Local News

Local stars shine at 2025 Hoops & Dreams Showcase

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Katie Herring

For most of us, the days after Thanksgiving are full of post-feast recovery, Black Friday bargain hunting, putting up Christmas decorations, and ringing in the Christmas season at the Dickens Holiday celebration downtown. But for an increasing number of local basketball players and fans, the weekend after Thanksgiving is for Hoops and Dreams.
The hardwood at Methodist University hummed with elite energy on the weekend after Thanksgiving as the eighth annual Hoops and Dreams Showcase took place on November 28–29. With a full gym, a record-breaking performance, and a gallery of future talent, the event lived up to its reputation as the premier Thanksgiving basketball tradition in North Carolina.
The atmosphere was electric from the opening tip-off on Friday morning. Tournament organizers reported a stellar turnout, with a steady flow of fans resulting in a gym that was mostly full for both days of competition. In total, the event drew approximately 1,200 patrons, with the total headcount reaching 1,600 when accounting for the elite roster of players, coaches, and scouts in attendance.
A Stage for New Talent and Epic Performances
This year’s showcase featured a diverse field of 18 teams from public and private schools around the Sandhills region, including several programs making their first-ever appearance in the tournament. The fresh competition provided a new look for scouting services and long-time fans alike.
Among the weekend’s most exciting performances came from Union Pines High School standout Kingsley Donaldson (#11, pictured here). In a performance that will be talked about for years to come, Donaldson shattered the tournament scoring record, dropping a massive 44 points to go along with 24 rebounds. His dominant presence in the paint and efficiency from the floor helped to cement his status as one of the region's most productive prospects.
Another notable performance was by local favorite Justin Caldwell of Fayetteville Academy. The senior, who has already committed to play at Georgetown University next year, delivered a signature performance with 34 points and 9 rebounds. Caldwell’s ability to anchor the interior while flashing refined offensive skills showed exactly why the Hoyas prioritized him in the 2026 class.
Scouting and Exposure
Exposure is the heartbeat of the Hoops and Dreams Showcase. While Phenom Hoops provided a global audience via their livestream, allowing college coaching staffs across the country to tune in, the gym was also crowded with excited fans, families, and friends.
At least four college coaches were present in person, primarily representing local colleges whose schedules allowed for a trip to Fayetteville. The early days of the basketball season make travel tricky for coaches, but the availability of streaming helps them catch the action happening throughout the tournament when they can’t attend in person. Additionally, at least two national scouting services were on hand to evaluate the talent. The feedback from these stakeholders was overwhelmingly positive, with coaches and scouts praising the organization and the high
level of play.
Community Support and Future Growth
The success of the showcase was made possible through the support of key community partners. Stop & Ride Automotive and Hutton Law Firm served as the event's primary sponsors, helping cover the extensive costs associated with the two-day tournament, including but not limited to gym rental, security, officiating, medical staff, and insurance. Their investment ensured a safe and professional environment for the athletes to compete.
As the final whistle blew on Saturday night, the impact of the weekend was clear. Not only did the event provide a platform for current stars like Donaldson and Caldwell, but it also sparked significant interest from other local programs. Tournament organizers noted that several area teams have already expressed interest in joining the field for future years, promising even more growth for Fayetteville’s premier event for rising basketball stars.

(Photo: Tyler Moore, a Senior at Northwood Temple Academy, is also a licensed pilot, and has a Presidential & Congressional nomination from U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis with aspirations of getting accepted in the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Photos by Joseph Amador, @Jowithdacam)

Greater Chamber goals for 2026; Call for National Civics Bee

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Jami McLaughlin

It’s a new year, and that means two things: property tax is due and it is time to set goats for 2026.
Anyone who owns taxable property in Cumberland County, the 2026 property listing period is Jan. 1 - 31. Listing forms must be updated, signed and returned by Monday, Feb. 2. Forms postmarked after Feb. 2 will be considered late and incur a 10% late listing penalty. Taxable property includes agri-business/farm income-producing property, business and income-producing property, improvements to owned real estate and personal property.
Greater Fayetteville Chamber Advocacy Goals for 2026
Along with the Chamber's vision and focus to serve, our main objective is to enhance our standing as the voice of business in the Greater Fayetteville/ Cumberland County area and its positive influence through advocacy.
Our goal is to work with state, local and federal elected officials, maintain high visibility regarding issues impacting our business climate and communicate concerns on behalf of our membership for a more business friendly community.
These areas include:
• Small Business Support: Endorsing business friendly policies that provide resources, grants and regulatory relief for small businesses, which form the backbone of the Chamber's membership and community. Advocate for a comprehensive review and streamlining of the local development regulation process to improve efficiency and attract investment.
• Economic Development: Advocating for policies that encourage investment in local businesses, support startups and attract new industries to Cumberland County.
• Infrastructure and Transportation: Championing improvements in local infrastructure, including roads, public transportation, schools and broadband, which are essential for regional connectivity and economic growth. Advocate for state and federal funding for major transportation projects, including I-685 and expanded transportation to better link I-95 and I-295.
• Military and Defense: Given the region's close ties with Fort Bragg, promoting legislation that supports our military installation infrastructure, military families, veterans' services and policies to maintain and expand military-related economic activity. Continuing our Greater Fayetteville Chamber Military Affairs Council initiatives connecting our business community with the military and their families.
• Healthcare and Public Safety: Advocating for policies that address healthcare workforce shortages and support workplace health and wellness programs and enhance public safety measures for a healthier, more secure community. Focusing on the new Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine, a critical component in the county's goals of enhancing health and wellness and supporting a high-performing education system pipeline. Supporting a regional public safety training center and a joint 911 communication center to modernize and improve emergency response capabilities.
• Workforce and Education: Supporting policies that strengthen educational opportunities, workforce training programs and partnerships with local educational institutions such as Fayetteville State University, Methodist University and Fayetteville Technical Community College to ensure a pipeline of skilled workers for the region.
• Tourism and Hospitality: Supporting measures that promote tourism in Cumberland County, including investments in cultural and recreational attractions, which help to attract visitors and stimulate the local economy. Monitoring legislation regarding tax allocation and distribution to ensure an equitable and competitive tax structure for local businesses and governments. Increasing STARnetwork for support and further connection among hospitality businesses including service, tourism, activities and restaurants.
If you have any questions or would like to join the efforts of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber, visit www.faybiz.com. Our Government Relations committee meets regularly to discuss issues.
Stay tuned for more government meeting recaps in the next issue after the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners and the Fayetteville City Council meet again.
National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee®, a nationwide initiative led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, will allow middle school students (6th, 7th and 8th grades) to participate for the first time in North Carolina this year and Fayetteville through the Greater Fayetteville Chamber was chosen as a regional site. Applications for students officially are open and students have until Feb. 3.
For more information about the program including educator resources and how to participate in the 2026 competition, visit www.faybiz.com/civicsbee.
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.

How to nurture mind, body during cold months

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Wednesday, 31 December 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Winter often invites us to slow down. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and packed schedules can leave us feeling drained, unmotivated, or disconnected from ourselves. While it’s tempting to push through and
wait for spring, winter is actually the perfect season to focus on intentional self-care. By supporting your body, mind, and emotional well-being, you can navigate the colder months with greater confidence, feeling
grounded, nourished, and resilient.

Embrace Rest and Gentle Rhythms
Winter naturally calls for rest. With fewer daylight hours, our bodies crave more sleep and downtime. Instead of resisting this, allow yourself to honor it. Establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up
at the same time each day. Create a calming nighttime ritual—reading, stretching, journaling, or enjoying a warm cup of herbal tea—to signal to your body that it’s time to unwind. This season isn’t about constant productivity. Slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind; it means recharging so you can show up fully when it matters most.

Nourish Your Body From the Inside Out
Cold weather often brings cravings for comfort foods, and that’s completely natural. Focus on meals that are both nourishing and warming. Soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and whole grains provide comfort while delivering essential nutrients. Hydration is just as important in winter as it is in summer, even though thirst cues may be less obvious. Drinking warm beverages like herbal teas or lemon water can help you stay hydrated while supporting digestion and circulation.
Don’t forget your skin. Cold air and indoor heating can strip moisture, so prioritize hydration through rich moisturizers, lip balm, and gentle skincare routines.

Support Your Mental and Emotional Health
Seasonal changes can impact mood, energy, and motivation. If you notice feelings of sadness, irritability, or lethargy, know that you’re not alone. Make space for mental self-care by checking in with yourself regularly.
Practices like journaling, meditation, or mindful breathing can help process emotions and reduce stress. Even just a few minutes a day can create a sense of calm and clarity. Staying socially connected is also vital
during winter. Make intentional plans with friends or loved ones—whether it’s a cozy dinner, a phone call, or a virtual check-in—to combat isolation and maintain emotional support.

Move Your Body Gently and Consistently
It can be harder to stay active when it’s cold and dark outside, but movement remains essential for both physical and mental well-being. Instead of intense workouts, focus on gentle, consistent movement that feels good. Yoga, stretching, walking, or at-home workouts are excellent winter options. Even 10–20 minutes of movement can boost your mood, improve circulation, and increase energy levels. Listen to your body and adjust your routine as needed—this is a season for compassion, not pressure.

Create Comfort and Joy in Your Environment
Your surroundings can play a powerful role in how you feel during winter. Create a cozy, comforting space at home with soft blankets, warm lighting, candles, or calming scents. Small changes can make a big difference in your mood and sense of peace. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading, creative hobbies, cooking, or listening to music. Winter is a beautiful time to reconnect with what soothes and inspires you.

Practice Kindness Toward Yourself
Perhaps the most important aspect of winter self-care is self-compassion. Energy levels may fluctuate, plans may shift, and motivation may come and go—and that’s okay. Give yourself permission to rest, reset, and adjust expectations. 

Winter is not something to rush through; it’s a season to honor. By caring for yourself intentionally, you can emerge feeling refreshed, balanced, and ready for the brighter days ahead.

DistiNCtly Fayetteville's American Independence Trail

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Wednesday, 31 December 2025

Written by Aly Hansen

DistiNCtly Fayetteville’s trail series is a wonderful way to see the sights around the city. Last week, Up & Coming Weekly profiled the Paths, Plank Roads and Planes Trail. This week, we’ll delve into Fayetteville’s Revolutionary past. What better way to get into the spirit of the semiquincentennial of the United States than to take a shot at the American Independence Trail?
North Carolina is one of the original 13 colonies, and has a rich Revolutionary history. Fayetteville itself has interesting ties to the Revolution. Formerly the villages of Cross Creek and Campbelton, Fayetteville had been founded by a large population of Highland Scots. A lot of these founders were staunchly in support of the Crown, and Fayetteville was split in its loyalties. It made for quite a tense time.
The Cumberland Association, a group of individuals who believed in independence, signed what would be known as the “Liberty Point Resolves.” These were signed on June 20, 1775, a full year before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Resolves were slightly different from the Declaration, however. The 55 signers of this document expressed hope for a reconciliation with Great Britain, but also made it clear they would fight to the death to “secure freedom and safety.”
The Resolves were signed at Barge’s Tavern, a local spirit house in James Square, historically located where Green, Rowan, Ramsey and Grove streets all converge. This building is actually still in existence today, but it has since been moved from its original location to its current home at 519 Ramsey St. The signers took the Liberty Point Resolves just a few blocks over from James Square, to a large Virginia live oak tree and nailed them to the trunk. The Liberty Tree, as it is now known, is part of the modern Airborne and Special Operations Museum. The tree is on the corner of Hay and Hillsborough streets, and is still alive and well today. In
August of 2025, the Airborne and Special Operations Museum Foundation held a ceremony commemorating a historic marker plaque for the tree. 
A monument was set up in 1933 to commemorate the signers of the Resolves. 16 signers had been forgotten, and were added to the stone in 1976. This marker can be found at the corner of Bow and Person streets. The Cross Creek Cemetery on Grove and Ann streets holds the graves of Revolutionary veterans, including Robert Rowan, the original signer of the Liberty Point Resolves. This cemetery is stop
number 3 on the tour.
Another important gravesite is located in Fayetteville: The Fifer’s Grave. Isaac Hammond, a free African American who lived in Fayetteville, became a member of the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry and served for 30 years as a fifer. He served in the Revolutionary War and set up shop as a barber after the war. His is the only grave on FILI land, and his grave is stop 2 on the trail.
Fayetteville’s Revolutionary roots don’t just include the Liberty Point Resolves. The namesake of the city, Gilbert du Motier, the Marquis de Lafayette, a French man, had joined the patriot cause during the Revolutionary
War, and was at the Siege of Yorktown when General Cornwallis capitulated on Oct. 17, 1781.
He took the ideals of the American Revolution with him back to France, and wrote the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen with the help of Thomas Jefferson. This document was used during the French Revolution. He stormed the Bastille, and after a fashion, was known as The Hero of Two Worlds.
Fayetteville, NC is far from the only town named after the marquis. The colonies are littered with his name. Legend has it, however, that Fayetteville, NC is the only town he visited that bore his name. The Fayetteville History Museum has an exhibit full of artifacts of his trip to the city, and every year the Lafayette Society holds celebrations in his honor. A statue of the marquis is stop 4 on the tour.
The American Independence Trail from DistiNCtly Fayetteville dives into much of this history of the city. The tour can be found at https://www.distinctlyfayettevillenc.com/things-to-do/museumshistory/cultural-heritage-trails/american-independence/. Before taking off on the adventure, watch the video that accompanies the tour.
Hank Parfitt, owner of City Center Gallery & Books and a member of the Friends of Lafayette and the Lafayette Society, gives great detail about the history of the area.