The Gilbert Theater presents the Second Annual Pryer Awards on June 23, from 6-9 p.m. This annual celebration of theater and thespians was begun to commemorate the work of Gilbert founder, Lynn Pryer.

Fayetteville audiences might recall the article published in Our State Magazine announcing Pryer’s retirement as artistic director of the Gilbert in 2012. The article chronicled Pryer’s theatrical experience, which began in the garage of his childhood home in Fortuna, Calif., in the early 1940s, where he used a burlap curtain and charged the neighborhood children 10 cents to see a show.

Pryer moved to Fayetteville after retiring from his job as a children’s librarian and founded The Gilbert in 1994 in the basement of his home. In 2001, zoning complications prompted the theater to relocate — first to the Arts Council building on Hay Street, then to its current location on the corner of Green and Bow streets. Pryer reigned as artistic director at The Gilbert for 18 seasons and 100 plays, thus the creation of the annual Pryer Awards to celebrate his work.

“The Pryer Awards were a great success last year. Some wonderful local artists were honored: James Dean, Joyce Lipe and Matt Lamb among them. This year we welcome the talents of the Rent cast to entertain us as well as local favorites, Dr. Gail Morfesis, Laurel Flom, Tyler Pow and Sara Beth Short (local Gilbert actors who worked in shows this season and last). The silent auction will boast beautiful art and pottery pieces, jewelry, electronics and more,” said Robyne Parrish, current artistic director. “There will be food, door prizes and drink. Everyone in the community who supports the Gilbert Theater and the arts should attend this fundraiser. It is a tribute to our actors, designers and volunteers who work tirelessly to make the arts community in Fayetteville what it is — fantastic!”

The awards are set at the end of each season like the Tony or Oscar awards and the nominees are determined by audience votes, which are gathered at the conclusion of each performance. The shows, casts and crews in the running for this season are from the performances of the musical Rent, A Christmas Carol, Pan, Sherlock Holmes, The Sleeping Detective and A Company of Wayward Saints. It will be an evening packed with entertainment, food, beverages and fun.

Since its creation, The Gilbert has provided an artistic home for many area thespians, directors and writers. Fayetteville playwright, Stephen Miles, described The Gilbert’s artistic mission by saying, “I think the big draw is the diversity of presentation. There is no place [in Fayetteville] that anyone can go, outside of the Gilbert, to see some of these new, innovative plays. The theater covers about everything.”

The theater’s mission promotes fresh, local talent, whether it is a playwright, director or actor. Several of this season’s shows were debuts of works by local playwrights including Pan, written by Jeremy Fiebig and Sherlock Holmes, The Sleeping Detective from the pen of James Dean. The multitalented Dean won the best actor award last year and is on this year’s roster of nominees.

Don’t miss this opportunity to support local art and artists. Tickets are $40 dollars and are available while they last through the Gilbert website (www.gilberttheater.com) or by calling the box office at (910) 678-7186.

Photo: The Pryer Awards, named in honor of Lynn Pryer (center), founding director of The Gilbert Theater, honors local thespians.

For more than 50 years, the Cape Fear Regional Theatre has brought quality theater to the Cumberland County/Fort Bragg community. If Tom Quaintance’s, the artistic director at the CFRT, vision for the upcoming season is realized, this season will not only continue that heritage, but will raise the bar for excellence at the CFRT.

“Last season was really excellent,” said Quaintance, who is entering his third season at the helm of the CFRT. “I felt really good about all of the shows, and we actually did much better than planned.”

Even as the season was ongoing, Quaintance gathered a group of individuals together to start planning for the 2014-2015 season.

“We met together and read about 25 plays and musicals,” explained Quaintance. “Planning for a season is an incredibly complicated process. We really have to look at performing a balancing act to ensure that we reach out to the broad spectrum of our community and our theatre patrons.”

Quaintance noted that the group read a broad range of plays and musicals, explaining that the most important factor in deciding on what plays would make this year’s season had to do with telling a good story. Once the story passed the test, the group worked to ensure that there was a fine balance between the styles of plays from contemporary to classical.

Quaintance believes the group got this season right and has chosen a season that offers a little something for everyone.

The season kicks-off in September with the cult-classic Monty Python’s Spamalot.

“I have never had more fun in a theatre than when I have worked on Spamalot,” said Quaintance. “I am dying to get into rehearsals for this play. I grew up with this play. All of my friends and I grew up quoting it.”

Quaintance is particular excited about the opportunity that Spamalot brings to showcase the talents of the local community. He noted that the show’s large cast is a perfect vehicle for local actors.

Spamalot, which is a musical, a new musical and is a take-off from the internationally famous comedy team’s most popular motion picture, Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It tells the story of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. The show won three 2005 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and Best Director (Mike Nichols), as well as the Drama Desk® and Outer Critics Circle® Awards for Best Musical. Book and Lyrics by Eric Idle.

In October and November, The Bluest Eye tells the story of the tragic life of a young girl in 1940,s Ohio. Eleven year-old Pecola Breedlove wants nothing more than to be loved by her family and schoolmates. Instead, she faces constant ridicule and abuse. Blaming her dark skin she prays for blue eyes, sure that love will follow.

Over Christmas, the theatre will once again stage the perennial Christmas favorite The Best Christmas Pageant Everand the adult-themed Santa Land Diaries.

In January, Quaintance and company brings adventure to the stage with The Three Musketeers. This rousing story of heroism, treachery and honor is an action packed adventure for the entire family.

In March, be prepared to get some swing in your step as Ain’t Misbehavin’ brings two spirited hours of musical entertainment to the stage. This Tony Award-winning tour through the legendary Fats Waller songbook is one of the most popular musical revues of the century.

In April, Bo Thorpe will return to the CFRT stage for the first time in a couple of years in The Trip to Bountiful. “I have been looking for the perfect vehicle for Bo, and this is it,” said Quaintance. “She has not been on stage since On Golden Pond. I think this play will showcase her great talent.”

For the first time in its history, the theater will offer a six-show season. Quaintance believes the added show will give people more choices and will keep the theatre fully engaged with the community throughout the year. People purchasing season tickets can choose to purchase either a five- or six-show ticket, which gives them the freedom to pick the shows they want to come to. “Some plays aren’t for everyone,” said Quaintance. “This season is very ambitious, and we believe we have something for everybody in this season.”

Quaintance thinks people will agree once they see Avenue Q, which won the Triple Crown at the Tony’s taking Best Musical, Best Score and Best book. Avenue Q is part flesh, part felt and packed with heart. This unapologetically adult musical Avenue Q takes Sesame Street into the real world with hilarious results as recent grad Princeton navigates post-college life.

Along with bringing great plays to stage, Quaintance will also bring talented actors and directors to the mix.

For more information about the season or to purchase tickets, visit www.cfrt.org.

Children looking for interesting activities this summer can register for several different themed summer camps at Methodist University. As well as a wide range of athletic summer camps, the university offers camps based on the STEM fields (Science Technology Education and Mathematics), the environment, music and forensic science.

STEM Camp

This camp runs June 16-20, and is a half-day camp designed for middle school students. Activities will include projects and experiments involving mathematics, robotics, chemistry, health sciences, computer science, virtual reality, forensic science, creative writing and biology, all led by MU faculty. For more information on STEM Camp, contact Kara Dawson at 910.630.7246.

Environmental Camp

Nature loving students in grades 6-8 who want to know more about trees, water, soil, wildlife and geocaching can register for the Environmental Camp, which will run July 7-11. This half-day camp will be led by faculty staff and students in the Environmental and Occupational Management department. Students will also get to take a nature hike on the Cape Fear Trail. For more information on Environmental Camp, contact Taylor Blackley at 910.630.7558.

SummerJam! Music Camp

Musicians ages 11 to 18 can experience the fun of a residential or day camp all about music from July 7-12. The camp includes classes, concerts and other events focusing on individual instruments or vocals, as well as group ensembles and arrangements. The week will culminate with a special concert for family and friends. For more information, call Linda Volman at 910.630.7100.

Forensic Science Camp

CSI at MU is the camp for budding crime scene investigators and forensic scientists. There will be a camp for middle school students July 7-11 and a camp for high school students July 14-18. Students are exposed to crime scene processing principles in age-appropriate, hands-on exercises before having the opportunity to investigate a mock crime scene at the end of the week. For more information, contact Serena Hare at 910.630.7298.

Athletic Camps

Students interested camps focused on baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, golf, soccer or softball have plenty to choose from at MU this summer. Many of the sports offer multiple sessions, and choices of day camps or residential camps. For information, visit methodist.edu/summer or call 910.630.7000.

Even in early summer the heat of the long North Carolina days can be exhausting; while the cool breezes and clear skies of the summer nights are invigorating. Even the city seems to react to the change in temperature. At noon on a summer day, downtown Fayetteville is relaxed and content but on the evening of a 4th Friday it is vibrant and pulsating with activity. The shops and galleries stay open late and offer the community a family-friendly place to experience the best the city has to offer.

For families with children, the place to go is Fascinate-U. Located at 116 Green St., this children-focused museum is uniquely interactive. Children can roam around the miniature city and learn through their play. On June 27, for 4th Friday, the museum will remain open late and admission is free. From 7 to 9 p.m. the museum also offers a free craft for kids. Using stickers, construction paper, ribbons and a healthy dose of creativity, kids will create a patriotic paper lantern. For more information visit http://www.fascinate-u.com.

One of the best places in town to enjoy art on any day is The Arts Council. The gallery on 301 Hay Street offers various exhibits throughout the year. Over the course of the year, it will cradle works of many different artists and styles. The upcoming exhibit scheduled to open on 4th Friday is a great example of the huge variety of art and artists. The exhibit entitled “Urban Art: Expressions of an Environment” is an exploration of the modern urban environment. Most people think of urban art as simply graffiti, but this exhibit is far more. There will be spray paint, but through that medium both local and national artists explore and comment on the truths in modern cities. The gallery is open from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. for 4th Friday celebrations. For more information, visit www.theartscouncil.com.

History is also on display in Downtown Fayetteville at the Hay Street roundabout. The Market House is the center of downtown, a symbol. It holds the city’s history in both a literal and figurative sense. Within the Market House, there is a permanent exhibit called The View from the Square. This exhibit tells the history of Fayetteville in a building that witnessed it. Additionally, in the upstairs of the Market House is a rotating exhibit. This month it is Lafayette and it is open on Friday from 6 to 10 p.m.

This 4th Friday will also feature an exciting additional event. The theme is pirates. All throughout 4th Friday participants are encouraged to come out in their best pirate costumes and join the Downtown Alliance and downtown businesses for a rousing scavenger hunt and pirate-costume contest. Winners of the hunt and costume contest will both receive a treasure chest of downtown prizes. Clue sheets are available at 222 Hay St. from 6 to 9 p.m., and judging takes place at 7 p.m. For added entertainment, the Street Ratz Breakdance Crew will perform in front of 222 Hay St. and Fire/Trance Fusion Arts will perform in front of the Capitol Building. For more information, visit www.faydta.org.

The Cumberland County Library & Public Information System will host a Local Authors Showcase featuring writers from the Sandhills this 4th Friday from 7-9 p.m. in the Pate Room. The event is sponsored by Friends of the Library. Refreshments will be served. Visit www.cumberland.lib.nc.usto find out more.

To learn more about 4th Friday as a whole, visit www.theartscouncil.com.

‘We Will Do It Our Way: Farmers Market Hits the Deck

...Parking deck that is. Honestly, when I first heard we had hired a consulting firm to help city and county officials determine an adequate location for a Fayetteville Farmers Market, I knew another dual governmental fiasco was about to begin.

Why?

Well, first of all, both the city and county have a long history of spending taxpayers money on surveys, consultants and studies that end up being either totally ignored or rejected. Why? Because the stated results did not confirm, support or justify their predetermined outcome or they just wanted to create the illusion and appearance of executing proper due diligence.

Two examples come to mind: In Fayetteville there was the Multi-Modal Transit Center. A firm from Charlotte, headed up by former politico Harry Gantt recommended three sites from the many proposed by the city. After a presentation outlining the reasons behind their selection, the city council chose none of them as an option. As a result, it will be built in a highly protested area between Robeson, Russell, Franklin and Winslow streets. The small site will not allow for growth or for the construction proposed by the consultants. Many in the community, including those whose businesses were and will be impacted believe it is an inappropriate site.

Last year, Cumberland County residents in the Cedar Creek area insisted they needed transportation service to downtown Fayetteville. Despite studies and indications that supported otherwise, the county commissioner’s spent $14,000 to prove their point and appease their constituents. It was a needless expenditure. See the point?

Most recently, the county spent $24,000 on a search for a new county manager to replace retiring manager James Martin. Why?

In a matter of weeks, after the money was spent, the commissioners voted unanimously to award the job to Deputy County Manager Amy Cannon who was actively serving as interim county manager. Cannon’s reputation, work ethic and competence has served Cumberland County with distinction for well over two decades making her the obvious choice. I guess a $24,000 CYA is a good deal when your spending other people’s money.

However, I digress. Personally, I was never a fan of locating the Farmers Market in the parking deck. But, then again, I feel its current location at the Transportation Museum is appropriate and complements our downtown community. However, location is only one deterrent to the success of a downtown Farmers Market; a new location will not solve the problem.

For some unknown reason the city and county are trying much too hard to artificially force the success of a Farmers Market on the community while ignoring at least six important points of consideration and reality. Actual need, demand, competition, marketing, advertising and promotion. Six strikes and you’re out! Twice!

In any case, let’s get on with it. We already have more than a dozen “fruit and vegetable” stands effectively serving our community. Half of them are known as “farmer’s markets.” What will distinguish our Farmers Market from the rest is the ability to develop, market, advertise and promote it as a destination point. Otherwise, another great opportunity to enhance our community will be lost. Honestly, this shouldn’t be that hard.

Stay tuned and thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

matter your exercise or activity of choice, it’s important to make sure you’re taking the appropriate steps to stay safe in the summer heat. As the temperature and humidity rise, so do incidences of heat-related illness. If you’re someone who plans to play in the heat this summer, take caution to prevent a potentially dangerous situation.

First, it’s helpful to understand how heat affects the body. A significant amount of the water in our bloodstream is lost through sweating. To replace this water, our body draws water from other tissues, leaving less blood for the muscles and increasing heart rate. In dry conditions, sweat evaporates quickly so only a small amount is needed to cool the body. However, in humid conditions, sweat takes longer to evaporate because there is already increased moisture in the air, so the body compensates by sweating more. If the body continues to lose fluid, you are likely to begin experiencing symptoms of heat illness. Below are the different types of heat-related illness and what to do if you begin experiencing symptoms.

• Heat cramps - painful muscle contractions most common in legs or abdomen; stop your activity and replenish your fluids

• Heat syncope – feeling lightheaded or fainting after exercising; laying down with legs elevated at the first warning sign may help avoid loss of consciousness

• Heat exhaustion – elevated body temp with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, headache, weakness, and cold and clammy skin. Move to a cool environment, remove or loosen clothing, and replenish liquids. Untreated symptoms may lead to heat stroke.

• Heat Stroke – your body temp has exceeded 104° F, and this is a life-threatening emergency. Heat exhaustion may progress to confusion, euphoria, visual changes, and sudden loss of consciousness. This is a medical emergency, and can lead to death or permanent neurological damage.

Paying attention to the body’s warning signs may save a life, so it’s important not to ignore what your body is trying to tell you. There are many steps to can take to ensure you stay cool in the heat to avoid injury all together. The following are just a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Watch the temperature and avoid exercising or increased activity during the hottest and most humid hours of the day (ideally, before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.).

• Get acclimated to the heat by gradually increasing the length and intensity of your outdoor activities and workouts over 1-2 weeks.

• Be realistic about your fitness level, and know that if you’re unfit or new to exercises, you may have lower tolerance to the heat.

• Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration, and don’t wait until you’re feeling thirsty to drink. If you’re planning intense exercise, consider sports drinks to replace electrolytes lost during sweating.

• Dress appropriately, including lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and consider a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 if you’ll be in the sun.

 • Be okay with changing your plans and staying indoors. Consider workouts in the gym or even walking laps around the mall.

Hot, humid weather doesn’t have to change your summer plans or your exercise routine. Just remember to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and cool despite the heat. And remember, your local Physical Therapist can help you identify safe, fun and appropriate exercises if you’re worried about any injuries or co-morbidities that may side-line your summer fun. Call your local Doctor of Physical Therapy today.

Resources:

U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps: dcp.psc.gov/ccbulletin/articles/FitforDuty

Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048167

California Department of Public Health: www.ehib.org/page.jsp?page_key=173#heat_prevention

Vote Yes for Truth, Transparency and Due Diligence

As you read this article, please note it was written last week so I have no idea where we stand on the great Fayetteville City Council budget debate on how much of a tax increase Fayetteville citizens will shoulder. However, I was pleased they agreed to hold two more meetings to discuss the options.

Ahhhh, the art of compromise!

Hey, after all, devising a $200+ million spending plan takes time and consideration one would think. So, what do we citizens know for sure? Maybe four things:

One: Crime is our #1 concern.

Two: Citizens are willing to pay for more officers, security and safety.

Three: Citizens are not at all sure of anything else.

Four: City Manager Ted Voorhees’ proposed budget has an extreme amount of non essential fat in it that he defends vigorously.

It was encouraging to me that two of the four freshmen councilmen, Kathy Jensen and Mitch Colvin, agreed to a smaller increase if the money went to hiring more police officers. I admire that, but, why have any increase at all?

Also puzzling to many is why the other two council newbies, Chalmers McDougald and Larry Wright, resist the history, logic and experience of respected and seasoned council members like Ted Mohn, Bill Crisp and Jim Arp.

Another major puzzlement is the obvious lack of transparency in the creation and presentation of the proposed budget.

From where I am standing, Fayetteville citizens just don’t have the facts about how their tax dollars are being spent and the state of the city’s finances. If they did, they would know that an $8 storm water and solid waste fee is actually a “tax.”

More importantly, they would ask where the city has spent the $2 million plus each year that was earmarked for 48 unfilled city positions. Yes, transparency is a major concern.

Why else would local residents form a political action committee (Independent Voters Coalition) and launch a last minute telephone campaign in an effort to inform the public that unless their council representative (Bobby Hurst) has done his due diligence on Voorhees’ budget proposal they could very well be voting in a tax increase that is unwarranted, unjustified and ill conceived.

Yes, this could happen, and, it would be irreversible.

Of course, Voorhees initial reaction to the PAC’s fiscal S.O.S., as reported in the Fayetteville Observer, was to call them all liars. Hmmmm? Not a very good strategy for building consensus.

Well, we’ll see.

Here’s what I know for sure: Crime prevention is the number one priority. Fund it. City employees (except management) deserve a pay increase. Fund it. Any other needs in the proposed budget — PROVE IT!

A special thanks to Mike Chandler and the Independent Voters Coalition for attempting to enlighten Fayetteville citizens on the facts and the issues.

Transparency.

Nothing to fear here, but the unknown.

Thanks for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

For more than 60 years, the Fayetteville Kiwanis have put talented local students in the spotlight during the Fayetteville Kiwanis Talent Night Showcase. The show, which is open to students pre-school through 12th grade, is on Friday, June 13 at the Cape Fear Regional Theatre.

“The Talent Night Showcase is a very unique event in our community,” said Bill Bowman, one of the organizers of the event. “This is the 63rd Annual Kiwanis Talent Showcase. It has a lot of history and longevity in this community.”

Bowman said that longevity comes from what is at the heart of the showcase: showcasing the talent of Cumberland County’s greatest natural resource: its people.

“It has had such a long, successful history because it not only showcases local youth and gives them a chance to perform; it also accentuates the talent that we have in the community,” continued Bowman.

Bowman said that by nurturing that talent at a young age, the Kiwanis have helped many Cumberland youth along on their journey as performers.

“Many of the children who compete in the Kiwanis Talent Showcase have gone on to professional careers in music and in the arts,” explained Bowman. “We have had winners who have played at Carnegie Hall, joined the Boston Pops and performed on Broadway. Some of these students have competed for years and years, and through their lives, we have had a significant impact on the community.”

Of course, the real key to success is the talent that can be found in Cumberland County students. Each year, the Kiwanis hold an audition that draws a large number of talented performers. This year, more than 150 students tried out for the 27 open spots in the showcase. The students put their best foot forward, singing, playing musical instruments and dancing to get a shot at the showcase.

Bowman noted that it was not easy paring the large pool down to almost a quarter of its original side. “I’m thankful I wasn’t the one who had to make those decisions,” said Bowman, while praising the judging committee, which is headed up again this year by Bob Cogswell, a Kiwanis Club member and local attorney.

“Bob has headed up the judging committee for more than 30 years,” said Bowman. “And, he brings a diverse group of judges to the table.”

According to Bowman the judges are from the performance programs at area universities, music and dance academies, as well as local leaders.

“The judges have to be able to recognize talent and then rate it,” said Bowman. “Their success over the years is what has helped make this competition so successful. All of those folks who judge are very qualified in their fields.”

The judges look at not only the difficulty of the performance, but also the stage presence of the performance. “When you get to this level of competition, you have to have someone who is well rounded in all aspects of performance,” said Bowman.

While there are prizes, for many the biggest prize is the opportunity to perform on the Cape Fear Regional Theatre stage. “We can’t thankTom Quaintance enough for allowing us to carry us on this tradition at the theatre,” said Bowman. “Tom is a huge advocate of the performing arts and is committed to building and showcasing local talent in our community.”

Prizes are awarded in several age categories, with monetary awards to performers who place in the first three spots. Other students may be offered scholarships to music and dance camps if they are top scorers in specific categories. Admission to the showcase is $7, all of which goes back into the community for programs that support children.

Bowman said that the event could not have occurred without the support of the Cumberland County Schools, lead by Frank Till. “Superintendent Till and his staff have done a great job at getting the word out and getting some very diverse acts to try out,” said Bowman.

“When you come, you are going to see a little bit of everything from hip hop to very sophisticated piano pieces to violinists, bands and dancers,” said Bowman. “We’ve got a little bit of everything, which adds up to create a really great show.” T

he show begins at 7 p.m. and tickets are available a the door.

Grab your favorite lawn chair and get ready, Fayetteville. Big Rick & The Bombers will hit the stage for Fayetteville After 5 on June 20. The theme this month is Funk and the line up is sure to deliver a rockin’ good time.

Based out of Raleigh, Big Rick & The Bombers have been together more than 16 years. They began as a blues band, but needed to start making money, so they began playing Top 40 hits. The group was nominated as best wedding band by The Knot magazine from 2008 — 2013. They have played at weddings all over the country including Boston, Key West and San Francisco.

The band’s musical style can be described as everything from Top 40 to beach to R&B, rock, jazz and everything in between. Concert goers can expect a well-executed performance with some twists and turns.

The group’s name comes from the World War II airplane, the B52 bomber. “We are just dropping musical bombs all over the place,” said band member Rick Nunez.

After Fayetteville After 5, look for Big Rick & The Bombers at some of their favorite Raleigh spots, including 42nd Street Oyster Bar, Tony’s Oyster Bar, The Big Easy and Yancy’s.

Nunez said, “I want to thank everyone out there for the continued support throughout the years. We love you guys.”

For more information on Big Rick & The Bombers, or to purchase one of their cds, please visitwww.bigricksoul.com.

The June 20 show also features the band, Liquid Pleasure. Liquid Pleasure plays a mix of beach, rap, rock, standards and Top 40. For more information, visit www.liquidpleasureband.com.

Gates open at 5 p.m. Acts begin performing at either 5:30 p.m. or 6 p.m. with the sounds of the summer carrying until around 10:30 p.m. No outside food or beverages are allowed within the park. The event serves as a fundraiser for the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival.

This event is presented in partnership with R.A. Jefferies — local distribut0r of Budweiser products.

Don’t forget to register for your chance to win Jason Aldean tickets for the Sept. 6 show at the Walnut Creek Amphitheatre in Raleigh. To qualify, you must attend three of the five Fayetteville After 5 events and get your card qualified. Cards can be picked up at the WKML table during the Fayetteville After 5events. You must be 21 or older to enter.

Don’t miss the remaining Fayetteville After 5 shows this summer. The July 18 show features Captain & the Keels, Yacht Rock — 70s and 80s Hits and Heart Brigade, Heart tribute band, while the Aug. 15 show features On the Boarder, an Eagles tribute band and Tuesday’s Gone, a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band.

For more information about Fayetteville After 5, please visit www.faydogwoodfestival.com.

Photo: Fayetteville After Five is a family-friendly event that offers a fun-filled evening for people of all ages.

Hoke County Public Library and the Cumberland County Public Library and Information Center began the summer reading program, Fizz! Boom! Read! on June 1. The program runs through the second week of August. This year’s theme focuses on science activities and exploration. There are multiple ways to be involved — by traveling to the nearest library or registering online for the summer reading clubs. The summer reading clubs are available to all ages. This program gives readers the opportunity to sign up, read books and win prizes. By creating a profile online, registered members can update their reading log, which helps to keep track of their reading hours. For chances to win prizes, they can also add titles of books they have read to share them with the other readers.

The preschool and elementary program, Fizz! Boom! Read!for ages 0-12, is Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Some of the fun events include a magic show called Once Upon My Time, on June 24, as well as science festivities on Aug.12. The programs feature special guests Curious George and Clifford the Big Red Dog. The middle school and high school program, Spark a Reaction, which is perfect for readers ages 13-18, will be Thursdays at 3 p.m. There is also a Paranormal Investigating program on July 26. The teen summer reading club will host a Teen after Hours event at the East Regional Branch for participants ages 13-18. The adult program, Literary Elements, includes a reading list and book clubs available to anyone over 18. Register online at Cumberland County Public Library website, www.cumberland.lib.nc.us/ccplsite/.

When kids, 0-12, read 6, 12 and 18 hours they are eligible for prizes. Attendance at story programs counts toward total reading hours, too. Readers have a choice between a squirt toy and a paper yo-yo after reading six hours; for reading 12 hours, they will get to choose their own book; and at 18 hours they get their very own Cumberland County/Hoke County Public Library bag to carry all of their prizes. Teens who read five or more books and update their reading log receive various prizes, such as a wooden puzzle or a fun pocket insert, and will be entered into drawings for $25 gift cards to a local bookstore. Adults who read five books and update their reading log or attend book clubs will receive a ceramic mug. Upon entering five books into the reader’s log, they will automatically be entered into a drawing for a $150 gift card to a local book store. Winners for the gift cards will be announced on the library’s website. Winners can pick up their prizes at any library branch within Hoke County and Cumberland County. For more information about the summer reading programs, call Hoke County Public Library at (910) 875-2502 and Cumberland County Public Library at (910) 483-7727.

Throckmorton Library, along with Fort Bragg MWR, begins its summer reading program, Paws To Read!, on June 11, with registration followed by the opening celebration the following week on June 18. The program is on Thursdays at 11 a.m. beginning June 19 and ending Aug. 14. This includes story time, family movie premieres and special events such as a stuffed animal pet show and Teddy Bear’s Picnic. It is free and open to all military ID cardholders. There are toddler, elementary, teen and adult programs available. For more information call Throckmorton Library at 910-396-BOOK.

Photo: Read books to win prizes with local summer reading programs.

The essential ingredient in curry powder, this Ayurvedic herb also treats inflammatory conditionz, such as arthritis and tendinitis.

What is it?

Turmeric grows in southern India, China and Indonesia and is a close relative of ginger. The herb’s fleshy, orange rhizome (its root like underground stems) has a rich history as a culinary spice, food preservative, medicinal herb and dye. The golden robes worn by Buddhist monks traditionally are dyed with turmeric.

History and folk remedies

Ayurvedic healers have known about turmeric’s healing properties for centuries. The spice is thought to purify the body and has long been prescribed in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat arthritis, liver disorders, menstrual problems and indigestion.

Why it’s used

Naturopathic physicians and herbalists prescribe turmeric for treating inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis and tendinitis. Turmeric is recommended for preventing cardiovascular disease and cancer because of its potent antioxidant properties. It’s also applied topically to wounds, bruises and muscle strains. In cooking, turmeric is an essential ingredient in curry powder.

How it works

In the 1970s scientists discovered that the curcuminoid compounds that give turmeric root its bright yellow color also have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Of these compounds, curcumin is thought to be the most powerful because it helps to neutralize free radicals, the cell-damaging molecules at the root of many degenerative diseases, including arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, heart disease and cancer. Turmeric also inhibits excessive blood clotting, which is a contributing factor in heart disease and degenerative inflammatory disorders.

Scientific support

In dozens of studies, turmeric has been shown to have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Although most of the studies have taken place in the laboratory and actual human clinical studies are few, results have been positive. In a 1992 human clinical study curcumin helped lower several risk factors that contribute to heart disease (Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 1992, vol. 36, no.4).Other laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated curcumin’s anticancer properties. One small but intriguing study of tobacco smokers showed that turmeric significantly reduced urinary mutagen levels, substances that trigger the cell mutations that lead to cancer (Mutagenesis, 1992, vol. 7, no. 2). Studies also have verified the traditional wisdom of using turmeric to ease arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, though most of these have been animal studies.

How to take it

Turmeric is widely available as a culinary spice. It can be taken in powder form; however, you would need to take large amounts (1 teaspoon or more three times a day) to reap medicinal benefits. Turmeric is also sold in capsules and liquid extracts. Standardized extracts generally contain between 90 percent and 95 percent curcumin; the typical dose for reducing inflammation or for other therapeutic effects is 400 mg to 600 mg three times a day. If you are taking a liquid extract, follow the directions on the label. There are also newly formulated products, such as BCM-95 turmeric, which claim even higher levels of bioavailability for enhanced effect.

Side effects

Turmeric is safe when used in normal amounts as a culinary spice. If you have a blood-clotting disorder, are taking blood-thinning medications or have gallbladder disease, do not take medicinal amounts of turmeric or concentrated extracts of curcumin without consulting a health care practitioner. Cancer patients should consult with a doctor informed about herbal medicines because turmeric may interfere with certain chemotherapy agents.

Photo: Tumeric is a must-have in any homeopathic medicine cabinet.

The Carolina Student Transfer Excellence Program, housed in the office of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, seeks to admit, identify, enroll and graduate high-achieving, low-to-moderate-income students transferring to Carolina from partnering community colleges.

Fayetteville Technical Community College became a partner college with UNC-Chapel Hill in the spring of 2011, and since that time, FTCC has had eight students matriculate. This year, the program will have its largest number of students entering class for the fall of 2015 with 15 students.

“I now feel more confident in my abilities to succeed at Chapel Hill because the C-STEP program has prepared me for the transition,” stated upcoming Radiologic Science major De’Quadre Hart. “C-STEP has given me the opportunity to grow as an individual, to grow academically, and to form new bonds with my cohort group. I have come a long way.”

The program holistically reviews potential candidates and consistently challenges students to put forth their best efforts to complete their two-year asociate of arts or associate of science degree, while maintaining at least a 3.0 grade point average. The majority of FTCC C-STEP students maintain at least a 3.5 GPA. Current C-STEP student Joseph Espinoza offers his views on how to be successful through the C-STEP program: “You have to give up something to get something in return, and you also have to stay on top of your grades. C-STEP is a lot of hard work, but I absolutely love it! I consider the C-STEP group members to be a part of my family, and we are not just one — we are a cohesive unit. And the experience is not just educational. It’s emotional — in and out of school — and the support the program gives you is amazing.”

“Attending UNC-Chapel Hill will be a testament to my dedication to school, the hard work to stay in the program, and how far I have come,” stated C-STEP student Brandon Perez. “I think about my mom and my family, and this is my chance for my mom to be proud of my accomplishments.”

According to C-STEP student Erik Carlos II, “C-STEP has given me a more positive attitude and an opportunity to grow as an individual. I have more pronounced self-confidence, and I now look forward to the new opportunities and challenges that UNC-Chapel Hill will offer me. This program has given me direction and a clearer perspective on life. I’m moving forward — progressing — and I now know where I am going.”

C-STEP currently serves more than 400 students, and more than 200 of those students have already enrolled at Carolina. Interested candidates seeking more information about the C-STEP program should contact L. J. Nelson at FTCC [(910) 678-8205 or nelsonl@faytechcc.edu].

Stop by the FTCC Campus in Fayetteville or Spring Lake or visit the FTCC office at the Bragg Training & Education Center for a face-to-face tour! Visit our website, faytechcc.edu, to learn more about how FTCC can change your life in positive ways.

Legends Pub is not like other bars. It’s a home away from home, a safe place in troubled times, a support network and a watering hole for the friendliest and most generous bikers you are likely to ever meet. “On average it takes me 15 minutes to get a drink. Not because of bad service — by no means. It takes me that long to say hi and share the hugs,” said Legends Pub Owner Holly Whitley. “So if we need four hugs a day for survival and eight hugs a day for maintenance and we need 12 hugs a day for growth, the average customer at Legends should be good.”

There is always something going on at Legends Pub and oftentimes that something is a fundraiser or other event to help a person in need or to support a nonprofit in the community. While the situations the fundraisers seek to remedy are often dire, the events are always high-spirited and filled with laughter. Whitley is the owner of the place but she credits her friends and customers for the great things that the group has accomplished over the past two decades. On June 6-8, Legends Pub is set to celebrate its 18th Annual Spring Fling. It is the biggest benefit of the year and something the community always comes out to support.

“The care and concern for others has always been a big part of my little bar tucked off Bragg Boulevard. I knew at the first Spring Fling what kind of people would come here to share their lives helping others,” said Whitley. “This place has a purpose. We’re family. Last year alone we raised more than $54,000 for our community. Kidsville News!was our heart for Spring Fling last year. We even had a visit from Truman the Dragon. This year it is for one of our own.”

Caroline Montague was recently diagnosed with stage-3 lung cancer. “I’ve known her for years and we were blessed to have her join our staff here at Legends a year ago,” said Whitley. “She is such a kind lady — so there was no question where we would direct the venue for 2014.”

Three days of frolicking and fun doesn’t happen without preparation and hard work. This is where the Legends Pub family shines. They knows how to roll up their sleeves and come together to create a memorable event.

“I could have never done any of this on my own. The support and volunteers have been amazing. Working with Trent by my side for 15 years along with Priscilla — talk about someone special. The time and effort she has put into keeping me organized is amazing.

“Mike has cooked thousands of pounds of pork and constructed more cornhole games than I can count. Axel — I can’t even count the times he’s jumped up to help. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to know each and every one of my friends,” said Whitley.

“And Shirley, wow, I remember the first time I met her she was hiding behind the big tree wondering what she was getting herself into. Ann, Dee, Carol and so many others are always stepping up to the plate. If I’ve heard it once from these girls, I’ve heard it 1,000 times — ‘What ya need?’ With such unencumbered passion and enthusiasm they all help so many in our community on a regular basis.”

To say that Legends feels like family is true; in fact, for Whitley it is a family affair. Whitley’s daughter Christy has learned from watching the pros around her what it means to give. Whitley’s love for her daughter is apparent when she talks about what Christy means to her. “She has worked so hard at her own job and always stepped up at Legends to do what was needed. She is my heart, my dear daughter. She and J.D. have always supported every adventured I have endured. Sometimes rolling their eyes at me, but still I’ve always been able to know they both had my back. I love them both.”

With this kind of dedication, it is no wonder that the Gypsy Women’s Spring Fling has been going strong for close to 20 years. The fun starts on Friday evening with pizza and a pool tournament. On Saturday, the Scott Sather Memorial Poker Run kicks things off. The first bike rolls out at noon. At the end of the ride, enjoy a pig pickin’ and an auction.

The auctions at Legends are always great fun.

“Do you remember the singing fish that people would hang on the wall? They were popular several years ago,” said Axel Rehme, one of Whitley’s friends and part of the Legends Pub family. “Holly’s been auctioning that thing off for years. It always goes for $100 or more and then, Flea, that’s who usually wins it, will donate it right back for next year’s auction. The fun is in the bidding.”

The Spring Fling continues on Sunday with a bike show, a cook out and a bike rodeo. There is a bike drawing on Sunday, too. For $50, get a ticket that entitles the winner of the drawing to a 2002 Softail Deuce. Only 250 tickets are available.

Call 867-2364 to find out more about the Gypsy Women’s Spring Fling.

Photos:Middle right; This year’s Spring Fling benefits Caroline Montague. Lower left; Holly Whitley (r) and her daughter Christy (l).

The “No Tax Manifesto”

Everyone who is familiar with the story of the Pied Piper remembers the greedy, ill prepared bureaucrats and uninformed villagers (citizens) who slighted and deceived a mystical musician who had done them a great deed by playing a magical tune on his ̀ute to rid their village of a terrible and rabid rat infestation. This act saved the village and their lives. In response, the bureaucrats and uninformed villagers slighted the piper (he wasn’t paid). In response, the Pied Piper once again played his magical tune. Only this time, all the children of the village began to dance and sing while gleefully following him directly into a mountain where they were never seen or heard of again. So, the moral of the story? Sooner or later the people of the village had to “pay the piper.” And, so it will go if this community blindly accepts a tax increase of any size before we have all the facts about how our tax dollars are currently being spent and managed — or mismanaged.

The “No Tax Manifesto”has been created from comments and criticisms heard from many Fayetteville citizens who do not feel that our City Manager and City Council are looking closely enough for ways to avoid what some people already think is a done deal — an inevitable 4.2- or 3.8-cent tax increase.

What difference does it make? Well, it makes a lot of difference to many citizens who think the increase is not needed and that there is not enough being done to maximize or conserve our current tax resources. They do not think that prudent decisions are being made on how to spend and allocate our tax dollars. Of course, this is hard work. So the City Council should insist that the City Manager get to work and take on this responsibility to produce an accurate assessment of our community needs and resources. The City Council should investigate all the needs brought forth to them and resist listening and marching to the music of a “Pied Piper” without proper due diligence. Fayetteville citizens ultimately know best. Here are comments and questions heard echoing throughout the community. Once compiled, these comments made the perfect “No Tax Manifesto.”Enjoy!

Residents would appreciate and respect being provided straight and honest answers to all questions referred to City Manager and Council members. i.e.

• What specifically are the reductions taken by city departments?

• What outsourcing opportunities have been identified that could save the City money and reduce the operating budget?

• How many budgeted unfilled positions does the city have open and how long have they been vacant?

• How many budgeted positions have been vacant for more than thirty months? $$$ Value?

• Why have these positions not been eliminated?

• If the positions are unfilled and have not been eliminated, what is the budgeted money being spent on?

• No doubt city residents are willing to fund and sacrifice for the funding of more police officers and staff. That being said, then what is the justification for proposing 4-10 percent salary increases for city management?

• Enlighten the residents about what we are paying our top city management. Residents should know how much of the proposed tax increase is going to increasing the iǹated salaries of the City Manager and City Management. Could this be an example of income inequality?

• Articulate in detail some of the potential savings from merging PWC and city departments.

• Discontinue ambiguous statements like the city “is lean” or “we just can’t cut anymore.” Talk in specifics about these situations

.• Provide specific assurances that all city departments are being managed and operated efficiently. Address areas that are not. Again, specifically.

• Specifically describe efficiencies and budget-saving measures found in all departments.

• Disclose and define what discretionary funding is. How will the City Manager use this money in the future? Why is it discretionary?

• It should be considered that only the loyal, hardworking rank-and-file workers of the City receive a 2.5 percent salary increase. All other city management, including the Mayor and City Council, should forego any salary rate increases.

• Assure Fayetteville residents that the budget proposed is specifically for funding police, reducing crime and providing essential city services to our residents and not for building bureaucracies like economic development or allocating funding to iǹate the salaries of upper management and hire more staff.

• Emphatically, fund the police department first. Then fund everything else.

• New revenue and funding sources. What are they? Who is coming up with innovative ideas?

•Transparency is a must. The taxpayers need to know what part of the tax increase is going to city management salary increases. Also, make sure all City Councilmen knowingly admit that they understand this. This way they cannot claim after the fact they were not aware of the process.

•Share with the residents how big the city staff has grown over the past three years compared to private industry in Fayetteville.

• Get a consensus from the Mayor and City Council: Ask the question, “Should the city government be iǹating itself at a time when the cost will be born largely by Fayetteville’s working middle class, seniors, retirees and our low income families — all of which cannot afford it?”

In conclusion, time is not on the citizens’ side. This is coming down to the wire and a rush vote with an unfortunate tone of “Oh well, a 3.8-cent increase is better than a 4.2-cent increase.” Then everyone votes for the compromise. No. This is NOT the way it should be done. Everyone must be held accountable. At this point, there are way too many unanswered questions and uninformed city councilmen who are not leading but being led. It is here that courage and backbone are essential. Step one: Get the facts. Step two: Stand up, take a position and be prepared to defend it with specifics. Not generalizations. This is real leadership. Within the week, we’ll see who has it.

Thanks for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

Photo: Before raising taxes, find out what the Fayetteville residents have to say.

The Fayetteville SwampDogs are off to a fast start this season, and are providing plenty of excitement on the field. But of course, at J.P. Riddle Stadium the game is not the only exciting thing going on.

This week, The Swamp was the place to be for a fun time for all members of the family.

On Saturday, May 31, the SwampDogs had their first fireworks extravaganza of the season, as they took on the Columbia Blowfish. Every year, the SwampDogs put on the best fireworks shows in Fayetteville, and this year it is better than ever. You’re not going to want to miss these spectacular shows — everyone is sure to be talking about them.

The fun continued on Monday, June 2, for Duke Night at The Swamp as the Dogs hosted the Catawba Valley Stars at 7:05 p.m. The first 500 fans in attendance received a free magnet schedule courtesy of Freeman & Barrett, CPAs, and fans wearing Duke attire received special discounts throughout the ballpark. That game was also a “Mug Monday.” Fans who purchased a 16 oz. souvenir mug got free entry to the Miller Lite Liberty Lounge, and could fill the mug up for just $1! While enjoying the game from the Lounge, fans enjoyed the $1 burgers and dogs with $2 wine and free popcorn, peanuts and soda.

Then on Wednesday, June 4, the Morehead City Marlins come back to town on Home Run Math Club Night presented by Fazoli’s, Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, Dunkin’ Donuts and The Little Gym of Fayetteville.

Make sure to make your way out to The Swamp for all this — plus a few surprises. It is sure to be fun for the entire family.

Don’t forget to register your young ones for the SwampDogs Kid’s Camp. From June 23-26, kids ages 5-13 will have four days of hands-on instruction and fun with the SwampDogs players and coaches. Spots are limited and going fast, so make sure your child doesn’t miss out on the most fun camp of the summer.

Be sure to follow the team on social media to keep up on everything SwampDogs. Like the team on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoSwampDogs, follow the team’s Twitter and Instagram accounts at @GoSwampDogs, and keep updated on highlights, player interviews, and much more at www.youtube.com/GoSwampDogs.

Follow @FunGosDugout on Twitter for live updates from SwampDogs players from the field as the game is happening. Get a unique insight into the personalities and quirks of your favorite players.

For tickets to all of these great games, to register your child for the kid’s camp or for more information, call the SwampDogs offices at 426-5900.

You can also check out the team website: www.goswampdogs.com.

It’s no secret that sports are a big deal in North Carolina but many may not realize that it goes muchdeeper than a basketball rivalry. For instance, this year is the centennial of Babe Ruth’s first professional home run, which took place right here in Fayetteville. To complement the centennial and other sports activities in the area, Assistant Professor Alex Macaulay, Ph.D., from Western Carolina University will speak about the subject in a presentation at the Museum of the Cape Fear. Titled It’s Not Just a Game: Sports and Society in North Carolina, the program explores North Carolina’s sports and the wide-reaching effects it has had on the state over the years.

“People attending this event can expect to learn the integral role that sports play and have played in the lives of North Carolinians. This is a humanities presentation that shares information that causes people to think about the way the past influences the present. During the presentation, people will find themselves asking questions about why, particularly in this state, sports has the impact that it does on our residents. Why don’t we have a professional baseball team? What attracts major sporting events like the women’s and men’s U.S. Open Championships to North Carolina, but in particular, to the Sandhills region?” Leisa Greathouse, the Curator of Education for the Museum of the Cape Fear, said.

This year is a big year for sports of all kinds in North Carolina. There is the centennial of Babe Ruth’s first professional home run as a paid professional in 1914 and the U.S. Open Championships that are scheduled for Pinehurst this summer. To embrace the convergence of events, the museum has focused on the history of sports in the area in multiple ways. “The museum has been promoting sports in the Sandhills to bring attention to the sports history of the area, and the state. Back in March, the museum created a small panel exhibit, currently hanging in the lobby, that talks about our local baseball history, including how a young George Herman Ruth picked up the nickname ‘Babe,’” said Greathouse.

Regardless of previous sports knowledge, the program is sure to be interesting for all sports or history fans. “Most sports enthusiasts will be aware of North Carolina’s sports history. Others will be surprised to learn about the significance North Carolina has played in sports. What will not surprise them will be the role sports has played in North Carolina society. I meet many people who associate North Carolina with college basketball, and Michael Jordan, and there are many who think we are sports nuts in this state. At this presentation, they can learn why,” Greathouse says.

The event is totally free to the public, thanks to a generous grant from the North Carolina Humanities Council, a nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The event will be on Sunday June 8 at 2 p.m. at the Museum of the Cape Fear. The Museum is located at 801 Arsenal Ave. For more information call or visit http://www.ncdcr.gov/ncmcf.

Photo: Baseball legend Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run in Fayetteville. North Carolina is home to many major sporting events.

Daughters of Christ Ministry presents a Christian Conference for Women on Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26 at the Holiday Inn Bordeaux Ballroom at 9 a.m. Daughters of Christ is a Christian counseling and teaching ministry that seeks to assist women “in being intimately connected with Christ through the sharing of his holy precepts in his word and via times of prayer to him.”

The event is open to women of all ages that would like to attend a Christian conference without regard to their affiliation to this ministry.

The schedule of the conference entails breakfast from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Vendor table browsing takes place from 7:30-8:45 a.m. The conference begins at 9 a.m. Lunch is served from noon to 1 p.m. Visit the vendor room from noon to 1 p.m. The final session ends at 4 p.m. Fellowship and vendor table browsing follow from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The keynote speaker of the event is renowned author and Christian counselor Leslie Vernick. She has been featured on Focus on the Family and her book titles include The Emotionally Destructive Marriage, Lord, I Just Want to Be Happy and Defeating Depression. “I am going to teach how people get their faith from their head to their heart in very practical and ethical ways — especially when their life is going wrong,” said Vernick. “It can be in a traffic jam, while we are burning dinner or when a teenager has a smart mouth.” Vernick added that she will teach how to respond by putting your faith into practice and understanding what God is up to at the moment and how it allows us to grow.

Vernick will also do a workshop about her book The Emotionally Destructive Marriage. “Twenty-five percent of Christian marriages report a lot of emotional or verbal abuse going on,” said Vernick. “I talk about the emotionally destructive marriage because it is the silent elephant in the Christian home.”

Vernick added that in the church people often do not like to admit it or talk about it but it is happening. It happens a lot and oftentimes women are told to try harder, submit and get your husband to love you and if you would only do it right, he would not treat you this way.

“The Christian marriage is supposed to be a picture of Christ and his bride,” said Vernick. “The husbands are instructed to lay down their lives or sacrifice for their wives yet traditionally in church teachings we have been giving husbands a selfish card.”

Vernick added that what she means by this is that the husband believes that because he is the head of their household it somehow gives him the right to get his way all the time and do whatever he wants and the wife is supposed to comply. That really is not the definition of headship or submission. Sacrificial leadership is the true definition of headship.

Several recording artists will provide the music and guests from San Antonio will share biblical messages and lead the songs. Vendors will set up their merchandise at the event.

Tickets cost $80 per person. Registration is open until June 30 and seats are going fast. For more information or a vendor application visit www.daughtersofchristministry.org. For more information about Vernick visit www.leslievernick.com.

Photo: Renowned author and Christian counselor, Leslie Vernick, is the Keynote speaker for the Daughters of Christ Conference on July 25 and 26.

The classic works of William Shakespeare have entertained audiences for centuries and are regarded by many as timeless masterpieces. Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, and many others have been adapted into almost every spoken language on the planet and performed countless times around the world.

This summer, The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, The Museum of the Cape Fear and Fayetteville State University sponsor the third season of a local group that performs works of William Shakespeare in our area, Sweet Tea Shakespeare.

Sweet Tea Shakespeare was founded in 2012 at Fayetteville State University by Jeremy Fiebig, who is an Assistant Professor of Theatre. He says he founded the group because he wanted to, “dig back into work with Shakespeare... I wanted to get Fayetteville interested in Shakespeare, too.”

To perform, Fiebig has assembled a cast of actors that he describes as, “a mix of local professionals, some of my students, students from Methodist University, recent alumni from FSU and Methodist, Campbell University and students at FTCC … We have actors who have worked with us before, who have worked at Gilbert Theatre, Cape Fear Regional Theatre and the university theatres in the area. People will recognize them from other work in the community. That is one of the things that we pride ourselves on, these people on stage are known.”

The group is set to perform two shows; one series in June and another in July. Love’s Labour’s Lost runs June 18-22, and is directed by Jeremy Fiebig. The Taming of the Shrew, the second show of the season, runs July 16-20, and is directed by Greg Fiebig, who is a Professor of Communication and Theatre at Indiana-Wesleyan University, and the father of Jeremy Fiebig.

Both shows begin at 7 p.m., and are performed outdoors on the grounds of the Poe House at the Museum of the Cape Fear on Arsenal Avenue. Fieberg has chosen to perform outdoors because, “doing any type of theatre is about making magic and there are a lot of ways to go about getting that magic; the play itself, the scenery, costumes, lighting, the effects, actors, music. For Sweet Tea, much of that magic comes from the beautiful environment of Southeast North Carolina. We are about beautiful spaces and beautiful words; we selected the Poe House because it is a beautiful environment. It adds to the magic of the play, the magic we bring as actors, musicians and artists.

“Sweet tea is something everybody has in common around here, it is everywhere, and it is something everyone can enjoy. Shakespeare can be, and is, all of those things, too. We want to be the best party in town. A lot of Sweet Tea Shakespeare is built around the idea of community and an event. When you come to Sweet Tea Shakespeare, you are getting a great production of a play but you are also going to get the opportunity to hang out with other people. We want Shakespeare to be at the center of that party. But that party doesn’t happen unless the community is there.”

Find out more about Sweet Tea Shakespeare at www.sweetteashakespeare.com.

If you follow Ben Franklin’s philosophy, then you have probably heard the phrase that “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” If that is the case, then you are not going to want to miss the Blues-n-Brews Festival on Saturday June 7 at Festival Park.

The festival is the only fundraiser held each year by the CFRT. The funds raised by this fun and musical event are used to stage the award-winning professional shows produced by the theatre each season. So while there is a very serious reason for this annual venture, the day itself promises to be anything but serious, with great food, music, games and beer on tap.

Co-chaired by Jenny Beaver Deviere and Karen Tinsdale, the festival will feature close to 60 breweries/beer distributors highlighting some of their top beers. The price of beer tasting is included in the ticket price, with each ticket holder receiving a glass specifically for tasting. Again this year, Dirtbag Ale, a local micro brewer operated by three soldiers, will be on hand to showcase beer made right here in the community, of course they will be joined by bigger brewers like The Mash House and Huske Hardware House.

Deviere pointed out that the festival has grown in size since its move from Campbellton Landing, and now in addition to lines of brewers, there are also lines of participants waiting to enter the gate when the festival opens at 5 p.m. If you want to bypass the lines and get a jump on tasting, you can opt for a VIP ticket, which will get you in the door at 4 p.m. VIP tickets inlcude early admission and a one-hour private beer sampling, the opportunity to judge the beer tasting contest to name the best of show, a catered dinner, snacks throughout the evening and a private lawn for listening to the music. The VIP area is open only to those 21 years of age and older. No children are allowed in the area. Deviere noted that while children are not prohibited from attending, it is designed to be an adult experience.

New this year is a game area where, for a small fee, attendees can play corn hole and a “beer pong”-like game for prizes. For those not purchasing VIP tickets, there will be food vendors on hand. No outside food or alcohol can be brought into the park.

The evening would not be complete without the Blues, and the three bands slated to play will keep the park rocking. Fayetteville’s own Ethan Hanson will take a turn on stage, followed by the Fat Bastard Blues Band, with the Holy Ghost Tent Revival wrapping the evening up.

Tickets, which can be purchased in advance at www.cfrt.org, are $30, which includes tasting or $15 non-drinkers. VIP tickets are $60.

VA Scandal: The Fox Is In the Hen House

As I write this editorial, many people are just waking up. Some of you may have planned to venture downtown and honor our fallen military at Memorial Day events. Even as we remember and honor their sacrifices, our government continues to dishonor them through cuts to benefits and most heinous their treatment at VA hospitals.

The VA scandal is rocking the nation and folks are lining up to either throw rocks at the VA, make excuses or demand answers. Sadly, it is the people who continue to cut the budgets for veterans care that are shouting the loudest and demanding the most answers. Except, of course, the talking heads from the White House, who once again noted that the President was shocked to hear about the problems at the VA, and in fact, didn’t know anything about it until he heard about it on television.

Is anyone really buying that line anymore? And, if you are, doesn’t it frighten you that our Commander In Chief finds out about the biggest problems facing our nation not from briefings from his staff, but from television journalists? But, I digress.

The VA has long been understaffed, under funded and kept in a state of disrepair. Veterans utilizing their services can expect long wait times — not just for primary care appointments, but also in the emergency room. All of which, is also true of many public hospitals today, but the VA’s shortcomings are complicated by staffing issues and administrators looking for shortcuts to meet goals that are quite frankly not achievable. (This is also true of military healthcare. I have often said that the care I receive at military facilities is top notch, the problem is the process you have to go through to get there.)

There are many who work in the VA (and in military healthcare) who are passionate about their jobs. And then there are those that just show up to get a paycheck. Thankfully, some of those employees worked at the Arizona VA and brought this national shame to light.

In a time line recently published in USA Today, the scandal is traced back to 2012 when a VA doctor went public with the problems. Early 2012, Dr. Katherine Mitchell, warned Sharon Helman, incoming director of the Phoenix VA Health Care System, that the Phoenix ER is overwhelmed and dangerous. Mitchell alleges she was told within days by senior administrators that she had deficient communication skills and was transferred out of the ER.

Later that year, the VA implemented the electronic wait-time tracking and promised to make improved patient access a top priority. In December, the Government Accountability Office tells the Veterans Health Administration that its reporting of outpatient medical-appointment wait times is “unreliable.” This is where the “secret” wait list came into effect.

In September 2013, Mitchell filed a confidential complaint intended for the VA Office of Inspector General, channeled through Arizona Sen. John McCain’s office. Her list of concerns instead goes to the Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs and eventually back to the VA. For her efforts, Mitchell was placed on administrative leave.

Several other VA employees go to bat for their patients, and each one who filed complaints was administratively punished. And that brings us to where we are today. The President says those responsible for the lack of care will be held accountable, yet the head of the VA keeps his post. And the White House keeps pushing for cuts to veterans benefits.

It’s kind of hard to protect our veterans, when the fox is in the hen house.

Lately, a lot of people are concerned about their social networking presence. Below are some tips on how to put your best public face forward on social networking sites.

Be selective in what you post. First, and probably most important, do not post anything on any social networking site that you would not want your current employer, coworkers, potential employers, parents or children to see. Unless you are an expert at changing the (sometimes) esoteric security settings on most social media sites, it is best to be selective in what you post. One very important reason to adhere to this standard is that most employers perform a general search for your name when you apply for a job.

Do not post defamatory remarks about others, especially your employer or coworkers. Online posts containing profanity or threats, whether they are your words or not, can lead to legal issues at your place of employment. Recently, a case in New Jersey involved a college professor posting a picture of his daughter wearing a shirt printed with the words “I will take what is mine in fire and blood,” ( a quote from the television show Game of Thrones). The professor was ultimately dismissed from his position, as his college perceived this as a direct threat.

If you cannot do without social networking sites, please try to follow these rules: Never disclose your physical location. This includes not posting items about when and where you are going on vacation, which can serve as an invitation to would-be thieves. Some social networking sites have a GPS feature that enables the sites to track your every move. This setting can be turned off. Normally, the setting can be found under location settings. The social-media sites do this for marketing purposes, which is why the sites are free to the public.

Configure the highest possible security settings when using Facebook or Twitter. Generally, this can be accomplished by choosing settings, then security settings. Be aware, however, that there are also some general settings that are security-related that are not listed under the security settings. For maximum security, turn on the setting that requires a secure log-on to access your account. This will require the use of HTTPS to log in.

Disable the auto-log-in feature. This will prevent others from using your credentials (and possibly submitting fraudulent posts).

Change the setting that allows others to search for you on social-media sites, if possible. This may help to keep your information from being seen by the general public.

To test your online privacy, start your own search — Google yourself. If you have a common name, you may need to narrow the search results by using specific terms, such as your location or current employer, as part of your Google search. For example, if your name is Betty Jones and you work at ABC Company, in the Google search field, type “Betty Jones ABC Company Fayetteville NC” to see more specific results that actually pertain to you. If you have a less common name (like mine), a simple Google search should reveal adequate results.TENETTE PREVATTE, Department Chair, Informa-tion Systems Security at FTCC, Contributing Writer. COMMENTS? Editor@upandcomingweekly.com. 910.484.6200.

Lace up those sneakers, runners! The Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation’s (ASOMF) 7th Annual Run for the Legend 5k/10K takes place June 7.

The 5K race begins at 8 a.m., while the 10K kicks off at 8:05 at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum on Hay Street in downtown Fayetteville.

Registration is $20 through June 6, when it increases to $25. T-shirts are limited to the first 500 people.

Competitive runners will start at the front of the start line, while those with strollers, wagons and well-behaved, leashed dogs will be asked to start in the back. Group rates are available by calling 910-643-2778.

The ASOMF Run for the Legend is sanctioned by USA Track & Field (USATF) and timed by the Atlantic Coast Timing Systems. The top three male and female runners will each receive trophies. Medals are provided for the top three per gender/per age group.

Paul Galloway, Executive Director for the Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation said, “All donations and proceeds from the event go to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum Foundation, whose mission is solely to support the U.S. Army’s Airborne & Special Operations Museum. The ASOM Foundation uses the funds to maintain and update exhibits and fund educational programs.”

The main tag-line for the ASOM is “The Legend Continues,” which refers to the paratroopers and special operations soldiers from past, present and future. While the race was first held in 2007, beginning in 2008, that tagline became the official name of the run.

The museum is free and open to the public, Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. The museum is closed Mondays and Federal Holidays but open Memorial Day, July 4 and Veteran’s Day. Various movies are played throughout the day at no charge, while a simulator ride is available for $5 per person.

Something new for this year’s event is a pre-race pasta dinner at the ASOM from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 6. The cost is $5 for children 12 and under; $8 for registered runners; $10 for non-runners; $12 for day of runners. Reservations should be made by June 2, by calling 643-2778.

The dinner is being provided to the ASOM Foundation by The Fireside Restaurant.

Run for the Legend joins a host of other races in the area in the coming months, including The Color Run, The Glow Run, Firecracker 4miler and Color Me Rad. Race organizers are also looking for volunteers to help with the event. If you, or someone you know, are interested in volunteering, please contact Catherine Hodge at info@asomf.org.

The Run is being sponsored by MJ Soffe, The Fayetteville New Car and Truck Dealers Association, BB&T, and Fireside Restaurant.

To register for the race, please visit www.active.com and search “Run for the Legends.”

For more information about the Airborne & Special Operations museum, please visit www.asomf.org, or download the free smart phone app by searching “airborne & special operations” in the app store.

Photo: Run for the Legend supports the Airborne Special Operations Museum Foundation.

The Gilbert Theater founded by Lynn Pryer was a proving ground for local artists who continued to hone their collective skills through contributing their education and experience to promote Fayetteville’s community theater. The Gilbert’s current artistic director, Robyne Parrish’s formula has provided a training ground for aspiring young artists with the addition of guest directors and artists in lead roles with whom she has worked in the past. This season’s finale is the best of both worlds. The double-billed finale uses both experienced local favorites in lead roles with young aspiring actors in supporting roles. The plays are A Company of Wayward Saints (1963), George Herman’s best known play, and Sherlock Holmes: The Sleeping Detective(2013) by local playwright James Dean, which is making its Gilbert debut.

A Company of Wayward Saints is about a traveling commedia dell’arte troupe searching for a way to finance its trip home. The cast includes two of Fayetteville’s seasoned actresses, Joyce Lipe and Rhonda Brocki. Lipe is one of the Gilbert’s founding actresses, creating the role of the narrator six consecutive seasons in the Gilbert’s centerpiece production A Christmas Carol. Brocki has worked on both sides of the footlights as an actress, choreographer and stage director. She directed and choreographed The Rocky Horror Show at the Gilbert for four seasons.

Brocki stated, “I am excited to be back on the Gilbert stage since last performing in Long Days Journey Into Night, in 2011. This is my first time doing commedia dell’arte, which I find a very interesting type of theatre. It is fun and big with lots of physical movement. There are some very funny moments along with some moments that touch the heart. The group of actors has been very professional, hard working and kind. This is an ensemble piece and we are all working well together.”

Sherlock Holmes: The Sleeping Detective is a new work by local actor and playwright James Dean, directed by guest director David Little. The show takes place in September of 1930.

When asked about his play Dean replied, “Several years ago, I played the role of Sherlock Holmes at Harnett Regional Theater. I really enjoyed that experience but the play itself (Sherlock Holmes, the Final Adventure) merely stitched together two of the Sherlock Holmes stories. I thought I could do something more interesting with the characters, so I gave Sherlock Holmes a few personal problems: age (he’s 76 and retired), damaged legs and narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder. Because of the narcolepsy, there is a mixture of reality and dreams and often we are not sure what is real, what is dream or what is in the past. One thing we know for sure: Holmes is not the man he used to be and he has to constantly remind his good friend and caretaker, Dr. Watson, of that fact.”

This is Dean’s second experience with David Little, who directed him as Scrooge two years ago at the Gilbert. “We got on famously during that production. I happened to mention that I wrote this play about Sherlock Holmes and he said he wanted to read it because he loved Sherlock Holmes.”

The cast of Sherlock Holmes includes the playwright as Holmes and his colleague, friend and fellow actor, John Doerner as Dr. John Watson. Doerner is a drama teacher at Reid Ross High School and FTCC, a director and actor who has performed on stage in more than 100 productions. He is what many would call a consummate artist. When asked about the casting of the performance Dean added, “I always had John Doerner in mind for my Watson. We have worked together a number of times through the years but working with John is never enough. You always want more. Not only is he one of the best directors I have worked with but a fine actor and our on stage time together had always been in roles that did not allow us much extensive stage time together. The Sleeping Detective solves that problem, and now the action begins!”

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to see some of Fayetteville’s finest and most loved thespians. The performances take place May 29 through June 15, Thursday – Sunday, with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturdays and Sundays; Thursday – Saturday nights at 8 p.m. The shows alternate so contact the Gilbert for proper show times and reservations. www.gilberttheater.com.DR. GAIL MORFESIS, Contributing Writer COMMENTS? Editor@upand-comingweekly.com.

Fayetteville has a long and distinguished military history and its citizens have made contributions in all of our Nation’s conflicts. In conjunction with the 200th Anniversary (2012-2014) of the War of 1812, the Fayetteville Transportation & Local History Museum, offers an exhibit that examines the role of our local community and the Nation during what is often referred to as America’s “forgotten war.”

At the outbreak of the War of 1812, Fayetteville drafted a resolution in which they declared their support and this resolution read in part;… “we will aid and support our government against the enemy and against all other powers, for effective defense and protection from abroad and ensuring tranquility and union at home.” After the declaration of war in 1812, the Robeson Republican Volunteers, a local militia unit, 70 men strong, marched out of Fayetteville. Brigadier General Thomas Davis (1764-1822) was Fayetteville’s ranking military officer emerging from the War of 1812, and commanded North Carolina’s First Brigade, which included local militia units. By June of 1813, a British fleet established a blockade of the Chesapeake Bay Region. Soldiers came ashore at various times and places to seize goods and harass residents. They grew bolder in their excursions, sacking various coastal towns. A British naval squadron was sent to the Ocracoke Inlet and briefly occupied Portsmouth, creating a panic throughout eastern North Carolina. Governor Hawkins called up local militia units in defense of North Carolina’s coastal ports and cities. The Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry was deployed to Wilmington in defense of the state’s principal port city. Preparatory to their departure, the men of the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry were assigned the duties of obtaining bread, bacon, spirits, wagons, pots, kettles and all other things necessary for the deployment. In addition, each member was levied five dollars to handle the expenses. The men of Fayetteville not only served in various militia units but also volunteered for service in the regular army and navy.

Beyond the military experience, the exhibit at the Transportation & Local History Museum explores life on the home front. Various domestic artifacts featured in the exhibit give the museum visitor a feel for life during the Federal period. During this period the quintessential symbol was the American eagle and other popular motifs included Greek- and Roman-style portraits and busts of patriotic leaders like George Washington, urns and urn-shaped designs, stars and stripes. Federal style furniture was typically light, graceful and simple with clean edges and straight lines. The exhibit also explores other domestic topics to include period architecture, fashion and literature.

At the North Carolina Veterans Park six large banners from the United States Navy History Museum profile the contributions of the Navy and Marine Corps during the War of 1812. These banners will supplement the educational panels on the War of 1812 already on display in the Veterans Park Visitor Center. The War of 1812 strengthened the young United States and firmly established its position in the world. It preserved American territorial and political integrity and helped to set the fledging new Republic on the road to greatness.

To learn more about the War of 1812, visit the Transportation and Local History Museum located at 325 Franklin Street and the North Carolina Veterans Park located at 300 Bragg Blvd. Admission is free. For more information call 433-1457.

After the declaration of war in 1812, the  Robeson Republican Volunteers, a local militia unit, 70 men strong, marched out of Fayetteville.

In 2002, Project Safe Neighborhood came to Fayetteville under the Operation Ceasefire name. The program is part of a national initiative that was started under the Bush Administration in 2001. It is rooted in successes from programs that were implemented in Boston, Mass., and Richmond, Va., in the late 1990s.

On June 6, at J.S. Spivey Rec Center, Operation Ceasefire presents Escape from Planet Earth. The movie is free and open to the public. It starts at 7:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on and enjoy an evening with friends.

According to the Operation Ceasefire website, the goal is “To improve the quality of life for all residents of Fayetteville/Cumberland County by reducing gun and gang violence in our community.” Lisa Jayne is a part of the Fayetteville Police Department and serves as the Operation Ceasefire Coordinator; she describes Operation Ceasefire as having three core elements, “intervention, suppression and prevention.”

The intervention component comes from a series of meetings Jayne refers to as “Call-ins.” “We work with Probation Parole; they send us about 100 parolees that are currently on probation or parole for gun crimes … That list gets narrowed down to around 30 individuals. We meet at Kingdom Impact Ministries as the faith based aspect is a part of Ceasefire, too. The parolees are given an appointment for a follow-up assessment with me. They are then put into a resource room … to provide education resources, jobs, healthcare, anything that people with felony convictions on their records have a hard time with. I also have speakers who have been there and done that… to give them some hope for how things can be turned around. After the speakers, there is a panel of all the law enforcement agencies of the area, from federal to state; they give them some tough love.”

Suppression is a joint effort between local and federal law enforcement. From Jayne, “We have a very strong relationship with Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms... Any cases, tips, or anything done at the state level, we funnel it through the ATF to see if they can take the case federally. Federal sentences are much longer than state sentences … you don’t get out for good behavior… there is no parole or early release.”

Jayne says that prevention is accomplished by a number of initiatives including the Movie Night program, “In 2007, we purchased outdoor movie equipment … We go into neighborhoods that are disadvantaged with a free movie, popcorn and soda. The police are on hand, while the children are watching a movie … if the public wants to talk to the police about a certain area where they may see a problem or if there are people causing problems. It is over two hours of face-to-face time in a non-threatening, laid back and family atmosphere.” The program also utilizes a gang detective that goes and does presentations about gangs that are just for adults. To promote gun safety, gun locks are distributed at no charge to anyone who owns a gun that also has children.

For more information about Operation Ceasefire and any of its programs, including the Movie Night schedule, visit their website at www.ceasefire.ci.fayetteville.nc.us. Program Coordinator Lisa Jayne is available to provide information on the program, volunteering and donation opportunities at 910-433-1017 or LJayne@ci.fay.nc.us.