Local News

Dancing Without Sin: Dancing into Faith and Fitness

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

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)

Government Watch: City holds data centers meeting; County commissioners honor life of Billy R. King

7In recent state budget news, an updated revenue forecast indicates North Carolina lawmakers have an unexpected $2.6 billion surplus to allocate over the 2025-26 and 2026-27 fiscal years due to strong April tax collections.
Despite this increase, the core budget deal featuring state employee raises and tax cuts remains unchanged as negotiations continue with the surplus offering added flexibility for spending or reserves.
And since data centers are a hot topic in North Carolina, lawmakers are also advancing a bipartisan, rewritten Senate Bill 730 that would impose stricter regulations on large, energy-intensive data centers requiring them to cover their own infrastructure costs and limiting their environmental impact.
The bill also contains provisions for nuclear power promotion and accelerated permitting with support spanning both parties despite some uncommitted legislative leadership.

City of Fayetteville
Fayetteville City Council discussions have been dominated by intense debates over local data centers, public safety budgeting and school resource officers. Data centers became the primary flashpoint during a packed public forum at the City Council meeting on June 1.
Fayetteville City Councilmember Shaun McMillan’s motion to formally draft a binding moratorium on data centers died after receiving no second from the council. Mayor Mitch Colvin and the majority cited their previous April decision to enact a 120-day informational pause preferring to research the industry before passing restrictive bans.
Despite the council's previous decision, 38 residents signed up to speak. The majority overwhelmingly demanded a strict data center moratorium. The forum grew so tense that one attendee had to be escorted out by security.
On May 26, the council voted (7-2) to approve an agreement providing 18 school resource officers (SROs) for schools within the city limits. Councilmembers Shaun McMillan and Stephon Ferguson voted against the measure.
City Manager Doug Hewett presented a recommended operating budget of $322.8 million including a $0.01 tax increase to help maintain services. It funds public services featuring a $120 million public safety investment, new mental health response units, a 4% employee pay raise and a $10 solid waste fee adjustment.
The plan also calls for a property tax rate increase of 0.1 cents per $100 valuation — to $.4595 cents, which city officials note is still one of the lowest in the City’s history.
Residents are encouraged to review the fiscal year 2027 budget at FayettevilleNC.gov/budget.
Cumberland County
The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners honored the life of former Commissioner Billy R. King, who passed away on May 28 with a proclamation at their June 1 meeting.
King served 6 terms spanning 24 years on the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners. He was first elected in 1990 and served as the board's chairman four separate times.
In other news, County Manager Clarence Grier presented a $656.5 million proposed budget for FY 2027 that features no property tax increase. The budget includes $13.6 million freed-up capacity for the Employee Childcare Center and $60,000 for veterinary medicine space enhancements at Animal Services.
The proposal features a $398.3 million general fund, reflecting a 1.9% ($7.9 million) decrease from the previous year. Despite economic pressures like inflation, the budget preserves core services, supports strategic county goals and keeps the property tax rate steady. County Manager Grier emphasized that the plan balances immediate service needs with long-term financial stability.
Key highlights also included a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for County employees and raising the salary schedule by 1% as well as a 2% increase in current expense funding for Cumberland County Schools and Fayetteville Technical Community College.
Commissioners are receiving community feedback on the recommended budget, which can be found at https://www.cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/budget-performance-group/budget_division.

About the Greater Fayetteville Chamber
Advocacy is a cornerstone of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. Every week, the Chamber dedicates staff to attend City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County meetings as well as monitoring updates on the state and federal levels. We monitor legislation locally, statewide and federally to protect our community’s business interests.
With 91% of U.S. adults recognizing a Chamber of Commerce's impact on growth, membership ensures a strong voice shaping policies, driving economic success and building a thriving business community—together. To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com or email jmclaughlin@faybiz.com.

(Photo: "It is with deep sadness that the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners learned of the passing of former Commissioner Billy R. King," said Cumberland County Commissioner Chairman Kirk deViere."Mr. King devoted himself to public service and to the people of Cumberland County, and his contributions left a lasting mark on this community. On behalf of the Board and the residents we serve, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all who knew him." Photo courtesy of Cumberland County, NC)

Honoring Heroes: Memorial Day at St. Joseph of the Pines

20A Memorial Day event offered a time to pause, remember, and give thanks at PACE program, LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines. For program members, the day holds special meaning, as some participants and their families have a history of service in the U.S. military.
Ahead of the holiday, the LIFE community marked the occasion with a simple tribute. Outside of the center, Chaplain Robert Wilson opened the gathering with a prayer honoring those who lost their lives in service. Participants then placed small American flags around the grounds.
Jessica Gonzalez, recreational therapist said, “Participants used this observance as a powerful way to honor and recognize the many lives lost, with each flag representing a fallen service member.”
The observance offered those in attendance a shared moment of remembrance, a reflection of the program’s focus on connection and community.
LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines offers a full range of medical and social services that support older adults in living safely at home with dignity. This includes access to spiritual care, with chaplain services available to support participants of all backgrounds. Moments like the Memorial Day prayer highlight the role of spiritual support in honoring the life, loss, and service of those in the community.
Though Memorial Day has passed, its message continues throughout the year. Participants and colleagues alike carry forward the importance of remembering those who gave their lives in service to the country.
To learn more about LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines, call 910‑483‑4911 or visit lifestjosephofthepines.org.

Four unique moments in United States history

16Americans celebrate the founding of their country every July 4. School children learn that the Second Continental Congress ratified the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, forever changing the world with the establishment of the United States of America.
Since that fateful day in July 1776, many a unique and notable event has occurred in the United States. Some of those events are lesser known than others, and the following are four unique moments in American history.
1. George Washington's troops are saved from starvation at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777-78. According to the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon, the Oneida, one of six nations that were part of the Iroquois Confederacy, brought much-needed food and supplies to Americans at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777-78. One Oneida, Polly Cooper, even remained at Valley Forge throughout the winter, when she served as Washington's cook and taught troops how to prepare white corn and make it edible. Though they were offered payment for their life-saving services during this pivotal winter, the Oneidas declined to accept it.
2. Maria Stewart might not be a name that's well-known by many modern Americans, but she nonetheless is a trailblazer in U.S. history. Stewart was an African American writer and lecturer who spoke before the African-American Female Intelligence Society on April 28, 1832, thus becoming the first American woman on record to address an audience comprised of both men and women and Blacks and whites.
3. Henrietta Wood is awarded restitution for having been enslaved. Wood was born as a slave in Kentucky around 1818, but was ultimately freed as an adult. However, after her emancipation, Wood, living as a free woman in Cincinnati, was kidnapped and sold back into slavery in 1853. Wood lived in slavery until after the American Civil War. In 1869, Wood filed a lawsuit against her kidnapper, Zebulon Ward, seeking $20,000 in lost wages and damages. A federal court awarded Wood $2,500, which marks the largest known sum ever awarded as restitution for slavery.
4. Social Security numbers are integral to modern American life, but they are not even 100 years old. The first Social Security number was issued to 23-year-old John David Sweeney on December 1, 1936. The Social Security Board, which issued the number, was a byproduct of the Great Depression and then-President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's responses to it.

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