In Cumberland County there are more than 600 chronic homeless people and several agencies have planned to do something about it. The Cumberland County Continuum of Care, Cumberland County and City of Fayetteville will host Project Homeless Connect 2013 on May 16 at the Smith Recreation Center from 7:30 am until 1:30 p.m.

“Project Homeless Connect 2013 came from the initiative of the 10-year plan to end homelessness back in 2009,” said Adolph Thomas, community relations specialist of The City of Fayetteville’s Community Development Department. “The 10-year planning committee made it an obligation to conduct a Project Homeless Connect each year and they passed the plan on to The Cumberland County Continuum of Care.”

One way to help is to donate items that will be given to the attendees. The following items are needed: socks, chapstick, sunblock, paper cups, underwear, bug repellent, sleeping bags, wet wipes, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, ponchos, backpacks, tote bags, foot powder and gallon Ziploc bags. “We put out a letter to schools, churches and human-service agencies to see if they can make this their project and donate these items,” said Thomas.

“Our goal is to see 300 of the 600 individuals walk through the door,” said Thomas. “The agencies on hand are tasked to provide immediate services for these individuals or families for that day.” Thomas added that if housing is an issue for a particular family or individual the agency will take the family and help them to find housing on that same day.

Various agencies will be on site for the event, including the Metropolitan Housing Authority, Urban Ministry, medical professionals, homeless-shelter providers, Salvation Army, Better Health, Cumberland Interfaith Hospitality Network, Cape Fear Regional Bureau for Community Action, Inc. and others. Breakfast will be provided by the Epicenter Church, lunch by the Kingdom Impact Global Ministries and desserts and refreshments by the Salvation Army. The city stage will be set up for entertainment from the 71st High School, Reid Ross, and E.E. Smith’s bands and other groups.

FAST transit will provide free transportation to the event for any homeless person

“Cumberland County has never had its own homeless foundation,” said Thomas. “This is the first year that we have a homeless foundation at the Cumberland Community Foundation, where the average person can donate money from their computer to the Cumberland County homeless.” Thomas added that this is going to be a major campaign for the foundation and the monies will be used to help the shelters and organizations provide quick care for the homeless.

Donations may be delivered to the Cumberland County Community Development Department at 707 Executive Place by May 3. Checks can be made out to Cumberland Community Foundation Inc. Project Homeless Connect, and mailed to 308 Green Street, PO Box 2345, Fayetteville, NC 28302. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The website for monetary donations is www.cumberlandcf.org.

For more information and to donate call 323-6112.

Photo: There are more than 600 chronic homeless people in Cumberland County. Project Homeless Connect, on May 16, brings together several agencies to help them connect with resources and services aimed at ending homelessness.

Travel is a leading American industry that’s more than just fun. In fact, travel and tourism is one of the country’s leading industries — it impacts the economies of the nation, the state and here in Cumberland County. May 4-12, we recognize the impact of this industry with National Travel & Tourism Week, a national celebration from the U.S. Travel Association that champions the value of travel. The 2013 theme for National Travel & Tourism Week is “Travel Effect.”

Nationwide, travel supports 14.6 million jobs with a $200.9 billion payroll. U.S. travelers generate $2 trillion in economic impact that contributes $128.8 billion in tax revenues for federal, state and local governments. In fact, without travel and tourism’s contribution to the tax base, each household would be taxed an additional $1,060 per year.

In 2011, domestic visitors spent $18.4 million across North Carolina, generating $2.8 billion in tax receipts. This is an 8 percent increase from the previous year and a record high spending fi gure. North Carolina tourism supports 187,900 jobs for North Carolina residents and contributes $4.18 billion to the state’s payroll.

Of North Carolina’s 100 counties, Cumberland County generates the eighth highest economic impact from domestic tourism. In 2011, the industry generated $450.11 million in expenditures and $33.96 in state and local tax revenues. This represents a $104.53 tax savings to each county resident. Additionally, Cumberland County’s tourism industry employs 4,200 people with a payroll of $80.97 million. Tourism is Cumberland County’s second largest industry.

Marketing the community

The Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau works to maximize the economic impact of travel and tourism in Cumberland County. That figure is steadily rising. From 2001 to 2011, domestic tourism expenditures grew 83 percent from $245.99 million to the present fi gure of $450.11 million.

The bureau is funded through occupancy taxes collected from overnight visitors at Cumberland County hotels and administered by the Tourism Development Authority (TDA). This means that no local taxpayer money is used for the promotion of travel and tourism. (The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and The Crown Center also receive a portion of occupancy tax collections.)

You might wonder how the FACVB markets the community to visitors. Each year, we produce a detailed program of work that outlines the program for the coming year. All marketing decisions are research-based, allowing us to pinpoint the wants and needs of the visitor.

Some tactics/projects on the plan include:

• Attending trade shows to secure leads for meeting planner, group tour operator and sports tournament business.

• Managing and maintaining a comprehensive website that promotes the entire Cumberland County travel industry

• Public relations efforts to secure positive publicity on Cumberland County as a travel destination. These efforts may include social media contests, writer visits, press releases, event listing in trade and Web publications and outreach to targeted journalists.

• Development of a Destination Guide to cover all travel markets

• Targeted advertisement with lead generation for continued marketing

The FACVB continues to maximize the impact of travel and tourism on our economy by providing programs and services for visitors to Cumberland County. We always keep an eye on the visitor — and work to fulfi ll their needs.

BECAUSE THE VISITOR

Because the visitor has a need, we have a job to do.

Because the visitor has a choice, we must be the better choice.

Because the visitor has sensibilities... we must be considerate.

Because the visitor has an urgency, we must be quick.

Because the visitor has high expectations, we must excel.

Because the visitor has influence, we have hope of more visitors. Because of the visitor, we exist.

- Karl Yena Yena & Associates

As America’s First Military Sanctuary Community, we take our patriotism seriously. Home to Fort Bragg, one of the largest military installations in the U.S., we feel it’s important to stand behind our troops, and we embrace any opportunity to salute those who put their lives on the line to defend our freedom.

While the rest of the country sets aside one day in May, Memorial Day, to honor fallen members of the military, Fayetteville/Cumberland County dedicates the entire month to celebrate service members, veterans and their families with the annual series of events called 31 Day Salute, now in its fifth year.

This community-wide “salute to soldiers” reflects the collaboration of numerous Cumberland County businesses and organizations dedicated to showing their appreciation for the military through a variety of patriotic performances, ceremonies, exhibits, concerts and fairs.

Nearly 40 local groups are participating in this year’s 31 Day Salute, from military charities to cultural and historical associations, each committed to showing what soldiers, veterans and their families mean to our proud military community.

We encourage and welcome patriots from all over the country to visit Fayetteville/ Cumberland County in May to say thank you to those in uniform while enjoying our entertaining events.

This year’s, 31 Day Salute features exciting new events and many returning favorites. Helping to kick things off is the Fort Bragg Fair, which runs through May 12. This annual festival features carnival rides, live music and entertainment, games, food and fun for the whole family.

The Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum will give history buffs a chance to re-live Fayetteville’s patriotic past with guided tours of the War of 1812 and Civil War exhibits at the museum and the rare opportunity to tour the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry Museum and Armory, where participants will learn about the early militia system. Other stops include Liberty Point, the F.I.L.I. Parade Grounds, Cross Creek Cemetery and the N.C. Veterans Park.

Hundreds of American flags will fly on the parade grounds of the Airborne and Special Operations Museum starting May 12, with the opening of the 2013 N.C. Field of Honor. Honoring those who currently serve, those who have served and the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation’s freedom, each flag also comes with its own story and displays a large yellow ribbon identifying the person who sponsored the flag and the flag honoree.

Just across the street, the North Carolina Veterans Park will host an Armed Forces Day celebration, which will include a memorial service, a wreath-laying and a table ceremony featuring the Jack Britt High School JROTC color guard.

Those looking for a true military experience can head over to Fort Bragg for the 82nd Airborne Division Living History Weekend. On May 23, the 82nd Airborne Division will hold its offi cial Memorial Service honoring the 7,000 82nd Airborne Division soldiers who lost their lives between 1918-2012. During that time, the 82nd Airborne Division Museum will also display the Living History Encampment, which covers the division’s history from 1917-1999.

A living history program, Pearl Harbor: The Imperial Japanese Navy’s “Flawed” Victory, will be presented at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex. The event will provide a detailed look at “lessons learned” from the attack on our Pacific Fleet on Dec. 7, 1941. Jason Wetzel, staff historian with the Office of Army Reserve History, Headquarters – United States Army Reserve, will be on hand to speak about the amazing blunders of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Members of the military will also receive special discounts at several local businesses throughout the month of May. Fascinate-U Children’s Museum is offering half-price admission to all military families and free admission to families of deployed soldiers and The Climbing Place will offer a special discounted rate of $10 to those with a valid military ID.

For a full listing of events, details and participating organizations during the 31 Day Salute, please visit www.31daysalute.com. With diverse events that will appeal to all ages and interests, there is something for everyone. Fayetteville/Cumberland County invites both locals and out-of-town travelers to come out and join us as we salute soldiers, veterans and their families throughout the month of May.

For many around the world, Armed Forces Day is a time to come together and thank military members for their patriotic service. In honor of this special day, the Army’s Army, a nationally recognized 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization made up of citizens and businesses who have pledged their support to those in the military, will partner with Cross Creek Cycling Club (C4) to host the 2013 Ride To Honor.

The Army’s Army has proudly been supporting our troops for more than fi ve years and is truly dedicated to honoring and recognizing our brave servicemen and women. Providing various types of military support through programs such as relocation fairs and events geared towards soldiers, veterans and their families, the Army’s Army is committed to “watching over those who watch over us.”

Now in its second year, Ride To Honor is a 34- and 61-mile bicycle ride that raises funds to support the Army’s Army. Hosted in collaboration with Cross Creek Cycling Club, the ride will lead participants along a scenic route traversing Cumberland, Lee and Harnett counties.

Featuring rest stops that are sponsored by Flat Branch Fire Department and Spring Hill United Methodist Church, bikers will have the opportunity to grab a snack and take a moment to breathe while excited volunteers cheer them on.

Opening ceremonies for this year’s Ride To Honor will begin at 8:30 a.m., on Saturday, May 18 at Mendoza Park in Spring Lake. Long-time partners of the Army’s Army, the Cumberland Oratorio Singers, will kick off the ceremony with the “National Anthem”, followed by remarks from special guest John Meroski, CEO of the Fayetteville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and Chairman of the Army’s Army. The American Legion Auxiliary will also be on site serving breakfast to cyclists and spectators.

The Combat Vets Association and the American Legion Riders, in conjunction with the Spring Lake Police Department and Harnett County Sheriff’s Department, will also be on hand to escort the cyclists throughout the day. After completing the tri-county trek, race participants will be welcomed back to Mendoza Park and enjoy post-race activities and refreshments provided by Army’s Army partner, Sonic.

The registration fee for riders is $45; Wounded Warriors and children under the age of 13 are invited to ride for free. To register for the Ride To Honor, visit www.active.com/cycling/spring-lake-nc/ride-to-honor-2013 or check out the Ride To Honor Facebook page for more information.

Ride To Honor is part of 31-Day Salute, a month-long celebration of performances, exhibits and activities throughout Cumberland County that show appreciation, respect and support for those who serve and have served in the military.

In addition to participating in Ride To Honor, many C4 members, which include both active duty and retired military, volunteer and compete in several other community and charitable events throughout the year, including the Ride to Recovery, the Wounded Warrior ride on Fort Bragg and countless other rides across the Southeast United States. The club also participates in various non-ride activities that support the community, including Operation Spin Cycle, which assists wounded soldiers in the Warrior Transition Battalion on Fort Bragg.

Photo: Ride To Honor is a 34- and 61-mile bicycle ride that raises funds to support the Army’s Army.

31 Day Salute is a month-long celebration of performances, ceremonies, exhibits and activities where we invite the world to do what the Fayetteville community does every day — show our enthusiastic appreciation, respect and support for those who serve and have served in our armed forces. Put on by the entire community, 31 Day Salute is for anyone who wants to experience our military heritage and honor our brethren in the services — past and present. As part of this salute to our military, the Museum of the Cape Fear is hosting a military history lecture series.

Beginning on May 2, at 6:30 p.m., Jim Greathouse, a member of North Carolina’s War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee, will provide a PowerPoint presentation on War of 1812 Gunboats. Three Jeffersonian gunboats were built in Smithville (now Southport), North Carolina. They were given the designation of gunboats 166, 167 and 168. The gunboats were small ships with a crew of about 40 offi cers, sailors and marines. Soon after the War of 1812 began, gunboat 166 was given a proper name and christened the U.S. Schooner Alligator. The Alligator saw action service along the North and South Carolina coastlines. In January of 1814 she defeated a much larger attacking British naval force. Months later the 64-foot schooner sank in Port Royal Sound, S.C., during a storm. She was raised and refi tted for further wartime service. Greathouse’s presentation also commemorates the War of 1812 Bicentennial, which will last until 2015. This presentation is a great opportunity to learn more about a forgotten war. (Some historians refer to the War of 1812 as America’s second war for independence.)

The second in the series will take place on May 9, at 6:30 p.m. Red, White, Blue, & Black: A History of African Americans in the United States Military will be presented by Charles Anderson, Jr., adjunct professor with Methodist University. His talk examines the role played by African Americans in the history of the United States military, from before the American Revolution to present day. Anderson is a veteran of the United States Army. This amazing story delves into the contributions of many brave and determined young men who were denied rights and denied admittance into the army but were called upon to fi ght in all the early wars. When fi nally allowed into the military, it was on a segregated basis until President Truman integrated the army in 1948. Since the early days of our nation as much as 20 percent of the Navy has always been made up of African Americans.

The third and final lecture will take place on May 16, at 6:30 p.m. Jason Wetzel, staff historian with the Office of Army Reserve History, Headquarters – United States Army Reserve, will talk about Pearl Harbor: The Imperial Japanese Navy’s “Flawed” Victory. Wetzel’s presentation will include the amazing blunders of the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor and he will provide a detailed look at “lessons learned” from the attack on our Pacific Fleet on Dec. 7, 1941. Real surprises are revealed. Wetzel states “It could have been a lot worse, why?” The attack on Pearl Harbor was one of the most signifi cant events in our nation’s history and was the fi nal straw that took us into World War II.

All three lectures are free and open to the public. They take place the fi rst three Thursdays in May. Mark your calendar and plan to join in on this salute to the Armed Forces by learning more about our military’s history. For more information please call 910-486-1330 or visit the following websites: http://museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov or http://nccultureevents.com.

31 Day Salute originated in 2008 and it is put on by the entire community. It is for anyone who wants to experience our military heritage and honor our brethren in the services — past and present. For more information browse the website at http://www.31daysalute.com/.

Photo: Jim Greathouse, a member of North Carolina’s War of 1812 Bicentennial Committee, will provide a PowerPoint presentation on War of 1812 Gunboats. 

Another Chance for the

Prince Charles

The Hotel Prince Charles was given a reprieve by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court last week. The last minute deal to keep the hotel from falling into bankruptcy limbo was brokered between the current owner John Chen and David Levinson, the developer of the Anderson Creek Club.

In a strategic move, Chen signed over the title to Anderson’s holding company, King David LLC. The move, approved by the courts, gives Anderson the opportunity to conduct a six-month feasibility study to determine whether or not it is possible to renovate the hotel in a manner that will make it a cost-effective project.

Levinson hopes to turn the hotel into a mix-use project, with two-room condominiums (of about 450 square feet and with a price tag of less than $100,000) and offi ce space. Additionally, he wants to open a gym, a restaurant and a bar in the historic building. He estimates the price tag at about $6 million.

Additionally, the city will waive its judgment against Chen to get the project moving forward.

For many in the city this plan is good news. The 88-year-old building lends a lot of character to downtown. In its early days, it was the crown jewel to the city center. Over the years, the building has changed hands a number of times, and each time that has happened, city residents have applauded efforts to keep the grand building in use.

Over the past several months, seeing the building slowly crumble has been heartbreaking for many, while many others have taken up the chant of tear it down. Those who would prefer to see the hotel torn down argue that the real estate value of the land and the possibilities that it offers are far greater than any historic value the building brings to the city.

I can see both sides of the picture. In my hometown in Troy, the Hotel Troy was a classic edifice. The brick work is beautiful and historic. During its hey day, the interior was spectacular. But year after year, the building sat empty, and tiny pieces of its grandeur fell victim to looters and later to the elements.

At one point, the only option seemed to be to tear it down. But the people in that small town came together and found another answer. Today, that hotel houses a restaurant, an art gallery and a couple of shops. There is a lot more to do, but the money simply isn’t there.

The Prince Charles is in much better shape than the Hotel Troy was. The elements have not had their way with it, so that’s one thing in its favor. If Mr. Levinson can pull it off, the $6 million investment will breathe more life into the city center by bringing young residents downtown. It will breathe life into the downtown economy by bringing offices and entertainment to the city center.

It is our hope, that Levinson can indeed put his money where his heart seems to be and save this historic building. If not, this may be the last song for the Prince Charles.

Photo: The Prince Charles hotel gets another chance as investors ponder possible ways to reinvent the space.

Each year, Fayetteville residents shake off their winter blues with a huge celebration that we all know as the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival. Held in historic downtown and Festival Park, the three-day festival welcomes more than 200,000 visitors to the city center, all with one thing in mind — having a good time.

The festival, which kicks off on Friday, April 26, features live music, a street fair, food, friendly competitions and a midway. In years past, the festival has brought some of the top names in entertainment to the area and given local performers a chance to share their talent with visitors to the festival.

On Friday, the festival opens with the Bloom and Boom Kick-off Party featuring country musician, Joe Diffie. Diffie, best known for his songs “Pickup Man” and “John Deere Green,” gained success in the ‘90s, including 12 number one songs, 20 Top 10 songs and four gold and platinum albums.

Beyond his own successful recording career, Diffie is a successful songwriter, having written songs for Holly Dunn, Tim McGraw, Tracy Lawrence, Conway Twitty and Jo Dee Messina. At the conclusion of Diffie’s concert, the skies over Fayetteville will bloom with one of the best fireworks shows of the year.On Saturday night, Southern Rock will rule in Festival Park, as the Dogwood Festival welcomes not one, but two of America’s favorite Southern rock bands — Blackfoot and Molly Hatchet.

Blackfoot, known for hits like “Train, Train” and “Highway Song,” is keeping the legacy of Southern Rock alive by touring and sharing its music with a whole new generation. Blackfoot will hit the stage at 7 p.m.

Molly Hatchet is best known for its hit album Flirtin’ With Disaster. Still fronted by two of its original members, Dave Hlubek and Steve Holland, the band has toured all over the world and has held fast to its hard-rocking ways. The band will hit the stage at 9 p.m.

On Sunday, the Festival Park stage will be fi lled from 1-4 p.m. and will feature four sets. The opening set will feature 45 RPM, a local all-female band. The band will be followed by B. Smyth, a 19-year-old native of Flordia, who gained national notoriety through YouTube posts of his work. He is an up and coming R&B singer who recently signed with Motown.

Kayla Brianna, another R&B singer, will also grace the stage. An Interscope Records performer, Kayla Brianna is the daugher of former UNC and NBA star Kenny Smith.

The final act of the day is Prince NeFew and Da Mill. The group is made up of 11-year-old rapper Prince NeFew, his 9-year-old brother T-man, and their sisters Moda and Libby and cousin, Lulu. Their debut EP, Bookbags to Briefcases features the song “Bully” which is gaining national attention.

In addition to great entertainment and three days packed full of downtown fun, the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival sanctions events throughout the community throughout the month of April and throughout the Dogwood Festival weekend.

• The Mid-Carolina Senior Games run through April 27. The event is part of a network that promotes health and wellness for seniors statewide. There are 53 local games in which seniors compete involving more than 25 sporting events and visual and performing arts as well. Events include: basketball, track events, billiards, line dancing and more. Drawing, oil painting, essays, short stories, basket weaving, quilting, stained glass and woodcarving are just a few of the heritage arts included in the senior games. The performing arts segment of the event includes comedy, drama, vocal, dance and instrumental pieces. There are still a few days left. Visit www.ncseniorgames.org or call at (919) 851-5456 to find out more.

• The Fayetteville-Cumberland Crimestoppers Barbeque is scheduled for Friday, April 26 at 2800 Raeford Rd. in the Highland Center near Harris Teeter. It runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and costs $6 per plate. Proceeds from this event benefit Crimestoppers Fayetteville/Cumberland County. The crimestoppers program was brought to Fayetteville in 1984. Since coming to the community the program reports that it has “provided information resulting in the arrest of more than 3,108 felons and recovered more than $6.7 million in property and narcotics and have paid out more than $312,000.00 in rewards.” Find out more about crimestoppers at www.fay-nccrimestoppers.org.

• Guys, break out your seersucker suits and ladies, don those spring dresses. There is a Garden Party at Cross Creek Park on Friday, April 26. It’s the Boys and Girls Club of Cumberland County’s 4th Annual Garden Party — an event that is fast becoming a cherished part of the Dogwood celebration. Enjoy wine, beer, heavy appetizers and dancing. There is a best hat/sharp-dressed man contest, too. The event runs from 3-7 p.m. and costs $50 per person. It’s an adults-only party. Call 484-2639 for more information.

• Fascinate-U Children’s Museum will celebrate the Dogwood Festival on Friday, April 26. The museum will be open from 7-9 p.m. Admission is free that night and visitors are invited to make a dogwood fl ower to take home with them. Admission will be half price at Fascinate-U on Saturday and Sunday as part of the Dogwood Festival celebration. Find out more at www.fascinate-u.com.

• Watch as Fayetteville’s finest compete from 1-4 p.m. at Festival Park on Saturday, April 27. It is the Fayetteville Police Department vs. the Fayetteville Fire Department in a variety of events including a doughnut-eating contest, ladder-climbing contest, hot-wing eating contest and a tug-of-war contest. The winners will choose a high-ranking official from the losing team to take a “walk of shame” around Festival Park.

• The City Market/Farmers Market is in full swing and will be open from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, April 26 and from 9 a.m. -1 p.m. on Saturday, April 27. The market is located in the Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum parking lot on Franklin Street. Vendors include not only farmers selling things like produce, eggs and honey but other merchants selling soaps, woodworking items and more. Call 433-1457 to find out more.

• On Saturday, April 27, the Hogs & Rags Rally leaves the Airborne & Special Operations Museum and ends at Landry’s Seafood in Myrtle Beach. Funds from this event benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children, Kidsville News! and the American Cancer Society. Registration costs $50. Call 876-7272 for more information.

• After a fun day downtown, enjoy an Evening of Jazz at the Cotton Club Saturday night. The event takes place at the Metropolitan Room on Green Street from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. and is hosted by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. It costs $35 to attend. Call 797-1539 to find out more.

• Saturday, April 27, don’t miss The Last Kings at the Crown Coliseum at 7 p.m. Hip-hop and R&B fans are in for a treat. The Last Kings showcases the work of four rappers that are sure to entertain. Tickets cost $37.50. Call 484-4123 for more information.

• Learn to save a life at Hay Street United Methodist Church’s Hands Only CPR class on Saturday, April 27. The event is organized by Cape Fear Valley Health System, Chest Pain Center, Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation, Cumberland County EMS and Pine Forest Academy of Emergency Medical Services and is free. It starts at 6 p.m. Call 633-8301 for more information.

• FTCC graphic design students 28th Annual Portfolio Showcase: A Free Display of Graphic Design opens at the Arts Council on Saturday, April 27 at 5 p.m. Visitors to the event will enjoy photographs, illustrations, design layouts, and more. This exhibit runs from 5-8 p.m. for one night only. Call 678-9841 for more information. While you are there, check out the Public Works exhibit, which will also be at the Arts Council and hangs through May 18. Public Works is the one time a year that the Arts Council invites the public to submit artwork and displays all of the entries. Call the Arts Council at 323-1776 for more information about Public Works.

• Don’t miss the Cape Fear Harley Davidson Experience downtown on the 400 block of Hay Street on Saturday, April 27. From 1-4 p.m. Cape Fear Harley Davidson will be on hand for a round robin, including a Jump Start Harley simulator, fit shop, merchandise and more. There will also be a display of antique, new and Cape Fear Hog Chapter favorite motorcycles.

• From 1-6 p.m., also on the 400 block of Hay Street, Lafayette Ford presents the Lafayette Ford Classic Car Show. Check out Antique cars and trucks, restored classic vehicles and custom hot rods. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite while you are there.

• Snyder Memorial Baptist Church hosts comedian Dennis Swanberg on Sunday, April 28 at 6:30 p.m. Sometimes called America’s Minister of Encouragement, Swanberg delivers every time. The event is free. Call 484-3191 for more information.

Find out more about the Dogwood Festival at ww.faydogwoodfestival.com.

Photo top right: Joe Diffie, country’s original “Pickup Man,” will open the Dogwood Festival during the Bloom and Boom Party in Festival Park.

Bottom left: 2013 Festival Map. 

If you’ve never attended the Hogs & Rags Rally that happens each spring, this is a great year to join in the fun. This is the eighth year that the event has been a part of the Dogwood Festival festivities and it’s a fun way to make a difference by doing something good.

This day-long adventure involves a ride to Myrtle Beach, with stops along the way and at the end fellowship and refreshments. Hogs & Rags is scheduled for Saturday, April 27, and like in years past, the day will surely be a good time. The fact that the event raises funds for several good causes is a bonus. If ever there was a justifi cation for spending a day out in the sunshine, it is knowing that it is to support Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, the American Cancer Society and Kidsville News!

Don’t let the name confuse you. Hogs and Rags is for all makes and models of motorcycles, trikes, muscle cars and street rods.

“One thing we want to be clear about is that even though the name of the event is Hogs and Rags and hogs usually represent Harley-Davidsons and and rags usually means convertible cars — and that is how the event started — we want all kinds of motorcycles and all kinds of cars to participate,” said event spokesperson Wendy Rogers. “We don’t want the name to mislead people, this is a great time, it supports wonderful causes and we want everyone to know they are welcome.”

Local authorities from each county escort the hundreds of participants along the way. It’s been said that it is better to see the police lights in front of you than behind you, but on a serious note, the event organizers take safety seriously and do everything they can to make sure each and every rider is not only safe but has a good time, too. There is a quick talk about safety and riding in large groups before the ride starts, so if you are new to travelling in large groups, this would be a great fi rst ride.

Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. and runs through 9 a.m. at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum. Kickstands up at 9 a.m. as the caravan departs for Rocking A Ranch in White Oak, N.C. At the ranch, riders will be treated to a full country breakfast. At 10:45 a.m., it’s back on the road to Chadbourn for a short break and water stop. The ride continues on from Chadbourn to Landry’s Seafood at Myrtle Beach. Lunch will be served at Landry’s at 1:15 pm., where there will be entertainment and a reverse raffl e, too.

The event officially ends after lunch, but there is plenty to do at Myrtle Beach, and a big part of the day is left to enjoy the local attractions.

It costs $50 per entry and $30 per each additional rider. Of course, donations are always welcome and are tax deductible. The registration fee covers a T-shirt, hot breakfast at the Rockin’ A Ranch, a police escort to Myrtle Beach and lunch at Landry’s.

While the ride itself is a great reason to come out, the charities that are funded by the Hogs & Rags Rally proceeds benefi t greatly from this event. Since its inception, the organization has donated more than $90,000 to charities. Kidsville News!, The American Cancer Society and the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children all work to make the world a better place.

Find out more about Hogs and Rags at www.hogsandrags.com.

This past school year, 10 North Carolina Community Colleges, including FTCC, joined forces to form the North Carolina Advanced Manufacturing Alliance to educate and train unemployed and dislocated workers to enter the workforce with specific training and credentials needed by North Carolina employers. In addition to traditional certificates, diplomas and associate degrees, students will earn Career Readiness Certification as well as industry credentials valued by employers.

The alliance was successful in securing a federal grant through the U.S. Department of Labor and partnering with North Carolina’s leading employers to provide resources for changing the way workers are trained and students succeed. This change will offer a comprehensive skills assessment, provide a network of student support, implement state-of-the-art technology and match student internships with industry, creating a pipeline of students trained to meet the needs of employers and putting our friends and neighbors back to work in high-quality careers such as machining.

The FTCC Computer Integrated Machining Program prepares students for a career that moves a concept to reality through the design process to produce a final product. A wide variety of metalworking equipment from manual machinery to new computerized CNC (Computer Numeric Control) and EDM (Electrical Discharge Machine) machinery in the newly-equipped FTCC Machining Lab are provided for training. Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Machining (CAM) software are used in our new classroom computer lab to prepare students to meet employer standards.The Computer Integrated Machining Program provides:

• Flexible learning options

• Structured student support services

• Mobile learning programs promoting access to online courses and learning applications using iPads and a new Mac Lab.

• Curriculum enhanced by iTunes University, digital content and manufacturing career guidance

During the month of April, FTCC hosted a Manufacturing Awareness Week with activities centered on occupations related to manufacturing for middle school, high school and college students to become familiar with and aware of the opportunities that are available locally. Displays about FTCC programs were available, an open house with business and industry representatives was held, campus tours were conducted by local middle and high schools and Collier Cropp (Labor Relations Manager at Goodyear) met with our students at the first Lunchbox Speaker Series to discuss closing the skills gap in manufacturing, a presentation that was informative for our students and faculty.

FTCC is proud to be a part of the N.C. Advanced Manufacturing Alliance and work with our sister community colleges to educate and train a high performance workforce for careers in advanced manufacturing and meet the employment needs of business and industry.

For more information or to see how you can become a part of this exciting program, please contact Vanessa Cogdell, NCAMA program coordinator at cogdellv@faytechcc.edu or Gary Smith, Machining program coordinator at smithg@faytechcc.edu or 910-678-8427.

Photo: FTCC, along with other N.C. colleges joined forces to help train students and displaced workers to take on manufac-turing jobs.

Since 1915 Kiwanis Clubs have worked to bring communities together through service. Kiwanis Clubsare dedicated to improving their cities and working together to make a positive difference in the lives of as many people as possible. One of the biggest ways that Kiwanis is known for making an impact is through its support of children. The Fayetteville Kiwanis Club supports this community’s kids through its annual talent night, which takes place on May 10 at Cape Fear Regional Theatre. Admission is $5, and the tickets are available at the door.

For 62 years, the Fayetteville Kiwanis club has invited the young talent of the area to come out and perform for a chance to compete for cash prizes, trophies and scholarships. The competition and prizes are broken up into divisions by age. The first place winner in each division will receive a trophy and $100. The second place winner in each division will receive a trophy and $50. The third place winner in each division will receive a trophy and $25. Additionally, there will be four music scholarships awarded for the categories of voice, strings, piano and band instrument. These scholarships are $150. The overall winner of the competition will receive a trophy and $200.

Talent night supports the community in many different ways. It brings the community together to celebrate the young competitors and their abilities. It gives the children a chance to step out and try performing. Events such as these often spark a lifelong love of performing and often inspire the youth to further pursue their passions. One of the prizes that Kiwanis offers is a scholarship, so it goes directly to furthering the education of the Talent Night winners. Education is the key to the future, and the Kiwanis Club has always been dedicated to creating a brighter future for the entire community. Perhaps most important, from the contestants’ perspective at least, is that the Talent Night Showcase is fun.

Jason Poole is a Talent Night Committee member and has been a part of this event since 2003. “I like that this gives kids a chance to showcase what they can do — to get on stage and perform,” he said. “This is a great place for young people to get the experience of being on stage in a friendly environment. We all want to see these young performers do well. In fact, there are a few people who have done this and are now performers on Broadway.”

All performers are welcome to try out. Dancers, singers, entertainers and musicians of any kind have a chance at winning funds for school. It’s not too late to take part in this year’s event. Kiwanis Talent Night auditions will be held on May 4 at the Honeycutt Recreation Center, which is located at 4665 Lakewood Dr. The deadline for submitting an application is May 1. The application can be found online at upandcomingweekly. com or fayetvillekiwanis.org. The categories are preschool - 2nd grade; 3rd - 5th grade; 6th - 8th grade and 9th through 12th grade.

To all those potential contestants deciding whether or not to take the stage, Poole says, “Go out and do it — take the chance don’t be shy.”

The competition takes place on May 10, and starts at 7 p.m. Contestants must arrive 30 minutes early in order to prepare. For more information, visit fayettevillekiwanis.org.

Photo: Kids preschool through high school are invited to participate in the Fayetteville Kiwanis 62nd Annual Talent Night Showcase. 

I hope you’ve seen the pinwheels that have been popping up all over Cumberland County during the month of April. Gardens of bright blue pinwheels have been “planted” in numerous locations in honor of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. The pinwheel serves as a reminder of a happy, safe and carefree childhood, one that every child deserves. Adopted by Prevent Child Abuse America, more than a million pinwheels have been displayed nationwide since April 2008 when the campaign began. Locally, the Child Advocacy Center has coordinated with area schools, organizations and agencies to sponsor the gardens.

The Child Advocacy Center hosted a Pinwheel Garden planting on April 9 in honor of the 487 children served by the center in fiscal year 2012. The pinwheels will remain on display until the end of April.

As another reminder of Child Abuse Prevention Month, volunteers from the Child Advocacy Center are decorating many of the downtown black flower pots with giant, bright blue bows during the last week of April, just in time for 4th Friday and the Dogwood Festival.

Pinwheels and bright blue bows also serve as a reminder of the “power of play.” Taking time out to play with our children not only develops bonds of affection and joy but also helps children learn. Through play, children gain communication and social skills as well as developing their abilities to tackle problems and deal with conflict. Adults can reinforce children’s feelings of self-esteem and competence by interacting and encouraging them in their play time. We invite families to enjoy the many fun “play time” events and activities held in our community during April and May to recognize the power of play and to celebrate our community as a place that supports programs and policies that encourage children’s healthy development.

Joining hands with 19 community agencies, the Child Advocacy Center offers a safe and child-friendly place to interview, investigate and provide support for abused children. The CAC also provides prevention education for parents, professionals and agencies in our community. We look to a future where all children live in a safe and nurturing environment free from abuse.

If you’ve never been to the Duck Derby, this year’s event is something you won’t want to miss. It is with great excitement that Fayetteville Urban Ministry and Rick Hendrick Toyota Scion present the 3rd Annual Fayetteville Duck Derby.

The event takes place at Campbellton Landing on May 4. Located on the banks of the Cape Fear River, with shade trees and plenty of space to run and play, Campbellton Landing is the perfect place for such a community-centered event.

The Duck Derby promises to be a day filled with fun and excitement. From noon to 5 p.m., Fayetteville Urban Ministry and Rick Hendrick Toyota Scion will host this family-friendly festival that includes free admission and kid-friendly attractions like boat rides, train rides, craft stations, local merchandise, food vendors, live entertainment and a Kids’ Zone with lots of fun. The whole family can enjoy live music, dancing, the Duck Derby Hat Contest and a high school drum-line competition. While entrance to the Duck Derby is free, there will be food available for purchase and activities that cost money, so plan accordingly.

There will also be activity and information booths sponsored by more than 30 local non-profits. The content at the booths promises to engage, entertain and empower citizens of all ages. People will have a chance to learn about many of the organizations in the community that work to help make Cumberland County a better place.

While there is plenty to do all day long, the main event of the day is the actual duck races, and these take place later in the afternoon.

The first duck race features large rubber ducks that have been adopted by local businesses and organizations. A representative from each business will throw their duck into the river. This is a great way for local businesses to support the work of Fayetteville Urban Ministry as well as the community.

The main duck race will require more than people throwing rubber ducks off the bridge. This one involves dump trucks dropping more than 15,000 ducks into the Cape Fear River. It’s thrilling to watch, and even more exciting when you have a duck in the race. The grand-prize winner will receive a Toyota Scion xD. Other prizes include a bedroom suite from Restore Warehouse, a 60’ TV and a Cape Fear River cruise.

Each and every duck that floats down the river will benefit one of the local nonprofits that are participating in the event. Some of the organizations include the Fayetteville Urban Ministry, Special Olympics Cumberland County, Fayetteville Animal Protection Society, Child Advocacy Center, Cumberland County 4-H, Great Oak Youth Development Center, Camp Dixie, Unchained Cumberland County, The Haven Friends for Life, CONTACT of Fayetteville, Visions Resource Center, Cumberland Disaster and Recovery, Myrover-Reese Fellowship Homes, Better Health, American Red Cross, Dance Theatre of Fayetteville, Falcon Children’s Home, Partnership for Children, Cumberland County Communicare, Rockfish Camp and Retreat Center, Kids Peace, Enlighten the World Ministries, Fascinate-U Museum, Mount Carmel Pentecostal Holiness Church, Second Harvest Food Bank, Cape Fear Heroes, CEED, Fayetteville Family Justice Center, Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra, Gilbert Theater, Give an Hour Community Blueprint, Karen Chandler Trust and TIGAPA Village Foundation.

With so many worthy causes to support, there is something for everyone when it comes time to adopt a duck. In fact, many participating organizations are hoping that people will adopt several ducks and support more than one cause on derby day.

Last year this event raised about $48,000, according to Johnny Wilson, Fayetteville Urban Ministry executive director.

In addition to making sure everyone has a good time, one of the things that Wilson loves best is watching everyone enjoy themselves.

“When I get a chance to stop and look around an see the families and people standing there laughing and dancing and having fun, you can see our community connect and it represents what Fayetteville is,” said Wilson.

There is yet another fun way to participate in the Duck Derby. In the weeks leading up to the Duck Derby, the community is invited to participate in the appetizer and drink competition that is taking place among nine local restaurants. Visit Chris’s Open Hearth Steakhouse, Circa 1800 Restaurant & Bar, Hilltop House, Huske Hardware House Restaurant & Brewery, IT’Z Entertainment City, Luigi’s Italian Restaurant & Bar, Marquis Market, Morgan’s Chop House or The Wing Company and sample an appetizer or cocktail (specially concocted for the Duck Derby) and then visit www.duckrace.com and vote for your favorite. The competition has ended, and the winner will be announced at the Duck Derby and has bragging rights for a year.

There is still time for grown-ups to adopt a duck. It costs $5. Just go to www.duckrace.com and click on the adopt a duck tab.

Photo: Volunteers retrieve the ducks from the Cape Fear River after last year’s race.Cover photo credit: Rick Hendrick Toyota Scion and Fayetteville Urban Ministry presents Fayetteville Duck Derby 2013.

Set at the turn of the 19th century, Pride and Prejudice remains near the top of the “most loved books” in the world. The story, which explores the social issues of manners, upbringing, education and marriage in England, remains relevant and intriguing today. That’s one of the many reasons, the play was added to the season at the Cape Fear Regional Theatre. And, over the next two weeks, the theatre invites you to step back in time and enjoy this classic story as Pride and Prejudice comes to the CFRT stage.

“I love this story,” said Tom Quaintance, artistic director of the CFRT. “In a season where ‘Great stories told here’ was the guiding principle, Pride and Prejudice was an obvious choice for the season. This is one of the great romantic stories of all time.”

Quaintance said the story becomes real and remains relevant because of the strength of the characters that people it.

“There are such great characters in this story,” he said. “And one of the things we do well, is to produce shows that give us the opportunity to highlight the talent within our community and this show allows us to do that. We started the seasons with the modern, political story of Jesus Christ Superstar, so ending it with the faithful telling of this beloved story gives the season great balance.”

Quaintance explained that there are a number of adaptations of the book for theatre, but he is particularly fond of the version that will be staged at the CFRT.

“I love this adaptation. This is a very theatrical play, much like Around the World in 80 Days, this play demands the use of your imagination,” he explained.

Quaintance said that Elizabeth Bennet, the main character in the play, only leaves the stage once, and scenes flow quickly from one to another.

“This gives us the opportunity to tell the story in a different way,” said Quaintance. “It is also a very fast-paced story, where a character may talk about something and then you jump right into the middle of it.”

The period setting lends itself to a faster pace. Within 20 minutes of the play’s start, six or seven period dances happen. Quaintance said that it has been a lot of fun researching and integrating these pieces into the story. He noted that the story is very faithful to the period etiquette.

“This story has been told so many times that there is a lot to live up to,” said Quaintance. “It’s a great challenge.”

The play opens on Thursday, April 18 and Friday, April 19 with two preview performances. These performances give the cast, many of whom are New York based, to work out the kinks in the show. The preview shows have special ticket pricing of $10. The opening on Saturday, June 20, includes a reception with the cast. For tickets and information, visit www.cfrt.org.

Sunday, April 21, 2013 will be a day to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes … 4.75 miles to be exact. The 2013 Walk MS: Sandhills will be held at Honeycutt Park on 352 Devers St. in Fayetteville.

On this day, people will come together and join one another in a walk with the common goal of putting an end to multiple sclerosis. Affecting more than 13,500 people in the Carolinas alone, multiple sclerosis is a disease in which significant damage is done to the myelin sheath around the body’s nerves, thus negatively affecting the brain and spinal cord. With an opening ceremony at 1:30 p.m. and a route of nearly five miles, the walk will be held with the intentions to unite those who bravely stand against the disease and to raise $65,000 for research funding. Whether suffering from the disease or showing support for the fight against it, all are welcome to take part in this common goal.

This walk is one of 13 that the National MS Society hosts in the spring. During the fall, they host two biking events with the same goal. This generous organization, believe it or not, operates as a nonprofit. They understand that funding is a very important part of pursuing their goals and sincerely appreciate all who support the cause.

The money that is raised through their efforts goes to support critical funding for a variety of programs and services. Including those in the Tar Heel state, the National MS Society serves more than 14,000 people across the United States. Being good stewards of money, a generous portion of funding that the National MS Society receives is used to the benefit of those suffering. Going a step even further with their money, the organization funds research efforts along with several programs to help progress the unending and noble quest to find a cure for this horrible disease.

Monica Tierney of the National MS Society said that she appreciates all of the support that is shown in the Fayetteville area with regards to finding an end to multiple sclerosis. With a personal connection to multiple sclerosis in her own life, she joined the organization and hasn’t looked back. Seeing hundreds of people coming out and showing their dedication to the cause, Tierney is humbled to see just how far the organization has come. As well, she encourages everyone to come out and show support.

For those who would like to be a part of the walk, you can go to the National M.S. Society’s website and find the page for Fayetteville’s walk. From there, you will find several ways to get involved including donating to the cause, volunteering, joining or even starting a team to walk. The National MS Society encourages people to get involved in several of their programs and walks. If a great journey begins with a single step, then the greatest will begin when everyone steps together in unity.

Be the difference in someone’s life because the life that you save could be your own. Go to www.nationalmssociety.org for more information.

There are a few sure fire ways that natives to the area can gauge the coming of spring. First, the dogwood trees bloom. Second, the Fort Bragg Fair comes to town. This Fayetteville tradition has been a staple of spring for more than 30 years, and it has only grown as time has passed. This year the Fort Bragg fair will be as fun and family friendly as ever.

As in years past, this exciting and lively fair will offer carnival rides and entertainment galore — there will be something for everyone. Rhett Stroupe, special events coordinator said, “People should expect family fun in a safe and secure environment.”

The admission fee to enter the fair is $12 for general admission on Mondays through Fridays after 7 p.m. and $17 for the weekends. On weeknights after 7 p.m. the cost for military members with I.D. and children up to age 9 is $10. Senior citizens and the handicapped will be charged $7 for admission. On weekends military with I.D. and children up to the age of 9 will be charged $15, but the price remains the same for the handicapped and senior citizens regardless of the day. Additionally any children under the height of 36 inches will get into the fair free regardless of the day. The fair will be having a special on Mother’s Day, May 12. Mothers will be admitted for free when they are accompanied by a paying child who is over 36 inches in height, up to the age of 17 — all in celebration of the sacrifi ces and hard work that mothers go through. The price of admission includes unlimited rides on all carnival rides and tickets to any show that is happening at the fair. Parking is free.

This year the fair has an incredible line up of live entertainment. Shows are subject to change, but all of the entertainment opportunities at the fair are astounding.

“This year the fair will have added value entertainment acts including the Marvelous Mutts. These are rescue dogs who do tricks and acrobatics and the BMX who ride bikes and do aerial stunts and tricks,” Stroupe said.

The Marvelous Mutts, which is a performance that showcases the amazing intelligence and athleticism of man’s best friend, the dog, will perform at several different times. This family-friendly event will be sure to impress all who watch it, as both the trainers and dogs in this show have been nationally recognized for their skills. This can’t-miss opportunity includes in the price of admission, and the dogs and their trainers are planning to have shows every day the fair is open for patrons to enjoy.

The fair will also have the American BMX Stunt Team performing. Watching the professional trick riders from American BMX Stunt Team perform is guaranteed to entertain and astound. The team is North Carolina-based, but their skills are nationally renowned. The riders professionally ride and perform daring tricks on bicycles, scooters and inline skates.

The gates to the fairground open at 5 p.m. on weekdays and 1 p.m. on weekends. The fair is located at the Fort Bragg Fairground, F-4208 Howell St. and Bragg Boulevard. For more information or directions, visit the MWR website at www.ftbraggmwr.com or call at the number 396-9126.

Photo: The Fort Bragg Fair is an event that the community looks forward to each year.

Decision 2013: Who Will Be Fayetteville’s Next Mayor

Who will be Fayetteville’s next mayor? Hmmmm, that’s a good question. But with filing dates soon approaching, the anticipation is mounting.

There’s a lot of speculation on the street. The Fayetteville Observer has recently thrown some names around outside of the usual suspects of Kirk deViere, Nat Robertson, D.J. Haire and Val Applewhite. Good candidates all. However, on the street, people are also bringing up names like current mayor pro tempore Jim Arp, former council member Ted Mohn, County Commissioner Ed Melvin and former county commissioner and Fayetteville City Councilman Breeden Blackwell.

Well, we know there are plenty more qualified candidates out there who have a clear vision of the kind of leadership that it will take to move this community forward. So, during the next couple of weeks we thought Up & Coming Weekly and our radio partners Goldy and Jim at WFNC’s (AM 640) Good Morning Fayetteville Show, which airs from 6-10 a.m. weekday mornings, would ask Fayetteville residents “who would make a good mayor for our city?”

We want to know.

To that end, we will gather up the names and run a mock election. We will place a ballot in Up & Coming Weekly and invite people to vote online. We will announce the “unofficial” results on the GMF radio show and interview some of the top vote getters. Remember, anyone can be nominated just by emailing us their name. Have fun with it... we will!

Thank you, for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

No matter how many attractions or opportunities a city may offer, a dirty city is an unhappy city. Fayetteville is a rapidly growing city and is budding with opportunities in business and the arts alike. Every citizen of Fayetteville has a right to be proud for all the city has to offer, but it can be hard to see the greatness of the place if the aesthetics do not match. As Bobby Hurst, the chairman of Fayetteville Beautiful says, “A clean city attracts new business, increases property values and even creates a safer city.”

The beauty of Fayetteville is something that every citizen can be involved in. The 100 percent volunteer-based organization, Fayetteville Beautiful, has been improving the city for years. “Fayetteville Beautiful began on September 6, 2006 — the birthday of General Marquis de Lafayette, the man for which this city was named. We started with a logo, tag line and a small core group of volunteers and now have expanded to a volunteer base of over one thousand citizens. Fayetteville Beautiful has played an active role in creating new ordinances and strengthened current ones related to litter abatement and waste reduction for the City of Fayetteville. We have assisted in the development of the recycling program, initiated Fayetteville’s fi rst electronic waste drive, worked with the Cumberland County Schools in educating our children in the value of recycling and preserving our environment. We revitalized the downtown black pots with plants and flowers and that is an ongoing project. We have taken the lead in beautification projects that included tree plantings at Ben E. Martin Elementary School devastated by the 2011 tornado to beautification projects on public properties scattered throughout the city. Each year we participate in cleaning along the banks of several of our lakes as well as cleaning out Cross Creek,” Hurst said.

Fayetteville Beautiful has been recognized for its tremendous contributions to the city as well. The organization became a Keep America Beautiful Affiliate in 2010. There are only 32 similar organizations in North Carolina, and Fayetteville Beautiful is the only 100 percent volunteer based affiliate.

Unfortunately, despite all of the work accomplished by volunteers, there is still a long way to go. On the official KAB Litter Assessment Tool Fayetteville rated a 2.94 in August 2006 — this is one of the worst ratings in the state. The current score is better at a 1.94, but there is still progress to be made. This progress can only be made by the participation and support of the community.

This opportunity to join in the effort to create a better Fayetteville is readily available to any and all who wish to help.“The Citywide Cleanup is held the third Saturday during the month of April and offers people the opportunity to participate in a community effort to remove litter along our roadsides and in parks and streams. There are no requirements and registration is very simple. Sign up online at www.FayettevilleBeautiful.com and complete the Volunteer Form, then automatically your location will be pin pointed on a city map. This will make it easy for police to view where patrol coverage should be alongside youth groups and for the Parks and Recreation staff to know where the orange bags will be placed for pickup early that afternoon. If you do not have computer access then contact Lynn Hughes at 433-1587 and she will assist you,” Hurst says.

Participating in a Fayetteville Beautiful rally is a great way to support, protect and connect with the community. Hurst said, however, that the best part is “... joining others who genuinely love their hometown, take pride in their community and desire to make a beautiful difference. I know that the more people get involved in our effort, the more ownership they will have in protecting the natural beauty of our community.

Photo: Fayetteville Beautiful volunteers rally to clean up local roadways.

On Saturday, April 20, PWC and Sustainable Sandhills are teaming up to offer a free viewing of the award-winning documentary Chasing Ice. The film has received more than 43 awards at various film festivals around the world, including the honor of Best Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song “Before My Time,” by J. Ralph featuring Scarlett Johansson and Joshua Bell.

When National Geographic sent environmental photographer James Balog to the Arctic in 2005, he was looking to take pictures that would document climate change. Balog was a long-time skeptic of the climate change philosophy, but what he found on that trip was an eye opener for the photographer. Shortly after his fi rst trip to Iceland, Balog came up with an idea he knew he had to act on — The Extreme Ice Survey. Balog and his crew risked life and limb installing timelapse cameras throughout the arctic to record how glaciers change over time. The result is a breathtaking visual on the rapid change taking place in the Arctic.

PWC Communications and Community Relations Offi cer Carolyn Justice-Hinson is excited to be a part of bringing such a high-quality fi lm to Fayetteville.

“We were looking for outreach projects and we chose Sustainable Saturday through a forestry grant. This is a win win all around — we are excited that we can also help promote the Cameo and what it has to offer in downtown through this venture. Sustainable Sandhills was great in helping us find the documentary. They suggested Chasing Ice because we had asked them to be on the look out. Once we saw the trailer we knew it was a good fit because it has to do with global warming and trees play a big part in that. So this way we can share our message and it will give Sustainable Sandhills an opportunity to share their message and continue their outreach.”

PWC is also giving away a Crepe Myrtle seedling to the first 200 people who come to the event.

“This is an important part of our tree program and Crepe Myrtles are great for our area. They are suitable for our climate and they are low growing so they tend not to interfere with utilities,” said Justice-Hinson. “This is also a chance for us to educate people about trees and how they improve appearances in the community and help the environment.”

The event is free to the public and after the showing there will be time for interaction and discussion. Representatives from PWC and Sustainable Sandhills will be on site after the showing.

“There will be time to talk and people can come out to the obby and chat with different reps,” said Kelly Bah, Sustainable Sandhills executive director. “When talking about big concepts, sometimes the best way to get the message out is to present it in a good film and then we are there to help connect people to organizations in the community that deal with this issue, if people are interested in learning more.”

The show starts at 11 a.m. at the Cameo Art House Theater in downtown Fayetteville. To get a sneak peek of the remarkable imagery that is featured in Chasing Ice, visit www.chasingice.com. Learn more about PWC and its conservation and education programs at www. faypwc.com. Visit www.sustainablesandhills.org to learn more about how this organization is making a difference in the community. For questions about the showing of Chasing Ice visit the Cameo website at www.cameoarthouse.com.

One of the great things about spring in North Carolina is the great riding weather. As soon as things start to warm up, drivers roll back their rag tops and bikers take to the streets to enjoy some sunshine and fun in the outdoors. Every spring for the past seven years, hundreds of people have turned out to enjoy a ride to Myrtle Beach and more importantly, to support local nonprofi ts by participating in the Hogs & Rags Rally, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 27.

While participants enjoy the fellowship of the event, the fact that the rally raises funds for several good causes is a bonus. If ever there was a justification for spending a day out in the sunshine, it is knowing that it is to support Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, the American Cancer Society and Kidsville News!

Don’t let the name confuse you, Hogs and Rags is for all makes and models of motorcycles, trikes, muscle cars and street rods.

“One thing we want to be clear about is even though the name of the event is Hogs and Rags and hogs usually represent Harley-Davidsons and rags usually mean convertible cars — and that is how the event started — we want all kinds of motorcycles and all kinds of cars to participate,” said event spokesperson Wendy Rogers. “We don’t want the name to mislead people. This is a great event, which supports wonderful causes and we want everyone to know they are welcome.”

The ride is not only fun, the organizers have gone out of their way to make sure it is a safe ride, too. The ride is escorted by the sheriff’s offi ce in each county that the caravan passes through. “We do a safety briefi ng before we leave to give everyone an idea of where we are going and how to ride safely in big groups,” said Rogers. “They will let us know what to do and what not to do.”

The day of the ride, registration starts at 7:30 a.m. and runs through 9 a.m. at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum. Kickstands up at 9 a.m. as the caravan departs for Rocking A Ranch in White Oak, N.C. Once they get to the ranch, riders will be treated to a full country breakfast. At 10:45 a.m., it’s back on the road to Chadbourn for a short break and water stop. At 12:15 the ride continues on to Landry’s Seafood at Myrtle Beach. Lunch will be served at Landry’s at 1:15 p.m., where there will be entertainment and a reverse raffle.

The event officially ends after lunch, but there is still plenty of time left to enjoy Broadway at the Beach and the many other fun activities that Myrtle Beach has to offer.

It costs $50 per entry and $30 per each additional rider. The registration fee covers a T-shirt, hot breakfast at the Rocking’ A Ranch, a police escort to Myrtle Beach and lunch at Landry’s.

While the ride itself is a great reason to come out, the charities that are funded by the Hogs & Rags proceeds benefi t greatly from this event. Since its inception, the organization has donated more than $90,000 to these charities: Kidsville News!, The American Cancer Society and the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.

The Kidsville News!Literacy and Education Foundation’s mission is to improve literacy, education and character development among America’s youth by providing support for various early literacy and learning-based initiatives nationwide. The foundation approves grants to qualifi ed projects and institutions that endeavor to instill strong reading and education skills and solid character-development traits in America’s Youth. Money raised at the rally benefit children in Cumberland County. Find out more about Kidsville News! at www.kidsvillenews.com.

According to its website, the American Cancer Society mission statement names the American Cancer Society as a nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service. Since 1946, the organization has spent more than $3.8 billion on cancer research. Find out more about the American Cancer Society and how to make a difference in the fight against cancer at www.cancer.org.

Shriner’s Hospitals for Children has proclaimed its mission to:

• Provide the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries and other special healthcare needs within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment.

• Provide for the education of physicians and other healthcare professionals.

• Conduct research to discover new knowledge that improves the quality of care and quality of life of children and families.

This mission is carried out without regard to race, color, creed, sex or sect, disability, national origin or ability of a patient or family to pay.

Find out more about the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children at www.Shriner’shospitalsforchildren.org.Find out more about Hogs and Rags at www.hogsandrags.com.

Photo: Hogs & Rags is open to all makes and models of cars and bikes.

The Fayetteville Swamp Dogs, will host the 3rd Annual Big Bite on Saturday, April 20 from 1 to 7 p.m. Thiscommunity event will take place at J.P Riddle Stadium, a.k.a. “The Swamp.” The event is designed for local restaurants and caterers from all over the Sandhills region to showcase their fare and share their offerings with the community. The participants will have one day to put their specialties on display for the public.

“We have a good group of participants this year,” said Phillip Sims, SwampDogs outside events and community relations coordinator. “The restaurants this time are Off the Hook: a Taco Emporium, which was recently opened by the Invisible Chef; The Parkton Grill, Trade Street Café and Elite Catering, Royal Grill, Fazoli’s, Roly Poly Sandwiches, Honey Baked Ham Company, Crystal’s Sweet Treats, Heavenly Ice, which serves sno cones and shaved ice treats and there will also be an organic coffee set up.”

While entry to the event is free, some of the activities are not. “Food sampling tickets cost $1 each,” said Sims. “Pricing at each vendor is up to them. They will have sample-sized servings. For example, a sample taco may cost 2-3 tickets or people may be able to get half a sandwich or wrap for two tickets, but that is determined by each vendor.”

At the end of the day, the tickets are counted, and the vendors get to keep 80 percent of the money they raise. “The other 20 percent goes into the SwampDogs community fund,” said Sims. “We use that fund to help out the many nonprofits that we support in the community. In the past we have given to charities like the Karen Chandler Trust Fund and the Wounded Warriors. It doesn’t benefit just one cause, we partner with many organizations.”

Being a family-oriented team, the SwampDogs plan to have kid-friendly activities on site, including bounce houses and face painting. “Hot Rod Tattoos is partnering with us to do face painting. They are really good,” said Sims.

Like most events at The Swamp, there will be plenty to see and do. Attendees can look forward to some of the community’s best food, fun activities and live music. The Cumberland County Cornhole Championship is scheduled to take place at 3 p.m. The entry fee for the Cornhole Championship is $25 per person and includes three food-sample tickets. The first place team will receive a cash prize, two season tickets to the SwampDogs and the opportunity to throw out the first pitch at a home game.

“We have four bands that are scheduled to play,” said Sims. “They are going to play music on the beer deck on the left field side.” At 1 p.m. Autumn Nicholas will kick-off the music. Each band will play about an hour or so. At 2:30 p.m., Essential Elements will perform, followed by Chris Hurst at 4 p.m. and Python at 5:30 p.m.

Ring Wars Carolina professional wrestling will be on hand providing live wrestling exhibitions. Sims said that the wrestling ring will be set up on the field and that the matches will take place between the music sets.

“The Big Bite started as a way to give local restaurants a venue to showcase what delicacies they have,” said Sims. “We are all about supporting local businesses. Last year we hosted between 700 and 800 people. The goal is to grow each year and put on a bigger and better event every year. So that is what we are hoping to do.”

Email Phillip Sims at Phillip@GoSwampDogs.com or call 910-426-5900 for more information.

Photo: Visitors to The Big Bite can sample food and enjoy good music and other activities.

Local food, as an economic driver, is on track for the revitalization of urban communities across the country. This new “Home Front” locomotive has arrived at the station in Fayetteville.

All aboard! Calling entrepreneurs to get your tickets to Edible Entrepreneurship, a special opportunity for veterans, of any status, to learn about emergingfood business opportunities on Tuesday, April 16, at the Cumberland County Extension Auditorium, 301 E. Mountain Dr., from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn about emerging business opportunities like food trucks, becoming a personal chef, black gold composting, niche food ventures, ag biz insider tips, urban/small farmers and more.

Fayetteville residents are getting on board the local food train as the “ticket” to better health and reduction in the costs of healthcare. But that’s not all.

People are learning to invest a percentage of their food dollars in the local and sustainable track that keeps more money circulating in our local community while supporting local farmers and food businesses of all kinds. This entrepreneurial “home front” action is also helping to build a secure local food infrastructure.

Our country is now aware of the realities of a national economy that is in deep trouble. But there is also the reality of opportunity in this situation and vitalizing a local economy starts with entrepreneurs.

Have you ever entertained the thought of having a food business or of becoming a farmer? Agri-Entrepreneurship is springing up across the country as people are responding to the consumer demand for local produce and food products. There is significant headway being made at the grassroots and regional level to develop local food systems with infrastructure to keep up with the growing demand.

There is a “new dollar” to be made in creative entrepreneurship. People are so used to measuring value, assets, financial security and economic viability in dollars only. If that’s all we do, we are short changing ourselves. Let’s put our heads together and invest our talents, skills, relationships and knowledge into the local network that can sustain us.

Let’s build businesses that are well connected with one another where the success of one promotes the success of all. We are told to diversify our portfolios and not put all our eggs in one basket, so let’s invest more in the local food network and look to match skills and relationships to multiply the benefi ts of our collaboration and build a secure local economy.

There is a lot of opportunity here.

The event includes a BBQ lunch. Registration is $20 and the deadline to register is Friday, April 12. To register call Sharon Valentine or Marsha Howe 910-630-6232 Or e-mail: mhowe@ncfarmcenter.org.

Anyone interested in collaborating with N.C. Farm Center and its partners in local food action, please contact Marsha Howe 619-807-6839 cell ; 910-630-6232 offi ce or email: mhowe@ncfarmcenter.org.

In all likelihood, racial tension will continue to be a part of our lives until the end of time. Dr. Martin Luther King dreamed of the day that a man would be judged by the content of his character, not the color of his skin. Sadly, this is not that day.

The Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex has a new exhibit, Fayetteville and the Wilmington Race Riot of 1898, an overlooked piece of North Carolina’s history. The riots, which occured in mid-November 1898 were considered a turning point in North Carolina politics following Reconstruction. Originally labeled a race riot, the events were caused by Democratic insurrectionists who overthrew the legitimately elected local government in an effort to reestablish white supremacy in government and society.

“This is a very disturbing piece of our state’s history,” said David Reid, administrator of the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex. “It is not a well-known piece of our history and it was not an isolated event.”

The Civil War ended slavery but it did not end the racial divide between the races. The election of 1898 was dominated in North Carolina by a white supremacy campaign of the Democratic Party, which saw the establishment of white government union clubs and formations of armed gangs to intimidate blacks, Republicans and Populists, and the use of newspapers to fan the flames against the abuses of Republicans and black rule. The impact of this resulted in a “White Declaration of Independence” which led to the burning of a black newspaper office, deadly riots, the eradication of many black and Republican leaders and the overthrow of elected Republican leaders.

“We have some interesting local connections,” said Reid. “Charles Chesnutt, author, was a prominent figure who was raised in the Fayetteville area.”

Chesnutt’s response to the race riot was to write a novel, The Marrow of Tradition. He traveled back through Fayetteville during 1901 to do research for his novel and found a brief mention in The Fayetteville Observer. Reid added that the novel really echoes what was being said in the newspapers at that time.

During the 1898 elections, groups of men wearing red shirts attended political rallies and rode through African-American neighborhoods carrying firearms. Their goal was to intimidate blacks to keep them from voting. Many acts of violence against African-Americans and white members of the Populists and Republican parties were blamed on the Red Shirts.

“We wanted exhibits and programs that would promote healthy community discussions about intolerance and diversity,” said Reid. “It was important to find events that would pertain to our area.”

Reid added that Wilmington is 90 miles down the road and he was interested in Fayetteville’s involvement with the Wilmington Riot.

Author LeRae Umfleet will speak about the Wilmington Race Riot on Sunday, April 14 at 2 p.m. at the museum. Umfleet is the author of A Day of Blood: The Wilmington Race Riot of 1898. The exhibit will run through June 16. For more information, call 486-1330.

I have a terrible confession to make. I hate grading. But, lucky for me, teaching history at Fayetteville Technical Community College comes with many perks to offset my loathing of trying to assign just the right number of points to an essay or exam.

FTCC’s campus ranks among the loveliest in the state, the students unfailingly keep me on my toes, and, more important, I get to do one of my favorite things — live in the past. On a daily basis, I transform from a normal 21st century woman (my kids and husband might dispute the normal part) into an ancient tour guide, leading students through the Egyptian desert to the land of pyramids and mummies, exploring the wonders of the Indus River Valley Civilization’s fl ush toilets (as opposed to the horrors of Mesopotamian hygiene), forging a path through the complex Roman political system that allowed for both the rise and murder of Julius Caesar and marveling at the Hagia Sophia spiraling up from the cobbled streets of Constantinople.

Sometimes I am even able to tell a story that nobody has ever told before. That is what I did last November in my book, In the Shadow of the Greatest Generation: The Americans Who Fought the Korean War(New York: New York University Press, 2012). Many years ago, in my former life as a graduate student, I began searching for a dissertation topic.

The granddaughter of a Cherokee Indian World War II Navy veteran and a member of the generation that came of age to movies like Full Metal Jacketand Apocalypse Now, I felt certain that destiny had chosen me to write the next brilliant work on the veterans of either World War II or Vietnam. But, a chance encounter with a group of Korean War veterans made me realize that, M*A*S*H reruns aside, I knew nothing about the men and women who served in Korea. And, after digging a little deeper into the scholarly and popular record, I realized that nobody else did, either.

As a result, I began interviewing and surveying Korean War veterans and ultimately I shaped my research into a sort of collective biography. In the Shadow of the Greatest Generation follows the men and women who served in Korea from their shared childhood in the Great Depression and World War II through enlistment (voluntary or otherwise), military training, the war, homecoming experiences and more recent efforts to reclaim their rightfully earned status as war veterans.

The book attempts to give a voice to these forgotten soldiers of the “Forgotten War” and to demonstrate the impact of that war not only on those who served but also on America. Korea, after all, was the fi rst hot war of the Cold War and it was on the peninsula’s rugged hills that commanders in the field began dismantling military segregation.

My fascination with the Korean War and its veterans began long ago, but my view of that war and my work on Korean War veterans inevitably have been enriched by my experiences teaching at FTCC. Many of my students, themselves veterans of a war many Americans would like to put in the rear view mirror, have provided me with invaluable insights into military life and veteran struggles and have probably taught me more than I ever taught them.

So far, living in the past — and bringing my students with me, sometimes as unwilling passengers — has proven fulfi lling. I invite you to take a journey with me in my FTCC history class, and we’ll tour some interesting places from the past.

Now if I could just figure out a way to leave all the grading in the future.

The answer to the question, “Is there a doctor in the house?” will be a resounding, “Yes!” during the second annual Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium at Methodist University.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, practicing neurosurgeon and chief medical correspondent for CNN, will present Medicine and Media on Wednesday, April 17 in Reeves Auditorium on the university campus. While the event is free and limited seating will be open to the public, advanced tickets are required.

Gupta’s presentation as keynote speaker of the symposium, which has expanded from a one-day event in 2012 to a weeklong event this year, marks the inaugural lecture of the Presidential Lecture Series. In a recent press release on the event, Methodist University president Dr. Ben Hancock acknowledged that the series, made possible through the generosity of community partners and individuals, “strives to bring renowned national experts to the campus and community, emphasizing signature programs at Methodist University.”

Pam McEvoy, director of Public Affairs for Methodist University, explained that the series is part of the “MU Journey.”

“Last year, when Dr. Hancock was inaugurated, it was his vision to bring speakers to campus for the students to engage with the students and the community,” said McEvoy. “This is part of Dr. Hancock’s vision of the MU journey that allows students the opportunity to say, ‘Whoa, Dr. Gupta came my sophomore year!’ And this event falls in nicely with the symposium because we are launching our health sciences program. Dr. Hancock thought Dr. Gupta would be a good fit.”

The new School of Health Sciences includes the Applied Exercise Science, Athletic Training, Health Care Administration, Nursing and Physician Assistant programs.

In addition to his lecture, the multiple Emmy-award-winning chief medical correspondent for CNN will be meeting in informal chats with health-science students and potential preceptors and healthcare administrators who are further along in the program, noted McEvoy.

“Throughout his time with us,” McEvoy said, “we will have students with him. We have what we call Leadership Fellows who will be integrated into what he’s doing.”

For more information on the lecture and tickets, please contact McEvoy at (910) 630-7043, Director of Marketing and Communications Maria Brunson at (910) 630-7114 or Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications Roxana Ross at (910) 630-7292.

Photo: Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s chief medical correspondent, will speak at Methodist University on April, 17.

The competition is heating it up and performers are bringing it to semifinals of Huske Unplugged. In its fourth season, round two of the semifinals is tonight and you are not going to want to miss it.The semifinalists in the singer/songwriter competition are competing for a grand cash prize of $3,000, a day-long recording session at Manifold Recording and a scholarship for $15,000 to PCG Nashville. The fi nals are slated for April 17.

Huske Unplugged challenges bards to share their best pieces with the community, and maybe win a little cash, too. While it’s a great opportunity for the songwriters, the real winners are the people who come to hear them perform. In its short existence, the competition has seen 96 individuals come out to share their work and entertain the crowds with their original pieces.

When Greg Biltz walked into Huske Hardware two years ago, he had no idea what an adventure this undertaking would be. “Honestly, I was looking for a gig for myself,” said Biltz. “But when I started talking to Josh Collins (owner of Huske Hardware), I told him about programs like this that I had been a part of in Dayton, Ohio, and Columbus, Ga., — and he lit up and said ‘Yeah, let’s do it!’”

From its inception in 2011 Collins and Biltz took great care to cultivate the right atmosphere for Huske Unplugged.

“We don’t want this to be American IdolFayetteville,” said Biltz. “From the beginning we knew that if we keep it about the material, we will get the songwriters, not just performers.”

They were right. The word got out, and the songwriters came. Rockers and country songwriters; R&B songwriters and folk songwriters; metalheads and gospel-music writers came. Some were locals, others happened to be passing through and still others travelled from a state or two away to be a part of it. Some were looking for a chance to be discovered, others just wanted to be heard and share their work with a friendly crowd. The comeptitors come from many backgrounds and life experiences, with different skill sets and signature sounds — a perfect combination for a platform like Huske Unplugged.

The listeners came, too. And for the fi rst three seasons Collins happily fronted the cash prizes and enjoyed knowing that he was giving songwriters a place to call their own by offering up Huske Hardware as a venue. Dad to performer Summer Collins, Josh knows firsthand the many challenges songwriters and musicians face. This was a fun and easy way to make a difference not only for the songwriters, but it also provided the community with top-notch original entertainment.

It could have stopped there, but it didn’t. By the start of the fourth season, Summer was making a name for herself in the music world and had been travelling to Nashville to further her career. That’s where Josh met Bernard Porter of PCG Nashville. It is the mission of PCG to apply a customized scientifi c approach to development, producing balance in all areas of the artist’s mind, body and spirit. The organization provides everything from branding, the voice and music lessons to health and nutrition classes — anything to help prepare their clients and give them the best chance at being successful in whatever musical genre they choose.

Porter admired Josh’s dedication to the community and the songwriters who participated in Huske Unplugged. If the talent was anything like what he’d heard from Summer, Porter could make it work. He offered up a $15,000 scholarship to the winner.

“We are in the science of artist development. We are set up like a doctor’s office,” said Porter. “It is my job to look into you, do diagnostics and assign what you will work on first to bring your craft to the highest level. Our involvement increases the likelihood of success. We are the musical equivalent of spring training for pro ball.”

A successful musician in his own right, Porter is dedicated to making sure his clients understand what they are getting into. “It takes more than being a good singer or performer (to succeed) in this business,” said Porter. “That is a very small part of it. You have to be able to sell yourself — you have to have confi dence. If God blessed you with the opportunity to be a role model, you have to act on it. It is about that awareness, being authentic, being disciplined and focused. We are very selective in who we choose to get involved in our programs.”

On the eve of the final round, PCG Nashville will host a seminar for the finalists. It will be a chance for the songwriters to learn a little more about the music industry. “I want to be able to answer questions and help them as much as we can,” said Porter. Then during the fi nal round, PCG Nashville will judge the event.

While PCG Nashville coming to Fayetteville is a big deal, Biltz is confident they won’t be disappointed. “I believe they will see talent they have not expected. There are people in this competition that are going to knock them back in their seats. I think they’ll be impressed with what we are doing,” said Biltz.

With Nashville on board, Huske Unplugged is set to be a bigger success than ever before. But when Biltz heard about Manifold Recording in Pittsboro, he knew there was another call to make. Owner Michael Tieman took Biltz up on his offer to come to an open sign up night at Huske Unplugged. That was all it took for Tieman to sign on as a sponsor and offer a recording session as one of the prizes.

“I listened to the artists and the ones who ended up winning that night were some of my favorites,” said Tieman. “They (Josh and Greg) were correct in telling me that Fayetteville has some diamonds in the rough.”

Tieman performed as a boy soprano in Manhattan before moving on to work in the world of computer software. The technical side of the recording business interested him. “As I lamented the continual degradation of the quality of recorded music, I realized that as an entrepreneur this is not something I should complain about. This is something I should do something about. So I built a studio.”

Like Porter, Tieman sees something bigger than just a songwriter competition in Huske Unplugged. “A lot of people talk about North Carolina in terms of what we have lost … jobs etc. I am also seeing a North Carolina that is building new things as well. I am excited to see how we might build a kind of North Carolina music that 10 or 20 years from now people will recognize. There is a lot of musical richness in North Carolina that needs to be heard and preserved.”

Biltz is convinced that what the songwriters at Huske Unplugged offer up is worth hearing and preserving. So does local businessman Mike Lallier, who has generously offered to provide the award for the cash prize winners.

Indeed, Huske Unplugged has come a long way, baby and in a short time, too. But for Biltz the magic is in the music. “The beautiful thing about it is that we didn’t know what was going to happen and now here we are... I tell everybody that ‘if you walk out with money or a slot in the semis, that is great,’ but I am doing this to provide a venue to showcase their material.”

The show starts at 8 p.m. at Huske Hardware, tonight. The fi nals are on April 17. Find out more at www.facebook.com/ HuskeHardware.

Photo: Huske Unplugged offers songwriters a chance to be heard. It offers the community first-class
original entertainment.