St. Patrick's Day presents the perfect opportunity to try authentic Irish cuisine as well as foods and beverages that have become associated strictly with the holiday (like green beer). It is likely someone you know will be cooking corned beef and cabbage this St. Patrick's Day. But what if you are among those who just doesn't fancy the salted and pickled flavoring of this familiar favorite?

"Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes" isn't exactly corned beef, but it can be a worthy alternative. It is warm, filling, and flavorful, and can be just the thing to eat on a chilly March day. What's more, this rich beef can pair well with a dark stout like Guinness. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of "The Healthy Slow Cooker" (Robert Rose) by Judith Finlayson.

Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes, Serves 8

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 ounces chunk pancetta, preferably hot pancetta, diced
2 pounds trimmed stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes and patted dry
2 onions, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon cracked black peppercorns
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 cups chicken stock
2 pounds small new potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced (about 30 tiny ones)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, dissolved in 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley leaves.

Method:
1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Add pancetta and cook, stirring, until nicely browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker stoneware (3.5 to 5 quart sized).
2. Add beef to skillet, in batches, and cook, stirring until browned, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to stoneware as completed.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add onions and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, salt and peppercorns and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add wine, bring to a boil and boil, stirring and scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan for 2 minutes. Add stock and potatoes and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Transfer to stoneware. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender. Stir in cayenne solution. Cover and cook on high for 10 minutes.

Transfer to a server dish and garnish with parsley. Serve with a big platter of roasted carrots.

Pickleball, once a relatively unknown sport, has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. What started as a casual backyard game has now transformed into a full-fledged sport with its own leagues, tournaments, and even professional players. The growth of pickleball as a sport can be attributed to several factors.

First and foremost, pickleball is incredibly accessible. Unlike other sports that require expensive equipment or specialized facilities, all you need to play pickleball is a paddle, a ball, and a net. This affordability factor has made it easy for people of all ages and backgrounds to pick up the sport and give it a try. Additionally, pickleball can be played on any flat surface, both indoors and outdoors, making it even more accessible to communities around the world.

The ease of learning pickleball is yet another reason for its popularity. The rules of the game are simple and straightforward, making it easy for beginners to grasp the basics in no time. Also, the social aspect of pickleball cannot be overlooked. With its smaller court size and slower pace compared to other racket sports, pickleball encourages interaction and camaraderie among players.

FTCC unveiled five brand new outdoor, lighted pickleball courts that officially opened in November 2023 and are sure to attract players from far and wide. They have permanent lines and nets. This means that players can enjoy a hassle-free game without the need to constantly set up and take down equipment. Lights allow the game to be enjoyed day or night. With FTCC's new pickleball courts, the sport is set to become even more accessible to the local community. Whether a seasoned player looking for some friendly competition or a beginner eager to learn the ropes, these courts offer the perfect setting for honing your skills.

The FTCC Foundation is organizing the inaugural pickleball competition on the recently constructed illuminated pickleball courts situated at the FTCC campus on Saturday, March 23. This tournament will follow a round-robin format and will accommodate up to 96 participants, competing in men's, women's, and mixed doubles categories. Players have the option to participate alongside a teammate or be assigned one.

The skill levels for the tournament will range from 2.5 (Beginner) to 3.5 (Intermediate). Players under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the tournament. The matches will be played to a score of 11, with a requirement to win by 2 points. Each player will have a minimum of 3 games guaranteed. The playoff games will be played to a score of 15, with a requirement to win by 1 point.

Each participant will be given a protective cover for their paddle. The teams that secure the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd positions in each event will be awarded a medal.

The courts will be open for players to warm up 15 minutes before each division starts.
The funds raised from the competition will be used to support scholarships and programs for students at FTCC.

Players have the option to participate in either one or two events. The initial event costs $35, while the second event requires a fee of $15 per individual. Participants are required to sign up beforehand. To register visit: https://one.bidpal.net/2024ftccpickleball/welcome. For more information, contact FTCC Foundation at 910-678-8441 or foundation@faytechcc.edu.

The schedule for the tournament will be:
Women’s Doubles – 9:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Mixed Doubles – 11:45 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Men’s Doubles – 2:30 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

The tournament will take place at Fayetteville Technical Community College, 2201 Hull Rd. If there is inclement weather, a rain date will be announced.

Fayetteville Technical Community College has recognized the growing popularity of pickleball and decided to offer pickleball classes for all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an advanced player aiming to refine your skills, FTCC has got you covered.

The next beginner class starts on March 9. For more information visit: http://tinyurl.com/356jv9f4. So grab a paddle, hit the court, and get ready to experience the thrill of pickleball at FTCC!

St. Patrick's Day is a widely celebrated holiday that originated in Ireland but has since gained popularity around the world, especially in America. This festive occasion, which falls on March 17th every year, is a time for people to come together and celebrate Irish culture, heritage, and of course, the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick himself. The holiday is marked by parades, parties, and a sea of green. What sets St. Patrick's Day apart from other holidays is its universal appeal. You don't have to be Irish to join in the fun; everyone is welcome to partake in the festivities.

The Origin of St. Patrick’s Day

In Ireland, St. Patrick's Day has been observed for centuries as a religious feast day to commemorate the arrival of Christianity in the country. It was traditionally a more solemn occasion, with families attending church services and participating in quiet celebrations. However, over time, it has evolved into a more exuberant affair with lively parades and festivities taking place across the country.

This holiday is named after St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is said to have brought Christianity to the country in the 5th century. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17th, which is believed to be the date of his death.

St. Patrick is a figure shrouded in mystery and legend. Born in the late 4th century in Roman Britain, he was captured by Irish pirates and brought to Ireland as a slave. It was during his time in captivity that he found solace in his faith and became deeply devoted to Christianity. After escaping and returning to his homeland, he felt a calling to return to Ireland and spread the message of Christianity to the pagan population.

St. Patrick's mission in Ireland was not an easy one. He faced opposition from local chieftains and druids who were resistant to the new religion. However, through his perseverance and unwavering faith, he was able to convert many people to Christianity and establish churches and monasteries throughout the country. His legacy lives on today.

St. Patrick's Day traditions and symbols

One of the most iconic symbols of St. Patrick's Day is the shamrock, which is a three-leafed clover. According to legend, St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. Today, wearing or displaying a shamrock on St. Patrick's Day is a way to show your Irish pride.

The leprechaun is another key symbol of St. Patrick's Day. These mischievous little creatures are said to be shoemakers who guard pots of gold at the end of rainbows. Leprechauns are often depicted wearing green hats and coats, adding to the association between this color and the holiday itself.

Of course, the tradition that stands out the most is the practice of wearing green on St. Patrick's Day. Green has long been associated with Ireland, known as the "Emerald Isle" due to its lush green landscapes. Wearing green on this day is not only a sign of celebration but also a way to show pride in Irish heritage. Those who fail to wear green on St. Patrick's Day may face playful pinches from fellow revelers as a reminder to join in on the festivities.

Mark your calendars and get ready to embrace the spirit of St. Patrick's Day! Whether you're in Ireland or America, this holiday offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich cultural tradition while having a fantastic time with friends and loved ones.

Two fantastic community gatherings that you won't want to miss during the St. Patrick's Day festivities:

March 15-March 17:

St. Patrick's Day Weekend at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom, 5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills

Enjoy new beer releases, green beer, special St. Patrick's Day swag available for purchase, food trucks and live music. For more information visit, http://tinyurl.com/4ecmz8c6

March 16-17:

Irish You Would Downtown Fayetteville 2024

Get ready for a downtown Bar Crawl. Each participating business will have free swag and goodies while supplies last. To see the participating locations visit http://tinyurl.com/ymtec6fj

March 17:

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Paddy’s Irish Pub, 2608 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville.
Paddy's will have Comedy and a DJ in the Church side and live music, including Paddy & Bill, on the pub side. Also enjoy drink specials, a selfie station, party favors, treats and food. For more information visit, http://tinyurl.com/db372d2k.

The Oscars are coming up! According to the Academy of Motion Picture and Sciences website, the story of why their most coveted trophy is called the Oscar comes from Academy librarian and event executive director Margaret Herrick who thought the statue resembled her Uncle Oscar. The name stuck. The Academy Awards are the most prestigious honor given during the year of Filmmaking with the first awards given in 1929. Best Picture has always been the top prize. Here are this year’s nominees and my favorites.

AMERICAN FICTION starring Jeffery Wright, Sterling K Brown, Tracee Ellis Ross and Erika Alexander tells the story of Monk (Wright), a frustrated novelist who is fed up with the establishment that profits from Black entertainment. To prove his point, he uses a pen name to write an outlandish book of his own which propels him to the heart of hypocrisy and the madness he claims to disdain. This film is hilarious and powerful. I’m so glad that it is nominated so that it gets noticed by more audiences.

ANATOMY OF A FALL is directed by French filmmaker Justine Triet, the only female nominated for Best Director this year. The film centers around a woman who is suspected of her husband's murder and their blind son who faces a moral dilemma as the sole witness. This is not just a courtroom drama. It is a powerful story about the legal system itself and the mystery that follows a relationship and family. With its twists and turns through storytelling, it’s no surprise that it is nominated as well as its talented director.

BARBIE, directed beautifully by Greta Gerwig. Beautifully. Margot Robbie plays Barbie while Ryan Gosling plays her Ken. Barbie and Ken get a chance to go to the real world where they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans. Many people I have talked to who haven't seen the film are surprised when I tell them that this film is not a children’s film, it is for an older generation that grew up with Barbie as a symbol.

Barbie learns what it means to be a person and not just a perfect plastic doll. This film honors women and I love that for women all over. To add, the business side of me knows that this was a great move on Mattel, the maker of Barbie, in showing their new stances on womanhood.

THE HOLDOVERS stars Paul Giamatti and Da'Vine Joy Randolph. Giamatti plays a curmudgeonly instructor at a prep school who remains on campus during Christmas break to sit with a handful of adventurous students with nowhere to go. He soon forms a bond with a smart but damaged boy, and with the school's head cook (Randolph) who has her own recent tragedy. The film is sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. Giamatti and Randolph make this film worth watching with their award-winning performances. Do not be surprised if there is a trophy in Randolph’s hand come Oscar night.

KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON, joins the list of many masterpieces directed by Martin Scorsese. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone and Robert De Niro. Love crosses paths with the worst betrayal in this story of Mollie Burkhart (Gladstone) and her husband (DiCaprio). Based on the best-selling novel, Bukhart is a member of the Osage Nation, who tries to save her community from a spree of murders fueled by oil and greed. This is an important American film that centers around the formation of the FBI. Lily Gladstone gives a “sure to win” performance.

Bradley Cooper follows up his directing debut of A Star Is Born with the masterfully done MAESTRO. The film stars Cooper and Carey Mulligan. On the verge of securing a golden opportunity, American conductor Leonard Bernstein begins a rollercoaster-like relationship with actress Felicia Montealegre, upturning their lives. Maestro touches on who we think we are meant to be professionally and privately and who we really are.

This film is beautiful and a must-see for any musical theatre fan. This is one of my personal favorites of the year. Up until seeing Oppenheimer, I believed that Maestro would take most of the awards. Steven Speilberg, Martin Scorese and Cooper produced the film.

OPPENHEIMER, Christopher Nolan's masterpiece, centers around J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy) and his struggles of working on the top-secret Manhattan Project. Oppenheimer and a team of scientists spend years developing and designing the atomic bomb. Their work comes to fruition on July 16, 1945, as they witness the world's first nuclear explosion, forever changing the course of history. With stunning visual effects, photography and sound, Nolan doesn’t hold back. Nolan’s previous films including Batman trilogy, Inception and Interstellar have prepared him for this mature part of his career.
Murphy, Emily Blunt and Robert Downey Jr all give close to perfect performances. Murphy and Downey will win Oscars for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor as well as Nolan for Best Director. Nolan gives us his best both in storytelling and visual effects. This is his year.

Celine Song’s PAST LIVES tells the story of Nora and Hae Sung, two deeply connected childhood friends, who are wrest apart after Nora's family emigrates from South Korea. Decades later, they are reunited for one fateful week as they confront destiny, love and the choices that make a life. Song shows us the struggle of relationships that are separated by forces not in our control. Past Lives is a great lesson of humanity in a small independent film. This film is an important one, but was not one of my favorites on the Oscar list. Speaking of favorites…

Yorgos Lanthimos, director of The Favourite, The Lobster and The Killing of a Sacred Deer brings us POOR THINGS starring Emma Stone as a woman brought back to life by a scientist played by Willem Dafoe. Stone’s character runs off with a lawyer (Mark Ruffalo) on a whirlwind adventure across the continents of the Old World. Free from the prejudices of her times, she grows steadfast in her purpose to stand for equality and liberation.

I love Poor Things. It gives us a glimpse of the realization of how hard the world is through the eyes of a misunderstood, childlike creature. It is our generation's Frankenstein. But please don’t think for one second that it is scary. It is rather hilarious. Stone is amazing in this picture. I am rooting for her to win Best Actress every time she is nominated.

Lanthimos is such an original and bold filmmaker, using fish-eye lenses and mixing a few modern-futuristic elements in a period piece. I love his use of black and white while also using bright colors.

THE ZONE OF INTEREST. This is the most important film of the year with Oppenheimer very close. From English director Jonathan Glazer, the film centers around Rudolf Höss, the head of the horrid Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz, and his wife, Hedwig. As they strive to build a dream life for their family in a house and garden next to the camp, we can only see the horrors of the camp from the top of the walls. Most films we see of the Holocaust period are shot black & white or gloomy. Glazer shows us the irony of bright colors.

The Nazis are living the perfect life on the backs of slaves right next door and it's disturbing. Another element very noticeable is the use of sound. This film should win for Best Sound because without it, much like the music in Jaws, you don’t “see” the full effect. The sound makes this film even more powerful and heartbreaking than it already is. This film shows us how easily we can normalize our lives when there is suffering happening right under our noses. The Zone of Interest will win Best International Picture, an award given to films not made in the United States.

Even though this writer feels that Zone of Interest should win Best Picture of the year for its global importance, historical warning and above all its original filmmaking, Oppenheimer will more than likely win for many of the same reasons. As said before, Oppenheimer is Nolan’s masterpiece and has won every other major picture award this year. The film has a very defining story of America.

The 96th Academy Awards will take place on Sunday, March 10th at 7 p.m. on ABC. Check your streaming apps and check Cameo Art House Theatre movie listings for possible reshowings
of the nominees.

The well-loved and long-awaited All American Races return on March 23.

After virtual marathons during the pandemic, the All American Races were opened back up to in-person races last year with an excitingly large turnout. For 2024, Fort Liberty is hosting a 5k and a half marathon with hopes of surpassing last year’s participants and community participation.

Unlike typical marathons that send you through cities or countryside, the All American Races send you past historical landmarks all on Fort Liberty, most notably the 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum. Runners are offered unique courses to showcase Fort Liberty’s infrastructure and facilities that have been carefully curated since the start of Fort Liberty’s All American Races in 2014. They’ve kept their dream of keeping the community happy and healthy through all the races they’ve done in the past decade.

To help encourage new participants and experienced runners alike, all runners will receive a t-shirt, race bib, custom race medal, and a beer/beverage of their choice. After the race, there will be a bounce house for the children to enjoy along with all the entertainment and post-race activities planned. Not only will the kids have something to enjoy, but everyone can enjoy snacks and performances from the 82nd Airborne Division Rock Band.

These races serve as a wonderful celebration of personal accomplishments and a great opportunity for the surrounding community to get involved and work together toward a shared goal.

Amanda Cahill, the Special Events/Run Cell Coordinator for Fort Liberty’s Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, is excited to hold another in-person marathon after being virtual.
“It’s been great getting the community back together, having the atmosphere, and everyone coming to support and have a great time at the event. It’s been amazing,” she said. “Something that we’re bringing back this year is the Memorial Mile. That is a mile that's lined with soldiers' photos and American flags along the course to honor our fallen service members. We do this in collaboration with the Survivor Outreach Program. We believe it's important to pay tribute to our fallen soldiers and remember their sacrifice. That's always something really cool that's on the route to see. They’ll also pass by the JFK Special Warfare Museum.”

When asked about volunteer opportunities, Cahill responded, “We always love volunteers. We encourage people to come out and volunteer. We have different positions at the start and finish line, they can help pass out medals at the end, and we have water and food at the end that they can help pass out. On the courses, we have our water stations where they can help pass out water. That’s always a great help and we’re always looking for volunteers. If you just want to come out and support and not run, we encourage people to come and cheer on our runners.”

No need to worry if you can’t make it to this event, Fort Liberty holds an annual Ten-Miler in November and a Family Fun Run that starts in April along with Mud Runs!

Running is monumental for good physical health —

strengthening your heart, creating stronger bones and joints, and improving sleep quality. Who wouldn’t jump at the opportunity to run a marathon? Though it seems daunting at first, running a marathon can show you just how capable you are and help set tangible goals.

On top of being great for physical well-being, running marathons is wonderful for maintaining a healthy mental landscape. Running in general increases endorphins and leaves you feeling accomplished and happy. Runners often see improvements in their mood, self-esteem, and overall health and endurance. Now imagine those great benefits mixed with the pride and excitement of completing a race as a team and community. Numerous studies even show that running, specifically long-distance like a marathon, can increase your life span from all the amazing work it does for your heart.

The half marathon will start at 7 a.m. and is $75 for active duty or retired military personnel and $85 for civilians. All runners who complete it within the allotted 4-hour period will receive a finisher medal. Half marathon participants must be 16 years of age or older.

Both races will award the top three men, women, and wheelchair athletes along with age group and team awards. The award ceremony will be at 9 a.m. on race day. Both the 5k and a half marathon are set to start and end at the Main Post Parade Field in Fort Liberty.

The All-American 5k race will begin at 7:20 a.m. The registration fee for active duty or retired military members is $30, and $40 for civilians. The 5k race is open to walkers and strollers, and children in strollers can participate free of charge but will not receive a medal or t-shirt unless they are registered runners.

Runners can come as early as 6 a.m. on race day. The National Anthem will play at 6:52 a.m. Be prepared for major road closures starting at 5 a.m. Parking will be located at Womack Army Medical Center for all runners, spectators, and volunteers.

To participate, runners can register online or attend the packet pick-up in person. All registered runners will receive a packet that contains a race bib, participant shirt, and a tag to get you a free beer or drink of the runner’s choosing. Packet pick-up will be held on March 22 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. at the Iron Mike Conference Center on Fort Liberty. If you are unable to pick up your packet, you can have someone get it for you if they have a copy of your valid Government-issued ID.

If you are unable to pick up your award on race day, it will be mailed to your home address within 30 days after the final results are posted. Keep in mind that runner packets cannot be delivered.
If you’re a civilian looking to get on post, you can acquire a visitor’s pass at https://bit.ly/4adczjd.

For more information, race routes, volunteer opportunities, and/or to register, visit https://liberty.armymwr.com/programs/all-american-races 

“A baby. His parents: dead. But he lives. He is the boy who lives. He has a scar. On his forehead. Shaped like…you know. You get it? You are familiar with this boy? Well. Forget about him. This story isn’t about him,” the narrator begins in the opening of Puffs or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. You all know the story of Harry Potter and the house of Gryffindor, but do you know the story of Wayne and the Puffs?

Puffs, written by Matt Cox, is a comical spoof about children attempting to survive seven years of magic school at Hogwarts. It draws from both the books and movies and the Puffs, inspired by the under-appreciated house Hufflepuff, are a group of kind-hearted, devoted misfits who harbor a fondness for badgers. This brilliant and innovative play never fails to provide a moment of laughter, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known journey.

New Fire Theatre is scheduled to showcase the One Act Edition of Young Wizards of Puffs on March 21, 22 and 23. New Fire Theatre is a part of the Capitol Encore Academy High School. The high school of The Capitol Encore Academy opened in August 2022, located at 200 Mason Street. Brian Adam Kline, also the high school’s theater teacher, serves as the artistic director of the theater company.

Kline started out at the Capitol Encore Academy Elementary School as the theater teacher and founded the Chameleon Children’s Theatre before moving to the high school. He has also done children's theater with Cape Fear Regional Theatre, Sweet Tea Shakespeare and co-founded the Glee and Gate education programs at the Gilbert Theater.

New Fire Theatre Company started doing shows last year and is now in its second season. This year the theater has already performed She Kills Monsters and Peter Pan. Kline shares his hopes for the theater and the kids involved.

“All of my actors and backstage artists are very intelligent, talented and shaping to be really good people. I want the theater to be a place for them to continue to be really great artists in their craft, school and community. The community should keep an eye on the boldness coming out of our space; think black box teen theater.”

Puffs is an ideal choice for a teenage theater company that operates in a black box setting. The number of actors in the cast can be adjusted. This production features a versatile ensemble cast, with a small group of main characters and the remaining actors taking on multiple roles. New Fire Theatre has a cast of eleven, all of whom attend the Capitol Encore High School.

This performance will require all participants to utilize a considerable amount of imagination in devising various technical elements, such as a bird that appears out of nowhere, a floating feather, and seemingly self-opening doors. Puffs will truly test the creativity of any technician and present an enjoyable yet challenging task. The crew for the production also consists of high school students, including the stage manager, assistant stage manager, and tech.

Kline, up until now, has directed all the plays performed by New Fire Theatre. For Puffs, he decided to collaborate with Marc de la Concha. When asked why he decided to bring someone else in to direct, Kline said, “I have wanted to work with Cape Fear Regional Theatre’s Marc de la Concha for years and when we talked about Puffs, it was a perfect fit for Marc to be our first guest artist. He's a great director, actor and friend.”

Concha has been the Director of Education at CFRT for almost five years. He can also be found on the stage acting in many of CRFT's mainstage productions, The Addams Family, The Musical being the most recent. He also shares Kline’s enthusiasm for working on Puffs together.

“Mr. Kline and I have wanted to collaborate on a project for quite some time. When he announced Puffs in the season, we both knew this was that project.”

Concha seems to be the perfect guest director for Puffs being a big Harry Potter fan himself.

“I love the rich and immersive world and all of its magical elements and compelling characters, each with their own strengths, flaws, and personal struggles. Additionally, the themes of friendship, loyalty, the battle between good and evil, the impact of choices, and the importance of standing up for what is right have always rang true with me.”

But he also believes that Puffs is a great play and story all on its own as well.

“Puffs is not just a hilarious parody of all things Harry Potter. It is a play that is full of heart. The characters are all fully realized and go through difficult journeys. They deal with death, personal identity, relationships, and what it means to feel insignificant in the world at large. Something any of us can relate to, no matter what house we are sorted into.”

New Fire Theatre has plans for the rest of their second season that will include James and the Giant Peach and the Dragon Film Festival, both in May. For more details on those two events be sure to follow them on facebook at: http://tinyurl.com/mu9p8yzc

Don’t miss Puffs on March 21, 22 & 23 at 6 p.m. at The Capitol Encore High School located at 200 Mason Street. Tickets can be purchased at: http://tinyurl.com/yrhjds24

“The stark beauty of the winter landscape and peacefulness can spark creativity and imagination in a way that other seasons cannot. The starkness of the cold can bring clarity and focus to the creative process, while the quiet of the season can encourage introspection and contemplation,” SurferToday.com
Cape Fear Studios’ mission is to “involve, educate, and enrich Cumberland County and surrounding areas with the opportunity to create and view art,” according to the Cape Fear Studios website.

Cape Fear Studios and Gallery announces the Annual Cabin Fever Exhibit for 2024. The exhibit will feature emerging and professional artists over the age of eighteen. The artists will present works in the mediums of acrylic, oil, watercolor, painting, hand-crafted wood art, hand-crafted jewelry, fiber, decoupage, photography, pottery, glass artworks and drawing from mixed media. The original art pieces are for sale to the public.

“It is not art you are buying from an artist/maker, you are buying more than an object or painting: you are buying hundreds of hours of failures and experimentation. You are buying days, weeks, and months of pure joy. You are not buying a thing, you are buying a piece of the heart, part of the soul, a moment of someone’s life. Most importantly, you are buying the artist more time to do something they are enthusiastic about,” said Shelly Corbett, photographer.

The Cabin Fever Exhibit enhances the community on the micro, meso and macro levels. The artists can view innovative and creative techniques among various mediums and build relationships with other artists. The public can experience enhanced perspectives, ideas, and values concerning reality.
“It is a good opportunity to see what other artists are doing. It is beginning to form a relationship with the art community. People enjoy it. We usually have a good turnout. The people are being creative at home. It is an opportunity to share one’s work. We enjoy doing community exhibits a couple of times a year,” shares Pandy Autry, Cape Fear Studios and Gallery Board President.

Have a Zen experience at the Cape Fear Studios and Gallery’s Cabin Fever Exhibit. The exhibit runs until March 15. The voting for the People’s Choice Award began February 23, and will remain open for the duration of the exhibit.

The winners will be announced on Facebook and Instagram at https://www.facebook.com/capefearstudios and https://www.instragram.com/capefearstudios. Cape Fear Studios and Gallery is located at 148 Maxwell Street. Admission to the Cabin Fever Exhibit is free.
Cabin Fever information is available by email at artgallery@capefearstudios.com. Their phone number is 910-433-2986.

Follow the Spectrum, An Autism Awareness Event will be held April 20 at Dick’s Sporting Goods in the Freedom Town Center. This event is a Super-Hero themed, family-friendly day, with kid activities, food trucks, information booths and vendors. Vendor registration is available on the website, Follow the Spectrum, https://www.followthe spectrum2024.com/

The proceeds for this event will provide financial support for the children and families of The School of Hope, located at 111 Burn Street. The School of Hope was founded by Amy and Rob Sparks.

“In June of 2011, after losing our son, Jared, we knew that this is what we had to do, and we knew that Jared would want us to help as many people as possible with autism as we could. That was a promise that could not be broken, a promise to our son Jared,” they said.

One in every hundred children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum disorder. Autism prevalence has increased one-hundred and seventy-eight percent since 2000. Four times as many boys are diagnosed with Autism as girls. The cost of caring for autistic Americans can increase to four-hundred and sixty-one billion dollars by 2025, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

North Carolina has a prevalence rate of Autism higher than the national average, with one in fifty-two children diagnosed with Autism, according to Steve Zauderer, Cross River Therapy. The Autism Society of Cumberland County, The Shinelight, and The School of Hope are organizations addressing the autistic population within Cumberland County.

The School of Hope serves students from kindergarten to 8th grade with mild to moderate diagnosis of autism according to The School of Hope Story website.

“Autism often has an impact on education and employment issues. In addition, demands on the families providing care and support can be significant. Societal attitudes and level of support are crucial factors determining the quality of life of people with autism,” according to the World Health Organization.

“Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, community, learn how to learn and behave. Although it can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a developmental disorder because the symptoms generally appear in the first two years. It is known as a spectrum because of the wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience,” according to the National Institute of Mental Health

Coach Elaine Hall shares, “it takes a village to raise a child. It takes a child with autism to raise the consciousness of the village.”

Be a Super-Hero and choose to become a vendor, financial supporter, or a life-long learner seeking insights into Autism Spectrum Disorder. For more information, contact Follow the Spectrum, Autism Awareness of Fayetteville through their website at https://followthespectrum2024.com.

When it comes to regulating nurses, North Carolina is in an increasingly exclusive club. Unfortunately, the cost of our club membership far exceeds any benefits.

In most states, nurse practitioners and other advanced-practice nurses have significant authority to treat patients without being subject to the authority of a physician. In Virginia, for example, they enjoy what is called full practice authority thanks to a 2018 reform bill. In other states, nurse autonomy is a bit more limited. Consider the case of Kentucky. While nurses there don’t yet have full practice authority, they can administer certain drugs on their own after four years of collaboration with a doctor.

Only 15 states satisfy neither condition. Their advanced-practice nurses have little autonomy. North Carolina is one of them.

During last year’s debate about Medicaid expansion, the original position of Senate leader Phil Berger and his colleagues was to give nurses more freedom to treat their patients without the costly supervision of physicians. Along with reducing the power of hospital monopolies, scope-of-practice reform was intended to increase the supply of medical care and thus put downward pressure on prices.

Gov. Roy Cooper and the North Carolina House agreed to relax some state constraints on hospital competition. They rebuffed the Senate on scope-of-practice reform. That’s why our state continues to be one of the few that unwisely denies nurses full practice authority.

In this case, the house majority has it right. When nurses are fully empowered to provide all the services for which they are trained, costs go down and patients receive either equivalent or better care than they did before. A 2021 study published in the journal Health Economics found no evidence that relaxing scope-of-practice laws had an adverse effect on services delivered.

It concluded that allowing nurse practitioners to operate “without physician oversight could reduce health care spending without harming patients.”

For a 2019 study in the Journal of Nursing Regulation, scholars from Columbia University, St. Francis University, and the University of Pittsburgh looked specifically at the effects of the policy on Medicaid recipients. They found that outpatient costs were 17% lower and prescription costs 11% lower in states where nurses enjoy full practice authority.

What about the effects on the caregivers themselves? A recent study in Nursing Outlook focuses on New York State’s adoption of full practice authority in 2015. The authors found “significantly better work environments” for nurse practitioners after the policy change.

“There is a growing body of evidence about the impact of nurse practitioner work environment on the quality of care and patient outcomes,” they wrote. “Thus, removing scope-of-practice restrictions on nurse practitioners may also lead to better care and patient outcomes.”

Physician organizations and other opponents of reform argue that without doctor supervision, advanced-practice nurses will make too many mistakes and misdiagnose serious conditions. In theory, this is possible. In practice, it’s not a persuasive objection. While tragic cases certainly occur — regardless of whether a physician owns or takes a financial cut of a nurse’s practice — the medical and financial benefits of reform appear to far outweigh the downsides.

Otherwise, the relevant research would find that scope-of-practice reform was followed by marked declines in patient outcomes. They’d find the short-term savings from providing primary care in independent nursing practices were overwhelmed by the long-term costs of treating misdiagnosed patients, including expensive hospital stays and lifelong disabilities.

That’s not what a preponderance of the studies show, however. Scope-of-practice reform confers net benefits. That’s why New York lawmakers adopted the policy in 2015. That’s why Virginia lawmakers adopted it in 2018. That’s why 35 states have less restrictive nursing regulations than North Carolina does.

When the General Assembly reconvenes this spring, lawmakers ought to rectify last year’s mistake of leaving scope-of-practice reform out of the Medicaid deal. By expanding taxpayer-funded health care, they set the stage for a surge in demand for medical services. Unless they take additional steps to free up supply so it can meet that demand, prices will soar.

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).

Coach Lefty Driesell died on February 17.

He coached successful basketball teams at Davidson, Maryland, James Madison, and Georgia State.

I wanted to honor him now, but I have written so many columns about him, I thought it might be a better idea to let him speak for himself.

I can do this now thanks to my friend, the late Julian Pleasants, who was a history professor at the University of Florida. Pleasants specialized in interviewing important people about their lives and careers.
Pleasants and I spent almost two days a few years ago recording hours and hours of Lefty’s recollections.

So, in honor of Lefty and Julian, I’m sharing a few of those stories.

In 1960, in his first game as a college coach, Lefty’s Davidson team beat top-ranked Wake Forest. Lefty shared his feeling that it might have been time to quit:

“Because I had a great record in high school. I was ninety-nine and fourteen, if you look up my record in high school, and so then I win my first college game. I told my wife Joyce I may as well quit. I was just teasing, I guess, but I sort of felt like it. I said I know I can coach now in college.”

Instead of quitting, he set about recruiting and now has a bag full of stories including one about future great Don Davidson.

“I really got along with his dad good, and his mother too, and so they brought him down for a visit and he liked it and we signed him because I told him–this is just like a little joke–I told him, I said, ‘Don, you go to Ohio State,–or some of the other people that were recruiting him–and they’ll put your name on the back of the jersey.’ I said, ‘I’m going to put your name on the front of everybody on the team.’”

His recruiting success brought his team national attention, and his fans wanted Davidson to play top-ranked Duke.

Driesell explained how Duke was persuaded to come to the Charlotte Coliseum to play Davidson in 1963.
“Oh, yeah. So, I called Vic [Bubas the Duke coach] up. See now, everybody plays guaranteed games, which I despise, but this wasn’t that kind of guaranteed game. We were playing the number two team in the country, and I said, ‘Vic, we’ll give you ten thousand dollars. I’ll send you the check today and you can give it to Eddie Cameron [Duke’s athletic director] or whatever.” So, I told some of [the big Davidson supporters] in Charlotte.

“They wrote me a check for ten thousand dollars, and I sent it to Vic, and I said, ‘Now this is upfront. You’re going to get fifty percent of the gate if we fill it up, and I said, ‘I know we’re going to fill it up, there’s going to be eleven thousand, six hundred, sixty-six people there at fifteen dollars a head,’–or whatever it was–‘but I mean something happens and we don’t fill it up, you’ve got ten [thousand dollars]. So, he said, ‘okay.’ That was the first game we ever played in the Charlotte Coliseum.

“Art Heyman played and Jeff Mullins and Jay Buckley. They had a great team. In fact, Art Heyman, who was, I think, probably one of the best players that ever played in the ACC. He was an animal. So, I think the score was tied or something or maybe we were up. No, we must have been up. So, he was dribbling the ball up the court for the winning basket and Barry Teague came up behind him and stole the ball like that, and Heyman: ‘He got me! He fouled me! He fouled me!’ I mean they didn’t call a foul, but Barry went to the free throw line later on and locked it up with a couple free throws.”

Davidson won 72-69.

Lefty told many more great stories.

Editor’s Note: D.G. Martin, a retired lawyer, served as UNC-System’s vice president for public affairs and hosted PBS-NC’s North Carolina Bookwatch.

Have you noticed the price of gas lately?

Across our region, prices are up nearly 10 cents a gallon. This is the last thing families need who are already struggling to make ends meet.

Unfortunately, President Biden and extreme Washington Democrats have continued to pursue an America-last energy policy.

Under Biden’s presidency, we have seen how our national security continues to be put on the backburner by the President’s war on American energy. Recently, the Administration announced they would be imposing a ban on issuing permits for liquefied natural gas exports.

This is yet another ploy to cave to climate activists over our own energy security, weakening the national security of the United States and our allies, discouraging investments in natural gas production, jeopardizing good-paying jobs, and empowering foreign adversaries like Russia.

We must ensure the President cannot play politics with our energy security. That is why last week, we passed the Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2024 (H.R. 7176) to hold the President accountable and reverse this blockade.

Like their America-last energy policies, the Biden Administration’s disastrous open borders have also continued to pose a threat to our national security. As your Congressman, I will not sit idly by as the Administration exacerbates this crisis and will ensure there are consequences.

Month after month, the crisis at our border continues to get worse due to the disastrous immigration policies of the Biden Administration.

Under Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas’ watch, there have been around 8.5 million illegal crossings at our Southern border, in addition to more than 1.7 million known “gotaways.” Even more concerning, over 169 people on the terrorist watch list have illegally entered the United States.

This has posed a grave risk to our national security and threatened the safety of not just border communities, but every community.

Secretary Mayorkas has one core obligation: to protect the homeland. Unfortunately, throughout his tenure, Secretary Mayorkas has willfully ignored U.S. immigration laws and intentionally disregarded his duty to keep our country safe and secure the border.

If Secretary Mayorkas truly wanted to take action to stop this chaos, he would start enforcing our immigration laws and orders already enacted by Congress and President Trump.

Yet, he has made it clear he has no intention to begin complying with our laws and regaining operational control of our border. Worse, Secretary Mayorkas has repeatedly testified falsely that the border is “secure” — a blatant attempt to mislead Congress, breaching the American people’s trust.

That is why we held him accountable by exercising our Constitutional duty and voting to impeach him.
Energy security and border security are national security. While the situation facing our country seems bleak, I’m focused on ways to unleash American energy, secure our border, and stop the Biden Administration from further threatening the safety of our homeland and our energy independence.

Rest assured, I will not stop fighting for the best interests of you and your family.

Until Next Time.

No athlete, professional or amateur or otherwise, is immune from injury. Most athletes recognize the risk for injury is always present, but the thrill of competition and challenging oneself physically is enough to relegate injury concerns to the back burner.

Sports injuries may be part of the competitive athletics equation, but that does not make them any easier to handle when they occur. One of the more serious injuries that can occur when playing sports does not involve fractures or sprains. Concussions are brain injuries that can cause temporary loss of normal brain function. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, and learning the signs of concussions can save lives.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons reports that concussions are caused by direct trauma to the head. Potential causes of such trauma can be a fall or a blow to the head. Involvement in a motor vehicle accident also can cause concussion.

Concussions affect non-athletes as well as athletes, which is important for people from all walks of life to recognize. However, athletes who compete in contact sports like football, ice hockey, rugby, and soccer should be especially mindful of concussions.

That's because contact sports tend to have the highest concussion rates. Concussion rates can be hard to tabulate, as many athletes may suffer mild concussions and never report any issues to parents or coaches.

However, a 2019 study published in the journal Pediatrics found that, between the 2013-14 and 2017-18 school years, the three sports with the highest concussion rates were boys' football, girls' soccer and boys' ice hockey. Of course, adult athletes also can suffer concussions, which underscores how important it is that all individuals, and especially athletes competing in contact sports, learn to recognize the symptoms of a concussion.

With that in mind, the AANS notes these are some common symptoms of concussion:
• Confusion
• Headache
• Vision disturbances (double or blurry vision)
• Dizziness or imbalance
• Nausea or vomiting
• Memory loss
• Ringing ears
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sensitivity to light
• Loss of smell or taste
• Trouble falling asleep

Concussions should be taken seriously, and it's important to note that most people fully recover after a concussion. However, the AANS urges people to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms have not gone away within 10 to 14 days. In addition, certain situations that can arise after suffering a concussion should be brought to the attention of a physician. Such situations include:

• Headache worsens or does not go away
• Speech is slurred, and feelings of weakness, numbness or decreased coordination present
• Significant nausea or repeated vomiting
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
•Inability to wake up
• Symptoms worsen at any time
• History of multiple concussions

Concussions are serious brain injuries that should not be taken lightly. Athletes and parents of young athletes should discuss concussion prevention strategies with coaches and report any issues to a physician immediately.

More information about concussions can be found at aans.org.

Lexi Solomon's article in CityView Today last week was very well written. However, the content was extremely disturbing and very disappointing, and a near-perfect example of why our community has difficulty moving forward into the 21st century with unity.

Solomon's article revealed how emotionally driven some members of our community are when their conversations falter because of a lack of logic and facts, failing to produce a cohesive and compelling argument. That is the case with the displeasure voiced over the pending consideration to relocate the 70-year-old outdated E.E. Smith High School to 90 acres of land provided free of charge, and conveniently located on the fringe of Ft. Liberty.

Solomon's article reported on a recent meeting held by E.E. Smith alums and the National Association of E.E. Smith Alumni and Friends to voice their displeasure with this consideration, and to show support for the historically Black high school located at 1800 Seabrook Road off Murchison Road. Meetings of this nature can be very valuable and productive.

However, it does our community a grave injustice to utilize a gathering of this nature to make accusatory remarks and conspiracy theories concerning the need to uproot the school in favor of a new high-tech facility. It's disingenuous to hear a NAEESAF board member, Sharon McDonald Evans, accuse local leadership of purposely allowing the school to deteriorate because they resent E.E. Smith being an historically Black high school. What about the thirty percent of non-Black students who have graduated from E.E. Smith High School who have also become successful, noteworthy community leaders, business executives, educators, public servants, and civic leaders on local, state and national levels?

In the next few weeks, Cumberland County Commissioners will be facing off with disgruntled alums and Cumberland County School board officials over the pros and cons of relocating and upgrading the much-needed educational facility to the more accommodating location.

Without a doubt, the sentimentality for E.E. Smith High School is warranted; however, the groups’ assertion that it is the heart of the Murchison Road community is false and misleading as are many of the concerns raised by those opposing the move.

What I found most interesting about Solomon's article and reporting on that meeting is what was NOT mentioned in it. First and foremost, there was no mention of the late Dr. E.E. Smith, the Black educational icon who founded the school in 1927.

He is the real story behind the E. E. Smith legacy. It is his legacy that should be honored and preserved. Another glaring void in the ongoing conversations is the lack of consideration and concern for the quality of students’ educations and the preservation and assurance for future generations.

The quality of education should be the NAEESAF organization’s highest priority especially when E.E. Smith HS math and reading scores are a dismal forty percent. A new technologically advanced high school could achieve improvement in those testing goals by assisting teachers in the classroom.

LaVar Wright is passionate about his alma mater. "The school itself is the heartbeat, the pulse,” Wright said, referring to the Murchison Road community.

No, it is not!

He continues, “This community has been thriving."

No it has not!

"It has been mistreated for longer than all of us have been alive. And this is just another way to step on our necks,” he said. “It’s exactly why this area has been so successful for so long."

No, that community is not successful and continues to struggle with high crime and diminishing businesses.

"You pull that school out of that neighborhood, it’s already suffering, underwater," Wright said.

These statements reflect that even Wright’s passion and enthusiasm cannot withstand the truth and reality of the situation.

It is my hope that he urges the NAEESAF to rally around and support the quality education of future generations of E.E. Smith students. Wright is in a position to encourage alumni, faculty and concerned members of the community to endorse the new high school and its location.

This issue is all about enriching the growth academically and historically of the youngsters living in this town. What pride they will have in becoming the first graduates of this state-of-the-art high school whose namesake made such an impact in North Carolina. Dr. E.E. Smith himself would be proud.

This issue should be interpreted as everything to do with the quality of life, education and futures of generations upon generations to come, always keeping the legacy of Dr. E.E. Smith and the history of E.E. Smith High School alive in the Fayetteville community.

Thank you for reading Up and Coming Weekly.

Get ready to be blown away by the electrifying sounds of the Blazin' Brass concert! On Saturday, March 9 at 7:30 p.m., the talented brass and percussion sections of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra will take the stage to deliver a performance that will leave you in awe. This is a musical event that you won't want to miss!

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra is known for their exceptional talent and their ability to captivate audiences with their musical prowess. Their brass and percussion sections are no exception.

“This performance includes 2 percussionists and 14 brass musicians (5 French horns, 4 trombones, 4 trumpets, 1 tuba),” says Anna Meyer, the FSO’s executive director.

The highlighted compositions showcased in the program feature Ottorino Respighi's "Ancient Airs and Dances Suite" and Eric Ewazen's "Symphony in Brass."

Ottorino Respighi's "Ancient Airs and Dances Suite" is a collection of masterful pieces that pay homage to the music of the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

As you listen, you'll be swept away by the intricate melodies and rich harmonies, feeling as though you're strolling through the grand halls of a medieval castle or dancing at a lavish courtly ball. Respighi's ability to capture the essence of these ancient melodies and bring them to life is truly remarkable, and you'll find yourself captivated by the beauty and elegance of each movement.

The piece is a series of three suites. The group will perform a movement from each of the three suites.
Another gem in this program is Eric Ewazen's "Symphony in Brass," a powerful and dynamic piece that showcases the versatility and brilliance of the brass section.

From the commanding opening notes to the intricate interplay between the different brass instruments, this symphony is a true testament to the range and expressive capabilities of this often-overlooked family of instruments. Ewazen's composition is a tour de force, combining elements of classical and contemporary styles to create a truly unique and exhilarating musical experience. The symphony builds in intensity, leading the listener on a thrilling journey that culminates in a triumphant finale.

The stunning Haymount United Methodist Church will serve as the backdrop for this upcoming performance. The FSO has previously held performances at this venue, including their "Holiday Brass" concert last season.

Tickets range from $5 to $32 and can be purchased on the FSO’s website: https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/

After eight years as state treasurer of North Carolina — and prior public-service roles as school board member, assistant commerce secretary, and four-term state legislator — Dale Folwell is running for governor in 2024.

I’ll discuss Folwell and other gubernatorial candidates in another column. Today, I’m focusing on the five candidates seeking to replace him as state treasurer, one of the 10 officials who comprise North Carolina’s Council of State.

You may find it puzzling that we elect so many executives. I’ve long argued we ought to shorten our ballot. But even I think we should still elect our state treasurer. It’s one of the most powerful public offices — supervising the state’s pension and health plans as well as local government finances — and should be occupied by someone with not only a firm grasp of investment strategy and public finance but also the fortitude to withstand special-interest pressure.

Three Republicans and two Democrats are vying for their parties’ nominations. First on the GOP ballot is A.J. Daoud, a former police officer who owns and operates funeral homes in western North Carolina. A longtime Republican activist, Daoud has served in multiple party offices and on the commission that supervises the state lottery, where he says he “was responsible for exposing wasteful spending returning millions back towards education.”

Rachel Johnson, a former banker, later ran RayLen Vineyards and Winery, a family business in Davie County. Her husband, Mark Johnson, is a former state superintendent of public instruction and school board member. Asked by Business North Carolina magazine how she’d manage the state pension fund, Johnson said she’d “continue Treasurer Folwell’s good work of protecting and improving the N.C. retirement system.” She added that “there’s always a temptation in this role to flex and try to make a risky play” and pledged to be “completely independent of previous ties to Wall Street and the elites of New York finance.”

This appears to be a dig at the third Republican in the race, Brad Briner, who recently stepped down from a leadership role in a Chapel Hill-based investment firm. Among his clients was former New York Mayor and business magnate Michael Bloomberg. Briner, who currently serves on the UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees and the state treasurer’s Debt Affordability Advisory Committee, told Business North Carolina that Folwell’s investment approach has been too risk-averse, causing our pension fund to underperform those of peer states such as Virginia.

“I’m not advocating gambling,” he says. “I’m talking about taking smart, sensible steps to achieve the 6.5% to 7% annual returns that the system requires.”

Democrat Gabe Esparza, a former entrepreneur and American Express executive who served in the Biden administration as associate administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, also criticizes the pension fund’s performance under Folwell. But he praises the current state treasurer’s efforts to promote price transparency and competition in health care.

In an interview with the Raleigh News & Observer, Esparza said the state health plan should “first directly engage with hospitals and pharmaceutical companies to negotiate long-term, stable pricing, while also investing in preventative care solutions that keep people healthy.”

His primary opponent is Wesley Harris, a three-term Democratic member of the North Carolina House who’s also worked in international tax accounting and taught economics at UNC-Charlotte.

He argues the Local Government Commission under Folwell has become “too politicized” and that the treasurer has held too much pension funds in cash. “For too long,” Harris says, “the Treasurer’s office has failed to look past tomorrow and adequately prepare our state for the challenges of the future. While doing so may yield results in the short-term, it leaves North Carolina’s funds vulnerable as our economy changes over time.”

Interestingly, the political arm of the State Employees Association of North Carolina has endorsed both Folwell for governor and Harris for state treasurer.

All these candidates have campaign websites where you can find more about their backgrounds, endorsements, and positions. Early voting for the March primary is now underway.

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).

The United Way of Cumberland County will be holding their Over the Edge Fundraising event again this April in downtown Fayetteville.

On Saturday, April 13, those who have helped with this fundraising endeavour will be rappelling down the side off the Cape Fear Valley Medical Arts Center. This is the second year the United Way of Cumberland County has held the event.

UWCC is hoping to raise $100,000 from the event to help improve the quality of Cumberland County residents. People can register for the event as an individual or as a team. Individuals are tasked with raising a minimum of $1000 while teams are asked to raise $2500 to go "over the edge."

To register for the event, or to make a donation, visit https://bit.ly/3ws4456. Use the code OTE25 to get $25 off your registration fee. This code expires on March 1.

The United Way of Cumberland County was established in 1939, and helps non profits in the Cumberland County area with donations. In 2023, UWCC chose 14 non profit organizations to help fund throughout the year. The Over the Edge Fundraiser is an innovative way to get the community involved in a large scale fundraising event that will benefit the entire community.

Over the Edge will be happening on April 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about UWCC and who they help, visit https://www.unitedway-cc.org/.

Last year, two of Up and Coming Weekly's own rappelled down the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. To read about the experience with going over the edge, visit https://bit.ly/48vPdDU.

The incomparable CeCe Winans is coming to the Crown Theatre on Wednesday, March 6, to debut her brand-new album More Than This, featuring her new hit single That’s My King. Fans are encouraged to grab tickets early, as Winans usually sells out her events.

VIP tickets are already sold out, but those wanting to attend can still find tickets ranging from $35 to $75 at Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at 6 p.m., with the concert starting at 7 p.m..

CeCe Winans's career spans over three glorious decades, garnering accolades and awards around the globe. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Winans grew up in the church singing, a common start for many artists past and present. Throughout her career, she has accumulated 15 Grammys, 16 Stellar Awards, and 27 Dove Awards, a number that not many artists can match or supersede.

That’s My King is the first single of Winan's new album.

“..it’s about inspiration. We need to be encouraged. We need to be reminded that when you believe, there are benefits that come with that. We understand that the God that we serve is the creator of all things and he has all power, he has all wisdom and you’re a daughter of the King. And this song proclaims Jesus is King. It’s got a little boast in it,” Winans said of her choice to make this the first single of her new album.
CeCe Winans started her music career alongside her brother BeBe in the early 80s singing with a gospel group, but by the late 80s, they started carving out a space for themselves musically.

The duo made their mark with their self-titled debut album BeBe and CeCe Winans in 1987. Over the course of their lengthy career, they released not only gospel songs but R&B as well. The singing sensation doesn’t just sing. She has also appeared in the acting arena, including the 1994 episode of Martin entitled The First Noel. The episode featured the performers as themselves during a Christmas special gone wrong. The episode was a success and an experience that Ms. Winans is reminded of by fans to this day. She has also made appearances on Living Single, 7th Heaven and The Tonight Show stage when Jay Leno was still at the helm. She has performed at the White House and countless Christmas specials, gospel celebrations, and awards shows.

Count on Me, her duet with the late, great Whitney Houston, for the soundtrack of the classic hit Waiting to Exhale, garnered her a secular audience and racked up playtime on the airwaves, hitting the top 10 on the Billboard top Pop, R&B, and Contemporary.

Her longevity as an artist has led to her induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, a space on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Nashville Music City Walk of Fame.

CeCe Winans and her brother parted ways as a music duo in 1995 to pursue their solo careers. Winan's solo career continues to thrive, 29 years later.

Her discography as a solo artist is massive. Her debut album, Alone in His Presence, dropped in 1995 and set the tone and pace for the 15 albums that would follow, including More Than This, which will be released in April. Her fourth album, Alabaster Box, was released on October 19, 1999, under Winan's label WellSpring, and executive produced by her husband Alvin Love II.

Her solo albums have earned her quite the reputation for winning at awards shows, taking home an NAACP Image Award, Soul Train Award, and Essence Award.

The titles that Winans holds most highly are those of mother and wife. She has two children with her husband. While music has been a big part of Winan’s life, it has not been the only venture. She and her husband founded Nashville Life Church in Nashville, Tennessee.

She is also the founder of Generations Live! Women’s Conference. A one-of-a-kind Christian Women’s Conference, the aim is to bring together different generations of women to worship and learn. The conference will be held in Nashville, May 10 and 11 at Belmont University, a Mother’s Day gift that mothers and daughters can enjoy together.

“We’re better together. Being ministered to separately is awesome and it has its place. But it’s really important that we understand that it’s a ministry of us together. There are things that my mother carried that I got to get. There are things that I carry that my daughter has to get. There are things that my daughter carries that I have to get. God made it that we are stronger as a family unit,” Winans said.
Winans is also a best-selling author, having written 6 books, including her latest, Believe For It: Passing On Faith To The Next Generation debuting in the Christian Top 10.

The Goodness Tour marks CeCe Winans's first tour since 2022. After two years, she is hitting the road and packing churches and small venues all over America. While Winans could easily pack a stadium, she is very intentional in where she stops on her tours.

“We did churches on my last tour. The first half we did churches and in the second half we did arenas. We did about six arenas, which was awesome and both have their advantages and disadvantages. I think the churches have advantages and disadvantages. You can’t get as many people in there but the advantage is, it feels like church…and reaching people in areas where they maybe can’t make it to the major cities,” Winans said of her tour stops.

There is no sign of Winans slowing down anytime soon. Touring until May and a women’s conference, while leading a church… there is nothing this woman of God can’t do.

For more information on the Generations Live! Conference, and tour dates and to download the new single visit https://cecewinans.com/.

Dr. Queesha Tillman grew up enjoying the simple life in Clinton, North Carolina. The Sampson County native has authored two quintessential books and her Book Signing Floating Event will take place Friday, March 8 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Kiwanis Recreation Center at 352 Devers St.

The books are A Love That Shatters Barriers: A Mother’s Relentless Battle for Her Autistic Child and Untapped Power: Black Women’s EQ Superpowers and Leadership Ascent.

“A Love That Shatters Barriers: A Mother’s Relentless Battle for Her Autistic Child [was] released Wednesday, Feb. 14,” said Tillman, author and principal of 71st Classical Middle School.
“That is Valentine’s Day and it is like a love book to my son Desmond.”

October 12, 2001, was the day that changed everything. Tillman received the disheartening news that her three-year-old son, Desmond, was diagnosed with Severe Profound Autism. In the wake of the shocking revelation, Tillman was in a complete state of denial and took her son to three different pediatricians whose diagnoses were all the same.

“Our family noticed that around 12 to 18 months, Desmond was digressing in terms of developmental things going on with him,” said Tillman. “He shied away from looking us in our eyes and he began babbling instead of forming words.”

Propelled by her son’s diagnosis, Tillman penned a book that delves into her mental montage of moments as she navigates the journey of being a parent of an autistic child.

“The book discusses what it was like to receive that kind of news and how I had to work towards being the optimal advocate for Desmond,” said Tillman. “It talks about our challenging journey through receiving resources, opportunities and assistance that he needed, I needed and families like us needed.”

She added, “Desmond is now 26 years old and is an adult living with autism. With the family support that I have, I am able to do more than I ever dreamed such as bettering my family, spreading the word about autism awareness and being an advocate for families like ours.”

The woman of letters’ thought-provoking book, Untapped Power: Black Women’s EQ Superpowers and Leadership Ascent, was released on Jan. 1, 2024.

“This book is a spin-off of my dissertation that I did over ten years ago,” said Tillman. “I have been working on both books for years and I have just not dedicated enough time to finish them, but the Holy Spirit told me to take the time and get it done.”

Tillman added, “I spent weeks of working, staying up late on top of being a principal and I was able to get it done. I am proud and it was a hard process.”

Her dissertation was a qualitative study about emotional intelligences that she tailored around mental health professionals in North Carolina and their emotional intelligence ratings.

And what kind of advice does the riveting author want to share with emerging writers?

“My advice is to not be so hard on yourself and writing a book takes a lot of time and energy,” said Tillman. “There will be times that you experience writer’s block and it is also a good practice to prioritize by scheduling a time to write.”

The professional storyteller’s next chapter entails forging ahead in the pursuit of something greater with a mindset that leaves nothing off the table.

“I am still becoming and I am open to whatever God has for me,” said Tillman. “Education is dear to my heart so whatever I do will center around mental health, children and individuals with disabilities.”
Both books can be purchased at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

The Kiwanis Recreation Center is located at 352 Devers Street. Refreshments will be served and there will be raffles for prizes. To RSVP for the event, call 910-257-4262.

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Queesha%20Tillman
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dr.-Queesha-T.-Tillman/author/B0CR9BJQRY?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Assisting and empowering local women are the goals of the Women's Business Center of Fayetteville at the Center for Economic Empowerment and Development.

Since 2022, the WBC's #HERFayetteville events have aimed to empower women through mentorship, education, networking and collaboration. All events are being organized by the Women's Business Center of Fayetteville.

Efforts to celebrate #HERFayetteville 2024 focus on "Heart, Equality and Resilience" and commemorate the March observances of International Women's Day and Women's History Month. Each day consists of virtual and in-person events.

In a 2023 Up & Coming Weekly interview, CEED Executive Director Suzy Hrabovsky shared her excitement for # HERWEEK's return.

"This is a week-long celebration of what women have done, what they can do, celebrating each other and coming together. So often, we hear negative things about women's empowerment, but this is just an inclusive, celebratory pat on the back and a time just to be happy and excited about what we've done and to continue to move forward and take a little time to catch our breath," Hrabovsky said.

The March 2-8 events have specific themes correlated as hashtags; as attendees go or participate in an event, they are encouraged to use the hashtags for their social media posting. Here is an overview of what to expect for #HERWEEK 2024.

Day One: Sat., March 2
#HERMoney; #HERWheels Car Show; #HERBeauty and Wellness
#HERWEEK Fayetteville starts its debut day in 2024 with a trifecta of tempting choices.
• In partnership with Cumberland County Public Libraries, the WBC brings the Financial Literacy Community Library Tour to town for the #HERMoney focus.
• Next, the center joins with wellness co-op Blissful Alchemists and the Southern Lux Sistas With Jeeps club to showcase some amazing jeeps and cars at the #HERWheels Car Show. The event features vendors, a kid's area, wrenching workshops, trophies, guest speakers, and more.
• Blissful Alchemists also sponsors the #HERBeauty and Wellness expo. A health and beauty extravaganza with over 40 vendors, the event offers essentials tailored to the wellness needs of women.

Day Two: Sun, March 3
#HERSpirit
• This virtual event focuses on spiritual wellness and women empowerment and what that means for women seeking balance and spirituality in their everyday lives. Register and receive updates from sessions with life coaches Dr. Patrice Carter and Cammy Kennedy.

Day Three: Mon., March 4
#HERService
• Through this virtual event, the WBC proudly highlights the female workers supporting the community as firefighters, EMS workers, teachers, police officers and military personnel.
"We've done a bunch of interviews with different women in the community, from teachers to veterans to women who are firefighters, women who are at the 911 station, just women doing different services in our community," Hrabovsky said of #HERService in the same interview.

Day Four: Tues., March 5
#HERImpact and #HERPitch
• The Greek Hellenic Center at 614 Oakridge Ave., in Fayetteville, is the host site of the 2024 #HERImpact and #HERPitch programs, featuring brunch, a motivational program and the WBC's business pitch competition where numerous Fayetteville women will vie for the chance to win grants of up to $2,500 per pitch. The WBC aims to assist socially and economically disadvantaged females in starting and expanding small businesses.

Day Five: Wed., March 6
#HERBusiness
• The fifth day of #HERFayetteville is about having fun while business networking. The citywide Business Scavenger Hunt encourages citizens to visit various business locations — a list will be available — to take photos and post the images online, tagging the businesses and the WBC's social media pages. Participants receive a point for each visit to go toward points in a media raffle.

Day Six: Thurs., March 7
#HERSafety
• Silhouettes Firearms Training, 1165 N. Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake, invites the women of Fayetteville and Cumberland County to its first #HERSafety Sip & Equip event. Attendees will engage with Silhouettes Firearms Training owner and personal safety consultant Andréa Williams as they delve into the world of personal safety.

Day Seven: Friday, March 8
International Women's Day 2024
#HERSports
• By collecting inspiring testimonials from local women's sports affiliates — management, team and female players — the WBC shows its support of the women in the sports industry and Fayetteville's new semi-professional soccer team, Fayetteville Fury. Sign up to listen in!

To find information on #HERWEEK Fayetteville event fees and to register, see https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/herweek-fayetteville-3095349.

The friendly and caring staff members of the Disability Support Services office at Fayetteville Technical Community College are eager to provide students with the services they need to achieve their educational and career goals.

The Disability Support Services office supports FTCC’s commitment to the equality of educational opportunities for qualified students and provides academic and technology resources to support student success while pursuing academic goals. Support services are provided for all registered students (day, evening, and online) with physical, psychological, or learning disabilities.
Student Testimonial

Chris Clark joined the U. S. Army in 2004. He became a parachute rigger and a member of the Golden Knights, the Army’s elite parachute team. Chris’s military career came to a tragic end when he suffered from a double parachute failure, which made him an incomplete paraplegic. At FTCC, Chris found a welcoming family who helped him overcome the challenges of learning to weld, while confined to a wheelchair.

“If I needed something, all I had to do was ask,” Chris said. When asked what he would say to other disabled people who are considering taking classes at FTCC, Chris indicated that “there’s no reason not to” enroll. Despite his disability, Chris thoroughly enjoys his time at the college. “The instructors are totally open,” he said. “They don’t treat me any differently than anyone else. They joke with me like they do with everyone else.”

The FTCC Disability Support Services office helps countless students including Chris, and they are eager to help you, too.

Services include, but are not limited to:
• Working with instructors to ensure that they understand each student’s unique needs
• Helping students obtain alternative-format textbooks
• Requesting an interpreter to help students with communication
• Providing students with one-on-one study and strategy sessions
• Facilitating student testing accommodations

Are you ready to get started? If so, please begin by completing the intake form on the website and submit your supporting documentation. After the staff receives your documentation, they will review your materials, and a friendly disability support expert will contact you if there are any questions.

Would you like to know more? If so, please contact the FTCC Disability Support Services office today. At FTCC, we are eager to help you achieve your goals. Students are currently registering for spring 8-week classes, which begin March 14. Registration for summer and fall classes will be occurring soon. With tremendous resources, such as the Disability Support Services, to help students make the most of their learning experience, FTCC can help you reimagine your future. Your next chapter starts here!

Visit the Disability Support Services at Tony Rand Student Center Room 127, 2201 Hull Rd., Fayetteville or call 910-678-8559. Dr. Casey Groover can be reached via email at
ada@faytechcc.edu. For more information, visit https://www.faytechcc.edu/campus-life/accessibility/

Aging is like living in a used car. Things wear out. Spare parts are hard to come by. The warranty has expired.

You can hurt yourself just by sleeping. People younger than you begin showing up in the obituary column. Your goals change. You decide you would like to outlive a deceased parent. Your doctor and dentist retire. You retire. Time flies. What to do?

Today, class, we are going to take a light-hearted look at Mr. Death. He is lurking out there in the Deep Woods, waiting for all of us to wander into his clearing.

“What?” you say. “It can’t be so. I am too important to exit stage right.” Au contraire.

Today’s lesson will demonstrate that there is an alternative to going one-on-one with Mr. Death: old age or running for President. We are now enjoying a Presidential election year between two older and visibly aging gentlemen: President Biden and former President Trump. Someone described the upcoming election as a contest between Grandpa Simpson and Mr. Burns.

Let a hundred flowers of angry political ads bloom. Our geriatric candidates spurred me to produce this column on aging. I was born in the middle of the last century which makes me a prime candidate for the Great Beyond.

Phooey!

But when you consider the alternative, aging is not a bad deal. If you are lucky, you will one day achieve that awkward age between 64 and death.

Paul McCartney wondered if his gal would still need him and still feed him when he is 64. Paul is now 81. He now knows the answer to that musical question. Eventually, even 64 will seem young.

Once retired, you have more time to attend funerals, see medical professionals to treat bizarre conditions you never considered when you were in your 30s, and have the ability to shamelessly yell, “Hey you kids! Get off my lawn.”

If you are of a certain demographic group, you may remember the 1957 movie “On the Beach.” The plot is simple; World War III has happened, most of the world has been destroyed, and radiation is spreading to the last outpost of life — Australia.

The people of Australia know that the radiation cloud will kill all of them in a few months and are essentially waiting for death.

The radiation cloud is a metaphor for aging. Once humans reach a certain age, the outcome is inevitable. Dogs do not have this problem, as they are blissfully unaware of the concept of Mr. Death.

There is no guarantee you will wake up tomorrow. This seems a bad deal, but that is the card humans have been dealt. After age 64, using a football analogy, you are in the 4th quarter of life with no guarantee of overtime.

You can hope for overtime, but when the referee blows the whistle to end the game, that’s all she wrote. I have a theory that as people enter the 4th quarter, their veneer of civilization begins to thin out and break down.

Older people become more like themselves without the buffer of politeness to conceal their hidden identity. Their thin candy shell of social niceties melts like a bag of M&M’s left in a hot car in July. This explains the phenomenon of Grumpy Old Men.

So, what should be done to stave off Mr. Death? Allow me to offer several theories.

First, decide to treat your body like you would your pet dog. This is the veterinary theory of longevity.

If your dog is sick, you would not hesitate to take him to the vet. If you find yourself sick, send your body to the doctor. Don’t hope it will just pass.

Treat yourself at least as well as you would treat your Dachshund. Find a group of aging contemporaries to meet with on a regular basis.

We have such a group that meets for coffee most mornings. We are the Panera Council on World Domination. We have lengthy discussions over who will win various sporting events, which Presidential candidate is the Anti-Christ, the merits of which food item is worse — Brussels sprouts or boiled peanuts — military theory, gun ownership, and which of the other patrons that day may be serial killers.
Conversations are quite lively, occasionally loud, and frequently surreally ridiculous. A splendid time is had by all. Then we go home and take a nap.

You have choices as you age. You can become bitter. You can become afraid and hide under a quilt and sob quietly. Or you can decide to go out and enjoy yourself while the light lasts. Use your time wisely.
I offer no hypothesis.

The Orange Street School is a hallmark of Fayetteville's history and stands as an important touchstone of our shared local history.

The Fayetteville History Museum has hit the books with its exhibit on the Orange Street School. Helping to preserve the history, stories and lessons from the Orange Street School's role in our community, the museum welcomes tourists and local residents alike to learn about the historic school's inception, purpose, administration, and preservation. Up & Coming Weekly sat down with museum curator Heidi Bleazey to learn more about the Orange Street School and its exhibit.

"We are presenting the concept of looking at the history as a way to build the future; which is how history should be looked at. We look at our past as a way to create the pathway to the future. We look at Orange Street School as an incredible educational resource for African-American children, a lodestone in the community, that helped build up a community in the Orange Street neighborhood," Bleazey commented on the goal of the exhibit.

Built in 1915 as a school for African-American children and students, Orange Street School stands as a symbol of the right to education in America for everyone.

In 1983, Cumberland County Schools deeded the building to the Orange Street School Restoration and Historical Association. The organization helped play a role in having the Orange Street School officially added to the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places in 1987. It even housed E.E. Smith High School inside its walls at one point in time.

Connecting the past to the present, the exhibit at the Fayetteville History Museum hosts books from Edward Evans Senior, renowned local African-American educator and previous vice principal at Orange Street School.

Plans are currently underway to renovate and refurbish the institute of learning to once again bring education and opportunities to the local youth of Fayetteville.

Bleazey elaborated on this sentiment by saying, "It's a chance for us to learn and grow about this topic. It's allowed to be thrust a bit more in the spotlight, because of new history: a future for these sites."
Relating this to the news regarding a possible new location for E.E. Smith High School and the ongoing renovation efforts to preserve Orange Street School, Bleazey states she looks forward to the future being paved through the restoration efforts and increased interest in the site.

It stands to reason the more people learn about and get involved with historical sites such as Orange Street School, the higher the likelihood that these sites will be preserved and maintained.

"Preserving this history and this historic structure, the story and the structure, is going to lead to new education, new community growth, new youth inside that building and learning. So the effort to preserve is going to lead to a better future," said Bleazey.

The exhibit will be on display throughout 2024 at the Fayetteville History Museum. Admission is free to the public, and they are open from Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They are located at 325 Franklin Street in downtown Fayetteville.

If you have any interesting insights on the history of Fayetteville that you'd like to share, they invite you to call and share it with them at 910- 433-1457. For those interested in seeing the Orange Street School, it still stands at 600 Orange Street and is adjacent to Festival Park.

If you are not aware, this year is known as The Year of the Dragon. The Lunar New Year was formally observed on February 10th. The Lunar New Year marks the start of the new year according to the lunar calendar.

The Chinese calendar is a lunisolar calendar that combines the Moon's phases and the Earth's orbit around the Sun. It is traditionally utilized for religious observances, festivals and agricultural planning.
In contrast to the majority of other calendars, the Chinese calendar does not utilize a continuous numbering system for years. Instead, it employs a cyclical naming convention, where names are repeated every 60 years. This cycle aligns with the five repetitions of the Chinese zodiac, which consists of 12 animals. This year’s animal is the dragon.

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra aims to draw attention to and celebrate the start of the Year of the Dragon.

“It is one of the most important and celebrated holidays in several Asian countries. The holiday is rich with cultural significance, symbolizing the beginning of a new year filled with luck, prosperity, and happiness,” commented Meghan Woolbright, the marketing and office manager of the FSO.

The upcoming performance will showcase "The Year of the Dragon" composed by Philip Sparke. Originally composed for a brass band in 1984 and subsequently adapted for a wind band, "The Year of the Dragon" is a vibrant musical composition consisting of three movements.

Also planned for the concert is a performance of "Korean Folk Song" composed by John Barnes Chance. This musical composition is inspired by a traditional melody that the composer encountered during his time in Seoul, Korea, while he was serving in the U.S. Army.

This program is part of the Fayetteville Symphonic Band’s concert series.

“The Fayetteville Symphonic Band is a community of instrumentalists who are serious about keeping good wind band music in Fayetteville. The band’s membership is around 55, consisting mostly of wind and percussion musicians. The director of the band is Dr. Daniel McCloud, who plays in the Fayetteville Symphony’s percussion section and also is their Assistant Conductor,” explains Anna Meyer, the executive director at the symphony.

An exciting addition to this performance will be The Fayetteville Symphony’s collaboration with New Century International Elementary School's Chinese Immersion program.

At New Century International Elementary School kindergartners enter a Chinese immersion program. By the time they complete fifth grade they are fluent in both Chinese and English. This program not only offers students the opportunity to become bilingual but also promotes acceptance of different cultures and customs.

"Year of the Dragon" will take place on Tuesday, March 5 starting at 7:30 p.m. at the Huff Concert Hall at Methodist College. 

Admission is free. For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/1714584462383046

Campaign season is in full effect, with local primaries held on March 5, Super Tuesday. The newly formed Independent Conservative Alliance PAC is hoping the candidates they back will be pulling in some wins.
For those unfamiliar with what a PAC is, it is a political action committee that dedicates time, resources, and funding to candidates it feels will best represent the ideology of the committee. While many of the core members of the PAC are Republicans, the PAC’s focus is more on the conservative approach than Republican ideology.
“It’s not so much the issues, although the issues are important. It’s the approach that you take to solve the issues. Are you going to rely on the government to solve all your problems or are we going to empower people to solve their problems? Are we going to be a welcoming county for businesses, or make it hard for them to do work? Are we going to raise taxes because that's the easy road, or are we going to look at places where we can save money in county government and keep from having to raise taxes? Are we going to talk about problems until the cows come home or are we going to do something about it?” said John Szoka, one of the core members of the PAC.
The Independent Conservative Alliance or ICA PAC was formed by core members: a former State Representative, business owner, and retired Army Lieutenant Colonel John Szoka; former Senator Wesley Meredith; former Fayetteville City Council member from 2007-2017 Bobby Hurst; and Jackie Taylor, former Cumberland County Republican Party Chair. The objective of the ICA PAC is to “recruit the best candidates in winnable races for the local, county, and state offices.”
The Independent Conservative Alliance is looking for members, “local officials, businesspeople, and community leaders wanting to bring positive change and improve the quality of locally elected leaders and actively recruiting candidates.”
“I served on the executive board of the Republican party and in my position, I actually created the recruitment committee for candidates to run for political office,” said Hurst. “That was really why I joined: to use that as an opportunity to recruit the best candidates to serve in public services. Then I got this group together and people from various backgrounds that have served, that know what it takes to win a campaign and a great group of people. We were going to focus on the county commissioners' race and endorse candidates, who we thought would be the best three for the three seats. Realizing the Plan of Organization says that the Republican Party can’t endorse candidates in the primary, I thought it best to step down from the Executive Committee and just focus on this PAC, and that's what we've done…. That's kind of the beginning of it.”
ICA PAC established criteria based on 8 key factors for candidates looking to seek endorsement.
1. Candidates have been vetted.
2. Candidates are knowledgeable of the issues facing the county.
3. Financially sound and fundraising in place.
4. A good work ethic and positive attitude.
5. A good base of support with a campaign team of volunteers.
6. Organized campaign plan.
7. Thoroughly replied to interview questions.
8. Ready to start work on day one!
ICA PAC is currently focused on the county commissioner race and on Thursday, February 1st, they conducted interviews with 7 commissioner candidates. They chose three to endorse based on the criteria the PAC has set: Pavan Patel, Henry Tyson, and Peter Pappas. ICA PAC has plans to begin recruiting candidates for Cumberland County Board of Education races coming up this year (filing opens on July 5, 2024) and the Fayetteville City Council races in 2025. For more information on the Independent Conservative Alliance, you can reach out to member Bobby Hurst.