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Tuesday, 10 September 2024
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Written by Anna White
Fort Liberty’s 3rd annual Oktoberfest is free and open to the community, with something for everyone. It will be held Sept. 28, noon to 7 p.m. at the Iron Mike Conference Center on Rock Merritt Ave, Fort Liberty. Visitors can expect a beer garden, food vendors, giveaways, music, and a fall market featuring local makers and artisans.
According to April Olsen from the Fort Liberty Public Affairs Office, the beer garden will feature a variety of craft, German beverages and collectable steins.
She explained the significance of the festival and steins saying, “A lot of military have served a tour in Germany, and it's just a huge tradition in Europe.”
The stein will feature the Fort Liberty FMWR (Family Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) logo and the word “Oktoberfest.” She recounted military personnel returning from Europe with entire stein collections and described the 2024 Fort Liberty Oktoberfest stein as equally collectible.
Traditional foods will also be available, in addition to a food giveaway conducted by the Gary Sinise Foundation. The Gary Sinise Foundation is committed to “honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need.” Their Oktoberfest giveaway will feature 250 free meals for soldiers and their families and will take place throughout the festival.
Traditional foods served by vendors will include brats, pretzels, spicy mustards, and more. Fort Liberty’s new Pink Label Bakery, which operates out of the Iron Mike Conference Center will also be present.
They’ll serve many of their usual offerings such as cupcakes, strudels, muffins, and savory pastries. Olsen described the selection as, “All kinds of amazing treats,” and confirmed, “All of this is absolutely homemade.”
Food won't be the only homemade creation available at the festival. Last year’s gathering featured over 30 vendors in the fall market section. Olsen and Kelley Monroe, Business Manager with Fort Liberty’s FMWR, shared stories of two young women selling their handmade creations. One was nine years old and sold soap, the other was saving for college and sold homemade slime. Olsen and Monroe described the young women’s entrepreneurial spirit as, “amazing.” Interested community members can access vendor applications on the FMWR website until the deadline, Sept. 25.
“Last year we had a really good turnout with vendors,” Monroe said. “They were all very happy.”
After browsing locally made goods, visitors can enjoy several other attractions. Monroe recommended visitors spend some time relaxing.
“We'll have a big tent. You can sit down and enjoy the band throughout the day. We also have a trail behind the Conference Center where you can come and…walk the trail,” she said.
The band will be playing traditional German music and will likely be performing in folk costumes, according to Monroe.
She also highlighted the bounce houses, a favorite with the younger crowd. While geared toward children, Monroe said mothers enjoying themselves in last year’s obstacle course bounce house, “It's just kind of a fun event that they can do.”
She said many visitors come and spend the whole day visiting each of the attractions.
Monroe and Olsen emphasized that civilians who have never ventured on post before can get a free pass. It only requires a driver's license. Passes can be requested at the All American Gate Visitor Center, or online.
The best way to get started online is by querying “Fort Liberty Visitor Pass Request” in your search engine.
Last year's Oktoberfest attendance was approximately 500, according to Monroe. This year, she hopes to see even more of the community enjoying the rich and entertaining atmosphere.
Olsen agreed.
“Oktoberfest is just another example of the many opportunities that our FMWR Directorate has throughout the year helping to improve the quality of life for soldiers, families and civilians who work with our community partners.”
(Photo: Oktoberfest guests show off their best outfits at the 2023 festival on Fort Liberty. Photos courtesy of Fort Liberty Public Affairs Office)
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Tuesday, 03 September 2024
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Written by Lisa Stevens
On Sept. 7 at 5 p.m., Fayetteville will witness the grand opening of a new dining establishment - Anchor Allie's. Located at 1204 Bragg Blvd., this restaurant promises to redefine the culinary landscape of the city.
Named after its owner, Navy veteran Allie Stephens, this establishment offers a unique blend of American cuisine, military-inspired décor, and a patriotic atmosphere that will captivate the community.
There will be a raffle, and three lucky attendees will win a free meal and non-alcoholic drinks once a week for a year. Additionally, every Friday is "Freedom Friday," when military and first responders receive a 15% discount on their meals (excluding alcohol).
At the heart of Anchor Allie's is a massive blue and red bar, which serves as the centerpiece of the mid-century modern, vintage-inspired space. Patrons can indulge in cocktails, wines, and craft beers from local veteran-owned breweries. As a proud Navy veteran, Stephens is committed to incorporating veteran-owned products into her business.
The menu at Anchor Allie's is a reflection of Stephens' culinary expertise and her desire to serve the community. Offering American breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant has already gained a loyal following for its signature dishes, such as the chicken and waffles and the French toast inspired by Stephens' time working abroad. The military-themed menu also features standout items like the Black Hawk burger and the Green Beret burger, each with its unique twist. The growing chain is known for its expansive all-day breakfast, brunch, and lunch menu.
Stephens' journey to Fayetteville has been a long and deliberate one. After opening her first two locations in Virginia Beach, Virginia, she spent nearly two years searching for the perfect property to expand her chain and one-year doing renovations. Her heart, she says, kept pulling her to Fayetteville. She saw a need for something different and knew she could serve the community in a unique way.
Customers have confirmed Stephens' decision, often telling her that the Bragg Blvd location needed a safe, family-friendly place. They express that Anchor Allie's is changing the culture of the area. However, Stephens' focus is not solely on monetary success but on ensuring customers enjoy great food, whether dining with family or unwinding from a busy week.
"Food is an art. I've been cooking since I was a child. What I love most about food is it brings people from all cultures together. It's rewarding to watch our customers bond over a meal and enjoy the atmosphere we've created where they can relax," Allie said.
In addition to the main dining area, Anchor Allie's will also feature a late-night lounge, Siren’s Lounge, offering a menu of small plates, high teas, and top-shelf drinks. This versatile space will be available for events, allowing the restaurant to cater to a wide range of occasions and celebrations. The outside deck, complete with a cozy fire pit (soon to come), provides the perfect setting for enjoying a meal or cocktail on cooler days.
The culinary team at Anchor Allie's is led by Ronald C., a seasoned veteran in the food industry with over two decades of experience. He is passionate about preparing fresh, quality foods, and his dedication is evident in every dish he serves. The work atmosphere at Anchor Allie's is described as family-like, further enhancing the overall dining experience.
Stephens' aspirations extend beyond the restaurant, as she loves mentoring people, particularly those opening a business, as a way to give back. One of her dreams is to write a series of children's books.
With its patriotic ambiance, delectable cuisine, and commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses, Anchor Allie's is sure to become a beloved destination in the heart of Fayetteville.
For more information or to make a reservation, call 910-229-3490.
(Photo: The bar at Anchor Allie's. Photo courtesy of Anchor Allie's Facebook Page)
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