With performances scheduled for September 19-22 and 26-29 at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex (Poe House), Fayetteville, The Odyssey promises to be a must-see theatrical event that will leave a lasting impression. Don't miss your chance to experience this classic story like never before.
The production of The Odyssey will captivate audiences with its original script and fresh take on this classic tale. Adapted by the talented Merlyn Q. Sell, the story follows the epic journey of King Odysseus as he struggles to find his way home to Ithaca after the Trojan War. Meanwhile, his devoted wife Penelope fends off a horde of persistent suitors vying for her hand and the throne.
Penelope's unwavering faith in Odysseus' return drives her to devise an ingenious plan, weaving an elaborate burial shroud by day and secretly unraveling it by night to stall for time. Their son, Telemachus, also embarks on his own quest to locate his missing father.
This timeless tale of homecoming and the meaning of family receives a fresh, innovative treatment from Sweet Tea Shakespeare. Audiences can expect the company's signature style, including cast doubling, personal storytelling, whimsical characters and dialogue, and integrated music.
Through Odysseus’ trials and tribulations, the play explores the complexities of human nature, the challenges of leadership, and the dedication of relationships and the love of family. The epic’s enduring appeal lies in its portrayal of the human spirit’s indomitable nature and the universal themes of homecoming, identity, and the search for meaning and purpose in life – all wrapped in a tale of adventure.
Merlyn Q. Sell is the Artistic Director for Black Hills Community Theatre in Rapid City, South Dakota. She has worked in theatre for roughly eighteen years in various capacities, most as a director and playwright. Sell interpreted the story in a way that encourages the audience to think deeply about the meaning of home.
“The story focuses on the idea of home, but I investigate the idea that when we think of home, it is more than just a geographical place - it is also people, sometimes about a particular time in our lives, certain tastes or smells, etc. So, I hope this might make the audience think a little deeper about what home really is to them and how valuable it can be. And, of course, there are a lot of funny bits, so the audience gets a good belly laugh or two,” Sell shares.
The Odyssey is not just a tale of adventure; it is a profound exploration of the human condition, a celebration of the power of stories to process our feelings and access new perspectives.
“I believe in the importance of stories as a way for us to process feelings and access new perspectives, and I love being a part of that - and more selfishly, as a performer, there is nothing more satisfying than making an audience laugh,” Sell adds.
As attendees delve into the rich tapestry of The Odyssey, they will be amazed by the vivid imagery, the complex characters and the masterful use of language. The poem's enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to transcend time and culture, touching the hearts and minds of readers across the ages. Sell promises to bring that to the stage.
Don’t miss this chance to experience Sweet Tea Shakespeare’s signature blend of traditional storytelling and contemporary flair. With drinks, snacks, and the support of the community partners—The Capitol Encore Academy, Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, and North Carolina Arts Council—this event promises a night of unforgettable theatre. This is an outdoor event.
For all dates and times and to purchase tickets, call 910-420-4383 or go to https://sweetteashakespeare.com/tickets/.

The Greater Fayetteville Chamber will hold its annual State of the Community on Aug. 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Crown Complex Expo Center, 1960 Coliseum Dr. This premier gathering offers a unique opportunity to engage with community leaders, network with peers and gain valuable knowledge to drive your initiatives forward.
Last year's luncheon saw a record-breaking crowd of 600 attendees, and this year's event promises to be even more impactful. The impressive lineup of keynote speakers includes Mayor Mitch Colvin, City of Fayetteville; Mike Nagowski, CEO of Cape Fear Valley Health; Dr. Marvin Connelly, Superintendent of Cumberland County Schools; Megan Gerber, President of Longleaf Pines Realtors; Robert Van Geons, President and CEO of Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation, and Christopher Chung, CEO of The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.
With the Greater Fayetteville Chamber's annual State of the Community event just around the corner, it's clear that our community is poised for continued growth and prosperity.
Fayetteville, the largest city in Cumberland County, is a thriving hub with a vibrant downtown, rich arts and culture, and strong ties to our service members. Recent investments, like the $40 million baseball stadium, are sparking additional growth and expansion opportunities.
The latest reports show that Cumberland County ranks eighth in North Carolina with 16.46% business growth, $6,584 gross domestic product growth, 5.40 new building permits per 1,000 homes, and a 1.61 gross domestic
product growth index.
President and CEO Nat Robertson of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber encourages residents to attend and contribute to conversations that will shape the future of communities.
Secure your spot today, as last year's event sold out. This will be the perfect setting to network and connect with the movers and shakers of our region. For more information or to register, visit the event page at www.faybiz.com or call 910-483-8133.

Dive into the vibrant world of classical music mixed with a modern twist as the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra brings its Symphony on Tap series to local hotspots for the 2024-25 season.
The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra continues to break the confines of traditional concert halls with its Symphony on Tap season. This innovative series provides a fresh perspective on classical music by bringing it to unconventional spaces. Picture the harmonic strings of a quartet juxtaposed against the casual backdrop of a bustling bar or a cozy cider house.
The Symphony on Tap events are not just concerts; they are social experiences that allow attendees to enjoy the music in a relaxed setting. It's a way to discover or re-discover classical music while enjoying the familiar comforts of your favorite local hangouts. This melding of worlds is the heartbeat of the series, making classical music accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience.
The 2024-25 Season of Symphony on Tap promises various performances that cater to a wide range of musical tastes. The season kicks off Saturday, Aug. 31 at James Creek Cider House, located at 172 US-1-BR, Cameron, with the string quartet setting the tone for what's to come.
Next up is the Haymount Truck Stop on Sunday, Sept. 8, where the string quartet will delight the audience with renditions of works from Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, and more. The Haymount Truck Stop is located at 100 Broadfoot Ave. and the music starts at 6:30 p.m.
Looking into 2025, the FSO has planned a special Mardi Gras celebration featuring their Jazz Quartet at Heckler's Brewing Company on March 4 at 7 p.m., and a nod to pop culture with a Star Wars Day event to take place at District House of Taps on May 4 at noon.
Each performance and venue is carefully curated to provide an entertaining and enriching experience. From the rustic elegance of the James Creek Cider House to the lively spirit of Heckler's, each location contributes to the unique experience of the series. The choice of venues is intentional and aimed at breaking down the barriers that often surround classical music performances. The environments chosen for these events are as important as the music itself. They set the stage for a more inclusive and engaging cultural experience. It's about enjoying a glass of cider or a beer, meeting new people, and immersing oneself in the art of sound—all in the comfort of a space that feels like home.
Attending a Symphony on Tap event is as easy as showing up. There are no tickets to buy or reservations to make, making spontaneous plans to enjoy the FSO completely feasible. Whether you're a classical music aficionado or someone looking for a unique night out, these events are tailored to be welcoming to all.
To make the most of the Symphony on Tap experience, arrive early to secure a good spot, order your favorite drink, and prepare to be transported by the music. It's an opportunity to socialize with fellow music lovers or simply sit back and let the melodies be the backdrop to a relaxing evening.
For those eager to stay in the loop with the FSO's Symphony on Tap series, following them on Facebook is the way to go here: https://www.facebook.com/FaySymphony. Their page provides the latest updates on event dates, times, and any new additions to the schedule.
As the Symphony on Tap series grows, so does its community, and being a part of that growth is a rewarding experience for any music lover.

Fayetteville Cares launches new website for volunteers
Fayetteville Cares, also known as the Day Resource Center, has launched a new website, Faycares.org, for people to volunteer, donate and support individuals and families in the city experiencing homelessness.
Manna Dream Center assumed operations on July 1 and provides showers, laundry, and meal services daily. Since that date, Manna has reported serving almost 5,000 meals, providing over 500 shower services, and over 400 laundry services during the month of July.
 “With this type of need and use, we are always looking for volunteers who can help transition and care for individuals and families experiencing homelessness,” said Pastor Cartwright, the director of Fayetteville Cares. “Please visit our website and discover the many ways you can help our most vulnerable residents.”
The website lists volunteer opportunities and ways to donate. Fayetteville Cares encourages people to visit and bookmark to learn the items and services that are most needed.

Library Receives America 250 Grant for Liberty Point Exhibit
The Cumberland County Public Library has received a $25,599.56 grant from North Carolina’s America 250 NC initiative for a project to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. America 250 NC is North Carolina’s commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary and is led by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
The Cumberland County Public Library’s grant is for a local exhibit focusing on the Liberty Point Resolves (whose 250th anniversary is June 22, 2025), along with a local artist produced mural on the side of the Headquarters Library that will incorporate themes from Fayetteville’s history from America’s founding to the present. As part of the local exhibit, there will be historical programs and lectures relating to the themes of America 250 NC and a local American Revolution bus tour in 2026.
The Local and State History Department of the Cumberland County Public Library will also produce a publication about the Liberty Point Resolves, to be released in time for America’s 250th anniversary, with a focus on celebrating Cumberland County’s contribution to the fight for independence in North Carolina during the American Revolution.
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ America 250 NC initiative recently dispersed nearly $900,000 in grant funds across 34 counties in the state. The grant program is designed to spark commemoration programs and activities on a local level.
“These America 250 grants will serve as catalysts for local participation in the nationwide commemoration of our nation’s founding,” said DNCR Secretary Reid Wilson. “We look forward to working with communities across the state to build a memorable and meaningful celebration for all North Carolinians.”
For more information about America 250 NC, visit america250.nc.gov. For more information about the Cumberland County Public Library, visit https://www.cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/library-group/library or call 910-483-7727. Follow the library on social media at facebook.com/CumberlandCountyPublicLibrary.

Ask any public school staffer in Cumberland County, and they’ll tell you — the kids are not alright.
The kids are so not alright, in fact, according to Cumberland County Schools Social Work Coordinator Pamela Story, 31.93% of the county’s public school students were chronically absent in the 2023-2024 school year. North Carolina state law defines chronic absenteeism as missing at least 10% of the days for which a student is enrolled in a public school, provided they have been enrolled for at least 10 school days that year.
A CityView analysis of North Carolina Dept. of Public Instruction reports for all of Cumberland County’s 88 public schools (including charter schools The Capitol Encore Academy and Alpha Academy) found that 34 of those schools, or about 38%, reported chronic absenteeism rates higher than the 2022-2023 county average. Furthermore, 62 schools, or about 70%, have higher chronic absenteeism rates than the statewide chronic absenteeism average of 26.73%.
‘Very concerning’
Beverly Young, a truancy support specialist for Cumberland County Schools, told CityView the district has noted a spike in attendance issues in recent years.
“Since the pandemic, there’s been a dramatic change with attendance for the kids to transition back to in-person learning,” she said.
That has continued to be a problem for Cumberland County’s public schools, Story said.
“It’s a cause for alarm,” she told CityView. “ … It’s very concerning to us here in Cumberland County. The number of disengaged students that we have is just amazing.”
Young estimates she can make up to 15 visits a week to the homes of students struggling with absenteeism. According to Story and Young, the general process in Cumberland County Schools for absences is:
1. When a student misses a class, the teacher records the absence in the school’s attendance software. This triggers a phone call home to the student’s parent or guardian.
2. If a student misses three days without a note from a parent or guardian, the teacher will call home. If that call is unsuccessful, the school social worker will try to contact a parent or guardian through any means necessary, including social media and reaching out to the student’s emergency contact. The social worker will also send a letter home.
3. When a student reaches six unexcused absences, the school social worker will send a letter home.
4. If a student exceeds 10 unexcused absences, their parent or guardian may be referred to the Cumberland County Schools’ Truancy Mediation Council or referred to the district attorney’s office. Parents and guardians can be charged with a misdemeanor at this point.
Young said the Truancy Mediation Council has proven successful in mitigating absenteeism.
“We’ve had several [children], they have finished the school year, did well on their EOGs [End of Grade examinations], their attendance improved,” she said. “I’ve had several social workers come up to me the last week of school and say, ‘Thank you for TMC [Truancy Mediation Council]. The child returned and had a good relationship with the parent and we planned for the summer.’”
The council can provide families access to additional resources, like applying for food stamps through the county health department or working with a county social worker, Young said.
According to Story and Young, improving student attendance must be a “collaborative” effort. That includes community members, Young said.
“The community can encourage that parent and remind them that every minute counts that your child is in school,” she said. “The community, if they see kids roaming around and not in school, then they need to ask a child, ‘Why aren’t you in school? What’s going on?’ They can contact the school. We’ve had many people call.”
The county’s public schools are shifting from punitive measures to more proactive measures, Story said. That’s partially because of a desire to better address the complex nature of factors that can lead to chronic absenteeism, she said.
“Since the pandemic, we have students who have gone to work. We have teen moms and teen dads,” she said. “ … We’re hearing some students have to stay home and care for ill parents or babysit younger siblings. We have a serious transportation issue here in Fayetteville.”
Families have also been more reluctant since the Covid-19 pandemic to send children to school if they have minor symptoms like a headache or the sniffles, Story added.
“Back in the day, you said you were sick, you had to be home, in the bed sick,” she said.
And as with many issues involving education, mental health plays a role in absenteeism, too, Story said.
“We’re seeing a lot of mental health problems because they were sitting behind a computer, by themselves, on a phone for a year,” she said. “ … There’s complex trauma. There’s community stress for a lot of our children. Food insecurity. It’s a multitude of factors.”
Impact on parents
Some parents have spoken out on social media about Cumberland County Schools’ approach to absenteeism, describing it as inconsistent or burdensome on families.
In response to a Facebook post from CityView, one mother noted her daughter often missed school during the Covid-19 pandemic due to automatic absence requirements if a student presented certain symptoms of Covid. Another mother said her daughter missed 28 days of school due to social anxiety, but the school only sent a letter home once.
Ashley Patoka told CityView her daughter missed about 5 hours of class each week as a kindergartner at Raleigh Road Elementary School off Ramsey Street this school year. Patoka said her child had to leave school early several days a week so she could attend occupational therapy and counseling for her autism, ADHD and sensory processing disorder. Before getting on the right medication, her daughter also was suspended from school for eight days and placed on a modified schedule because of behavioral issues, Patoka said.
“She was really struggling,” she said. “She was very keenly aware that she was not allowed to be there all day.”
The necessary absences also posed a problem for Patoka, who works full time, and her daughter’s father, who was deployed through the military in the spring, she said.
“I’m so grateful I had my parents close by, and they were able to come up and help me,” she said. “ … It was rough.”
Cumberland County Schools Unveils Attendance Reforms to Combat Chronic Absenteeism
The Cumberland County Board of Education has taken significant steps to address chronic absenteeism by approving the first reading of revised attendance Policy 4400. The Board also proclaimed September 2024 as "Attendance Awareness Month," aligning with state and national efforts to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance.
CCS is launching a district-wide attendance campaign in September. The campaign will involve collaboration with key stakeholders, including truancy support specialists, school administrators, student services staff, teachers, data managers, families, students and community members.
Key elements of the revised Policy 4400 include:
• Limiting parent/guardian notes excusing absences to 10 per year
• Requiring submission of notes within five days for absences to be excused
• Potentially retaining students in grades K-5 or denying course credit for students in grades 6-12 with 20 or more unexcused absences
Dr. Melody Chalmers McClain, associate superintendent for Student Support Services, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "Every minute a student spends in school is a step toward a brighter future. Improving attendance isn't just about meeting requirements—it's about ensuring our students have the best chance to succeed. We’re committed to partnering with families to get students to school on time, every day, so that together, we can set them up for lifelong success."
CCS is also actively working to re-engage students who have fallen behind through targeted dropout prevention programs and recovery initiatives.

Editor's note: This article was edited with new information received by Up & Coming Weekly from CCS on Aug. 14. The original article from CityView Today was published and updated July 30.

In 2021, the North Carolina General Assembly enacted a budget that funded core state responsibilities, instigated critical repairs and renovations of government facilities, built up savings reserves, and slashed tax rates on personal and corporate income.
Overall, it was a prudent and balanced plan. In a column published in mid-November 2021, I called it an example of “constructive conservatism” in action, although I did note I was “not sold on all the capital projects funded by the new budget.”
I was referring to a long list of nonrecurring grants to localities, campuses, and private organizations tucked into the budget bill and the accompanying committee report. Such “pork barrel” spending is hardly novel. And every project has passionate advocates. Still, the farther legislators stumble away from state funding for state-owned facilities — or from approving pots of capital funds to be awarded to local governments by a specified formula — the less defensible their handiwork becomes.
That is, at least, the theoretical argument against pork-barrel spending. I’ve made it many times. Now, thanks to intrepid reporting by the Raleigh News & Observer and The Assembly, we know that the 2021-22 budget contained an especially egregious example.
Buried on page H-54 of the committee report was a two-year, $25 million grant to “the US Performance Center in Kannapolis for capital needs.” That’s all the provision states.
Created by sports enthusiasts Ike Belk and David Koerner, the US Performance Center is a private company, not a charity. It operates the Human Performance Research Institute on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where it trains athletes and conducts research. The founders’ medium-term goal, reported The Assembly, is to convince dozens of the boards governing Olympic sports to base their operations in Charlotte. Their longtime goal is for the Carolinas to host a future Summer Olympics.
You may think this a bold, exciting goal. You may think this a pipe dream. For now, set that aside and consider a simpler, more immediate question: should the taxpayers of North Carolina be compelled to fund the operations of a private company?
Yes, I know the budget provision confined the use of state funds to “capital needs.” That’s not what happened, however. The N&O reported that the US Performance Center spent $67,000 of the money on hotel bills (including $1,300 at a Ritz Carlton), $55,000 on vehicle loans, $34,000 on meals and entertainment, and more than $13,000 to pay late taxes and penalties to the Internal Revenue Service.
Moreover, the folks behind the US Performance Center didn’t stop at $25 million. They also created a nonprofit entity, the North Carolina Sports Legacy Foundation, and secured another $30 million in state money in the 2023-25 budget passed last year. The nonprofit had previously attracted only a trickle of private contributions (topping out at $167,500 a year) before snagging that $30 million. Of that amount, reported The Assembly, the nonprofit paid US Performance Center $9.8 million for “consulting services” and spent $2.9 million on salaries and benefits.
Like the much-larger NCInnovation — also funded almost entirely by taxpayers through a special provision, with little public discussion — these two related entities have essentially become creatures of the state, though with even less accountability.
The state budget office is reportedly scrutinizing the US Performance Center’s expenditure of its “capital” grant. And while no Olympic sport has yet moved its headquarters to Charlotte, I suppose anything is possible in the future.
It’s hardly premature, however, to question whether state lawmakers ought to have funded these projects the way they did. Was there truly no better use of $55 million in taxpayer money? No public facility, building, or infrastructure that needed refurbishing? For example, an estimated $20 billion maintenance backlog in our local water and sewer systems appears to have knocked North Carolina out of the top spot on CNBC’s ranking of best states to do business.
On this matter, the General Assembly blew it. The taxpayers deserve better stewardship of their hard-earned dollars.

Editor’s note: John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His latest books, Mountain Folk and Forest Folk, combine epic fantasy with early American history (FolkloreCycle.com).

Across North Carolina, students are gathering their school supplies for the coming school year. Teachers are organizing their classrooms, and families are trying to squeeze out a last long weekend at the beach or the mountains. Excitement rules and both students and teachers look forward to seeing each other after a summer break, and—like it or not—socializing is a big part of being in school.
Decades later, I still remember the embarrassment of being reprimanded by a teacher for passing a note to a friend. I have not heard of that happening in years. Today’s students text each other, even if they sit across from each other in class. They are fully digitized and likely cannot imagine passing a contraband note.
School systems have noticed all the chirping and pinging, eyes glued to cell phones in laps and online bullying, and many are beginning to regulate various digital tools in classrooms. The New York Times reports that at least 8 states now limit cell phones in school. In North Carolina, Winston Salem and Forsyth County schools recently banned cell phone use during the school day, allowing use by high school students only during their lunch break.
Such policies sound both practical and reasonable so why not implement them in all school systems, including Cumberland County?
Like everything else in the digital era, it is complicated.
First, technology moves faster than school boards or legislators can make policy, and sometimes even understand what the new technologies are and what they do. Students are on to the next technology, such as artificial intelligence or AI, before many adults even know it exists, much less how it works and how to deal with it.
Secondly, we as a nation have mixed feelings about all digital communications, including cell phones. We love the convenience of them, so much so that most of us, including this writer, no longer have a landline, only a cell phone. Parents and students want, and sometimes actually need, to communicate with each other during the school day, and cell phones make that easy and private. In addition, some students do not have access to tools such as tablets and laptops and use their cell phones for schoolwork. And, in this era in which Americans have apparently decided that it is OK for even teenagers to possess military-style assault weapons, some argue that student use of cell phones can be a safety measure.
At the same time, digital communications of all sorts can have serious negative effects on mental health, especially for young people who are digitally bullied or those who have been abused by others through AI technology. Such digital behavior has resulted in youth suicides, and no one wants that.
So, what to do about this very 21st-century problem?
Increasingly, there are calls for developers of these complex digital devices and social media and AI platforms to build in “stoppers” of some sort to prevent misuse of technologies that did not exist on a commercial scale even a few years ago. Calls are also coming for both educators and students to learn not only about the capabilities of powerful technologies but about their very real dangers and how to use them responsibly.
The best description of all this I have read comes from the New York Times Education Reporter Natasha Singer, who described this complex school situation this way.
“Essentially, some say, we should follow the model of another program that has for many decades taught young people how to handle powerful machines without harming themselves or others: It’s called drivers’ ed.”

The Unity Reception is the brainchild of Semone Pemberton, a local community activist and currently a senatorial candidate for North Carolina District 19.
According to her, bi-partisan community events play a crucial role in developing healthy communities while providing an effective platform for local community leaders and potential community leaders to meet and listen to the citizens while enhancing relationships essential for transparency, trust, and support. Pemberton's motivation for the event is rooted in her belief in the power of unity.
We agree and applaud Pemberton's initiative as the near-perfect example of how proactive community involvement and events of this type can have the potential to galvanize relationships between all citizens, civic leaders, and elected officials regardless of race, religion, gender identification, or political affiliation.
Pemberton's Unity Reception will host special guest Clarence Henderson, a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, who brings a legacy of fighting for transparency, justice, and equality, topics that resonate deeply with all Americans.
Now in his 70s, Henderson leads the Frederick Douglass Foundation of NC with relentless and unwavering resolve. The Frederick Douglass Foundation's mission is to make a difference in the world by empowering individuals. They believe that every person has the potential to create positive change.
Following the tenets of Frederick Douglass, Henderson and the Foundation work to expand individual freedoms, promote education and self-sufficiency, and build strong families.
Henderson is an electrifying speaker, captivating audiences with riveting tales from the Civil Rights movement with a message intended to ignite their ambition with a bold call for entrepreneurship and business opportunities, which he believes are the ultimate game-changers.
The Unity Reception will also feature NC Senator Dave Craven, the youngest serving State Senator in North Carolina and Vice President of Business Development at The Fidelity Bank. Also speaking is lawyer Senator Amy Galey from Alamance County.
The Unity Reception is a ticketed event open to the public, allowing involved Fayetteville and Cumberland County community residents to listen to these dynamic speakers' unifying messages over heavy hors d'oeuvres and beverages.
It will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Kress Building, 229 Hay Street in Downtown Historic Fayetteville. To purchase tickets or to get more information, contact heather@fayforward.com or call 910-745-0501.
Closing note: Regardless of race, religion, gender identification, or political affiliation, this event is about "unity." With unity, nothing else matters! Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

(Top Photo: Clarence Henderson, far right, was part of the Greensboro sit-in, a civil rights protest in the 1960s that helped push the conversation regarding segregation in the United States. Henderson will be speaking at the Unity Reception, Aug. 27. Bottom Photo: Henderson gives a talk during an event. Photos courtesy of public domain)

What makes a Great Neighborhood? People, community leaders, landscape architects, city and neighborhood planners and local citizens who are students of the neighborhood concept all have their opinions, and they are many and varied.
With master-planned communities, historical sections, restored downtown with residential housing opportunities and urban sprawl, the Fayetteville area is loved by so many of us. Very few of us are not connected and benefited by living next to the greatest military base in the world and the best standing army on the planet. What a privilege to live here next to the free and brave men and women who defend our liberties and homeland.
Fayetteville and the surrounding counties are seeing more and more well planned and thought-out neighborhoods.
This is a wonderful trend for housing in this area. Location, schools, convenience, quality construction and a well-designed streetscape are certainly significant features that create the type of community we all want.
At Floyd Properties, we strive to make our neighborhoods truly exceptional. Our employees are very proud of what they have been able to accomplish. They work hard to build quality homes, well designed, with many options and outstanding features in well designed and carefully planned communities.
Ideally, each neighborhood should have a sense of arrival, a community feeling and a focal point area and designation that gives the families living there a sense of identity as a neighborhood and home.
Our mission statement is summed up in our slogan: Building Neighborhoods One Family at a Time. We have found this true over our 73 years of building homes for families. It’s the people living in a neighborhood that ultimately makes it great.
Our current neighborhoods in Fayetteville and the surrounding areas are Westhaven and Legacy in the Jack Britt area, Kingston in Hoke County, Fairfield Farms in the North section of our county and Saddlebrook in Southern Pines. Call us at 910-423-6700 to view our new homes under construction.
Visit our neighborhoods and see why we think they are Great! Making outstanding homes in Great Neighborhoods is what this community of Heros deserves. This is our mission and strong desire.
We are very fortunate to be a part of the best place to live on the planet and to be a part of making it even better and better!

As we welcome students back to Cumberland County Schools for the 2024-2025 school year, there are "8 Key Things You Need to Know." And, we’re excited to share these fantastic initiatives that support our students and their families!
Middle and high school students now have access to a mental health support tool, and we’ve prepared a comprehensive back-to-school guide to help everyone get started.
Safety is a top priority, so only authorized individuals are allowed on school buses, and we’ve added metal detectors in all of our schools.
Non-English-speaking families can now use our language support line for communication assistance, and there are many new opportunities for family engagement and volunteering in our schools. Plus, we’re rolling out a new student information system and an updated code of student conduct that helps students succeed academically and emotionally.
Let’s make this year amazing together! #We AreCCS For more information, visit www.ccs.k12.nc.us/btsg.
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Al dar la bienvenida a los estudiantes de las Escuelas del Condado de Cumberland al año escolar 2024-2025, hay ‘8 Aspectos Claves Que Usted Necesita Saber.’ ¡Estamos emocionados de compartir estas fantásticas iniciativas que apoyaran a nuestros estudiantes y sus familias!
Los estudiantes de secundaria y preparatoria (escuela intermedia y escuela superior) ahora tienen acceso a una herramienta de apoyo para la salud mental, y hemos preparado una guía completa de regreso a clases que ayudara a todos a comenzar. La seguridad es nuestra principal prioridad, por lo que solo las personas autorizadas pueden subir a los autobuses escolares, y hemos añadido detectores de metales en todas nuestras escuelas.
Las familias que no hablan inglés ahora pueden utilizar nuestra línea de apoyo lingüístico para asistencia con la comunicación, y hay muchas nuevas oportunidades para la participación familiar y el voluntariado en nuestras escuelas.
Además, estamos implementando un nuevo sistema de información estudiantil y un código de conducta estudiantil actualizado que ayuda a los estudiantes a tener éxito académicamente y emocionalmente.
¡Hagamos juntos de este año algo increíble! #SomosCCS “WeAreCCS” Para más información, visite http://www.ccs.k12.nc.us/btsg

Fayetteville Technical Community College will present a public lecture at 1 p.m. on Sept. 6 about American fighter pilots who volunteered to fly for the French Air Force in the early days of World War I.
The pilots were part of a squadron dubbed the Lafayette Escadrille after the Marquis de Lafayette, the French hero of the American Revolution (and the namesake of Fayetteville, NC, and many other US communities).
The lecture will be in the Multi-Purpose Room of the Tony Rand Student Center on FTCC’s Fayetteville campus. It is open to the public. Admission is free.
Mark Trapp will present the lecture. Trapp is author of “A Destiny of Undying Greatness: Kiffin Rockwell and the Boys Who Remembered Lafayette.”
Trapp, a lawyer in Chicago, graduated from the University of Illinois and from the law school at Washington and Lee University. While at Washington and Lee, he learned of Kiffin Rockwell, an alum who in 1916 became the first American to shoot down an enemy aircraft during World War I. Trapp wrote his book after researching Rockwell and the other American pilots who volunteered to fight for France before the United States entered
World War I.
According to Trapp’s book, Rockwell admired Lafayette’s actions during the Revolution and felt duty-bound to act to defend France in return. He was joined by other idealistic Americans, including Carthage resident James R. McConnell, a land and industrial agent for the Seaboard Air Line Railway.
After the war broke out, McConnell reportedly said, “These sandhills will be here forever, but the war won’t, so I’m going.” He left for France in January 1915, five months after Kiffin Rockwell traveled to France and enlisted in the French Foreign Legion.
Rockwell fought in the trenches until he was wounded in May 1915 by machinegun fire. After his recovery, he transferred into the newly formed French Air Service and became a founding pilot of the Lafayette Escadrille. McConnell, initially an ambulance driver, later joined the squadron and the two men became close friends. The mural of James R. McConnell and his plane is located in Carthage on the side of a building near the Moore County courthouse.
Rockwell participated in over 140 dogfights before being shot down and killed on Sept. 23, 1916. McConnell also served with distinction, dying in combat on March 19, 1917. He was the last American flier in the Lafayette Escadrille to die in combat prior to the United States’ entry into the war.
The lecture, part of FTCC’s Community History Lecture Series, will be held on the 267th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s birthday. It will be presented in partnership with the Lafayette Society in Fayetteville.
For individuals who cannot physically attend this history lecture, the event can be viewed via live-stream at https://www.faytechcc.edu/history-department-community-history-lecture-series-live-stream/.
Dr. Daniel Stewart serves as a humanities instructor at Fayetteville Technical Community College – stewartd@faytechcc.edu and can respond to inquiries about this history lecture.

(Photo: The Lafayette Escadrille pictured during a dogfight. Photo courtesy of Hank Parfitt)

“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued, when they can give and receive without judgment.” — Brene Brown
I Love My Community Giveaway and Black BBQ Cookoff will be held on Aug. 17, at the Crown Complex. The event will be 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets to the cookoff are $20 each. The event will feature a giveaway of free backpacks, hygiene products, food, and school supplies. Family-focused games, health and wellness resources and vendors, employment opportunities, and Black BBQ Cook-Off Competition will all be a part of the event. The Black BBQ Cook-Off Competition is donating funds from the competition to the L3 Brand Community Alliance.
“We are excited about uniting with our community partners for the I Love My Community Giveaway once again,” shares Elizabeth Stiff, Executive Director, L3 Brand Community Alliance. “Adding the Crown Complex as a key sponsor for our event is such a blessing as they have been a loyal sponsor for the I Love My Community for the past two years.”
Crown Complex Assistant General Manager, Dorothy Strahley, shares her thoughts on the I Love My Community Giveaway event, “The Crown Complex is thrilled to continue and enhance our support. We are proud to support the community by becoming a key sponsor and hosting the event at the Crown, to allow the event to grow. We love this event and cannot wait to see it flourish even more.”
The L3 Brand Community Alliance, “assists families, under-represented populations, and various organizations worldwide. Connecting and serving the community one act at a time,” according to L3 Brand Alliance, Facebook.
“One act at a time for the readership can be donations. Donations can be new clothing, shoes for all ages, spiral notebooks, pencils, crayons, markers, colored pencils, pouches, three-prong folders, paper, and time. Community services vendors are encouraged to share their expertise during this event,” Stiff said.
Those interested in donating can contact or text Elizabeth Stiff, Executive Director, at 678-665-3526.
For more information about the cook off and giveaway, and for tickets, visit https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/black-bbq-cookoff-2024

In the wake of Tropical Storm Debby's unwelcome visit, the Gates Four Summer Concert Series has been swiftly rescheduled to ensure the music plays on. The highly anticipated Heart Breaker concert, originally set for Aug. 9, will now rock the stage on Friday, Nov. 8. Meanwhile, fans of the local favorite Rivermist won’t have to wait much longer, as their show has been moved from Sept. 6 to the very next day, Saturday, Sept. 7.
For those eager to mark their calendars, doors for both rescheduled concerts will open at 5:30 p.m., with performances beginning at 7 p.m. These events are graciously free to the public, offering a perfect evening out at the Gates Four Country Club. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enhance their comfort during these unforgettable nights.
Spotlight on Heart Breaker: A Tribute to Rock Legends
Get ready to relive the glory days of rock with Heart Breaker, the electrifying tribute band honoring Heart and Led Zeppelin. With Staci McBeth and Joan Burton leading the charge as the Wilson sisters, they'll belt out iconic hits such as "Alone," "These Dreams," and "Barracuda." Their set will also include a nod to the legendary Led Zeppelin, offering a full concert experience that will leave classic rock aficionados on a high note.
Adding to the atmosphere, Some Tings Cookin food truck will be present, promising to tantalize your taste buds with their culinary delights. So, prepare for a feast for both your ears and your palate.
Experience Rivermist: Fayetteville's Favorite Band
Rivermist, a band that has consistently captured the heart of Fayetteville with their blend of classic rock, R&B, and party music, is set to return with a performance that promises to be as engaging as ever. With over 200 years of combined experience, these seasoned musicians know exactly how to connect with their audience and keep the party going.
The band's acclaim as Fayetteville/Ft. Liberty's "Best Local Band" for eight consecutive years speaks volumes about their ability to entertain. With not one, but two food trucks - Rollin Taco and Some Tings Cookin - present to serve up delectable eats, your Saturday evening is shaping up to be spectacular.
Enhancing Your Concert Experience with VIP Packages
For those looking to elevate their evening even further, the Gates Four Summer Concert Series offers exclusive VIP packages. These premium options provide not just the best seats in the house, but a range of special perks designed to make your concert experience even more memorable.
Details on these VIP packages, including pricing and benefits, can be found on the Fayetteville Dinner Theater's website at https://fayettevilledinnertheatre.com/. Be sure to secure your VIP spot early to take full advantage of these luxurious offerings.
As you prepare to join us for the rescheduled concerts, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth experience. First, remember to arrive early to claim a prime spot for your lawn chairs or blankets. While the concerts are free, consider bringing cash or cards for the food trucks and any merchandise you may wish to purchase.
Lastly, keep an eye on the weather and dress accordingly for an outdoor event. With all preparations in place, you're all set for a night of stellar performances and great food in the company of friends, family, and fellow music lovers.

There are approximately 50 million Americans who suffer from autoimmune diseases according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, so chances are you know or have known someone with an autoimmune disease.
For those unfamiliar with Psoriasis, it is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing visible inflammation and patches on those with it. Treatment ranges from topical creams, phototherapy, and even protein injections.
The 6th Annual Psoriasis Health Fair is Saturday, Aug. 24 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Fit4Life Gym, located at 2803 Ft. Bragg Rd. The event is free to the public and will include vendors, activities, crafts, and of course, food. Sponsors for the event this year include Dmathisphere Art Gallery, FIt4Life Gym (ft. Bragg road), Lifes a Trip Adventure Club, Sweet Frog, Superior Bakery, Falcon Focus, Mcgee Cadd Reprographics, Flii Apparel & Accessories, Mac Healy Wholesale, Dicks Sporting Goods and Amber Little Marketing.
Takieyah Mathis is the powerhouse behind this event. A Fayetteville native, Mathis, who suffers from psoriasis, has made it her mission to bring autoimmune awareness to Cumberland County and globally and connect individuals and families to resources.
“[This] event brings out so many colors of people with autoimmune diseases beyond psoriasis. My community has been so supportive since day one. This health fair is all about fellowship with others who have a chronic illness or have a relative who is suffering. We come together to learn more about the illnesses, what new resources are available, and even share testimonies,” Mathis explained. This year’s psoriasis awareness event is one of the largest Mathis has put on, something she is proud of and can’t wait for the community to participate in, saying, “During the event, we usually have some fitness activities such as Zumba and yoga, we also include interactive art activities, and we share resources not only from my organization but the others who are involved. We will have food, and some amazing vendors from nonprofits to crafters, and yes, we always have a dance team, speakers, and artists such as my husband Damien Mathis and psoriasis warrior Nick Shaw doing something artsy with the kids at the event … I would love for the community to participate because the support is needed for us to get the research, funding, and medicines needed. The support needed beyond that is extremely personal because everybody has a story. The community impact matters to nonprofits like mine that are trying to spread awareness to the unaware. There is power in numbers when we come together in nothing but love. We are giving people what they need for free, exercise, peace of mind, education, resources, and most of all, fun. This event is extremely family-friendly, everyone is welcome.”
As a nonprofit founder, Mathis is spearheading projects that not only bring resources to those who need them but connect the mind, body, and spirit. Her nonprofit, The Standing Light Foundation is a great resource.
“The Mission of the Standing Light Foundation is to provide resources through creative awareness and community development projects. I wanted to bridge the gap between mental and physical health with art by creating safe spaces of creativity. We produce art events, provide gardening opportunities, fashion shows, and charity events and we also assist in the resources a person may need to improve their environment. I integrated trauma and art because growing up as a child who dealt with domestic violence, child abandonment, and sexual assault, I had to find an outlet and now I can provide that to others,” Mathis said.
Mother, wife, nonprofit founder, national speaker, nonprofit superstar, the list goes on. Mathis is a woman of many hats and talents. Her dedication to a cause bigger than herself, while still maintaining a home life, is no small feat, and worth all the praise she gets. To stay up-to-date on upcoming events follow her Facebook https://www.facebook.com/p.kashh and The Standing Light Foundation, https://www.facebook.com/Thestandinglightfoundation/.

“True vision does not require eyes. The chief handicap of the blind is not blindness, but the attitude of seeing people toward them. Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the face.” Helen Keller
The Out of Sight Wing Fling Cook-Off will take place on Aug. 24, from noon to 4 p.m. at Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Tap Room. The event features food trucks, lawn games, and a wing cookout competition. General Admission is $20. The proceeds for this fundraiser will go to the Vision Resource Center.
Terri Thomas, Executive Director, Vision Resource Center, shares this perspective about the mission statement.
“The VRC mission is not just a statement, but a powerful force that enhances the lives of adults and children who are visually impaired. Visually impaired means you may be blind or have low vision (not completely blind). The VRC’s work with consumers consists of hosting summer camps for kids with additional programming throughout the year,” Thomas said. “People may be undergoing a rough time, [VRC] helps children and parents with food shortages. This is a testament to the impact of the mission.
"We also help our adults with services such as phones, finding housing options, and assisting with paperwork. Our services include medical assistance and transportation. VRCVLY is a reading service for persons with visual impairment. Volunteers read media publications and news from various counties such as Cumberland, Lee, and Robeson.
"The Walking Group enjoys the experience of the only Braille walking trail in North Carolina. This is a safe environment for enabling individuals to walk in nature without assistance. The monthly VRC Power Lunch is an educational workshop concerning consumer issues such as insurance and housing safety.”
“Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you,” states Oprah Winfrey.
Thomas’ passion is advocacy and empowerment of persons experiencing visual impairment. “I am passionate because the blind in our community are a very underserved population. The VRC is their voice at the table within the community. The VRC is the 'persons experiencing visual impairment' advocacy voice.
"The majority of blind people in our community are not cognitively delayed or hearing impaired. These persons are members of our community who like to do the same things as sighted persons. They need to do it differently. VRC is here to show what blindness is not.”
Sponsors for the Out of Sight Wing Fling include Systel, City of Fayetteville Community Foundation, Sam’s Party Tents, and Favored Conferences and Events.
Celebrate with the community. Dance to the music of Perfect Storm Band, and party with host Goldy and DJ Q. Join in the wing-eating contest with cash prizes. The VIP tent is an option for unlimited wings with a designated server. Ticket prices for the VIP experience are $75, general admission is $25. The 2-minute wing showdown entry fee is $10.
See you at the Out of Sight Wing Fling Cook-Off on Aug. 24, at Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Tap Room. Please purchase tickets in advance of the event. For general and ticket information, contact visionresourcecentercc.org or visionresourcecenter.regfox.com.

(Photo: An attendee at the Out of Sight Wing Fling Cook Off enjoys a wing blindfolded in 2023. Photo courtesy of VRC)

Mike and Jennifer Adams, owners of Dogslingers and The Depot, were at the point of no return. They’d poured their time and treasure into a business that wasn’t gaining traction. A year ago July, unbeknownst to each other, they both did something that changed everything. A month later, standing in the bathroom of their home, accessing what had transpired over the past 30 days, Mike admitted where he’d been and what he’d done about it. Jennifer told him she’d done the exact same thing. Teary-eyed remembering the moment, it’s evident how those independent actions changed the trajectory of their business.
Mike is a big, blue-eyed Norwegian-Swede who began skating at the age of 4 and has been heavily involved in hockey ever since. Jennifer is a dark-haired Irish-Italian from Springfield, Illinois, who worked in banking. The couple met when Mike skated for the Springfield Junior Blues; three years later they were married by a federal judge — on an ice rink. Their three children all began skating at 4 and played youth, college and Junior league hockey. For at least 10 years, Mike was a coaching manager of the Cape Fear Youth Hockey program operating out of then-Fort Bragg, coaching multiple teams. Jennifer was its secretary.
Originally from Utah, Mike spent from 1999 to 2021 in the U.S. Army as a Civil Affairs officer. He earned his commission through ROTC at Illinois State University and did multiple deployments to Afghanistan and Africa. Civil Affairs falls under USA Special Operations Command; its mission is to identify the needs of a local population that align with America’s goals in the region. Jennifer supported the demands of Mike’s career, making their home, caring for the children and leaning on her independence to focus on the end game. Homecomings always involved transition so when Mike retired and the kids were grown, she returned to banking.
Mike likes hotdogs. One day, he and Drake, the couple’s youngest son, were eating hotdogs in the parking lot at Lowes on Skibo. They wondered how much a hotdog truck made. They knew what they’d paid, and for an hour they counted how many customers the truck served. It was a lot.
Mike came home and told Jennifer, “I think I want to open a hotdog stand.” She thought, 'OK. Well, he’s retired and needs something to do with his time. Why not?' They bought one truck then a second and eventually a trailer, attending events and building relationships with local businesses.
Dogslingers and The Depot eventually became something the couple worked together. A marriage is always about working together, they agreed, but Jennifer thinks this time it’s even better. Perhaps it’s because Mike is home full-time now, or their clear level of maturity as a couple or maybe because Jennifer is contributing her talents to the mix. Mike praises her cooking effusively. The family used to joke that she should open a restaurant. She always said, “never.” And here they are. Her Pasta Poppers, for example, are fantastic. Think mac-and-cheese bites with an upscale garlic-Parmesan approach.
To be approved to operate a food truck, a purveyor must be associated with a commercial kitchen. The owner contracts with a restaurant to use everything from its prep space, refrigeration and storage to gray water and trash disposal. The Adams were grateful for their kitchen contract, but they knew they had to look for their own space. The Depot is both a permanent home for Dogslingers and a commissary where other truck owners can contract for kitchen use.
Mike was at a Portillo’s in Springfield, Ill., and ordered a hotdog. The quality was discernably better than anything he’d ever had. He found out they served Vienna Beef hotdogs and he determined Dogslingers would sell only that brand from then on. Vienna Beef uses shavings from briskets and only briskets. The taste is noticeably superior. Midwesterners are in on this secret, and it was just such a Midwesterner that turned the tide for Dogslingers.
The business, however, was struggling. The Depot building approval was dragging beyond two and a half years. The couple’s daughter, Delaney, had given Mike a bible and he began to read it. Finally, he got to a “Jesus, take the wheel” moment. He didn’t know if they were going to make it. They’d done everything they could and were out of resources and at the end of themselves. He said, “God, it’s in your hands.” Jennifer prays regularly, purposefully accessing and meditating. She, too, asked God to show her what she was supposed to do and to make His sign very clear. Neither one knew the other had prayed.
Then Carrie Greive, wife of Bright Light Brewing Company co-owner Chris Greive, saw the Vienna Beef signage. Being a Midwesterner, she knew what that meant. She posted an enthusiastic review on Fayetteville Foodies on Facebook. Within two weeks, sales volume at Dogslingers quadrupled. There had been positive reviews before, but this time God had been invited and blessings multiplied.
Twenty-six years ago, when they arrived in Fayetteville, Mike assumed the food scene would reflect the cultural diversity of a melting-pot military town. It didn’t. The culinary situation improved, but it wasn’t until COVID that Mike saw food trucks supplanting mom-and-pop restaurants. Cultural options exploded and places like Haymount Truck Stop, Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom and Bright Light Brewing became counterculture food truck hangouts. At last count, there are 65 food trucks registered in Cumberland County.
The name and logo for Dogslingers is all Delaney’s doing. The family’s dog, Henry, is the company’s mascot. Eldest son, Duncan, a Marine, cheerleads from Twentynine Palms, Calif. and Drake helps regularly. Mike and Jennifer are grateful for all the help they’ve received: marketing from Vienna Beef; food truck and restaurant mentors; and employees who care about customer service as much as they do. The Depot is open 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday at 2801 Raeford Road. I tried the Cheddar Jalapeno Dog. Raving about a hotdog seems silly, but it was hands-down the best I’ve ever had.

(Photo: Mike and Jennifer Adams pose in The Depot.)

Throughout the years, cheer has gone from pom poms and bobby socks to a recognized sport, complete with competitions on the state and national level and rigorous training and conditioning. Even recreational cheer requires regular workouts and practices from participants. Whether cheer is a hobby or a passion, the NC-BGC Cheer Clinic is a can’t-miss for those looking to sharpen their skills and strengthen their foundation. The clinic is on Sunday, Aug. 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 421 Maiden Ln. There will be two sessions, Beginner and Intermediate. The beginners’ session will run from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and will help those new to stunts and tumbling. The intermediate session starts from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and will cover basic tumbling and stunting techniques. Registration is $50. At check-in, participants will complete registration and receive a cheer clinic t-shirt.
Camille Morgan is the name and talent behind the NC-BGC Cheer Clinic. A New York native and a new North Carolina resident, Morgan is a classically trained dancer, certified cheer/stunt judge, and youth and college-level cheer coach. This clinic will be her eleventh overall and second in North Carolina. Morgan has always had a passion for dance, but her path to cheer was not the conventional one.
“I am a classically trained dancer (ballerina). In my senior year of High School, I thought I wanted to be a kid, so I stopped dancing to experience what I thought I was missing. I quickly became bored, and my school did not have a dance team. Someone asked me if I could cartwheel and split, and I said yes. My cheer tryout complete, I became a high school cheerleader. It was fun and I am glad I did it but when I got to college it was back to the dance company,” she said. “One rehearsal, while we were sitting around, one of the other dancers was chit-chatting about cheer and I said I did it in high school. She asked if I would join the college team. I said not really but she was so nice and persistent that I joined the college team. That's when I found out it was a sport. We had practice for two hours, five days a week. We had six hours of required weight room time along with our game and event expectations. We were also required to have a 3.0 GPA.”
Her experience in college didn’t just spark a love for cheer but was a huge realization that cheer is indeed a sport, a concept she wants the world and local community to understand.
“Young women that participate in cheer are athletes, not just cute girls in skirts. It takes a lot of practice and strength and conditioning. The next time you see a young lady in a uniform, congratulate her for having the confidence and mental toughness to earn her spot,” Morgan said.
The cheer clinic will be a great opportunity for local cheer teams, school-based cheer programs, and individuals interested in learning from one of the best. The Dynamic Jewels, a local youth cheer team have already secured their spot and are revved up and ready to learn.
“I am absolutely thrilled for our Jai6 Dynamic Jewels performers to participate in the cheer clinic! This experience is not just about perfecting their cheerleading skills but also about embracing valuable life lessons. Through teamwork, perseverance, and dedication, they will learn how to overcome challenges and support one another, lessons that extend far beyond the cheerleading mat. Their involvement in the clinic will not only enrich their personal growth but also strengthen our community, as they bring their newfound enthusiasm and commitment back to inspire and uplift those around them,” said Dynamic Jewels Cheer Director, Dinesha Neal.
Morgan has a full day lined up. The cheer clinic will not only cover the physical part of the sport, but also the financial. For those looking to make cheer a career or take it to the collegiate level, there will be a session on what the next steps are.
“After a brief introduction, we will have warm-ups and then we will break into training areas: Tumbling, Stunt, Cheer Vocals, Stomp, and Shake and Dance. At the end will be a small awards ceremony and a discussion about the next steps into high school, college, and beyond. [We will discuss] Requirements, education and salaries, knowing your worth. [That will be] followed up with a quick Q&A and then dismissal,” she explained.
Registration can be completed online at https://bit.ly/4dFuNvr

In addition to the cooler weather, concerts at the Crown, and pumpkin spice everything, the next most anticipated joy of the fall is the county fair. The Cumberland County Fair is gearing up for another year of entertainment, rides, food, and of course, pageant Queens.
This year's fair will run from Aug. 30 through Sept. 8, with gates opening at 5 p.m. at the Crown Complex on Friday, August 30. A Ribbon Cutting will take place at 4:45 p.m. in conjunction with the Greater Fayetteville Chamber to officially open the gates and start the 2024 fair.
The Crown Complexes Clear Bag Policy will be in effect for the duration of the fair. There will be no purses, backpacks, or fanny packs. Admission is $10 for adults and children 3 and over, except on special nights. This year’s schedule offers special hours for a sensory-friendly experience and special rates for hometown heroes and children on certain nights.
Aug. 30: Military & First Responders Night (free entry with valid ID)
Gates open at 5 p.m., $5 Admission for children ages 3 to 12
Aug. 31: Gates open at 5 p.m.
Sept. 1: Faith and Family Night ($5 off with your church bulletin)
Gates open at 1 p.m., $5 Admission for children ages 3 to 12
Sept. 2: Sensory Friendly Time 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Sept. 3: $2 Tuesday, $2 Admission
Senior Night sponsored by Carelon Health (free admission for ages 65 and up)
Karaoke Contest
Sept. 4: BOGO Night (Buy one, get one free on admission and unlimited ride badge)
BOGO on select concessions
Gates open at 5 p.m.
Sept. 5: A Day of Giving (supporting Second Harvest Food Bank)
Free admission with 6 non-perishable food items
4-H & FFA Day (Free admission for cardholders)
School Kids and Personnel Day ($2 Admission with School ID)
Gates open at 5 p.m.
Sept. 6: Gates open at 5 p.m.
Sept. 7: Gates open at 1 p.m.
Sept. 8: Faith and Family Day ($5 off with church bulletin)
$5 admission for children ages 3 to 12
Highlighting Cumberland County’s history in racing, this year’s theme is “On your mark. Get set. Fair!” Fairgoers will have the opportunity to learn more about how Cumberland County’s agriculture shaped the history of racing. As always, the fair will feature an array of rides provided by Big Rock Amusements. From the smallest of the bunch to the oldest, there will be something for the whole family to enjoy.
And of course, the food! Hotdogs, corndogs, cotton candy, funnel cakes, fried Oreos, and all the quintessential fair food stands will be ready to delight your taste buds and sweet tooth.
There will be a few changes this year. Maddy Eversole, Marketing Director for the Crown Complex is excited about some of the changes they are bringing this year.
“Karaoke is new this year. This year we’re also bringing the petting zoo inside and expanding it. We’re also adding a Hula Hooping Contest. This is the first year we’re having a Whiskey Wagon – it’s run by local distillers, BHAWK … We’ve worked really hard to add a lot of value to the fair,” she said.
“We have so many specials where people can save money on entry and even rides and food on BOGO night. We’ve also added lots of free entertainment to ensure that families have an amazing time. We’ll have rides, games, local food trucks, local vendors, live music, a beer garden, a whiskey wagon, magic shows, karaoke, a hula hooping contest, wrestling, fire shows, family game shows, the petting zoo, livestock shows, and hundreds of exhibit items from local artists, creators, craftsmen, and school children. The Cumberland County Fair is the perfect place to bring your family for fun,” Eversole said.
The entertainment lineup this year is fire, literally.
“We will have a lot of entertainment each day during the fair. There will be two shows per night by Ember Fire Arts, a fan favorite last year. There will also be magic and family games by Bob Bohm Family Entertainment who was also a hit last year. This year, in addition to live music on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, there will be karaoke Tuesday through Thursday,” Eversole said.
Ember Fire Arts will be hitting the stage nightly at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Ember Fire Arts promises “... You will see some of the most amazing fire artistry that is both incredible to watch and extremely dangerous.” Several bands will be putting on a show during the fair, from country to gospel to variety, there will be something for everyone’s ear. Acts like Third Crush, Autumn Groove, and Destiny Praise will keep the crowd moving, grooving and maybe even praising.
The full schedule of entertainment can be found at https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/cumberlandcountyfair.
No Southern county fair would be complete without a pageant. The Cumberland County Fair Pageant will take place on Aug. 31 at the Crown Theater at 2:30 p.m. (ages 0-6 years) and 6:30 p.m. (ages 7 and up).
With 15 categories and contestants being crowned Miss and Master, this year will surely boast some talented, well-spoken community members of all ages and genders.
This year’s pageant will fund the Fisher House Foundation. Fisher House Foundation provides “comfort homes” for military families to stay while their loved ones are in the hospital.
These homes are provided free of charge for the families and allow them to focus on the care and recovery of their family members. For anyone interested, there is still time to join in on the pageant fun. Application, rules, and rehearsal dates can be found online at https://cumberlandcountyfairpageant.com/. There is still time to get involved with the fair as a food vendor or inside exhibitor as well as sponsorship opportunities.
“We are currently seeking sponsors for Military & First Responders Day, Faith & Family Days, Sensory Friendly Time, and a Day of Giving,” Eversole said.
Between the rides, the food, the entertainment, and the games, the 2024 Cumberland County Fair is going to be a driving force of fall fun and a grand kickoff to the fall season.

(Above Photo: The Cumberland County Fair lights up for the night in 2023. Bottom Photo: Winners of the Cumberland County Fair pageant ride the carousel, showing off their prizes. Photos courtesy of the Crown Complex)

When Curtis and Kanitra Blount, both active-duty U.S. Army captains, arrived in Fayetteville in 2019, they had a vision to bring a unique opportunity for families to create cherished memories. Driven to build generational wealth and provide a fun experience for the community, they embarked on an ambitious journey to open their first brick-and-mortar business - Sweet Factory, an independently owned small business.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties of military life, the Blounts applied their strategic planning skills to turn their dream into reality. They recognized the need for a pick-n-mix bulk candy option in Fayetteville and decided to make it happen. After a rigorous process, they secured a franchise location at the newly-built retail development, The Freedom Town Center.
The road to the grand opening was not without obstacles, as the Blounts spent two years meticulously preparing the storefront, and ordering custom furniture, equipment, and products. With Kanitra on a break from active duty to enroll in graduate school, she laid the groundwork for the business. Curtis continued to serve as an active-duty company commander.
Now, with both spouses back on active duty, the Blounts have proven that through proper prioritization and the dedication of their staff, they can successfully manage the day-to-day operations of Sweet Factory.
From sanitizing the bulk candy scoops twice daily to running the cash register and preparing promotional materials, their team ensures that the store runs smoothly, allowing the Blounts to continue serving their country while fulfilling their entrepreneurial aspirations. Their eight-year-old son, Carter, the Candy Manager, has been a huge help around the store and has a great eye for what customers like. He checks candy inventory, orders or replenishes products, and even signs for inventory.
Since Curtis and Kanitra are active military, customers may question if the business will stay in the Fayetteville area, and both say that it will. They have assembled a strong team, and they're certain that if they were to leave Fayetteville, one of their team members would step up to ensure the continued success of the business.
Sweet Factory is more than just a candy store. They offer a variety of options for events.
“We love doing custom orders. We’ve created quite a variety, including a baby shower at Segra Stadium, a military promotion from Sgt. First Class to Master Sgt., gender reveals, grand openings, birthday parties, and much more. We’re always up for new challenges and love to create something unique for our customers. We'd love to be involved in a wedding to showcase our elegant side. All vendors in our store and on our preferred vendor list can custom order and have been thoroughly vetted,” Kanitra shared.
Their unwavering commitment to their family's future and the Fayetteville community is truly inspiring. Sweet Factory stands as a testament to the power of vision, determination, and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities.
As Fayetteville families flock to this delightful candy haven, the Blounts story is a shining example of what can be when passion, planning, and perseverance come together.
“We are excited to celebrate our 1st year anniversary! We will be offering free candy with every purchase during that time. We’re also planning other fun surprises, so make sure you celebrate this important feat for our business,” Kanitra adds.
Sweet Factory is committed to giving back and helping local businesses succeed by providing vendor space to showcase their products as it allows vendors to focus on crafting their products — while Sweet Factory provides the prime retail space, digital advertising, and the benefits of a supportive vendor community. The dedicated space at Sweet Factory frees vendors from the hassle of running a standalone storefront, allowing them to pour their energy into innovation and growth.
The diverse array of vendors within Sweet Factory is Perky Daisy (freeze-dried candy), Pretty Stickie, (candy apples), Belita Glow (body butter and candles), Addictive Kravings (cake jars), Taylor Prints (3D printing), Bites Beyond Borders (foreign snacks), Litt & Lovely Candle Co. (candles), and Lunysol Designs (gifting products) is a testament to the inclusive and collaborative spirit that the Blounts have cultivated. Each vendor brings a unique offering to the table, contributing to the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that permeates the store.
Sweet Factory is a candy lover's paradise, offering a delightful assortment of classic and unique treats. From nostalgic favorites to international confections, they have something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
For more information, visit their website at https://www.sweetfactorync.com/

(Photo: A wall of candy bins greets people at the Sweet Factory in Fayetteville. Photo courtesy of Sweet Factory Facebook page)

It’s that time again! Embark on a magical journey through Downtown Fayetteville with the Downtown Alliance’s annual Wands and Wizardly two-day scavenger hunt. Explore enchanting shops, solve mystical challenges, and collect wizarding gear to prepare for the magical school year ahead.
Step into a world where magic comes alive in Downtown Fayetteville at the 3rd Annual Wands and Wizardry event. The streets buzz with excitement as aspiring wizards and witches don their house colors, eager to embark on a fantastical scavenger hunt. This isn't just any ordinary event; it's a two-day quest filled with mystery and enchantment, where participants meticulously search for clues from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 16 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17.
The adventure begins with an unexpected twist – your long-awaited acceptance letter to the school of wizardry is incomplete! It's up to you to piece together the puzzle and gather all the magical supplies necessary to begin your educational journey. As you traverse the cobblestone paths and hidden alleys, you'll join forces with fellow first-year students, forging friendships and alliances along the way.
Your quest is clear: locate the missing components of your acceptance letter and the essential gear for your first year. As you delve into the scavenger hunt, keep an eye out for the items that every budding wizard needs. From spellbooks to potions, each enchanted article is crucial for your academic success.
Using the icons and your map, each clue will lead you to a different corner of Downtown Alley, where local businesses welcome you with special offers and hidden treasures. Each business will have a missing item that you must add to your supply list. Be prepared to encounter challenges that will test your wit and intellect, but fear not – the rewards are well worth the effort. Discover your wand waiting for you at a secret location and feel the magic course through your veins as you take hold of it.
The community comes together to create an immersive experience that's nothing short of spellbinding. Cursive, a gift shop known for its unique treasures, beckons with themed trivia that will challenge even the most knowledgeable wizarding aficionados. Reverie offers a Hogwarts back-to-school ambiance paired with enchanting temporary tattoos perfect for young sorcerers.
As you compile your list of academic necessities, Dreams Made Reality provides the back-to-school supplies every student requires, while A Bit of Carolina enchants with a special gift accompanying purchases. And for those in need of a sweet elixir to boost their energy, Pan's ButterBeer promises to be the perfect potion to quench your thirst and lift your spirits.
As the hunt draws to a close and night falls over Downtown Fayetteville, gather with your fellow adventurers to celebrate your triumphs. Share stories of the day's exploits over themed treats and concoctions in the magical eateries that took part in the event.
Don't forget to send off your completed acceptance letter, ensuring your place in the wizarding school and the chance to win a Downtown gift basket. With your supplies in hand and a heart full of memories, you're now fully prepared to embark on the next chapter of your magical education journey.

Scott Embry and the folks at the United Way of Cumberland County have one goal in mind with their launch of a new partnership with Cape Fear Valley Health — that 100 percent of the babies born in Cumberland County will go home with a book and access to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
The members of The United Way of Cumberland County hope to do this by giving every parent of a newborn “The Little Engine That Could” and helping assist them to enroll in the Imagination Library. This program provides children ages zero through five with a free book every month mailed to their homes.
The partnership with Cape Fear Valley Health began this past month.
“This partnership will enhance our efforts to promote early childhood literacy,” Embry said. Embry said they are operating this program in collaboration with Smart Start and Partnership for Children.
“Our collaboration with Cape Fear Valley Health is instrumental in spreading awareness of this program. We believe this book is a great entry point. The impact of early childhood reading research highlights the critical role of early literacy.”
Embry mentioned a study done by Ohio State University that found children who are read to daily hear an estimated 78,000 words per year.
“Over five years, this translates to a cumulative 1.4 million more words compared to children who are never read to. This exposure is vital in bridging the Word Gap and fostering better educational outcomes.”
The book they are giving out to the newborns, “The Little Engine That Could,” was recommended by those at Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Cape Fear Valley Health delivers between 300 and 350 babies each month and the goal of the members at The United Way of Cumberland County is to make sure each one receives this book.
Embry says they are having on-going conversations with local leaders and hope to open additional collaborations.
“We welcome area organizations to join us in this important work,” he said.
At the end of the day, Embry says, the mission is to improve lives across Cumberland County by “strategically raising and investing resources that successfully impact prioritized human service and health needs.”
Once enrolled, the parents will continue to receive a book a month mailed to their homes, funded by about $2.20 per book. For more information about The United Way of Cumberland County or this program, visit www.unitedway-cc.org.

County Leaders Attend City-County Liaison Meeting
Cumberland County officials took part in a City-County Liaison Committee Meeting with leaders from the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County Schools and other organizations within the community. The meeting was held at Fayetteville City Hall.
The meetings, which are typically held every other month, provide County and City leaders with an opportunity to provide updates and discuss issues of mutual interest. Three elected officials from each governing board comprise the Committee, including the chair and vice chair of the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners, as well as the mayor and mayor pro tem for the City of Fayetteville.
County elected officials who attended Thursday’s meeting included Board of Commissioners Chairman Glenn Adams and Commissioner Jimmy Keefe.
During the meeting, one of the topics discussed was a potential Aquatics Center in the County. An Indoor Aquatics Center was among the top recommendations from the 2020 Parks & Recreation Master Plan.
Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation Director Michael Gibson presented a possible concept for an Indoor Aquatics Center that would include multiple water elements and other amenities. He discussed a possible cost range for a facility, as well as potential partner organizations that could participate in the project.
Chairman Adams offered for County staff to take the lead in moving the discussion forward at a staff-level. The committee voted unanimously for their respective boards to work through the County to determine the next steps to move an Indoor Aquatics Center forward.
Additionally, City staff presented an update regarding the feasibility of an amusement park located in the County and that next steps would be to engage a consultant to conduct a feasibility study at an estimated cost of $75,000.
Chairman Adams said due to the number of major County capital projects currently in development, the County was not interested in participating at this time.
Other items discussed during the meeting included a presentation on the City’s Comprehensive Pedestrian Plan Study and an update from Cumberland County Schools.
Learn more about Cumberland County by visiting cumberlandcountync.gov, and by following the County on YouTube, CCNCTV Spectrum Channel 5, and social media by searching for CumberlandCountyNC.

Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine Receives $8 Million from Golden LEAF Foundation
Golden LEAF, established in 1999 to administer a portion of tobacco settlement agreement monies back into North Carolina's rural and economically distressed communities, announced it has awarded $8 million to the new school of medicine.
“Research has shown that resident doctors trained in rural areas are more likely to practice in rural areas,” said Golden LEAF Board Chair Ralph Strayhorn. “The funding to Methodist University will not only help build hundreds of jobs throughout Southeastern North Carolina, but also increase the number of physicians serving the region. This project will substantially move the needle for rural healthcare in North Carolina.”
“Golden LEAF is excited to be a partner on such a transformative project to address critical healthcare needs in North Carolina’s rural communities,” said Golden LEAF President, Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton. “This partnership between Methodist University and Cape Fear Valley Health System will have generational impacts through the creation of high-quality jobs while addressing the critical shortage of medical professionals in Southeastern North Carolina.”
The SOM – which has a goal of welcoming its first cohort of students in 2026 – is expected to create more than 250 new jobs and graduate more than 100 doctors each year.
“When Methodist University and Cape Fear Valley Health System announced the creation of a new medical school in Fayetteville in February 2023, our vision was to serve Southeastern North Carolina through the education of the next generation of physicians, and to stimulate economic growth and job creation in the region,” said Dr. Hershey Bell, the founding dean of the school.
“We are extremely grateful for the award announced today by the Golden LEAF Foundation to help fund the educational program at the medical school. Our students, faculty and leadership will all benefit from the resources that will be made available because of this wonderful offering and gifts from others in the community who have supported, and continue to support, our efforts.”
Golden LEAF funds will be used for instructional equipment including technology.
“I am deeply grateful to the Golden LEAF Board of Directors for this exceptionally generous award for the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine,” said MU President Stanley T. Wearden. “This award, one of the largest in the history of Methodist University, is a gratifying recognition of the value that the new school of medicine will bring to this region of North Carolina, both in terms of new job creation and in terms of improved healthcare. We are honored by the Golden LEAF Board of Directors’ confidence in our ability to administer these funds judiciously and effectively to provide world-class medical education, which will improve the economic and physical health of the Cape Fear region.”
The new Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine is to be located on the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, combining the expertise and resources of both institutions to provide students with unparalleled educational and clinical experiences.
It will create opportunities for students to learn in a collaborative and innovative environment, with access to cutting-edge technology in a brand-new facility. The new medical school will provide students with the opportunity to work alongside experienced faculty and health care professionals, gaining valuable real-world experience that will prepare them for their future careers.
“We are deeply grateful to the Golden LEAF Foundation for their generous support,” said Mike Nagowski, CEO of the Cape Fear Valley Health System. “This award will enhance our medical school’s educational resources, benefiting our students, faculty, and the entire Southeastern North Carolina community.”
The mission of the SOM is to prepare graduates to be socially accountable, community-engaged, evidence-based, compassionate, equity-focused physician leaders who will contribute to mitigating health disparities and improving health outcomes in Southeastern North Carolina or wherever they may practice. Key values include Humility, Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Community Engagement, Social Accountability, and Interprofessional Collaboration.
“We are grateful to the Golden LEAF Foundation for this significant investment in our new medical education program leading to the doctor of medicine (MD) degree,” said Dr. Suzanne Blum Malley, Provost at MU. “Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine graduates will be well prepared to deliver innovative, community-responsive healthcare and will contribute to improved health outcomes and job growth throughout the region.”
Methodist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and will submit its new program substantive change to SACSCOC before Jan. 1, 2025. The Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine is also currently an applicant program with the Liaison Commission on Medical Education (LCME). MU will not publish admission requirements nor consider any applicants to the program until it receives those approvals.

Fayetteville switches ethanol transport to rail
Thousands of trucks carrying the majority of Fayetteville’s ethanol supply into the city each year will no longer be coming here. Instead, freight trains will take their place.
That’s because a new transloading facility has opened up in Fayetteville, which will unload the “vast majority” of Fayetteville’s ethanol supply, Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation said in a press release announcing the opening on July 17.
By transporting ethanol directly from the Midwest to Fayetteville via rail, the facility will remove the equivalent of 3,000 trucks per year from local roads, FCEDC said. The economic development corporation expects this to lessen the burden on the city’s infrastructure as roadways will see less traffic.
“That right there alone shows the positive impact of that project, relieving that stress off the roadways and just making it safer for everybody,” Rob Patton, FCEDC’s executive director, told CityView, referring to the number of trucks that will no longer drive through Fayetteville.
Ethanol is a biomass fuel, primarily made from corn, which is used in a wide variety of applications — including gasoline, which typically contains up to 10% ethanol. Ethanol plants are concentrated in the Midwest because that’s where corn production is most prevalent, according to the U.S. Dept. of Energy.
Economic impact
According to a January report from the North Carolina Dept. of Transportation (NCDOT), utilizing freight rail is cost-effective and “reduces wear on roadway infrastructure and creates a safer, less congested road network.”
Intermodal facilities and transloading facilities, like the one built for Fayetteville’s ethanol supply, provide important connection points between different methods of transportation; there are currently 83 such facilities in North Carolina, according to the report.
Located off Murchison Road near the I-295 interchange, the new transloading facility connects to the existing CSX freight rail that runs adjacent to the property and extends to Fort Liberty. The transfer point will unload trains that come from ethanol plants in the Midwest directly to the fuel depot next door off Murchison Road, FCEDC said.
The facility is owned by Strategic Transload Services LLC, a chemical transportation company with subsidiaries throughout the Southeast, according to FCEDC.
“The FCEDC staff was extremely helpful with securing the right location for our expansion,” Von Friesen of Strategic Transload Services said in a press release.
Environmental and safety impact
Patton emphasized the benefits of utilizing existing infrastructure and the energy efficiency of freight travel compared to using trucks as benefits of the project. He said the property where the transloading facility was built used to be a landfill, but has been idle for a “long time.”
According to county land records, the site was owned by Eagle Refuse Company Inc from 1992, which operated a construction and demolition landfill there. The company has been dissolved since 2010, according to state business records, and it sold the land to Strategic Transload Services in 2022 for $25,000.
Because of the debris that had piled up, there were limited options for potential uses of the property, Patton told CityView.
“it wasn’t like the Ann Street landfill where they’re putting everybody’s trash in,” Patton said. “It was more like stumps and things like that; organic material that had been cleared or taken away or whatever, that we really couldn’t do anything with except for, like, this project. So it’s utilizing otherwise unutilizable piece of land.”
Despite high-profile catastrophic incidents — like the 2023 East Palestine train derailment in Ohio — freight trains carrying hazardous materials, such as ethanol, are considered to be significantly safer in terms of the rate of accidents and spills, according to the U.S. Dept. of Transportation. Patton agrees.
Considered a renewable fuel, ethanol releases significantly fewer greenhouse gasses than fossil fuels, according to the U.S. Dept. of Energy.
“The more you can relieve the stress off the roads, the better off we are, and using that rail line that’s right there,” Patton said. “It just makes so much sense for efficiencies across the board, like you stated, for the environmental impact of the fuel, the trucks, all that business. It’s just a really cool project that relieves a lot of stress off a congested area.”

The public school systems are collapsing or have collapsed in many ways. Most of which is due to outdated education methodologies and curricula as well as an inability to meet students where they are at in many cases. Here's a couple problems:
Mental health is educational. They are interconnected, not siloed topics.
While there have been many mental health and educational issues before, those were amplified due to COVID-19. Families, students, and teachers, etc. are still facing COVID re-entry issues. Many students who are falling through the cracks are those with almost invisible intellectual disabilities such as ADHD and PTSD. Students in domestic abuse situations and coercive control situations are also not being served which leads to further traumatization by school staff who do not know how to recognize the symptoms and understand how to intervene appropriately. This increases youth mental health problems.
Parent-School Staff Relationships due to lack of inclusive education for students with disabilities
Many parents who advocate for children in public education are excluded or isolated from important decisions regarding their child's education. Schools have been excused from enforcing individualized education plans (IEPs), which breaks federal law.
As someone who has worked in and with public schools, I help students with disabilities and those that get in trouble frequently. I would say 9 out of 10 times a child gets in trouble it's because of a disability that school staff don't know how to handle. So, children are getting shamed and excluded from school classrooms just for being who they are. It's unacceptable. It also breaks parent trust in school officials. That hurts the child.
Moving forward
To my knowledge, Cumberland County Schools is making social-emotional learning a larger part of their strategic plan for this upcoming school as well as restorative education. This is a move in the right direction, however I fear it is too late for many of the families of whom public education has left a bad taste in their mouth.
If we really want a more inclusive, quality educational system, the structure of the school day and related policies must be reconsidered. What counts as the "normal school day" doesn't serve families with parents whose schedule doesn't coincide with the school day.
Some solution oriented questions:
What if a tiered education day could be adopted, with teachers coming to work in shifts? What if some teachers did direct teaching from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and had planning time until 3 p.m. and other teachers did formal education from noon to 4 p.m. and then did planning until 7 p.m.?
What if afterschool programs filled in the time gaps by starting earlier in the day and operating longer hours to retain after school staff?
What if high school seniors could be substitute teachers for grades K-5 as part of their education and in preparation for job readiness?
What if schools can be used as community hubs where DSS, food banks, and other community based non-profits can deliver services to increase accessibility for parents who struggle with transportation, etc.?
May peace be with you,
Nikki Fynn, Ed.D. MPH
(Doctorate of Education Leadership, Master of Public Health)
Graduate of 71st High School, Class of 1994