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Mahjong comes to Fayetteville

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Tuesday, 09 June 2026
Written by Amanda Ransom

20In a world filled with screens and digital distractions, one local partnership is helping people reconnect face-to-face. American Mahjong, Blue Star Families Greater Fayetteville Region and Pine & Tiles are helping military families and community members discover new friendships and strengthen local connections. "Mahj for a Cause,” held on June 6, offered participants an opportunity to learn the game, compete in a friendly tournament and support military families served by Blue Star Families.
According to Tate Johnson, Executive Director of the Greater Fayetteville Region Chapter of Blue Star Families, the partnership aligns perfectly with the organization's mission of building connections among military families.
"Military families are built on connection in the face of distance, transition and time apart," Johnson said. "Mahjong offers something that travels with you. Once you learn it, you can play it anywhere."
The event featured a beginner-friendly Mahjong 101 class for those new to the game, while experienced players participated in a Social Tournament featuring three rounds of play. Tournament winners received prizes, and raffle drawings were held throughout the day.
"Technology plays such a big role in our lives today, and mahjong creates an opportunity for people to connect in an analog way," Johnson said. "There are no screens just people gathering around a table."
That opportunity for genuine connection appears to be one reason the game is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Participants are drawn not only to the strategy and challenge of Mahjong, but also to the social interaction it creates.
"People are craving something tactile, social and unplugged," Johnson said. "Mahjong checks all those boxes."
One of the most unique aspects of Pine & Tiles is its inclusivity. Players of all ages and backgrounds regularly gather around the table, from young adults looking for a new hobby to longtime players reconnecting with a game they remember from childhood.
"There really is no typical Pine & Tiles player," Johnson said. "That's the point. We've built a community where everyone is welcome."
For many participants, the friendships formed around the Mahjong table become just as meaningful as the game itself.
"When you're learning something new together, you make mistakes, ask questions and celebrate each other's wins," Johnson said. "That shared experience becomes a shortcut to real friendship."
The sessions are intentionally designed to be welcoming for beginners. After completing Mahjong 101, players can participate in Guided Play sessions that provide real-time support and encouragement.
"We want the path from beginner to confident player to feel supported every step of the way," Johnson said.
For military families, that sense of belonging can be especially valuable. Frequent moves and deployments often make it difficult to establish lasting social connections. Mahjong provides a portable activity and a ready-made community wherever military life may lead. Blue Star Families sees programs like this as an important way to reduce isolation and strengthen support networks throughout the region. Looking ahead, Pine & Tiles plans to continue expanding through new locations, partnerships and charitable events.
"Mahj for a Cause is just the beginning of how we want to use mahjong as a vehicle for good," Johnson said.
For anyone interested in learning the game, Johnson's advice is simple: "Just show up. You don't need to know anything, know anyone or bring anything. We'll teach you everything you need to know."
Sometimes all it takes is one game to spark a new hobby and maybe even a lifelong friendship.
Community members can stay connected with upcoming events by following Pine & Tiles on Instagram at @pineandtiles or on Facebook at facebook.com/pineandtiles. The organization also offers Summer Passes, including 12 open-play events across Lumberton and Fayetteville for $100 or six events in the Southern Pines and Pinehurst area for $80. Additional information is available at linktr.ee/PineTiles or by emailing lumbertonmahj@gmail.com.

College is for everyone: FTCC is waiting this Fall

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Tuesday, 09 June 2026
Written by Elizabeth Hunter, FTCC

Forget everything you think you know about college. No, seriously, toss it out. Because Fayetteville Technical Community College is rewriting the script, and the story is way more exciting than you might expect.
FTCC isn't just a college. It's the community's college. A place built for real people living real lives. Whether you're a working parent, an active-duty service member, a recent high school grad, or someone ready to finally make that career change you've been putting off, FTCC has a place and a program with your name on it.
300+ Programs. One Perfect Fit.
With more than 300 degrees, diplomas, and certificates, plus a full lineup of continuing education and workforce training courses, the hardest part might just be choosing where to start. Want to save lives as a nurse or EMT? Done. Ready to defend the digital world in cybersecurity? FTCC literally founded the North Carolina Cybersecurity Network. And right now, 19 FTCC interns are actively working across the state protecting the personal information of North Carolinians. That's not just education. That's impact.
Prefer working with your hands? Programs in HVAC, welding, electrical systems, and construction are booming and so are the paychecks that come with them. Dreaming of engineering, business, fine arts, or public safety? We've got those too. North Carolina's job market is growing fast, and FTCC is making sure students are ready to lead the charge.
Small Classes, Big Results
Here's something that sets FTCC apart from the big universities: small class sizes mean your instructors actually know your name. You're not just a student ID number here. You get focused, personalized attention from faculty who are genuinely invested in your success and that makes all the difference.
Campus Life That Actually Keeps You Engaged
Think community college means showing up, sitting in class, and going home? Think again. FTCC's campus life is buzzing. There's always something happening. Events and activities designed to spark interest, build community, and make college feel like the experience it should be.
And sports fans, listen up: FTCC is a proud member of the NJCAA with five athletic teams and this past year, three of its coaches were named Coach of the Year by the Region 10 Athletic Association. That's not a fluke. That's a culture of excellence.
Affordable. Flexible. Built for Your Life.
One of the biggest myths about college is that it has to break the bank or take over your entire schedule. At FTCC, affordability is a core commitment. Tuition is already among the most budget-friendly in higher education, and many students qualify for financial aid, scholarships, military benefits, workforce grants, or tuition assistance that can bring costs down even further.
Online, hybrid, evening, and short-term programs mean you can earn credentials around your job, your family, and your life, not the other way around. Some programs can put you on a path to better wages in just a matter of months. And if a four-year degree is the goal, starting at FTCC and transferring to a university can save you tens of thousands of dollars while keeping that diploma well within reach.
Your Next Step Starts This Summer
FTCC is hosting SummerFest enrollment events on July 16 and July 28, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Bring your questions and walk out with a plan. Admissions, financial aid, and academic advising staff will all be on hand to help you get enrolled for fall. Admitted Student Days are also happening throughout the summer so you can get comfortable with campus before the first day of class ever arrives.
The bottom line? There's no wrong reason to start, and no wrong place to start from. At FTCC, the door is wide open; all you have to do is walk through it.
For more information on how to apply, enroll or register, contact admissions at admissions@faytechcc.edu or by phone at 910-678-8473. We have a seat waiting for you.

YMCA of the Sandhills promotes water safety

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Tuesday, 09 June 2026
Written by Amanda Ransom
16As families head to pools, lakes and beaches this summer, the YMCA of the Sandhills is reminding parents and caregivers that one simple action could save a life: put the phone down. The YMCA is participating in the national "Phones Down, Eyes Up" campaign, an initiative designed to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted supervision around water and encourage adults to stay focused on the children in their care.
According to Jeff Darling, President and CEO of the YMCA of the Sandhills, the campaign addresses a growing challenge in today's technology-driven world. 
"In a time when cell phones and tablets dominate our attention, this campaign is intended to generate awareness around water safety," Darling said. "It only takes a split second for a child to be in distress in the water, which prompts us as parents and grandparents to set aside our distractions so we can keep our attention on our loved ones."
The message comes at an important time. National statistics show that 88 percent of drownings occur when at least one adult is present. Darling believes many adults do not realize how much time they spend distracted by their devices. 
"I do not think people are aware of how long they are being distracted by their devices," he said. "I do not believe any adult thinks they are putting children at risk, but the statistics say otherwise."
The YMCA's dedication to water safety comes from a recognition that many drowning incidents are preventable with proper supervision and awareness. Darling noted that North Carolina has experienced more than 135 drowning deaths in recent years. 
"We, as a YMCA, want to be a catalyst in raising awareness around water safety," Darling said. "We do not want to become aware of any water emergencies in the communities we serve, so we wholeheartedly participate in this campaign."
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding drowning is that it is loud and easy to recognize. In reality, drowning is often silent. 
"Many times, there is no yelling or frantic splashing," Darling explained. "A child simply gets exhausted and goes under and cannot come back up. It can happen very quickly and very quietly."
To help prevent tragedies, the campaign encourages families to designate a Water Watcher whenever children are near water. Similar to a designated driver, the Water Watcher's sole responsibility is supervising children without distractions. 
"A Water Watcher is someone who agrees and is appointed to watch the kids playing in the water," Darling said. "That is their only task, and they are to do it until they are relieved by someone else."
For families spending long days at pools, lakes or beaches, Darling recommends rotating Water Watcher duties among adults. 
"It can be as simple as creating a schedule where adults rotate through as Water Watchers," he said. "For this to be successful, the watcher cannot have any distractions or other responsibilities."
While swim lessons remain an important part of water safety, Darling cautions that swimming ability does not eliminate risk. 
"Swim lessons definitely help with safety around water," he said. "But there still needs to be supervision around water. We cannot assume that because our child is a good swimmer, they are in no danger."
The campaign also reflects the YMCA's broader mission of promoting healthy and safe communities. 
"The reality is, we want to raise awareness around child safety in general," Darling said. "We hope parents, grandparents and anyone supervising children will accept the challenge of putting devices down when they are responsible for children's safety."
Ultimately, Darling hopes families remember that drowning incidents are often unexpected and happen faster than many people realize. 
"Take the challenge to ensure that your child does not become one of these statistics," he said. 
Families interested in taking the "Phones Down, Eyes Up" pledge and learning more about water safety can visit the YMCA of the Sandhills website at https://ymcaofthesandhills.org/ for resources, tips and educational materials. For more information, visit the water safety page.

Dancing Without Sin: Dancing into Faith and Fitness

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Tuesday, 09 June 2026
Written by Crissy Neville

14Move over Dancing with the Stars — Dancing Without Sin® Fitness is to Fayetteville and Cumberland County what DWTS is to Hollywood, and then some. CEO/Owner Stephanie Brown Kegler impacts her clients’ physical, cognitive and spiritual health through dance, exercise, nutrition and mindful, faith-filled practices. Kegler creates life-changing opportunities that are more than just dance routines but are what she has named and trademarked, Dancing without Sin®.
The program’s name comes from the mantra she shares with her dance fitness class participants, whether in a church setting or a recreation center. Kegler, a certified instructor of Zumba, Zumba Kids, Chair Zumba, Zumba Toning and Group Fitness, began teaching dance fitness in 2009.
“While teaching, I would always say, look, it's ok to dance; we are not smoking, drinking, cursing, so this is Dancing Without Sin. I said that for years and then, duh! The Lord tapped me on my forehead, and that's how this business was created,” she shared.
Kegler works hard on her playlist, mixing Gospel, inspirational and Christian hip hop with old school R&B and Afro beats. While the music selections are picked for wide appeal and to pique the interest of “the forgotten Christians” of the fitness genre, Kegler also practices inclusivity in her workouts. The No Christian Left Behind session focuses on participants with standing disabilities and those in wheelchairs. Dancing Without Sin® has multiple dimensions, from line dancing and high energy step routines to cardio, circuit, strength and resistance training.
“Everyone can get a work-out,” Kegler said enthusiastically.
Dancing Without Sin®'s purpose is to help people move, heal and live healthier lives, Kegler said. Classes are held at the DWS Movement Center at 208 Campbell Ave. in Fayetteville, weekly at the Massey Hill Recreation Center and upon request.
In elaborating on what’s found at the Movement Center, Kegler said, “It’s designed to be a calm and welcoming environment where people feel safe and supported. Within the center, we have a full kitchen for hands-on healthy cooking demonstrations, ample space for physical warm-ups and personalized coaching sessions. We also offer quiet areas for reading and reflection, massage therapy to promote relaxation, and even a prayer closet for those seeking spiritual connection. My aim is to provide a holistic and safe space that truly encourages personal growth and success in all aspects of well-being.”
Visit https://www.dancingwithoutsin.com/ to find out more.
Available for bookings are live and in person services including event and line dancing performances and instruction, church gospel fitness led by a certified instructor and Movement Minister, regular group fitness sessions, event hosting and DWS Virtual Cooking experiences. Explore Kegler’s many offerings at https://www.dancingwithoutsin.com/services-9.
In the past year, the studio has added several new choices. DWS Beat Burn, a drumstick workout class, combines cardio, toning, arm exercises, rhythm and fun. DWS Superstar Surprise, which is available for parties, surprise pop-ups, corporate events and special celebrations, “allows us to bring movement, entertainment and excitement directly to events in a fun and memorable way,” Kegler explained.
DWS Mobility Movement, which is a gentler movement class inspired by Pilates, yoga, stretching and functional mobility, aims to improve flexibility, balance, core strength, posture and overall body movement in participants.
“It is especially helpful for those who want to keep moving but may need a lower-impact option,” she continued. DWS workout classes can also be found on social media platforms.
“Dancing Without Sin® has continued to expand with new programs and specialty offerings that bring more variety, fun, and purpose into the studio experience,” Kegler said.
This future-thinking includes the addition of the Movement Ministry, a focus that helps Kegler serve faith-based communities in a more intentional way. Movement Ministers connect the physical, emotional and spiritual sides of wellness in a very personal way, yet the new initiative stemmed from Kegler’s realization that personally, she can’t do it all. A dynamic, energetic woman, Kegler often juggles many events in a day and always wants to do more.
“I even remember one Saturday where I juggled five different events in a single day! It can become quite overwhelming. The vision behind this (Movement Ministry) is to train passionate individuals to take the joy and benefits of movement out into their own communities, churches, families and beyond. Ultimately, the goal is to have Movement Ministers spread across the globe, creating a ripple effect of positive change and getting the entire world moving.”
Fittingly, Kegler uses the hashtag #MovePeopleMovement to describe her far-reaching goals for Dancing Without Sin® and desire to spread fitness.
I really want people to understand that in this journey of fitness and well-being, the ultimate goal isn’t to achieve some unattainable ideal of a runway mode physique,” she said in conclusion. “Instead, it’s about cultivating the ability to run down the runway of life with energy, vitality and strength.”

(Photo: Stephanie Brown Kegler is the CEO and Owner of Dancing Without Sin®. "I am an over 50 Fitness Coach. I do cater to those that are older to make them realize they can workout too!" Kegler said. Photo courtesy of Stephanie Brown Kegler)

All American Freeway, bridge project requires detour

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Tuesday, 09 June 2026
Written by Staff Report

A portion of the All American Freeway and its Fort Bragg gate will close starting this summer for up to 24 months for a major restoration project.
The closure is needed for an N.C. Department of Transportation contractor to replace the 50-year-old Gruber Road bridge over the All American Freeway and repair highway settling on Fort Bragg.
The project will require the Gruber Road overpass and interchange, as well as the freeway between Gruber and Zabitosky roads and the All American Access Control Point, or gate, to close traffic in both directions for up to 24 months.
While the All American gate is closed, the Fort Bragg Visitors Center adjacent to the gate will remain open during the construction.
Officials with Fort Bragg and the NCDOT intend to make these long-term upgrades to avoid costly reoccurring maintenance to the bridge and freeway, which was completed in the 1970s. Consolidating the work under one closure will speed up construction, lower costs, and improve safety for crews and detoured motorists.
The Gruber Road bridge is nearing its useful lifespan and with its current condition, restricts heavy military equipment from crossing it. The segment of the All A8merican Freeway between Gruber and Honeycutt roads has begun to settle where a landfill operated long ago, causing damage to the highway’s drainage system.
The innovative repair process will include removing, replacing and compacting several feet of soil.
NCDOT awarded a $15.5 million construction contract to Highland Paving of Fayetteville for this project. Fort Bragg and NCDOT officials will alert the public and those living and working on Fort Bragg before the closure begins this summer sometime after the Fourth of July.
Under an Intergovernmental Support Agreement adopted in 2019 and amended two years later, Fort Bragg uses NCDOT’s expertise to design and manage certain highway construction and maintenance projects on the post while the Army fully pays for the work.

(Photo: The All American Access Point at Fort Bragg will be closed while repairs are made to All American Freeway and the Gruber Rd. bridge that spans over the All American Freeway. NCDOT estimates repairs to take up to 24 months. The Visitor Center at the All American Access Point will remain open, but visitors will have to enter the installation elsewhere. Courtesy photo)

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