the Garden, Dog Day and Pondamania.

    “Cape Fear Botanical Garden is in a unique position to provide engagement with art and nature making both more enjoyable, approachable and accessible. It is a place where all can come together to connect as a community through enriching experiences that inspire, delight, entertain and educate,” says Chris Hoffman, CEO of Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

    “Cultural Organization Resource Grants support art organizations of Cumberland County that are vital to our community and have a proven record of being able to use the funds appropriately,” says Bob Pinson, President and CEO of the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County.

    “The Arts Council is proud to partner with Cape Fear Botanical Garden as a CORE Grantee. We value all that these organizations contribute to the arts in Cumberland County.”

    The Arts Council’s Community Organization Resource Grants may be awarded to local arts agencies in Cumberland County whose programs are vital to the cultural life of the community and whose organizations have reached a size and maturity that assure their long-term viability.

    The purpose of CORE Grants is to strengthen and stabilize major arts institutions and help them to deliver high quality arts services to the citizens of Cumberland County.

  • 14The North Carolina Home Expo, held at the Crown Complex Friday Sept. 22 through Sunday Sept. 24, is an event meant to turn a house into a home.

    Matthew Desmond opines, “Housing is essential to human flourishing. Without stable shelter, it all falls apart.”

    Stable housing addresses environmental factors such as air pollution, recreational resources, access to healthy foods and medical care.

    Healthy People is a health promotion and disease prevention program of the United States Department of Health & Human Services. The Healthy People 2030 objectives are to attain healthy, thriving, lives and well-being, free from preventable diseases, disability and injury.

    Built Environment is one of the sub-sections of Healthy People 2030. Built environment is “surroundings created by humans for humans and used for human activities.”

    According to Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a person’s zip code can determine their life expectancy. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation reports Cumberland County has a life expectancy of 77.70 years. North Carolina has the life expectancy of 76.40.

    House and home are not interchangeable concepts. House is a physical, mass-produced, assembled, designed by architects, planners, and builders. Housing Divisions represent the current technology, interior design, and appliances.

    According to Farahan Samani research study, “No one lives without a home, and home plays an inescapable role in the reflection of the human desire for longing. Belonging underpins human sociality. Security and emotional attachment can be linked to appliances, furniture, dishes, flatware, silverware, home accessories and bric-a-bracs. Every item has a story. Home ownership is essential to the psychosocial aspects of agency and self-determination."

    Agency and self-determination are reflected by home repair and home improvement. Home repairs are projects to maintain the function of the home. Home Improvement are the enhancement of the aesthetics of the house.

    The Spruce Website announce the renovation trends for 2023 are influenced by the pandemic, escalating cost of materials, spiraling housing market, and aging well in place.

    The projects run the gamut of fixing broken fences, repair for burst water pipes, bathroom and kitchen upgrades and updating appliances to energy-star.
    Patios, decks, outdoor living spaces are reflective of Outdoor living. The open-space concept is being segmented into compact and enclosed areas.

    The renovation trends feature garages, sheds, and rooms designated as Home Office. This practice is reflective of mental health awareness.
    How does a person decide to renovate or to move? According to the Property Brothers, Drew, and Jonathan Scott, HGTV, the questions are, “Am I in the right location? Is there enough room for family growth? What are the costs?”

    According to Todd Tomalak, Zonda Building Products Research, the brief list of projects with one hundred per cent of return of investment are HVAC electrification, garage door replacement, replacement of siding with stone veneer, and entry-door replacement.

    Aging- well-in -place options are door levers, bath bars for the bathroom, vinyl and bamboo flooring, and easy grip cabinet knobs. Budget -friendly projects are painting, plants, and home accessories.

    The North Carolina Home Expo is family-friendly, one stop shopping to create a legacy.

    The Expo features products and the service demonstrations can range from kitchens, bathrooms, windows, roofing, siding, general contractors, gutters, doors, windows, flooring, garage doors and painting.

    Past vendors of the Expo have been All-American Gutter Protection, Bath Fitters, Leonard USA, Superior Sleep Mattresses, Moxie Solar, Southern Exposure Sunrooms, and Groundworks. Homeowners can be apprised of trending home design and home improvement innovations.

    The North Carolina Home Expo will be held at the Crown Center. It will be a three day event, Friday, Sept. 22, from noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday Sept. 23,10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday Sept. 24, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit https://northcarolinahomeexpo.com.

  • 9Fayetteville Technical Community College is inviting community members to “swing” by the annual FTCC Foundation Golf Tournament on Sept. 28, with proceeds going toward scholarship opportunities and emergency assistance for its students.

    “It’s just an opportunity for folks to come out and interact with our students, our faculty and our staff and raise money for a good cause,” said Sandy Ammons, executive director of the FTCC Foundation.

    The tournament will begin at 9 a.m. at Gates Four Golf & Country Club and feature meals from Chick-Fil-A, Jersey Mike’s and a breakfast sponsored by Berkshire Hathaway, Ammons said.

    “It will be a beautiful day of golf. We will have lots of food and refreshments throughout the day,” Ammons said.

    The FTCC Foundation Golf Tournament has been around for over 25 years, Ammons said, and has raised more than $1 million for students over this time.

    Ammons said the golf tournament remains a great way for community members to meet Fayetteville Tech students, socialize and enjoy the sport.

    Many community members throughout Cumberland County have ties to FTCC, Ammons said, and the tournament provides an opportunity for folks to give back to support students who continue to prepare to enter into the workforce.

    “Really just about everybody in Cumberland County is either an alum of FTCC or works with or knows an alum of FTCC,” Ammons said. “We graduate so many students in so many different fields and I think people really appreciate the workforce development that we do.”

    Ammons said she hopes at the conclusion of the tournament that those participating have had a pleasant time mingling with members of the FTCC community and can enjoy having supported those seeking an education in their county.

    “I hope that they take away that they have done a good thing to support students who are seeking an education and just realize how much they enjoyed interacting with our staff,” Ammons said.

    Cape Fear Valley Health and Mercedes-Benz of Fayetteville remain sponsors of the event. Those seeking more information on the event may call 910-678-8441 or email Foundation@faytechcc.edu.

Latest Articles

  • Gallery 208: Beyond Surface: Abstractions by Kellie Perkins
  • Kindah Temple No. 62 hosts annual Spring Ceremonial
  • FTCC Foundation invests in students’ futures
  • Unique Easter traditions from around the globe
  • Flawless Touch Detailing celebrates new location
  • CFRT: The Play That Goes Wrong...Again
Up & Coming Weekly Calendar
  

Advertise Your Event:

 

Login/Subscribe