Entertainment

American Friends of Lafayette to visit Fayetteville in 2025

11On March 4 and 5, 2025, Fayetteville will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Gilbert du Motier, the Marquis de Lafayette's visit to the city. The American Friends of Lafayette, based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is coordinating the bicentennial and recognized Fayetteville as a premier bicentennial site. The celebration will be both fun and educational, with symbolic connections to the past. This event is part of the national bicentennial celebration of Lafayette's "Farewell Tour" of the United States in 1824–1825 in Fayetteville, creating an immersive living history experience that will educate visitors about Lafayette's historical significance.
The City Center Gallery and Books, a local bookstore, is a key partner in the bicentennial celebration. In honor of the bicentennial site, they have calendars highlighting other locations throughout the tour.
"It's a 13-month tour. The celebration is expected to start in August in New York," shared Diane Parfitt, the City Center Gallery and Books co-owner. The bookstore also offers a wide selection of books about Lafayette, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about Lafayette's life and legacy.
Fayetteville, the first city named after Lafayette in 1783, holds a significant place in history. Lafayette, a French nobleman who fought for American freedom during the Revolutionary War, left an indelible mark on our city. Gen. George Washington awarded him a command, which influenced Louis XVI of France to ally with America. Lafayette led the Continental Army in the Virginia Campaign and played a pivotal role in the Siege of Yorktown. After returning to France, he drafted legislation in the National Assembly guaranteeing citizens' rights to Protestants and free black men. Lafayette remained a steadfast opponent of slavery and believed in full rights for all men, regardless of color. His visit to Fayetteville is a testament to our shared history and values.
"There is no more important location than Fayetteville, North Carolina. We expect thousands to descend upon Fayetteville for the purpose of commemorating, celebrating, and educating," Chuck Schwam, AFL Chief Operating Officer, shared in a press release.
As part of the upcoming celebrations, the Lafayette Society of Fayetteville will be holding two creativity contests throughout 2024. Aspiring Fayetteville based poets are asked to write poems, 25 lines or less, inspired by Lafayette’s principles. He espoused the ideals of liberty, human rights, equality, religious tolerance and the abolition of slavery. There is one entry per author, and online entries are welcomed through the Lafayette Society website at https://www.lafayettesociety.org/. Cash prizes will be awarded.
All poems will be judged anonymously and must be written in English. The deadline for submission is Dec. 1, 2024. Winners will be invited to perform their original works at the 2025 Lafayette Bicentennial Luncheon on March 2, 2025. For more information, email creativity@lafayettesociety.com
The second contest is visually driven. Enthusiastic filmmakers are encouraged to create a short film under 4 minutes long inspired by Lafayette’s ideals. The rating should be PG-13 or lower. All video, music and lyrics must be the work of the video artists and producers. The submission must be hosted on YouTube, and the submission deadline is also Dec. 1, 2024.
Both competitions are open to Cumberland County and Fort Liberty residents and students.
“We hope to get a diverse array of entries from the young, the old, and everyone in between,” said Christopher Thrasher, Lafayette Society board member.
“I can't wait to see the wonderful ways that people will use new ideas and new technologies to bring Lafayette's enduring values into the twenty-first century. Lafayette's ideas are old, but they are as relevant today as they were when he visited our city almost two hundred years ago,” he said.
“I hope that these contests will help the community feel connected to their past and to each other. Fayetteville is not just any city. Fayetteville is The All America City and there are few things more American than Lafayette's key values of liberty, human rights, and equality. Many things divide us, but Lafayette's values can help bring us together.”
More information and rules regarding these contests can be found on the Lafayette Society website.
The Lafayette Society, founded by the late Martha Duell, plays a crucial role in preserving the history of Lafayette. Fayetteville local and former Lafayette Society President Dr. Hank Parfitt chairs the Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration Tour for Fayetteville. Now under its current president, Dr. Gwen Melton, the Lafayette Society remains steadfast in recognizing the contributions of Lafayette to America's freedom, promoting his generosity, patriotism, leadership, opposition to slavery, and support for human rights.
The society also funds over $50,000 in endowment funds at Fayetteville State University to support the study of "the Age of Revolutions, Emancipation, and Civil Rights."
This supports the Lafayette Lecture Series every February and helps fund other activities for the Black History Scholars Association. Additionally, they offer online lectures.
Some of the society's highlighted achievements to commemorate Lafayette's legacy include the establishment of the Lafayette Leadership Medal. Top graduates of the Master Leader Course at the Non-commissioned Officers Academy at Ft. Liberty receive this prestigious award for their exceptional leadership and service in the spirit of Lafayette.
The society also supports leadership programs at Methodist University, Fayetteville Technical Community College, as well as partnerships with Fayetteville's local higher education institutions to provide quality educational opportunities.
As evident through history, the Marquis de Lafayette made many contributions. In return, the Lafayette Society of Fayetteville puts much effort into preserving and perpetuating Lafayette's legacy.
To stay informed and learn more about the Bicentennial Celebration tour in Fayetteville, visit the City Center Gallery and Books at 112 Hay Street, Fayetteville, or call 910-678-8899. Readers can also visit www.lafayettesociety.org.

(Photo: City Center Gallery and Books has Marquis de Lafayette merchandise in honor of the 200th Anniversary of his Farewell Tour. Locals Hank and Diane Parfitt own the shop. Hank is the chair of the Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration Tour. Photo by Tracey Morrison)

Fayetteville Artists Rock for Autism Awareness Concert

10Jammin Jon’s Fayetteville Artists Rocking for Autism Awareness Annual Concert will take place Sunday, June 23 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Louie’s Sports Pub located at 2417 Robeson Street.
“This is the 3rd annual concert and I will be coming up on my 3-year anniversary of moving to Fayetteville in June 2021,” said Jon Kiebon, organizer of Fayetteville Artists Rocking for Autism Awareness Concert. “Last year we had 3 events and the Arts Council of Fayetteville awarded me an artist mini grant which you can apply for your artistic ambitions and events.”
The New York native started the idea while he was living in the neighborhood of Rockaway Beach in Queens.
“I started doing an annual Rocking for Autism concert in 2012 because it is a great place for artists, bands and music,” said Kiebon. “So, when we moved to Fayetteville, I decided to continue doing those concerts down here.”
Autism is a cause that hits home and is significant to Kiebon’s heart. His 26-year-old daughter, Gail, was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder before she turned two years old.
“She is high functioning and an amazing young woman,” said Kiebon. “One of the first calls that I made about obtaining services for my daughter when we moved to Fayetteville was with Amy Perry, from Autism Society of North Carolina, who is the go-to person for autism.”
Kiebon added, “I ended up calling the Cumberland County Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment. They ended up getting Gail a job coach and a job at Fort Liberty as a part-time food service worker. They give them every opportunity to work and succeed. There is no way she would have gotten this type of job if we were in New York.”
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), better known as autism, is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how individuals interact with others, communicate, learn and behave. It is a spectrum disorder because the type and severity of symptoms can vary widely from low functioning to high functioning. Symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life. Some common symptoms entail difficulty communicating, difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests and repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping, rocking and spinning.
Autism has no single known cause. Both genetics and environment may play a role. The number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder is rising. It can affect children of all races and ethnicities. Certain factors can increase a child’s risk such as your child’s sex, family history, certain medical conditions, preterm babies and being born to older parents. There is no way to prevent autism, but early diagnosis and treatment is key. Some of the common treatments are applied behavioral analysis (ABA), occupational therapy, speech therapy and physical therapy. The goal is to help autistic children manage everyday living.
Music has been Kiebon’s love and passion all his life.
“I have been a part of various rock bands and I am kind of a unique performer,” said Kiebon. “I write songs, play the guitar and my stage name is Jammin Jon.”
He added, “I am a seasoned veteran, I play loud rock n’ roll and I have high energy just like when I was 18 years old.”
Last year’s concert gave local musicians, singers and songwriters an opportunity to showcase their talents at three different locations.
“It gave the lesser-known musicians the chance to be showcased and for their music to be heard,” said Kiebon. “Some of the bands who will perform for this year’s event include The Heaterz, Jokers Wild, Gamma Major, House and Jammin Jon & The Jammers. My goal is to bring autism awareness and bring people together to enjoy great music,” said Kiebon. “I want to celebrate people on the spectrum and have a great time.”
A $10 donation is suggested. Five ASD artists will be selected to receive money to help pursue their artistic talent and desires. Volunteers and vendors are urgently needed for the event. For more information, to volunteer or to submit your name to be one of the prize winners, contact Jon at jonkiebon@outlook.com.

Fun, local events to celebrate Dad this Father's Day

16Father's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show your appreciation for Dad than by treating him to a fun and memorable experience? Luckily, there are plenty of great local events happening in honor of Father's Day that are sure to make his day extra special. Whether your dad is a sports enthusiast, a food lover, or a music aficionado, there's something for everyone to enjoy.


Friday, June 7 at 5 p.m.: Father Daughter Ball at Iron Mike Conference Center, Fort Liberty
Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a buffet dinner, dancing and photos by Pro Image. Reservations are required by calling 910-907-2582. The cost is $50 per Father/daughter and $25 for each additional child.


Friday, June 14 at 1 p.m.: Juneteenth-Father's Day Golf Event at Stryker Golf Course, 1219 Bragg Blvd
Join in for 9 holes of golf, fun and fellowship. Tickets can be purchased at www.Vocal4Local.net/614. The cost is $55 per player and includes 9 holes, golf cart, Father's Day gift and prizes.
Saturday, June 15 at 1 p.m.: 6th Annual Father's Day Weekend Crab Feast, 6627 Old Bunce Road
Calling all blue crab lovers! This great event is hosted by SouthEast Crab Feast and Fayetteville/Ft. Bragg Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Come out for all-you-can-eat fresh blue crabs, one side of fish & chips, music and a family friendly environment suitable for the entire family. Tickets range from $17.50-$39 and can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/2zffb42p


Saturday, June 15 at 9 a.m.: Juneteenth-Father's Day Health & Wealth Fair, 6427 Cliffdale Rd
Bring the entire family out for fun and food and make sure Dad has the most updated information and resources on men's health from vendors, health screenings and educators. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/4xrfznsu


Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m.-Father's Day (Family Fun Day) at The Raeford Fleamarket, 752 Laurinburg Rd, Raeford
Don’t miss this special gathering for the entire family. Participate in a range of activities and sports stations that will cater to both kids and adults. The event will also showcase vendors, crafting activities, and a variety of delicious food options. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/3c9bbmdc

Saturday, June 15 at 4 p.m.-Anstead's Father's Day Pop Up Shop at Bunker’s Bar & Grill, 125 Whispering Pines Dr, Spring Lake                                                                                                             Celebrate Dad and Father's Day by sipping on some high-end Bourbons. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/bdhsej5k
Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m.-Click's Father's Day Vendor Event at Country Collage Treats, 4181 Barefoot Rd
Come out to Click's Nursery your "One Stop Garden Shop" for this great vendor event. This event will also be raising funds for Second Chance Ranch Rescue and Sanctuary. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/5dwmxa8x


Sunday, June 16 at 10 a.m.: Father's Day Farmers Market at Dirtbag Ales
Spend a day with your father, indulging in craft beer, live music by Joyner Young & Marie, and delectable cuisine from a variety of food trucks! While you're here, explore the market for the ideal gift. If you're in the mood for some laughter, arrive early and participate in our Best Dad Joke contest and Best Dad Costume contest, hosted by 910Comedy. The contests will commence at 11:30 AM on the Dirtbag Patio. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/yps2us8w


Sunday, June 16 at 2 p.m.: Deployed Dads Father's Day Cornhole Tournament at The Twisted Grape, 54 Melody Ln, Cameron
This is not your ordinary cornhole competition - it's a commemoration of fatherhood, a show of solidarity for military families, and a celebration of the unity of our community. This tournament revolves around the concept of teamwork - teams comprised of fathers and children, teams that offer support, and teams that guarantee an enjoyable experience! Bring your own father or if he is currently deployed or unavailable, "volunteer dads" are here to fill in the gap, teaming up with kids whose fathers cannot be present. It provides an opportunity for these young ones to partake in a day filled with cornhole, companionship, and guidance from remarkable individuals.
Team registration fee is $20 team (Dad and kid/s), $10 for kid only who needs to be paired with a "volunteer dad," $10 to register as a "volunteer dad.” For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/4s5tcknh

Bikers for Christ: Freedom Biker Church holds car show

16a“Freedom Biker Church, Fayetteville was established in July 2009. It was a church plant from the First Freedom Biker Church that began in 2006 in the Garner and Clayton area. For fifteen years, Freedom Biker Church, Fayetteville has been reaching out and connecting with those in the Biker Community in Cumberland and surrounding counties, whether MC’s Ride Clubs, Associations, Weekend Warriors, or motorcycle enthusiasts. We share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and provide a place where people can worship and grow spiritually to become what God wants us to become,” said JD Tew, Pastor, Freedom Biker Church, Fayetteville. “Since the first Sunday, we had the opportunity to baptize over two-hundred-and fifty people in Christ. It is amazing what God has done and continues to do at Freedom Biker Church, Fayetteville. There are a lot of churches that would welcome those in the Biker’s community, however at Freedom we are the Biker community…and we believe that makes a difference.”
The Freedom Bike, Car, and Truck Show is a community outreach event for bikers and the local community. The event is June 22, and registration starts at 10 a.m. and closes at 1:30 p.m. Registration costs $20 for cars and trucks and $10 for motorcycles. Several categories are available to enter. For a full list, visit https://bit.ly/3V9b3J0.
The car show will be held at Fort Bragg Harley Davison, 3950 Sycamore Dairy Road, Fayetteville, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The funds for the event are designated to pay the church mortgage.
“When it comes to the ‘Freedom Bike, Car, and Truck Show,’ the chance is there to get out and not only reach the biker community but to serve our local community in a fun way. Though our goal is to bring people to Christ, it is also just as important for us to show people Jesus. What might be a car show for some people, could be the one event that someone needs to find Jesus, and give their life to Christ. It is all about reaching one person,” shares Levi Burch, Freedom Biker Church Member
T.J. Fisher, Member of Freedom Biker Church, shares, “What inspires me about Freedom Biker Church is the love and support for not just the biker community but love and support we have for each other. We truly are a church family doing life together.”
Experience the Freedom Bike, Car, and Truck Show. Admission is free for the public. For more information about the Freedom Bike, Car, and Truck Show, contact Levi Burch, 910- 273- 0585, and T.J. Fisher at 910 -309- 0531.

(Photo: Cars and bikes are lined up at the 1st Annual Freedom Bike, Car, and Truck Show, June 24, 2023. The show is put on by the Freedom Biker Church. Photo courtesy of Freedom Biker Church Facebook Page)

Celebrating Freedom: A Juneteenth celebration guide

12aOver the years, Juneteenth has gone from being exclusively celebrated in big cities to celebrations popping up in the smallest townships around the country. Just in the immediate area, there are a plethora of events to participate in to celebrate Freedom Day.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth was officially granted Federal holiday status by President Biden on June 17, 2021, but African Americans have been celebrating since the day that marks its existence. After the Civil War ended on April 9, 1865, slavery was supposed to come to an end and enslaved individuals were to be freed.
This was not the case all over the country and on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers (around 2,000) arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas to declare to approximately 250,000 enslaved African Americans that they were in fact free and had been so for over two months.
Why should you participate?
While Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom for African Americans, everyone is invited to events happening all over the country. Juneteenth is a day to remember how far we’ve come, reflect on where we want to be, and focus on making tomorrow better for everyone.

Juneteenth Event Guide

Fayetteville
Juneteenth Jubilee: Their Wildest Dreams presented by the City of Fayetteville and Cool Springs Downtown District

• Saturday, June 15
• 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Get ready for a full day of fun and celebration of the culture with the City of Fayetteville and the Cool Springs Downtown District at Festival Park.
There will be food trucks, local artisan vendors, history presentations, local artists, and national headlining sensations Pierce Freelon and Skip Marley. For those unfamiliar with Pierce Freelon, his music is described as “joyful music blends hip-hop, electronic jazz, and soul.”
Skip Marley, is, of course, the most recognizable name, the grandson of reggae legend Bob Marley. The city has been participating in Juneteenth since its federal recognition, with Cool Springs Downtown District organizing and putting on great events.
This year's inspiration was near and dear to Cool Springs Downtown District, Director of Special Projects, Ashanti Bennett.
“When I first started thinking about this year’s Jubilee, the phrase ‘we are our ancestors’ wildest dreams’ kept catching in my head. I look around at the accomplishments of Black Americans across the country and the globe, not to mention the inspiring excellence right here in Fayetteville, the barriers that we continue to break, the leadership and advancement of the culture, and the joy we continue to express even in the face of turmoil. I can’t help but reflect on the wonder and pride that our ancestors would feel if they could see us now,” she said.
“Current events both here and around the globe are so tumultuous; for this year’s celebration, we truly want to lean into a vibe of joy and uplifting positivity.”
Along with all the fun in Festival Park, the “Can Do” Caldwell Trolley is back this year to give patrons a historic tour of Fayetteville, focused on the excellence of the African American community and the impact the community has had on the growth of Fayetteville.
This year’s event is sponsored by local news stations ABC-11, Healy Wholesale, Beasley Media Group, and Cape Fear Valley Health System.

The Juneteenth Celebration
• Wednesday, June 19, Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23
This a 3-day celebration, presented by Book Black Women.
The NC History Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction
• Monday, June 17
• 7 p.m.
The NC History Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction will be hosting its annual Juneteenth event, the Hari Jones Memorial Lecture at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, 1217 Murchison Road. This year’s speaker is none other than Leesa Jones, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Washington Waterfront Underground Railroad Museum in Washington, NC.
“Participants will learn how the Underground Railroad provided safe passage for Freedom Seekers, by sharing secretly coded information in songs, clothing, food, flowers, and even nursery rhymes.”

Hope Mills
Town of Hope Mills Juneteenth Liberty and Legacy Celebration

• Saturday, June 15
• 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Hope Mills is celebrating its inaugural Juneteenth event this year at Dirt Bag Ales Brewery and Taproom located at 5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills.
An all-day event promising a celebration of culture featuring 2 live bands, a Divine 9 Step-off
(Divine 9 refers to the 9 historic black fraternities and sororities that exist today on University and college campuses around the WORLD and stepping is a form of dance that is embedded in the culture of HBCU's and the African American community), a high school band performance, old school DJ and all the elements that make up a celebration of the Black culture. There will also be 7 food trucks to choose from as well as an assortment of artisan vendors.

Raeford
Juneteenth in the Park: Better Together

• Saturday, June 15
• Noon
Raeford will hold its annual Juneteenth celebration in the park located at 202 E Donaldson Ave, Raeford. Families are invited to come and enjoy live entertainment, food vendors and local artisan vendors as well.
Lawn chairs are encouraged as are fans. Attendees can look forward to a host of speakers throughout the day, including Tiffany Campbell, founder of 100 Professional Black Women in Black, and a performance by the Community Mass Choir.

Sanford
Rock the Block: Celebrating Freedom

• Saturday, June 15
• Noon to 5 p.m.
Celebrating its 4th Annual Rock the Block, Sanford has a full afternoon planned for community members. There will be live music, vendors, and a cook-off. Attendees will not only get to shop and bop to some beats but watch “grill masters” from the area compete to be called the Rock the Block Grill Masters.
There will be a kid’s zone, guest speakers, and the annual community Juneteenth Awards, honoring community members who go above and beyond for the community.

(Photo: The Cool Springs District in Downtown Fayetteville welcomes Skip Marley to the Fayetteville Juneteenth Jubilee. Photo courtesy of Cool Springs District)

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