Entertainment

VFW Post 670 hosts Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Luncheon, expands celebration for 50th Anniversary

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Tuesday, 11 March 2025

Written by Jamie Bishop

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 670 will host a three-day Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Luncheon to honor those who served in the Vietnam War from March 27 to March 29. This event commemorates the 50th Anniversary of American combat troops withdrawing from Vietnam on March 30, 1973, a significant moment in U.S. history that resonates deeply with veterans and their families. The event will be held at VFW Post 670 on Doc Bennett Road and is open to all Vietnam veterans and Gold Star families, regardless of their VFW membership status.
Amelia Smith is VFW Post 670 quartermaster and the point of contact for the event. Smith, whose father served in Vietnam, shared her connection to the event.
"I can remember the bitterness my father sometimes expressed about the treatment that he and others in his community received upon their return from Vietnam. This event is so important to everyone at VFW Post 670 and me. It's about giving our Vietnam veterans the recognition they deserved all along,” she said.
To make this event as impactful as possible, Smith and Ann Provencher from the Cumberland County Veterans Council have worked hard to expand the traditional luncheon into a multi-day celebration.
This year's event also honors the 125th Anniversary of the VFW, marking a special milestone for the organization.
"We are hoping that by holding a three-day event, we can get as many Vietnam veterans and Gold Star families as possible to attend at least one of our activities," Smith explained.
With this extended Celebration, VFW Post 670 seeks to provide veterans the recognition they earned and perhaps missed in previous years.
"It's time to make sure these veterans and their families know they are appreciated," Smith added.
The event will feature a variety of activities, beginning on March 27 at 11 a.m. with a ceremony to recognize the 38 North Carolina service members who are still unaccounted for from the Vietnam War. A BBQ buffet will follow the ceremony, with all attendees invited to partake at no charge.
"This is just one way we can honor the men and women who have been missing and unaccounted for," said Smith. "We are so grateful for the opportunity to host this event, and we hope that as many people as possible will come out to show their support."
On March 28, the day will begin at 8 a.m. with a grab-and-go breakfast social, allowing veterans and families to connect before the next event. At 11 a.m., the luncheon will feature Tracy Smith Mathis, author of Pennies from Vietnam, A Sister at Home, A Brother at War. Mathis will speak about her brother, a Vietnam veteran who passed away, and her journey in writing the book as a tribute to him. The day will also feature a pasta and salad bar buffet. Later that evening, VFW Post 670 will host a lively social event featuring a DJ, with a special offer for Vietnam veterans and Gold Star family members: they can eat for free, while others will pay regular menu prices.
"It's important to have fun, too," said Smith. "This is a celebration of their service, and we want to honor them in every way possible."
The event's final day, March 29, will offer a catered dinner dance featuring live music from The Guy Unger Band. A highlight of the evening will be a speech by Vietnam veteran and author John Montalbano, who will share stories from his time in Vietnam. Montalbano's book, Bullets in My Bottom Drawer, focuses on the lighter side of his tour, offering a different perspective on the Vietnam War.
"John's stories are full of humor, and we're excited to have him with us for the final night of the celebration," Smith explained. "It's going to be an evening of great food, dancing, and, most importantly, fellowship with those who understand the true meaning of sacrifice."
In addition to the planned activities, the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Unit will be present for all three days of the event. The unit will give visitors a chance to learn more about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, showcasing the personal toll of military service and its impact on the nation. Smith expressed her gratitude to the team at Wreaths Across America for coordinating the unit's participation in the event.
"It's a privilege to have them with us," she said. "This is an opportunity for our community to learn about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families and to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy today."
Smith emphasized the importance of spreading the word about the event to ensure that as many Vietnam veterans and Gold Star families as possible can attend. "You don't have to be a VFW member, live in Cumberland County, or even be a resident of North Carolina," she said. "This event is open to all Vietnam veterans and Gold Star families, and we want to ensure they know they are welcome."
Smith encouraged everyone to participate in the Celebration, which she hopes will be a moment of healing and remembrance for those who served.
For more information or to RSVP, call or text 910-709-8306, email 670vfw@gmail.com, or stop by VFW Post 670 to let the bartender know your name and that you want to RSVP for the event.
For more information about VFW Post 670 membership and events, visit https://vfw670.org/di/vfw/v2/default.asp?nid=1.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is a nonprofit veterans service organization comprised of eligible veterans and military members from the active, Guard, and Reserve forces. Three qualifiers for membership in the VFW are set out in the National Bylaws. An individual must meet all three to become a member:
1. Must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. National.
2. Must have served honorably in the Armed Forces of the United States and either received a discharge of Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) or be currently serving.
3. Service in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or hostile waters. Any of the following can prove this:
• An authorized campaign medal
• Receipt of Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay (verified by a military pay statement)
• Service in Korea for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days
This information is usually available through a veteran's DD-214. If other information is needed or a veteran's DD-214 is incomplete, they can contact the National Personnel Records Center online or at 314.801.0800 to request more information.

(Photo courtesy of VFW Post 670)

Fight hunger with Cumberland County CROP Hunger Walk

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Tuesday, 11 March 2025

Written by Lena Simmons

Approximately one-third of the residents in Cumberland County have a challenge of food insecurity or limited access to healthy foods, according to Laura Lupton, local CROP Hunger Walk coordinator and Presbyterian pastor. The Cumberland County CROP Hunger Walk will take place in Downtown Fayetteville on March 30. The pre-walk activities begin at 2 p.m. and the step off is at 3 p.m. Hay Street United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church-Anderson are co-hosts of the event. Church World Service and Fayetteville Urban Ministry are partners in the walk. The fundraising goal is $20,000. The donations will provide funds for critical services such as emergency housing and food, addressing severe medical costs, and self-sufficiency resources.
Lupton shares the inspiration for the event.
“The CROP Hunger Walk inspires learning about local, global, innovative ways to create partnerships for the creation of healthy, safe futures. They are reminded about innovations in poverty relief such as building sand dams, cooperatives of women cultivating honey production, Friend-to-friend mentoring, and home repair skills for youth to help senior citizens age in place. My passion intersects my inspiration, many people personally know the financial hardship or loss from natural disasters such as Hurricane Matthew and Florence, persons who lost their jobs due to injury and illness, or downsizing. How do the persons of this population put food on the table?” Lupton said.
“Negative stereotypes imposed by society can impede successful economic and social navigation within the community. We come together in CROP to show solidarity and provide resources.”
Lupton talked about the length of the walk, focusing on the distance and what it represents.
“The design of CROP Hunger Walk is based on persons around the world who have to walk miles to have access to drinkable water. The length of CROP Walk was at one time ten miles. Ten miles was representative of the average distance for drinkable water in an emerging country. We walk in solidarity with these persons.”
In addition to the walk, CWS kits will also be available. These kits contain various supplies for those in need. For more information regarding CWS kits, visit https://www.CWSkits.org.
“We are passionate about the CROP Hunger Walk; we are increasing awareness of global and local poverty. No one is immune from being suddenly stripped of earthly comforts and finding themselves displaced and broke,” Lupton said.
“The Church World Service is experiencing the impacts of the abrupt and sweeping halt of the U.S. Agency of International Development (USAID). One of the impacts is dire consequences for many communities. Church World Service will be the only organization providing sustainable solutions to hunger and poverty. The annual CROP Hunger Walks raise significant funds for the critical work of Church World Service,” she said. “CROP Hunger Walk is open to anyone or any group who wants to participate. The past participants have been persons in strollers to mature citizens over one hundred.”
Participation in the CROP Hunger Walk is free; however, donations are welcome. The Facebook fundraiser connects to the participants' registration page so they can see their progress. Cash and checks can be turned in at the event.
“The CROP Hunger Walk is a great way to see our churches come together for a common goal of loving our neighbors. The Walk is a great way to meet our neighbors who care about the hurting and hungry in our area,” Lupton said.
Create a family and personal tradition by starting a team, donating, or being an individual walker. For more information, contact Lupton at 910-818-9938 or by email at CumberlandCropWalk@gmail.com. Updates can be found on the Fayetteville CROP Walk Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FayettevilleCROPWalk/

(Photo: A participant in the CROP Hunger Walk in 2024 poses with a Hunger Fighter frame. The CROP Walk will take place in downtown Fayetteville. Photo courtesy of Laura Lupton)

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy to haunt Cameo Theatre

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Tuesday, 11 March 2025

Written by Adam Taylor

Downtown Fayetteville’s historic Cameo Art House Theatre will open its doors to the dark and mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe for three nights only as the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy brings its immersive cocktail experience to town on March 20, 21, and 22.
This unique event blends live performance, craft cocktails, and the haunting works of one of America's greatest literary masters — creating a night of chilling entertainment unlike anything Fayetteville has ever seen.
The 90-minute experience pairs four of Poe’s most famous stories The Tell-Tale Heart, The Black Cat, The Raven, and The Masque of the Red Death with custom cocktails inspired by each tale. Dramatic retellings by "Poe historians" will transport audiences into the macabre worlds of madness, death, and mystery that made Poe’s works legendary — all while guests enjoy carefully crafted drinks that bring the stories to life through flavor.
The Evening's Signature Cocktails
First, The Pale Blue Eye captures the eerie imagery of The Tell-Tale Heart in liquid form. This light blue cocktail blends blueberry vodka, fresh lemon juice, rose syrup, and La Croix, offering a refreshing yet haunting start to the night.
Next, The Cocktail of Red Death draws inspiration from The Masque of the Red Death, serving up a vibrant, blood-red concoction made with 100-proof vodka, cherry herring, Benedictine liqueur, lime juice, pineapple juice, and bitters— a drink as decadent and foreboding as Prospero’s ill-fated masquerade.
The third drink of the night, Edgar's Twisted Brandy Milk Punch, offers a dark twist on a Southern classic. This rich, creamy cocktail blends Kentucky Bourbon and French Brandy with vanilla cream, milk syrup, and half and half, topped with a single star anise for a hint of spice and a touch of the unsettling.
Finally, the night closes with The Nevermore, a striking black and gold cocktail that pays tribute to Poe’s most famous poem, The Raven. This mysterious drink combines orange peach blossom vodka, lime juice, and secret spices, delivering a complex, slightly sweet finish that lingers long after the story ends.
What People Are Saying About the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy
The immersive evening has been praised for blending high-quality theatrical performances, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that brings Poe’s dark tales to life. While some guests note that the experience feels more like a dinner theater with drinks rather than a traditional speakeasy setting, the majority of reviews highlight the event's unique charm and spooky atmosphere.
Many reviewers praise the talented actors who perform dramatic retellings of Poe’s stories. The storytellers are described as captivating and charismatic, drawing the audience into the macabre worlds of madness and mystery. One past guest wrote, "The performances were absolutely mesmerizing — like stepping straight into one of Poe’s twisted tales."
The four custom cocktails have become a standout feature of the event. Each drink is designed to complement the story being told, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience. Guests appreciate the attention to detail in both flavor and presentation.
“The cocktails were delicious and clever — the 'Pale Blue Eye' was so refreshing, and 'The Nevermore' was unlike any drink I've ever had."
With dim lighting, vintage decor, and a dark, gothic aesthetic, the speakeasy creates the perfect setting for Poe’s haunting stories. Guests describe the atmosphere as eerie, intimate, and theatrical, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. “From the moment you walk in, you feel like you've entered another world — one where Poe’s ghost might be hiding in the shadows.”
What sets the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy apart is its combination of theatre and craft cocktails. Instead of simply watching a performance or attending a tasting event, guests are fully immersed in a multi-sensory journey — part show, part cocktail hour, and entirely unforgettable.
If you're looking for a night of literature, libations, and a little touch of the macabre, the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy promises to be an experience like no other.
With limited seating at each performance, the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy offers an exclusive experience designed to feel as if guests have stumbled upon a secret gathering — one where the ghost of Poe himself might be lurking in the shadows.
Showtimes are set for 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, with six performances on Saturday from noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, and reservations are required. Tickets are available now at cameoarthouse.com. Don't wait — once these seats are gone, they’ll be gone... forevermore.

North Carolina Spring Home Expo inspires homeowners

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Tuesday, 11 March 2025

Written by Anna White

With spring around the corner and temperatures warming, you may be feeling motivated to tackle more than the typical spring cleaning project. Does your kitchen need modernization? What about that old tile shower? Maybe there’s something more pressing, like gutters that aren’t doing their job.
Whatever upgrade you’re pondering, the North Carolina Spring Home Expo is a wealth of expertise and resources for any homeowner. Steven Neft, Marketing Representative with the Expo, said that the lineup of exhibitors is perfect for anyone looking to renovate, build, or decorate their home.
“You get to meet with representatives from these companies and gain inspiration on what you want to do for the spring and summer months at your home,” he said.
He explained that the Expo appeals to a wide array of needs.
“Whether you want to repaint your home, if you want to add lighting, if you want to fix your roof, these are all things people that are looking at, also kitchen and bathroom renovations are very big on everybody's list for the spring, summer, fall months.”
While some homeowners prefer tackling renovations and upgrades spontaneously, some prefer planning in advance. Neft says the Expo is for both. Lovers of spontaneity can visit without any pre-planning. The event and parking are both free, and no tickets are required for entry. For visitors who want more predictability, the vendor list will be published the week of the Expo at northcarolinahomeexpo.com. From there, you can identify ahead of time the specific vendors you wish to visit.
Neft explained that meeting vendors in person can inform decisions that are otherwise hard.
“We're all kind of reluctant sometimes to have people come to our home. But if you then meet these people first at the show, you get a better feeling. So it's a great opportunity to connect with people who could help you with those projects,” he said.
Visitors can fuel their search for the perfect home renovation project by visiting the food trucks that will be on-site with concessions. According to the North Carolina Home Expo website, the event is child-friendly and will even have activities to entertain the younger crowds.
Additionally, visitors can take advantage of money-saving deals by attending the Expo.
“There are also going to be exclusive discounts that are given away. So if you attend the show, you get the opportunity to get a special discount,” Neft explained. “That means, for example, if you’re thinking of doing that bathroom over again, and the bathroom companies there will be offering you a coupon that you could then use when you finalize a deal, you save money, and it's exclusive for the people attending the show.”
Neft said he expects to see 3,000 to 5,000 attendees and the exhibitor list is still growing.
“Anybody looking to exhibit still has the opportunity! We have a few booths open,” he shared.
The North Carolina Home Expo will be held March 21-23 at the Crown Complex, 1960 Coliseum Dr. The expo will be open Friday, noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.