Local News

Amazon hiring for local facility; Arts Council awards grants

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Tuesday, 02 July 2024

Written by Staff Report

Amazon Now Hiring for Fayetteville Inbound Cross Dock Facility
New employment opportunities are posted each Friday after 7 p.m.
Amazon has begun hiring for its completed Inbound Cross Dock facility in Fayetteville. Interested applicants can apply by going to amazon.com/flexiblejobs. The company will be hiring in phases, with additional positions posted each Friday evening (jobs will not be posted before 7:00 p.m.). Pay for these positions starts at $17.00 per hour, with benefits including medical, dental, and vision effective on the first day of employment.
At full operation, the 1.3 million square-foot facility, located in the Military Business Park, will employ more than 1,000 workers in full and part-time positions. Applications must be made online and will not be taken on site.
Those without internet access are encouraged to visit any of Cumberland County’s eight library locations. Residents are advised to be wary of potential hiring scams. Applications are only accepted through Amazon’s job portal on their website, amazon.com/flexiblejobs.
“This project is a tremendous milestone for our community, bringing essential job opportunities and a positive economic impact that will benefit all our residents. The introduction of hundreds of new jobs will invigorate our local economy, support families, and drive the growth of our city,” said Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone for their patience and support throughout the completion of this project. Together, we are forging a brighter future for Fayetteville.”
When combined with their existing last mile delivery facility at 1005 Dunn Road, Amazon will soon be one of the largest private sector employers in Cumberland County, contributing millions of dollars in wages to the local economy, as well as property tax revenue to the City and County.
“When we’re able to bring economic development projects like this to Cumberland County, it’s not just an investment in buildings and equipment – it’s an investment in our community and our workforce to provide life-changing opportunities, and we are seeing that investment multiplied throughout our county. We can build a brighter future, where innovation and collaboration make a way for prosperity," said Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Glenn Adams.
The project is the culmination of strong collaborative efforts from multiple public and private organizations including the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, Amazon, Fayetteville, Public Works Commission, Piedmont Natural Gas, North Carolina Department of Transportation, Broadwell Construction Company, Cape Fear Commercial Real Estate, Ryan Companies and FCEDC.

Arts Council of Fayetteville|Cumberland County awards $182,679 in spring cycle funding
The Arts Council of Fayetteville | Cumberland County is pleased to announce the distribution of $182,679 in funding during the Spring 2024 grant cycle. This funding includes $147,376 in Project Support grants and $35,303 in Mini Grants.
These two grant programs are designed to stimulate the local arts economy and support the livelihoods and career development of local artists and arts, culture, and history-focused programming.
The Project Support grants provide substantial funding for organizations with programs beginning on July 1, 2024, ensuring a broad range of artistic and cultural activities can flourish in the community. The Mini Grants, awarded to local artists, nonprofits, institutions of higher education, and municipal offices, emphasize the Arts Council's commitment to fostering creativity and innovation at all levels.
Michael Curtis Houck, the Arts Council’s Director of Grants and Allocations, expressed his enthusiasm about the impact of these grants.
"We are incredibly proud to support our local artists and organizations through these vital funding programs. The arts are a crucial part of our community's identity and economic vitality, and this funding ensures that creativity continues to thrive across Cumberland County."
In FY25, the Arts Council has shifted to two Project Support Grant cycles; a second opportunity is now accepting applications with a due date of August 15 to support activity in winter/spring 2025; Mini Grants for individual artists will continue on a quarterly basis with the next cycle accepting applications through August 1.
The Arts Council awarded Project Support Grants to the following organizations for Arts, Culture, and History-focused projects and programs:
• Artist Village Community Theatre will produce a theater series consisting of three productions between October 2024 and May 2025.
• Cape Fear Studios, Inc. will produce ten gallery exhibitions across the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
• Cape Fear Valley Medical Foundation, Inc. will provide art therapy sessions in the Adult Behavioral Health Unit & the Youth Behavioral Health Unit (two awards).
• Cape Fear Valley Medical Foundation, Inc. will provide art therapy sessions for patients and caregivers in the Cancer Center.
• City of Fayetteville/Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation will produce the annual Independence Day Concert on July 4 in Festival Park featuring the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra.
• Community Concerts of Fayetteville, Inc. will produce a series of concerts taking place at Crown Theatre during the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
• Crossroads Outreach Alternative Program Ministries will produce Arts Ex'Posion, weekly after-school courses with a multi-disciplinary arts focus.
• Cumberland Choral Arts will produce a choral series with six concerts over the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
• Cumberland Choral Arts will produce a youth choral series with concerts and public presentations across the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
• Fayetteville State University will produce The Sound that Jazz Makes, a year-long new play development project with a premiere in 2025 during Juneteenth.
• Friends of the Skateparks Foundation will produce the One People Reggae & Arts Music Festival, a one-day music and vendor festival with performances by Inner Circle, Etana, and The Wailers.
• FTCC Foundation, Inc. will continue their Guest Artist Series with professional musician workshops and masterclasses across the 2024-2025 year.
• Groundswell Pictures will produce the 2024 Indigo Moon Film Festival, a three-day international film festival in downtown Fayetteville.
• Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex will produce History Live! Fall 2024, an annual live series with events between Halloween and Christmas.
• Service Source will continue Community Inclusion Days - Bloom Art Therapy, art therapy sessions for adults with disabilities.
• The Tulsa Initiative, Inc. will produce the Tulsa Leadership and Entrepreneurship Academy, a creative arts mentorship program for BIPOC entrepreneurs.
The Arts Council awarded Mini Grants to individual artists and organizations for Arts, Culture, and History-focused projects and programs. For a full list, visit their website.
The next Project Support and Mini Grant cycles open in July with dates due in August. For more information about the Arts Council grants programs, visit theartscouncil.com/grants or email Michael Houck, Director of Grants and Allocations, at michaelh@theartscouncil.com.
For regular updates on the Arts Council, follow this organization @artscouncilfay on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and/or YouTube.

Passing the torch: A new chapter at Fort Liberty

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Tuesday, 02 July 2024

Written by Jason Ragucci, Ft. Liberty Garrison Public Affairs Office

On a vibrant morning at the Main Post flagpole on June 27, officials held a significant change of command ceremony as Col. John Wilcox stepped down as Garrison Commander after his successful two-year tenure.
In his stead, Col. K. “Chad” Mixon assumed the helm, shouldering the responsibilities of leading the Fort Liberty Garrison.
A Legacy of Leadership
During his time as Garrison Commander, Wilcox navigated challenges with unwavering dedication, ensuring the smooth operation of the garrison. His leadership style, marked by precision and empathy, has left an indelible mark on all who served under him.
Wilcox oversaw the historic redesignation of the base from Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in shaping the garrison's future.
“The redesignation from Fort Bragg to Liberty was certainly met with concern, but this community came together to find a name befitting heroes, history, and culture,” said the outgoing garrison commander, Wilcox. “Sunset Liberty March was put in place simultaneously to ensure that we always honor history and culture and commit never to forget the sacrifices made to our great nation.”
As Wilcox prepares to step down from his role, he will embark on his next assignment with the U.S. Special Operations Command in Tampa, Florida.
Stepping into New Shoes
As Mixon assumes command, the garrison braces for a transition that promises continuity alongside fresh perspectives. The ceremony symbolizes the change in leadership and embodies the garrison's enduring legacy of excellence.
“I pledge to ensure this installation has the resources and support needed for our military families to thrive,” said incoming Garrison Commander Mixon. “Their sacrifices are the backbone of our community and face unique challenges with strength and grace.”
Mixon is no stranger to Fort Liberty, as he is returning to the installation after attending the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. As a former enlisted infantryman, Mixon brings a wealth of experience to his new position.
His previous assignments at Fort Liberty include serving with the 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, and Forces Command. His leadership skills and strategic vision make him well-suited to take on the responsibilities of garrison commander.
The Change of Command Ceremony is a time-honored tradition in the military. It signifies the transfer of authority from one commander to another. It is a formal event that highlights the continuity of leadership within the organization. During the ceremony, the outgoing commander passes the unit's colors to the incoming commander, symbolizing the transfer of responsibility. This moment is steeped in tradition and serves as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of military leaders.
“As we look to the future, I’m committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement,” said Mixon. “We will work together to address the challenges we face and seize all opportunities in my capability.”
As Col. John Wilcox passes the baton to Col. K. “Chad” Mixon, the Army Garrison stands poised at the threshold of a new chapter.
The ceremony is a tribute to the dedication, leadership, and camaraderie that define the essence of military service.
It is a moment that encapsulates the spirit of unity and resilience that binds the garrison together, ensuring its mission endures through the flow of change.
“What often goes unnoticed is that while our warfighters are preparing for the nation's needs, you [Garrison DOD Civilians] show up every single day and make certain that the lights are kept on at this installation,” said Wilcox. “Our children are enriched and protected; our roads are safe, and you continue to keep our community safe.”

(Top Photo: Patrick Appelman (right), the Director of U.S. Army Installation Management Command-Readiness, hands the Fort Liberty guidon to Incoming Garrison Commander Col. K. Chad Mixon in a change of command ceremony on Fort Liberty June 27. U.S. Army photo by Steven Frith. Bottom Photo: Col. K. Chad Mixon speaks to a crowd gathered for the Fort Liberty Garrison Change of Command ceremony on June 27. U.S. Army photo by Cheryle Rivas)

Residency Licensure Certificate promotes pathway to teach elementary education

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Tuesday, 25 June 2024

Written by Christopher Thrasher

NC Governor Roy Cooper once stated, “North Carolina is committed to living up to our responsibility to deliver a quality education to every student in every county.” (NC Gov, 2020).
To help fulfill Governor Cooper’s vision, Fayetteville Technical Community College has joined other community colleges around the state to recruit and prepare highly qualified teachers in every county in North Carolina.
FTCC is thrilled to offer a Residency Licensure Certificate Program. The Residency Licensure Certificate program is designed for college graduates who hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field and desire to become an elementary education teacher.
The RLCP takes about three years to complete. The program includes 6 courses and 18 hours of study. Learners complete one course per semester while teaching full-time in the classroom. FTCC is currently serving teachers in Cumberland and Wake Counties.
Coursework includes classes in learning theory, instructional/educational technology, diverse learners, school policies and procedures, expectations and responsibilities of educators, teaching strategies/methods for specific content/specialty areas, formative/summative assessment, data-informed practice, and classroom organization/management to enhance learning. These classes, in combination with hands-on experience in the classroom, will provide students with the foundation they need to become successful professional educators.
Through the support of TeachNC, FTCC recently awarded over $17,000 in scholarships to 8 teachers currently teaching in elementary schools.
For admission into the program, the candidate must:
• be a U.S. citizen, or eligible for employment,
• have completed a bachelor’s degree with a 2.7 GPA or higher,
• have completed 24 hours of coursework in the requested licensure area or passed the North Carolina State Board of Education required content area examination(s) for the requested licensure area,
• provide a letter of employment or promised placement.
“I am thankful for the support of the (Residency Licensure) teacher program at FTCC because it has allowed me to have a virtual but hands-on experience with our advisor who has weekly check-ins and meetings to review information and encourages us toward our licensure goal,” said Kendall Carter, current student and teacher for Cumberland County Schools.
The key to the future economic and overall success of North Carolina lies in recruiting and retaining quality teachers to cultivate the next generation of North Carolinians. As a teacher, you will make more than a living. You will make a difference.
Are you ready to learn more? Please contact program director Heather Craven in the Education Department at cravenh@faytechcc.edu or call 910-678-9790 for more information.
The Education Department’s office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office is located at Cumberland Hall 302, 2125 Hull Rd.

Hope, help and four-legged friends: Hope Thru Horses

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Tuesday, 25 June 2024

Written by Crissy Neville

For individuals suffering from trauma, a mental or behavioral health disorder or stress-related conditions, Heather Wilkerson of Parkton brings help on four legs.
The licensed clinical social worker and passionate horsewoman is the founder and president of Hope-thru-Horses, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit with the mission to "Share the Healing Power of Horses and Transformative Coaching with the World."
Wilkerson opened Hope-thru-Horses in 2006 to help military members cope with service-related issues but soon expanded her reach to assist children, adolescents and civilian adults.
The therapy teams at Hope-thru-Horses, Inc. use equine-assisted psychotherapy and play therapy to treat sexual trauma, depression, anger management, PTSD, grief, ADHD, anxiety, behavior disorders and other mental or relationship issues.
"We help people solve problems and relationship difficulties using horses," Wilkerson said.
She is a former military spouse who moved to the Cape Fear region with her husband, Chris. Now retired from the Army after 22 years of service, Wilkerson's spouse was the "Texas cowboy" who bought her first horse. Originally from the Washington, D.C. area, Wilkerson was a Johnny-come-lately to the horse world when she launched Hope-thru-Horses in Lumber Bridge.
When the once city girl, a credentialed public welfare professional with a Master of Social Work and advanced Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association certification, took hold of the reins, she never looked back. Wilkerson moved Hope-thru-Horses to its current 29-acre location, 1860 Armory Road in Parkton, in 2018.
"We really enjoy having clients come to our farm as a way for them to get away, leave the city, leave their problems behind and focus on their relationship with a horse. Then they can practice the skills they learned at home," she said.
Takeaways are improved self-esteem, respect, confidence, social skills, communication skills and a "toolbox" of ways to build healthy relationships, personal awareness and reasonable boundaries.
The Robeson County woman and her staff integrate animals — a menagerie of horses, llamas, donkeys, a miniature mule, dogs, potbellied pigs and parrots— art, sand and various play methods in therapy sessions to assist clients. While Hope-thru-Horses does not offer riding lessons or therapeutic riding, the staff lead clients through experiential activities with their farm animals to help individuals learn the importance of trust, communication, problem-solving and assertiveness.
According to the facility's website, www.hope-thru-horses.com/, equine-assisted therapy is "a team approach that consists of a mental health professional, a horse professional and a horse or horses. The team helps an individual or group learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses.
"The team processes each individual's experience by relating it to their everyday life and service goals. The methodology encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, linking behavior to the mind."
With a deep understanding of military culture and life, Hope-thru-Horses employs the Eagala program to work with military-affiliated clients. Representing a global network of professionals who collaborate and support each other, Eagala is a pioneer of professional standards in the horses for mental health therapy and treatment model. Providing service to active-duty members or veterans, Hope-thru-Horses, Inc. offers eight free sessions for individuals or couples.
Wilkerson also strives to help children and youth who have experienced sexual trauma and other very difficult circumstances. Her work led her to create an interactive workbook entitled "My Very BRAVE Story," a great resource available through Hope-thru-Horses.
Of this success of such programming, Crystal Bennett of the Cumberland County Guardian ad Litem program wrote, "This specialized approach has been effective for many children when traditional outpatient therapy and other interventions have failed to engage them in the therapeutic process."
Hope-thru-Horses other services include Women's Leadership Retreats, designed for small groups of women in caregiving fields, and Organizational Team Building for businesses and organizations to showcase and develop leadership talents and abilities.
Why horses, you may ask? According to https://hthi.us/our-therapies/counseling-psychotherapy/equine-assisted-psychotherapy, "When you learn to trust a large, powerful animal, you experience emotional security and physical safety. Because you experience it, instead of talking about what it might feel like, you can identify that safety and security in your everyday life outside the arena." Learn more at https://hthi.us/.

(Photo: The horses on Heather Wilkerson's farm in Parkton are part of an equine therapy program to help those with PTSD, ADHD, grief, anxiety, depression and other issues. Photo courtesy of Hope Thru Horses Facebook page)