DestinationFAY 2024-2025

Where Your Children Come First

www.kidsfirstpedsraeford.com

Kids First Pediatrics of Raeford and Fayetteville has created a professional and caring medical environment for infants, children, adolescents and their families. We provide complete pediatric and adolescent care.

Pediatric Services We Provide Check Ups, Sick Child Visits & More in Raeford and Fayetteville

• Well Child Visits

• Sick Child Visits

• Vaccine & Immunization Schedule

• 2023-2024 Guide to the Flu

• School, Sports, & Camp Physicals

4005 Fayetteville Road Raeford, NC 28376

Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Vaccines & Immunizations

• ADHD Testing & Treatment

• Asthma Symptoms & Treatment

• Breastfeeding Support

• Urinalysis

• Strep and Mono Screen

• Vision and Hearing Tests

910.848.KIDS (5437) 6415 Brookstone Lane, Ste. 101 Fayetteville, NC 28314 Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 910.306.KIDS (5437)

Jose Buenaseda, MD, FAAP

Leamor Buenaseda, MD, FAAP

Sreelekha Sashidhar, MD, FAAP

Christine Arnold, CPNP-PC

Melanie Pitts, DNP, NP-C

Beverly de La Rosa, CPNP-PC

Danielle Trigg, CPNP-PC

Cinthia Follrod, CPNP-PC

Rachelle Olson, FNPC

2694 NC 24-87 Cameron, NC 28326 Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 910.500.KIDS (5437) 2035 Valleygate Dr., Ste. 101 Fayetteville, NC 28304 Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 910.677.0007

Brookstone office only 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturdays for sick/urgent appointments, established patients only.

60 Convenient Locations

Same-day or next-day appointments may be available

Offices located in Cumberland, Hoke, Bladen, Robeson and Harnett Counties Walk-in

Open 7 Days a Week

4 Convenient Locations

Open 7 Days a Week

Including ALL Holidays

No appointment necessary

Offices located in Cumberland, Bladen and Robeson Counties

Emergency Department

Open 24/7

365 Days a Year

Call 911 in an Emergency

Pediatric ED located at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center for 18 & Under Pharmacy

Prescriptions usually ready in 15 minutes or less All major prescription drug plans accepted, including Medicaid and Medicare Part D.

Located in Cumberland, Hoke, Bladen and Harnett Counties

HERE TO PLAY. HERE TO STAY.

BY VALERIA CLOËS, LEAD COPY EDITOR AND EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Welcome to DestinationFAY, the only insider’s guide to all things Fayetteville you will ever need.

Whether you’re a Fayetteville native, a service member stationed at Fort Liberty, or a tourist, the city has a plethora of activities to keep you entertained, with new dining stops and attractions popping up year after year.

Fayetteville is home to an estimated nearly 210,000 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, with a veteran population of over 25,000 individuals between 2018 and 2022.

The city is also home to one of the largest military installations in the United States: Fort Liberty. Fort Liberty holds over 51,000 active-duty troops, according to Fort Liberty Garrison Public Affairs Officer April Olsen, and key commands such as the 18th Airborne Corps, known as the nation’s Contingency Corps, and the 82nd Airborne Division, best known for the Global Response Force and its ability to deploy quickly when needed.

New dining, shopping, and recreation destinations have opened since last year’s DestinationFAY issue dropped on stands: Haymount Truck Stop opened in November 2023, gifting Fayetteville with a fun and modern food truck court and bar to enjoy, and the indoor Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park opened in February for family fun.

And don’t forget the staple, local favorites that remain woven into the fabric of Fayetteville: Blue Moon Café celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, and the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County celebrated its 50th anniversary at Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

The arts and entertainment scene in Fayetteville will not disappoint with many local theater and comedy shows, art exhibits, concerts, and more. Annual festivals draw large crowds, like the Fort Liberty Fair, Juneteenth Jubilee, and PRIDEFEST. For sports fans, Fayetteville has its own professional soccer, hockey, and baseball teams as well.

If you’re looking to settle down, Cumberland County has 86 public schools as well as plenty of private and charter schools to pick from, four health systems, eight public libraries, three higher education institutions, and more diverse places of worship than you can count.

For our civically engaged individuals, there is the Cumberland County Board of Education and Board of Commissioners, as well as the Fayetteville City Council, and many other governing boards with monthly meetings open to the public.

If you’re here to stay or just here to play, Fayetteville has something for you.

On the cover: Brandon and Sierra Arnold enjoy Antonella's Italian Ristorante's outdoor dining experience during their parents' night out date. Photo by Tony Wooten.

PUBLISHER

Tony Chavonne tony@chavonne.net

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Bill Horner III bhorner@cityviewnc.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Maydha Devarajan mdevarajan@cityviewnc.com

COPY EDITOR

Valeria Cloës

DIRECTOR OPERATIONS & SALES

Talmadge Rogers

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Rhonda Smith

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Raven Scott

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Raul Rubiera

Sharilyn Wells Tony Wooten

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jami McLaughlin

Teri Saylor Aria Spears

Paul Woolverton

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Annette Winter

SALES TEAM LEADER

Kayti Gutierrez

SALES EXECUTIVE

Dawn Denham

DISTRIBUTION

Jennifer Baker

Wayne Robinson

DestinationFAY is published annually by CityView Media, LLC.

Mailing address: 2919 Breezewood Ave., Ste 300 Fayetteville, NC 28303

Phone: 910.423.6500

Fax: 910.423.0096

Postage paid at Fayetteville, NC

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission.

Publication of an advertisement in DestinationFAY does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by CityView or CityView Media, LLC.

Antonella's Italian Ristorante on Hay Street

A mural at the Haymount Truck Stop. Photo by Tony Wooten.

DINING

Back to the future

Haymount Truck Stop brings a retrofuture vibe to Fayetteville’s food scene.

BY TERI SAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY WOOTEN

Happy hour in Fayetteville achieved a new level of cool when the Haymount Truck Stop joined the city’s foodie scene in November 2023.

It all started when an old BP service station for sale in Haymount sparked owner Jordan Sherrod’s imagination in 2020.

“The weather is nice here almost all year round, and I thought Fayetteville needed some good patio space,” Jordan said.

So, he reached out to longtime business partner Chris Beaty and together they made good on Jordan’s idea that would not only bring a new vibe to downtown Fayetteville, but it would also spark a movement to elevate other businesses in Haymount and give local food trucks a chance to shine.

He had practical reasons too.

“The food truck concept was what I wanted to do from the beginning because I didn’t want to deal with serving food,” he said. “This was a way for me to have a place where I not only ran a business, but I could

provide space for other businesses too.”

He worked with the City of Fayetteville to create an ordinance to allow an establishment like Haymount Truck Stop to operate.

“The city was a big help, and we were able to get that ordinance passed pretty quickly,” Jordan said.

Transforming an old service station into a bar was a different story, and despite advice he received to tear it down

and start over, Jordan was determined to preserve this piece of local history.

“The BP station was an icon here for a long time, and I wanted to keep that vibe,” he said.

Jordan grew up in the U.S. heartland, along the historic Route 66, which is dotted with motels, diners, and service stations that are throwbacks to the mid20th century, when the spirit of adventure and ideas about what the future might look like sparked America’s collective imagination. That inspired Jordan’s vision of what the Truck Stop could represent.

“Back in the 1960s, everything was about the space race, and even the cars looked like rocket ships,” he said. “We took the concept and came up with a retrofuturism theme.”

The Haymount Truck Stop is drenched in neon, starting with its name emblazoned on the old service station’s canopy. Inside, bartenders are hard at work, shaking up high-end craft cocktails and serving beer, cider, and wine from behind the 34-foot bar.

“We have 22 taps, and 20 of them are all North Carolina craft beers,” said operations manager Doug Ray. “We’re open seven days a week, and each night we feature a different rotation of food trucks.”

Haymount Truck Stop is located at 100 Broadfoot Ave. It offers a welcoming environment for customers of all ages until 9 p.m. when it converts to 21 and over. It’s a cashless operation, so if you go, be sure to bring a credit or debit card. Haymount Truck Stop also offers catering and hosts special events.

For a virtual visit and contact information, go to haymounttruckstop. com.

The Haymount Truck Stop offers space for food truck vendors to serve food while providing drinks, a small arcade, and an outdoor patio space for patrons.

Lauren Ervin adds garnishes to a drink at the Haymount Truck Stop.

dining DESTINATIONS

Known as one of the country’s most culturally diverse cities, Fayetteville serves up a melting pot of cultural delights from a variety of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, and food trucks. If your sweet tooth needs satisfaction, or you have a hankering for a savory meal, you can find all that and more right here. Here are a few favorites:

BURGERS & ‘DOGS

Two years ago, the longtime popular food truck, R Burger added R Kitchen, a brickand-mortar restaurant near downtown Fayetteville. The mushroom and Swiss burger on a toasted white bun with a side of crispy fries is a top pick.

Archway Burgers, Dogs and Beer in downtown Fayetteville lets customers build their own meals. Look for the little white order pads and pencils up front and check off your favorite condiments and toppings of all kinds — even fried green tomatoes and beer onions. Grab a craft beer and take a seat at one of the tables on the sidewalk or under the brick arch, a prime spot for people-watching.

Hot Diggidy Dog on Roxie Avenue serves hot dogs so delicious you’ll jump for joy, as the name implies. The restaurant also makes melt-in-your-mouth Carolina-style burgers complete with mustard, chili, slaw, and onions. The strawberry shakes are the real deal.

PIZZA, PIZZA!

Elizabeth’s Pizza on Hope Mills Road is known for its consistency and friendly service, which keeps hungry customers coming back not just for its pizza, but also the authentic pasta dishes and salads.

Chef and Pizzaiolo Nadia Minniti, owner of Gusto Napoletano Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria on Raeford Road, has been named one of 10 U.S. Women in Pizza to Watch in 2024 by PMQ Pizza magazine. A certified VPN pizzaiolo (Vera Pizza Napoletana or true Neapolitan pizza maker), she opened Gusto Napoletano in 2019.

If you measure the quality of a pizza by its crust, you can’t go wrong at Little Italy Pizzeria and Restaurant near Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Brooklyn Pizzeria on Ramsey Street where the crusts are neither too thick nor too thin and the toppings are perfectly fresh.

A TASTE OF THE WORLD

Fayetteville’s international food scene takes you around the globe, bite by bite.

For soul-soothing pho, you can’t go wrong at Vietnam Kitchen in Westwood Shopping Center. Pile on fresh cilantro, basil, sprouts, and jalapeno, and make your tastebuds happy.

For Chinese takeout, the place to go is Hong Kong Kitchen, also in Westwood Shopping Center. Garden-fresh ingredients and generous portions turn one meal into two — or more. And you can’t beat those steamed dumplings.

If sushi is what you’re craving, be sure to visit Nona Sushi Asia on Ramsey Street. The lobster and dragon rolls are the stuff of dreams. Hibachi dishes are also featured. The modern dining room is beautifully lit, setting the scene for making romantic memories.

Taste of West Africa on Person Street serves up healthy homestyle cuisine in a casual environment. The dishes have been described as bold, exciting, and cooked with love.

From small plates to full meals, Agora Mediterranean Restaurant on Person Street is a delicious and nutritious choice. Menu items like hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, and kabobs are satisfying and flavorful.

Toni Laney, Luciana Murray, and Cate Hinton begin their evening with cocktails at Antonella's Italian Ristorante. Photo by Tony Wooten.

For Indian food, a perennial favorite is Bombay Bistro, located in Cliffdale Square. Chef Kelly Kishan is known for working his magic on legumes and vegetables, prepared to perfection in aromatic sauces, herbs, and spices. The vegetarian saag tofu and curries are splendid, as are the tender tandoori chicken and korma dishes. And if you like it hot, go with the vindaloo.

VEGAN BITES

Vibe Gastropub is downtown Fayetteville’s go-to destination for creative vegan delights served in sophisticated boho surroundings. Ambery Edge, the owner and chef, also operates Authentique Café, a popular food truck.

The Vegan Spot offers a variety of vegan meals, including classic American dishes such as burgers, fries, pizza, and even a meatless meatball sub. The restaurant opened in January at Murchison Marketplace.

FAMOUS “Q”

Southern Coals on Raeford Road serves up some of the most authentic eastern style pork barbecue, beef brisket, and burnt ends in the state.

You’ll also dig the Q at the stalwart Barbeque Hut, which has been serving up its famous crispy fried chicken wings, slaw, and hushpuppies since 1965. No barbecue dinner is complete without a proper glass of sweet tea to wash it all down. Vist one — or both — of the restaurant’s two locations on Fort Bragg Road and Owen Drive.

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD

At El Cazador Mexican Restaurant, owner/ chef Agustin Alvarez offers all your Mexican favorites, from overstuffed beef burritos to shrimp, chicken, and steak fajitas, to tacos, quesadillas, and tamales. And while you’re there, don’t miss out on the great guacamole and margaritas. Distance is no reason to miss a meal at El Cazador. The restaurant has three convenient locations: Skibo Road, Gillespie Street, and Good Middling Drive in western Cumberland County.

DATE NIGHT & SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Fayetteville is home to steak and seafood restaurants that are perfect dining choices for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself because, well, you deserve it. Luigi’s Italian Chophouse and Bar on N. McPherson Church Road prides itself on its ribeye marsala. Chilean sea bass is another winner. Luigi’s serves up a fine plate of pasta, too.

Chris’s Steak & Seafood House on Raeford Road boasts exceptional meats, including the popular filet mignon. Filet mignon, grilled salmon, and salads are also rave-worthy. Both Luigi’s and Chris’s restaurants offer stellar wine choices and a happening bar scene.

BREAKFAST SPOTS

Zorba’s Gyro on Raeford Road is the real deal. This Greek restaurant is not only known for its gyros and homemade baklava, but hungry customers love its hearty breakfast choices that are served up at bargain prices and inspire you to start your day with a smile on your face. Just down the street from Zorba’s you’ll find Lindy’s Restaurant, where friendly staff will make you feel like family and promise you won’t leave hungry. Come for breakfast and stay for lunch at this classic diner. The omelets and hamburger steak are standouts.

SWEET TREATS

Superior Bakery on Hope Mills Road is famous as a bakery wonderland. You might be tempted to stay all day, sampling the fresh breads, doughnuts, Greek baked goods, and Southern-inspired cakes. It’s a feast for the senses.

If German sweets are your jam, be sure to hit up Max & Moritz in Cliffdale Square where apple strudel, Black Forest cake, and Linzer cookies are specialties. Craving a cupcake? At The Sweet Palette downtown, choose from dozens of varieties, from key lime to red velvet. And the colorful macarons taste as good as they look.

COFFEE, TEA AND SMALL BITES

Hay Street is home to a row of locally owned coffee shops where you can have a meeting, catch up on work, or get your morning caffeine fix along with pastries and savory breakfast fare.

Rude Awakening Coffee House opened in 1999 after saving the building that housed Brady’s Soda Shop and refurbishing it as an award-winning coffee shop on Hay Street. Rude Awakening offers a nearly endless variety of elixirs to get your day off to a wide-awake start.

At The Coffee Scene Prince Charles, also on Hay Street, you may just feel like royalty when you sample the delicious beverages and small bites in an intimate setting.

If you keep a lookout, you might just spot Vagabond Café in your own neighborhood. Vagabond is a mobile espresso bar that moves around the Sandhills area and offers a brick-andmortar shop downtown on Hay Street.

Winterbloom Tea offers all things tea-related. From curative teas to soothe your spirit and heal your body to tea cocktails crafted with the finest liquors, Winterbloom may just be one of the most unique tea houses you’ve ever visited, and it’s also on Hay Street.

The Red Desk Café, with a vibe like the coffee houses of the 1960s and 70s, gives guests a little live music with their coffee. Home to a local music collective, The Red Desk Café on Hay Street features live music on select nights.

Award-winning Chocolate Berry Infusion cocktail raises Antonella’s profile

BY TERI SAYLOR

ON A WARM SPRING AFTERNOON, Antonella’s Italian Ristorante bartender Francesca Forbes displayed a prized bottle of cognac, still celebrating the restaurant’s new title as the winner of the La Fayette Cognac People’s Choice contest.

She reckoned she has made 200 servings of the award-winning Chocolate Berry Infusion since the restaurant was crowned in March 2024.

Restaurant owner Antonella Scibilia conjured up the concept, said Francesca, who created the cocktail and brought it to life.

“I made a raspberry and blackberry puree with cognac, dark chocolate, and Mexican bitters, and added a splash of coffee,” Francesca said.

Poured over an ice cube and served with fresh raspberries, blackberries, and chocolate, the cocktail is a feast for both the eyes and the palette.

Restaurant manager St. Clair Cooper described the cognac contest as a team-building experience for a staff that is already like a family and strives to treat customers like family, too.

Taking advantage of recipes handed down through her Sicilian family for generations and setting a standard of quality and attention to detail, Antonella set out in 2017 to bring Italian inspiration to Fayetteville. Those standards are reflected in the restaurant’s food.

“Our dishes are made from scratch, with love and care,” St. Clair said. “Antonella has put a lot of effort into building the menu, and this is one of the few places in North Carolina where you can get traditional Italian food.”

Antonella’s is located at 300 Hay St. The restaurant, open for dinner only, features an intimate setting including patio dining and does not take reservations.

Learn more at antonellasitalianristorante.com.

Joshua Angelini serves Edward and Tiffany Jones lunch. They enjoy the Blue Moon Café because its menu options accommodate Tiffany's pescatarian lifestyle.

STILL HUNGRY?

Here are more tasty choices:

Circa 1800: Billed as the place for “locally focused New Southern cuisine,” this restaurant serves up classic regional delights, including its signature Boudin Balls and Fayetteville Hot Buns. 108 Person St. 910-568-4725

Blue Moon Café: Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Blue Moon Café has earned the right to be called a Hay Street institution. 310 Hay St. 910-860-4700

J.K.’s Deli & Family Restaurant: Whether you crave comfort food for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, J.K’s serves your favorites. This restaurant has been familyowned-and-operated since 1984. 125 Owen Drive. 910-485-3711

Latitude 35 Bar & Grill: Craving an island vibe? Latitude 35 offers a laid-back scene and food to match. Enjoy Key West Shrimp Bites or Key Largo Kabobs while dreaming of your tropical escape. 1217 Hay St. 910-485-4777

Pan: You can’t beat a good sandwich any time of day. Drop in at Pan to grab your favorite or just be surprised. You never know what the special invention of the day might be, and the only thing for sure is it will be delicious. 105 Hay St. 910-491-3105

Peaden’s Seafood & Catering: A longtime favorite, Peaden’s serves up a taste of the coast to tickle your vacation vibe. Try Calabash-style seafood, Southern fried chicken, and Eastern North Carolina barbecue. 1600 McArthur Road. 910-488-1972

The Friend’s Table: Enjoy handcrafted cuisine including chicken and waffles, and shrimp and grits. Don’t miss this restaurant’s classic mojitos and mimosas. 253 Westwood Shopping Center. 910-339-7257

Uptown’s Chicken & Waffles: Chef Judy Cage-McLean, who competed on the Food Network show “Chopped,” prepares her signature Southern pairings. She also offers catering and personal chef services. Ramada Plaza, 1707 Owen Drive. 910-676-8039

Vicky’s Famous Biscuits & Chicken: This popular spot features biscuits stuffed with country ham, pork chops, sausage, chicken, or steak. Breakfast and lunch only. 128 Grove St. 910-491-2681

DestinationFAY 2024-2025

FROM A TO Z (Antonella’s

to Zorba’s)

WHERE TO FIND THEM

Antonella’s Italian Ristorante: 300 Hay St. 910-486-0046

Archway Burgers, Dogs and Beer: 113 Person St. 910-758-9449

Bombay Bistro: 5945 Cliffdale Road. 910-487-0020

Brooklyn Pizzeria: 4411 Ramsey St. 910-491-4585

Chris’s Steak & Seafood House: 2620 Raeford Road. 910-485-4242

El Cazador: 1904 Skibo Road, 910-864-0700; 2800 Gillespie St. (Airport Plaza), 910-480-0084; 7835 Good Middling Drive, 910-758-8026

Elizabeth’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant: 2468 Hope Mills Road. 910-424-2848

Haymount Truck Stop: 100 Broadfoot Ave. 472-210-3250

Hong Kong Restaurant: 169 Westwood Shopping Center. 910-867-6464

Hot Diggidy Dog: 106 Roxie Ave. 910-426-1300

Lindy’s Restaurant: 3001 Raeford Road. 910-485-6247

Little Italy Pizzeria and Restaurant: 1400 Walter Reed Road. 910-867-8700

Luigi’s Italian Chophouse & Bar: 528 N. McPherson Church Road. 910-864-1810

Max & Moritz: 5945 Cliffdale Road. 910-826-8400

Nona Sushi Asia: 4411 Ramsey St. 910-920-2400

R Kitchen: 1006 Person St. 910-527-1467. Also, R Burger food truck: Rotating locations in the region; see the Facebook page on where to find the truck.

Southern Coals: 3319-C Raeford Road. 910-745-7675

Superior Bakery: 2433 Hope Mills Road. 910-424-4242

The Barbeque Hut: 2802 Fort Bragg Road (910-485-5390) and 2965 Owen Drive (910-484-1975)

The Sweet Palette: 101 Person St. 910-489-7342

The Vegan Spot: 3421 Murchison Road. 910-303-6848

Vibe Gastropub: 131 Hay St. 910-491-8259

Vietnam Kitchen: 400 Westwood Shopping Center. 910-500-9011

Zorba’s Gyro on a Spit: 2919 Raeford Road. 910-484-1010

Red Desk Cafe: 1110 Hay St.; 910-853-9629

Rude Awakening: 227 Hay St.; 910-223-7833

The Coffee Scene Prince Charles: 450 Hay St.; 910-568-3758

Vagabond Café: 108 Hay St.; 910-500-3009

Winterbloom Tea: 238 Hay St.; 910-491-3536

Scan code for menu

Chef and Pizzaiolo Nadia Minniti, owner of Gusto Napoletano Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria, has been named one of 10 U.S. Women in Pizza to Watch in 2024 by PMQ Pizza magazine.

Chef Nadia Minniti successfully completed the pizzaiolo training, and was awarded the pizzaiolo certificate by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana.

We use wholesome ingredients when making our authentic Neapolitan pizza in compliance to the Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN) guidelines: The dough is made with just water, salt, yeast, and flour. Stretching of the dough is made by hand.

• Specific designated ingredients from Naples must be used. Pizza must be cooked in a wood-fired oven, without a baking pan, for 60-90 seconds.

• Pizza should be golden in color with a few burns and bubbles.

• Pizza should be round with a diameter non greater than 35 cm.

Marinara must be made with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, salt, oregano, and a swirl of extra virgin olive oil.

• Margherita must be made with San Marzano tomatoes, salt, mozzarella di bufala, basil, and a swirl of extra virgin olive oil.

By dining at Gusto Napoletano, you’re supporting a veteran-owned business that serves satisfying and authentic Neapolitan cuisine. Nadia creates her dishes from scratch using only the freshest ingredients. You can taste our food through take-outs and walk-ins, or by booking us for your event.

NADIA MINNITI GUSTO NAPOLETANO Women 10 TO WATCH

shopping DESTINATIONS

LOCAL SPECIALTY SHOPS

Bell’s Seed Store: Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, the store celebrated 100 years in business in 2019. Bell’s offers a variety of seasonal plants, from pansies and petunias to peppers and tomatoes, as well as lawn care essentials. Whenever it snows, Bell’s is a go-to for sleds, shovels, and ice melt. 230 E. Russell St. 7:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Monday-Friday; and 8 a.m.3 p.m. Saturday. 910-483-8400

Betty Kelly’s Gift Shop: This familyowned business has been a staple for four generations of brides looking for the perfect china pattern. The shop also offers home decor, invitations, and gifts, including scented candles, jewelry, and women’s clothing. The shop carries the McKenzie-Childs, Vietri, and Julie Vos lines. 1228 Fort Bragg Road. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. 910-484-4044

A Bit of Carolina: This specialty gift shop carries North Carolina-made and -themed goods and specializes in custom gift baskets. 306 Hay St. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. MondayWednesday; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday;

11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 910-551-6537

Blue Bike Antiques and Gifts: Blue Bike is home to local vendors offering antique and vintage items, furniture, and collectibles. 2608 Raeford Road. 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. 910-920-2146

Cursive: This store features a mixture of cottage shabby home furnishings, vintage finds, jewelry, greeting cards, home fragrances, handbags, and totes, decorations, and gifts. 223 Franklin St. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-482-0005

Fleishman’s Tiny Town: This family-owned business has offered children’s clothing, shoes, and toys for over 60 years. Tiny Town also has a baby registry and children’s furniture. 2800 Raeford Road, Suite 24B, Highland Centre. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. MondaySaturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. 910-323-1991

Greg’s Pottery: The paint-your-own pottery studio, art gallery, and gift shop was founded

by local artist Greg Hathaway and is now owned by his daughter, Kelly Hathaway. 122 Maxwell St. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. MondaySaturday. 910-483-8355

John Allen Shoes: This family-owned store sells a variety of shoes for all ages, including hard-to-find brands. 214 Owen Drive. 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-484-3161

Leclair’s General Store: Patrick Leclair opened this store in the heart of Haymount after leaving a career overseeing the decor of a national chain of high-end clothing stores. Leclair’s features coffee, wine, craft beer, specialty groceries, vintage decor, antiques, art, jewelry, and local goods. It’s worth a trip just to check out the way Leclair arranges everything. 1212 Fort Bragg Road. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. MondaySaturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 910-491-1060

Lisa’s Custom Framing: Besides beautifully framing nearly anything, Robin Kelly also offers a gallery of work by local artists and gifts. 1226 Fort Bragg Road. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-484-3585

Owner Molly Arnold offers a mixture of cottage shabby home furnishings, vintage finds, jewelry, greeting cards, home fragrances, handbags and totes, decorations, and gifts at Cursive, her store at 223 Franklin St. Photo by Raul Rubiera

The Pilgrim: This gift shop features happy vibes and sweet aromas. It sells Vera Bradley, Cat Studio, and Radko ornaments, along with Byers Choice Figurines, jewelry, and scented candles. 160 Westwood Shopping Center. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-867-9750

Reverie Goods & Gifts: Owner Meghan Reed offers her own jewelry line, Square Peg Meg, along with accessories, art, and bags. The store has gift items for everyone, including teachers, children, and brides. 101 Hay St. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon-6 p.m. Sunday.

Stevies on Hay: This former apothecary features candles, coffee, and eclectic gifts. 318 Hay St. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 910-229-2577

Turner Lane: Tucked on a side street in downtown Fayetteville, this shop has novelty gifts, organic handmade soaps and bath products, artisan foods, and beverages, custom gift baskets, and muscadine slushies. 242-A Hay St. June hours: Closed Tuesdays; 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. For other months, call for hours. 910-818-2157

CLOTHING BOUTIQUES

Epiphany Boutique: “We have cute clothes for any occasion,” said store clerk Nicole Oliver. 3710 Morganton Road, Suite 108. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-323-5591

Fabulous Finds Boutique: You’ll find trendy, affordable styles, jewelry, dresses, and shoes available in-store or online at fabfindsboutique.com. 310 Hay St. above Blue Moon Cafe. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. MondaySaturday; closed Sunday. 910-483-0733

Monkee’s of Fayetteville: Boutique designer fashions, shoes, jewelry, and gift items are featured. 322 Glensford Drive, Suite 106. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-867-6001

PET FOOD AND ACCESSORIES

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming: Besides dog grooming, grain-free pet food, gourmet dog treats, and dog accessories, toys, and gifts are sold. 1216 Fort Bragg Road. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-860-1200

AREA SHOPPING CENTERS

Cross Creek Mall: Fayetteville’s first enclosed mall opened in 1975 with five anchors: Belk, Sears, Thalhimer’s (now Macy’s), JCPenney,

and Miller and Rhodes. Belk, JCPenney, and Macy’s remain, along with more than 100 other retail and dining options, including a food court. The newest anchor is the 45,000-square-foot stand-alone Rooms to Go furniture store. Between Skibo and Morganton roads. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. MondaySaturday; noon-6 p.m. Sunday. 910-868-7668

Cross Pointe Center: This shopping area stays busy because of popular stores like T.J. Maxx, Ashley HomeStore, Shoe Carnival, and Ulta Beauty. Eateries include Nona Sushi and Cold Stone Creamery. 5075 Morganton Road. Check individual stores for hours.

Eutaw Village: Fayetteville’s first shopping center, Eutaw Village was once home to The Capitol Department Store and Ballentine’s Cafeteria. Today, the center off Bragg Boulevard has over 40 businesses and is anchored by Round-a-Bout Skating Center, The Day Spa Rejuvenation Center, Carlie C’s IGA grocery store, The Mill End Store fabric shop, Carolyn’s Hallmark Shop, and Dollar Tree. Adjacent Eutaw Village North has an N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles office. 2620 Bragg Blvd. Check individual stores for hours.

Fayetteville Pavilion: Located across Skibo Road from Target and Home Depot, Fayetteville Pavilion is anchored by a Food Lion supermarket, PetSmart, Marshalls, Michaels, and Rack Room Shoes. 2061 Skibo Road. Check individual stores for hours.

Freedom Town Center: Fayetteville’s newest shopping center features 50 acres of stores and restaurants, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Home Goods, Hobby Lobby, and First Watch. 22712 Freedom Parkway Drive. Check individual stores for hours.

Marketfair Shopping Center: This open-air retail and dining complex features AMC MarketFair 15 theaters with reclining and heated seats, Planet Fitness, Lidl food store,

and Rocket Fizz soda pop and candy store. 1916 Skibo Road. Check individual stores for hours. 910-829-1617

Tallywood Shopping Center: Publix supermarket, Mi Casita Mexican Restaurant, and Great Clips are the centerpieces of one of Fayetteville’s oldest but recently renovated shopping centers. 3114 Raeford Road. Check individual stores for hours.

Westwood Shopping Center: Westwood is anchored by a Food Lion supermarket and Sky Zone Trampoline Park. First Citizens Bank has a branch here. Other stores include The UPS Store, Board & Brush DIY Wood Sign Workshop, and the county’s largest ABC store. Westwood is at Morganton and South McPherson Church roads. Check individual stores for hours.

FRESH PRODUCE AND OUTDOOR MARKETS

City Market at the Museum: Vendors offer 100% locally grown produce. 325 Franklin St. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. 910-433-1457

Dirtbag Ales: The market is open every Sunday seasonally at the popular brewery. It features locally grown produce, along with food trucks, live music, local vendors, and adult beverages. 5435 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. TuesdayThursday; 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; noon11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sunday; and closed Monday. 910-426-2537

The Downtown Market: Located in the warehouse district of Downtown Fayetteville, this market works with local farmers and artisans to offer everything from eggs, milk, meats, and veggies to fresh flowers, candles, soaps, and gifts. 325 Blount St. 11:00 a.m.6:00 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. 919-349-6062

Gillis Hill Road Produce: This farm is ninthgeneration family-owned. 2899 Gillis Hill Road. 910-308-9342

Pate’s Farm Market: The store features fresh produce, a butcher shop, bakery, a hot bar serving Southern favorites, and an intriguing pineapple-peeling machine. Adjacent is a nursery with thousands of flowers, shrubs, vegetable and spice plants, trees, and lawn décor. 6411 Raeford Road. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 910-426-1575

SPECIALTY FOOD STORES

Apple Crate Naturals You’ll find organic, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, whole-grain, allergy-sensitive foods, and teas, along with supplements and natural soaps. A bulk section offers trail mixes, dried fruits, grains, and herbs. A grind-your-own-peanut butter station features three kinds of nuts. 2711 Raeford Road, Suite 110. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. 910-426-7777

Compare Foods: This independently-owned supermarket offers fresh produce, meats, beer, and wine, and international products not found in other stores. 155 Bonanza Drive. 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. 910-826-9820

The Fresh Market: Fresh produce, meats, and seafood are featured, as well as a specialty cheese section, bakery, wine and beer, and ready-to-go meals. 230 Glensford Drive. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. 910-867-2588

Indian Food and Spices: Shop for fresh vegetables, spices, local specialty meats, sweets, and toiletries. 2417 Hope Mills Road. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; 9:30 am.-8:30 p.m. Thursday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. 910-229-2263

Mediterranean Mart and Indian Foods: You’ll find Indian spices, pita bread, Greek and Turkish coffees and teas, and hard-tofind items. 5924 Cliffdale Road, Suite 104. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday. 910-864-1646

Kinlaw’s Supermarket: This family-owned meat market offers beef, pork, chicken, seafood, and freshly ground hamburger. 1802 Sapona Road. 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m. MondaySaturday; closed Sunday. 910-483-3437

Pan Thai & Asian Market: Fresh produce and hard-to-find sauces and spices are sold here. 805 Hope Mills Road. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. 910-424-6909

Sprouts Farmers Market: The store features fresh, natural, and organic foods, including fruits and vegetables, as well as a full-service deli and meat and seafood counters. 2810 Freedom Parkway Drive. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. 910-748-5985

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Curtains up!

A guide to Fayetteville’s top theatrical performances, musical acts, and artistic exhibitions this 2024-25 season

BY PAUL WOOLVERTON

From live shows with music, comedy and drama to U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum exhibits, Fayetteville has plenty of entertainment to offer.

There’s something for everyone. Whether it’s singing along to Cape Fear Regional Theatre’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” musical in January, enjoying a symphony in an elegant concert hall or while sipping a beer at a bar, or having some laughs at a stand-up comedy show, you won’t be disappointed.

ON STAGE

The Cape Fear Regional Theatre stages musicals, dramas, and comedies, and has educational programs for children and adults throughout the year. The 2024-25 season: “Footloose” in September/October; “Puffs”

in October/November; “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” in December; “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” in January/February; “Steel Magnolias” in March/April; “Once On This Island” in May/June. Due to renovations of its building on Haymount Hill, the theater is temporarily moving its performances to the ballroom in the GoodHomes Bordeaux at 1707 Owen Drive (the former Holiday Inn Bordeaux). 910-323-4233 or cfrt.org.

The Gilbert Theater at 116 Green St., above Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, entertains audiences in a black-box theater with productions ranging from quirky to serious. The 2024-25 season’s shows: “Heathers, the Musical,” Sept. 13-29; “A Christmas Story,” Nov. 22-Dec. 8; “Misery,” Jan. 31-Feb. 16; “The Prince,” March 21-April 6; and “Little Shop of Horrors,” May 16-June 1. All productions

showcase local talent. 910-678-7186 or gilberttheater.com.

Sweet Tea Shakespeare brings indoor and outdoor performances of Shakespeare and other works, including some written locally. Plus it has live music before every show. Performance locations vary. The 2024-25 season: “The Odyssey” in September; “Troilus and Cressida” in November; “Behold” in December; “Murder on the Orient Express” in January; “Pan” in April; “Robin Hood” in June; “King John” in June. 910-420-4383 or sweetteashakespeare.com.

A Yellow Beanie Project in Fayetteville will have its Science Fiction Double Feature in October and November with “The Rocky Horror Show” from Oct.16-Nov. 3 and “Frankenstein” from Nov. 1-17 in The Arts Center, 301 Hay St. yellowbeanieinfo@gmail. com and A Yellow Beanie Project page on Facebook.

Artist Village in Hope Mills has shows, concerts, and other events. “Play Music on the Porch Day,” Aug. 31 at Hope Mills Lake; “Fall Artisan Fair,” Sept. 14, 5483 Trade St.; “Dracula,” Oct. 18-19 and Oct. 25-26, 5483 Trade St.; “It’s A Wonderful Life,” Dec. 1315, 3711 S. Main St.; Holiday Community Choir Concert, Dec. 19, 3711 S. Main St. info@artistvllagehm.com, 910-364-9512, ArtistVillageHM on Facebook and Instagram, and artistvillagehm.com.

Cape Fear Regional Theatre presented Music City Sep. 19 through Oct. 7, 2018. Photo by Raul Rubiera.

CONCERTS

Community Concerts, which completed its 88th season in May, brings a variety of musical guests to the Crown Theatre. Last year’s season featured Gladys Knight; Josh Turner; Air Supply; Little River Band; and Rollin on The River — The Best of Tina tribute show. For information on the 2024-25 season, call 910323-1991 or go to community-concerts.com.

The Crown Complex hosts musical acts and stage shows, as well as sports, trade shows, and more. Venues include the Crown Coliseum, a theatre, an arena, an expo hall, and a ballroom. Upcoming shows include “Ladies R&B Kickback Concert,” Sept. 28; Ali Siddiq’s comedy show “I Got A Story To Tell,” Oct. 25; TobyMac, Zach Williams, and MercyMe concert, Nov. 7; “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet,” Nov. 14; and rock band group Kansas’ “Another Fork in The Road” 50th Anniversary Tour concert, Dec. 5. 910-438-4100 or crowncomplexnc.com

Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra fills performance venues from Seabrook Auditorium at Fayetteville State University to the historic St. John’s Episcopal Church on Green Street. The lineup includes season concerts, community concerts, and student concerts. It also presents Symphony on Tap, a musical series with free admission at local breweries.

The Independence Concert and fireworks show are scheduled for July 4 at Festival Park. The 2024-25 season includes “Music of the Knights” concert paying tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber, Elton John, and Paul McCartney, Sept. 21; “Handel’s Water Music Suite,” Nov. 23; “Sounds of Lafayette,” Jan. 25; “The New World Reimagined” concert with music by Ahmed Al Abaca, Brittany J. Green, and Antonín Dvor ˇák, Feb. 22; “Mallet Madness” percussion ensemble performance led by Assistant Conductor and Percussionist Dr. Daniel McCloud, March 14-15; and “Beethoven V” concert, April 26. Single tickets range from $7 for children to $36 for adult general admission. Discount ticket pricing is available for seniors, Cumberland County Schools employees, military and college students. 910-433-4690

or fayettevillesymphony.org.

Symphony on Tap events: Jazz Quartet performance at Dirtbag Ales, June 22; String Quartet performance at James Creek Cider House, Aug. 30; String Quartet performance at Haymount Truck Stop, Sept. 8; Jazz Quartet performance on Mardi Gras at Heckler, March 4; and Jazz Quartet performance at District House of Taps in honor of Star Wars, May 4.

Fayetteville State University brings musical acts, national artists, and more to Seabrook Auditorium. 910-672-1724 or uncfsu.edu/ community/seabrook

STAND-UP COMEDY

Paddy’s Irish Pub, 2606 Raeford Road, has comedy shows on Thursdays. paddysirishpub. com

The Locals Comedy holds shows at various locations in and around Fayetteville. Shows are announced on Facebook. facebook.com/ TheLocalsComedy

White Rabbit Pub, 3030 Fort Bragg Road, has open mic comedy on Mondays. facebook.com/ WhiteRabbitPub.2017

Heckler Brewing Co., 5780 Ramsey St., has open mic comedy every other Friday. hecklerbeer.com

GALLERIES

The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County is a nonprofit organization that serves as a link between artists and cultural organizations, and provides grants to local artists. It celebrated its 50th anniversary on June 6. The organization’s Art Center Gallery hosts free exhibits throughout the year. The Arts Council is at 301 Hay St. in downtown Fayetteville. 910-323-1776 or theartscouncil.com

The Art Gallery at Fayetteville Technical Community College displays exhibitions each semester that feature the artwork of students, faculty, and outside artists. Exhibitions are free and open to the public, and they run year-round. The gallery is in the foyer of the Paul H. Thompson Library at 2221 Hull Road. 910-678-0092

Cape Fear Studios offers art lessons and hosts a community of artists in residence. The nonprofit organization is in downtown Fayetteville. It includes a retail gallery and a main gallery that exhibit artworks in an array of media by local, national, and international artists. The exhibits are free and open to the public. The studio is at 148 Maxwell St. 910-433-2986 or capefearstudios.com

Rosenthal Art Gallery, in the Rosenthal Building on the campus of Fayetteville State University, is part of the university’s Department of Performing and Fine Arts. It hosts exhibits of works by students, staff, and internationally known artists throughout the year. 910-672-1057

MUSEUMS

U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum has exhibits on the past, present, and future of the Army’s airborne and special operations forces. It is owned and operated by the Army. The museum, which also hosts special programs and guest speakers, is at 100 Bragg Blvd. Admission is free and open to the public. 910-643-2778 or asomf.org

Fascinate-U Children’s Museum, in the heart of downtown Fayetteville at 116 Green St., is a hands-on interactive museum created to educate as well as provide hours of fun for children up to 12. The museum offers family memberships, art classes, and children’s birthday packages. 910-829-9171 or fascinate-u.com

Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex features exhibits bringing the Cape Fear region’s diverse history to life with livinghistory programs, tours, special events, interactive programs, and demonstrations. The Poe House, a restored 1897 home, and Arsenal Park, the remains of an ordnance factory from the Civil War era, make up the historical complex at 801 Arsenal Ave. 910-500-4240 or museumofthecapefear. ncdcr.gov

Paul Woolverton performs in Sweet Tea Shakespeare productions outside of his reporting work.

Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra

FESTIVALS

Year-round celebrations

Discover Fayetteville’s vibrant festival calendar, including Juneteenth Jubilee, PRIDEFEST, and other cultural celebrations, as well as seasonal festivities.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY WOOTEN

The first Juneteenth was celebrated more than 150 years ago, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Today, communities across the nation mark the day as one to uplift African American history and culture and the contributions of generations that came before.

It’s the basis, festival organizers say, for Fayetteville’s Juneteenth Jubilee, which returned to Festival Park (335 Ray Ave.) on June 15.

The city of Fayetteville and Cool

Spring Downtown District (CSDD) hosted the event from 1 to 9 p.m. to both commemorate June 19 — when enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom by Union soldiers in 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed — and celebrate the idea that “we are our ancestors’ wildest dreams.”

That’s the phrase Ashanti Bennett, the CSDD’s director of special projects, kept coming back to as the organization entered the planning phases for this

Above and opposite, headliner Skip Marley brings the sounds of reggae to the stage during the third annual Juneteenth Jubilee in Fayetteville's Festival Park. Below, two-time Grammy nominee Pierce Freelon performs his kid-friendly music.

year’s edition of the jubilee.

“I look around at the accomplishments of Black Americans across the country and the globe, not to mention the inspiring excellence right here in Fayetteville, the barriers that we continue to break, the leadership and advancement of the culture, and the joy we continue to express even in the face of turmoil,” Ashanti said in a news release. “I can’t help but reflect on the wonder and pride that our ancestors would feel if they could see us now.”

Ashanti also said in the release that the third annual event should provide “a vibe of joy and uplifting positivity.”

The day featured local performers and artisans, food trucks, small-business and corporate vendors, and entertainment for families.

The event also included an educational tour focused on the history of Juneteenth and Black history in Fayetteville.

Educator and musician Pierce Freelon served as the prelude to the entertainment headliner, Skip Marley. Music from Skip, the maternal grandson of reggae artist Bob Marley, included touches of contemporary pop, rap, and rock.

The town of Hope Mills also hosted the Juneteenth Liberty and Legacy Celebration from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 15 at Dirtbag Ales (5435 Corporation Drive).

Two weekends later on June 29, also at Festival Park, Fayetteville PRIDE hosted its fifth annual PRIDEFEST 2024! from noon to 6 p.m. with live entertainment, vendors, food trucks, art projects, and more.

The organization inaugurated the festival in 2018, which was attended by 1,500 people, according to the Fayetteville PRIDE’s website. The organization saw a boom in attendance just one year later with 5,000 festivalgoers at Festival Park. After a two-year break, PRIDEFEST broke its record with 6,000 attendees in 2022.

This year, Fayetteville PRIDE continued the tradition, serving its mission “to instill pride, celebrate unity, and embrace diversity and inclusiveness in our LGBTQ+ community and allies, and to provide a support network and educational advocacy group dedicated to increasing awareness and acceptance.”

For more information on Juneteenth Jubilee: Their Wildest Dreams, visit visitdowntownfayetteville.com/juneteenthfayetteville-2024/, and for more information on PRIDEFEST 2024! visit facebook.com/ fayncpride/events.

MORE IN JUNE

Lumbee Homecoming: The largest American Indian cultural celebration in the Southeast features pageants, a parade, music and other entertainment, and vendors from Jun 26 to Jul 6 at 636 Prospect Road in Pembroke. For more information visit: doa.nc.gov/news/ events/2024-lumbee-homecoming.

JULY

Fourth of July celebrations

Fayetteville

Independence Day Concert with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra: The city and the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra will present a free concert at 7:15 p.m. in Festival Park. Gates open at 6 p.m. Food and drinks are available via a beer tent and other on-site vendors. visitdowntownfayetteville.com/ events/independence-day-concert-with-fso/ Fort Liberty

4th at the Fort Celebration: Visit the Main Post Parade Field to enjoy food and beverages or take in parachute free-fall demonstrations and a flag ceremony before the fireworks finale. The event also features music from three artists — Flo Rida, Plain White T’s, and Maddie & Tae — and the 82nd Airborne Division Band, along with free admission to Kiddieland for the children. The celebration is free and open to the public. Gates open at 3 p.m. Additional information about traffic flow, tent rental and prohibited items can be found at liberty. armymwr.com/calendar/event/23521 Hope Mills

Independence Day Parade: Begins at 10 a.m. Starting point is Rockfish Elementary School, with the finish at Hope Mills Middle School. nc-hopemills.civicplus.com/349/ Independence-Day-Celebration.

SEPTEMBER

Running Water Powwow: The 12th annual

event will be held from noon to 10 p.m. on Sept. 7 at 200 Indian Drive with performances by Male Head Dancer Brandon Stewart and Female Head Dancer Zena Clark. For more information about this celebration of community and culture, visit facebook.com/ groups/2908067639495353/

Greek Festival: Experience Greek culture in the form of pastries and other food, dance, and more Sept. 13 to Sept. 15 at Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 614 Oakridge Ave. in Fayetteville. More details to come at facebook.com/faygreekfest/ Oktoberfest: Fort Liberty’s Iron Mike Conference Center (2658 Rock Merritt Ave., Bldg. 5-5348) hosts Oktoberfest, a free event open to the public, from noon to 8 p.m. Sept. 28. A variety of German food and a beer garden, German dancers, live music, and a fall market are among the day’s features. liberty. armymwr.com/calendar/event/86774.

International Folk Festival: Hosted by The Arts Council, the 46th edition of the annual festival in downtown Fayetteville will celebrate the area’s diversity across three days, Sept. 27 to Sept. 29. The event that draws 50,000-plus patrons will feature an international cafe, with food from a variety of countries; live music and dance; a Parade of Nations; an art market and interactive installations; kids area; and more. More details to come at eventeny.com/events/ 46th-annual-international-folk-festival-8053/

OCTOBER

Zombie Walk/4th Friday: The undead will take over the October version of the Cool Spring Downtown District’s monthly 4th Friday. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 26, the event that highlights the area’s visual and performing arts and local business will be supplemented with a costume contest and processional of the walking dead through the streets.

visitdowntownfayetteville.com/events/ october-4th-friday-2024-zombie-walk/. Halloween in Hope Mills: Trunk R Treat details are forthcoming at townofhopemills. com/1552/Trunk-or-Treat

NOVEMBER

Holly Day Fair: The holiday event, hosted by the Junior League of Fayetteville at the Crown Expo Center from Nov. 7 to Nov. 10, features more than 150 vendors with local food and drink products, toys, decor, gifts, apparel, accessories, and more. Look out for updates on the 57th annual event here: facebook.com/ hollydayfair.

A Dickens Holiday: The Christmastime event in downtown Fayetteville in late November celebrates the Victorian era, with character actors in period wardrobe, horse-drawn carriage rides, and musicians and carolers. Also featured are food and product vendors and local stores. Check back for updates at faydta.com/adickensholiday.

DECEMBER

Hope Mills festivities: Updates about events featuring Santa and an early December Christmas parade will be published at townofhopemills.com/350/Christmas-inHope-Mills.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

MLK Parade: Parade honoring the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. in downtown Fayetteville. Details forthcoming at mlkmemorialpark.org.

MARCH

Rumba on the Lumber Festival: In downtown Lumberton on March 7 and 8, a chili cookoff, beer garden, craft vendors, food trucks, plastic duck derby, touch a truck, live music, and kids zone complement the 5K, 10K, and family fun mile runs. rumbaonthelumber.com.

APRIL

Dogwood Festival: Friday through Sunday during the last weekend of the month, carnival rides and a series of concerts at Festival Park in Fayetteville are surrounded by live street performances and local product and food and beverage vendors elsewhere in downtown. Check for updates at thedogwoodfestival.com.

MAY

All-American Week: Hosted by the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Liberty, the event that is open to the public honors veterans and active-duty service members with a memorial ceremony, a run by members of the 82nd and a division review, and events for patrons such as a family fun run and sports competitions.

SPORTS Home game thrills

For sports lovers, Fayetteville is the place to be with professional baseball, hockey, and soccer teams providing year-round excitement.

FAYETTEVILLE WOODPECKERS

The Fayetteville Woodpeckers is the city’s Minor League Baseball team and the Single-A Affiliate of the Houston Astros. Its regular season spans from April to September with home games at Segra Stadium.

To see the rest of the 2024 season schedule and to purchase tickets, visit milb.com/ fayetteville. 910-339-1989

FAYETTEVILLE MARKSMEN

The Fayetteville Marksmen, Fayetteville’s longest-running professional team, has been playing in one form or another since 2002 and competes in the Southern Professional Hockey League. The Marksmen play 28 regular season home games from October to April at the Crown Coliseum. The complete 2024-25 game schedule will be released later in the year.

Tickets can be purchased on game day at the Crown Coliseum box office. For fans interested in season tickets, visit marksmenhockey.com/season-tickets/. 910321-0123

FAYETTEVILLE FURY

The Fayetteville Fury is the city’s professional indoor soccer team with men’s and women’s squads — both with the same name. Fayetteville Fury is a member of the National Indoor Soccer League, the United Premier Soccer League in the Mid-Atlantic Conference, and the USL W League. Stay updated on the website and social media for current season schedules.

To see the team schedule or to purchase tickets, visit the team’s website at fayettevillefury.com/home. Contact Fayetteville Fury on Instagram at @ Fayettevillefury.

HOPE MILLS ROCKFISH

The Hope Mills Rockfish, previously the Fayetteville Chutes, is a collegiate summer baseball team in the Northeastern Division of the Old North State League. Its regular season spans from the end of May to the end of July.

To see the rest of the 2024 season schedule and to purchase tickets, visit hopemillsrockfish.com. melissa@ hopemillsrockfish.com.

Payton Logan poses with the Fayetteville Woodpecker's mascot, Bunker, during the Buddy Baseball game at Massey Hill's Recreation Center. Photo by Tony Wooten.

Indoor adventures abound

There’s something for everyone: explore Fayetteville’s exciting indoor recreation scene all year long.

BY JAMI MCLAUGHLIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY WOOTEN

Too hot or raining outside?

There are many fantastic indoor activities to choose from in Fayetteville with trampoline parks, arcades, and even specialty indoor gyms for children. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there are options for families seeking recreation no matter the weather outside!

Marrisa Coffing, general manager with Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park at 2051 Skibo Road in Fayetteville, said they have a full day of fun waiting to be enjoyed by children and their families with laser tag, bumper cars, a zipline, climbing walls, trampolines, and even an obstacle course. The venue, which opened in February, is one of the newest indoor parks in the area.

“We are so happy to be in Fayetteville,” Marrisa said. “Urban Air is perfect for all ages and the perfect destination for family fun. We also have special events and packages for birthday parties.”

Other trampoline and indoor parks include Sky Zone Trampoline Park and Battle House Laser Tag in Westwood Shopping Center, Epic Fun Park at 1400 Walter Reed Road featuring Carolina’s largest indoor inflatable, Surge Adventure Park at 3333 N. Main St. in Hope Mills, and JP’s Jump Masters at 7005 Nexus Court in Fayetteville. There is even an indoor arcade, bowling alley, and multi-level laser tag at Main Event Fayetteville at Cross Creek Mall.

There are bowling alleys and roller skating rinks around Fayetteville at B&B Lanes (3003 Fort Bragg Road), North View Lanes (5307 Ramsey St.), and Lafayette Lanes (3313 Raeford Road) with more including Dragon Lanes on Fort Liberty! To skate the day away, try

Round-A-Bout Skating Centers with two locations at 880 Elm St. and 115 Skateway Drive.

For parents with toddlers, there are several indoor play places outside of the Chick-fil-A and McDonald’s with go-to options such as The Little Gym at 4011 Sycamore Dairy Road in Fayetteville, Bravery Kids Gym at 886 Elm St. in Fayetteville, Megaplay at 217 Skyland Shopping Center in Spring Lake, and Fascinate-U Children’s Museum at 116 Green St. in Fayetteville. All offer free play, and the Fascinate-U and The Little Gym offer weekly classes and day camps to keep your children active.

And for the older ones, arcades can keep them busy for hours, winning prizes, and eating pizza at the Omni Fun Center at 3729 Sycamore Dairy Road, Putt-Putt Fun Center at 3311 Footbridge Lane (which also has outdoor miniature golf and go-carts), and Chuck E. Cheese at 511 N. McPherson Church Road. All are in Fayetteville.

Indoor rock climbing facilities like The Climbing Place downtown at 436 W. Russell St. and the Triangle Rock Club at 5213 Raeford Road offer plenty of indoor fitness with rock and line climbing. And did you know, The Climbing Place is the largest indoor climbing facility in North Carolina?

So whether you are looking to escape the heat, find enjoyable activities during inclement weather or just looking for something to do, Fayetteville has you covered with the best indoor entertainment venues.

Army officer Dillon Nigh defies gravity as he ascends a wall at the Triangle Rock Club.

Gary Hastings sits with his two-year-old daughter Halo while riding the "Spin Zone Bumper Cars" attraction at Urban Air Adventure Park.

RECREATION DESTINATIONS

RECREATION CENTERS

Bill Crisp Senior Center

7560 Raeford Road

Features: Fitness room, warm-water aquatics center, multipurpose room, arts and crafts, health screenings, bingo, book club, walking club, movies, technology workshops, yoga, Zumba, aerobics, line dancing, and more

Hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. to noon Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1248; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/bill-crisp-senior-center

Cliffdale Recreation Center

6404 Cliffdale Road

Features: Open gym, senior aerobics, Zumba, senior line dancing, karate, cheerleading, tutoring, cooking classes, and more

Hours: 1 to 9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1127; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/cliffdale

College Lakes Recreation Center

4945 Rosehill Road

Features: Fitness center, dance, martial arts, open gym, dodgeball, movie night, ballet, cooking classes, and more

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1564; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/college-lakes

Dorothy D. Gilmore Adaptive Recreation Center

1600 Purdue Drive

Features: Recreation and leisure programs for people with disabilities, dance, martial arts, Zumba, adaptive Jujitsu, baking class, Special Olympics, splash pad, and more

Contact: 910-433-1000; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/dorothy-gilmoretherapeutic

Eastover-Central Recreation Center

3637 Pembroke Lane

Features: Senior fitness, pickleball, homeschool gym, open gym, Zumba, quilting, entertainment nights, and more

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1226; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/eastover-central

E.E. Miller Recreation Center

1347 Rim Road

Features: Open gym, fitness room, card clubs and crafts, basketball skills development camp, and more

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday

Sage Atkins rides a motorcycle game while visiting the Putt-Putt Fun Center with his grandfather, Dale Jackson.

Contact: 910-433-1220; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/e-e-miller

G.B. Myers Recreation Center

1018 Rochester Drive

Features: Reading program, open gym, fitness room, computer lab, pickleball, cards, playground, splash pad

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1570; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/g-b-myers

Hope Mills Recreation Center

5766 Rockfish Road, Hope Mills

Features: Indoor basketball court, fitness room, multipurpose room

Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday

Contact: 910-426-4109; townofhopemills. com/483/Parks-Amenities

John Dove “J.D.” Pone Recreation Center at Gray’s Creek

2964 School Road

Features: Family game night, fitness room, taekwondo, open gym, diabetic clinic, athletic fields

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1015; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/gray-s-creek

J.S. Spivey Recreation Center

500 Fisher St.

Features: Outdoor basketball, splash pad, game night, step team, athletic fields, horseshoes, playground

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1572; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/j-s-spivey

Kiwanis Recreation Center 352 Devers St.

Features: Baseball/softball fields, fitness room, walking track, open gym, preschool soccer, basketball and baseball, karate, martial arts, line dancing, bridge, playground, splash pad Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday Contact: 910-433-1568; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/kiwanis

Lake Rim Recreation Center

1455 Hoke Loop Road

Features: Walking track, martial arts, splash pad, athletic fields, playground Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday

Contact: 910-433-1175; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/lake-rim

Massey Hill Recreation Center 1612 Camden Road

Features: Youth group, ping pong open play, open gym, fitness room, outdoor pickleball, horseshoes, playground, splash pad,

multipurpose room

Hours: 1-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday Contact: 910-433-1569; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/massey-hill

Pine Forest Recreation Center

6901 Ramsey St.

Features: Youth open play, fitness room, dance class, aerobic class, kickboxing class, karate, athletic fields, after school program, Zumba classes

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday Contact: 910-433-1196; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/pine-forest

Senior Center East (New!)

917 Washington Drive

Features: Billiards, bingo, card games, chess, fellowship and Bible study, health coaching, sewing and crocheting classes, movie nights, book club

Hours 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday Contact: 910-433-1574; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/senior-center-east

Smith Recreation Center

1520 Slater Ave.

Features: Fitness center, open gym, martial arts, self-defense class, sewing class, science lab, club meetings, workshops, pool, summer camp

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday Contact: 910-433-1571; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/smith

Spring Lake Recreation and Senior Center

245 Ruth St. and 301 Ruth St., Spring Lake

Features: Full-size basketball court, art, open gym, cheer and art camps, dance, fitness, splash pad

Hours: Recreation Center, 1-9 p.m. MondayFriday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; Senior Center, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday

Contact: Recreation Center, 910-433-1350; Senior Center, 910-433-1121;fcpr.us/facilities/ spring-lake-recreation-center

Stedman Recreation Center

175 Circle Drive, Stedman

Features: Open gym, walking track, taekwondo, playground, athletic field

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday Contact: 910-433-1440; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/stedman

Stoney Point Recreation Center

7411 Rockfish Road

Features: Walking track, kids cooking class, library, Native American culture class, tutoring upon request, karate, cheer, quilters guild, playground

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday Contact: 910-433-1435; fcpr.us/facilities/

recreation-centers/stoney-point

Tokay Park and Senior Fitness Center

328 W. Hamilton St.

Features: Exercise classes, chair volleyball, cornhole, once-a-year CPR certification class, health education seminars, once-amonth health screenings, table tennis, fitness assessments, Mid-Carolina Senior Games, athletic fields, tennis courts, nutrition classes, Tokay Senior Birthday Club

Hours: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday

Contact: 910-433-1414; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/tokay-senior-fitnesscenter

Westover Recreation Center

267 Bonanza Drive

Features: Open gym, neighborhood association meetings, cards, Cricut crafts group, building models, badminton, sewing guild, pickle ball, homeschool, fitness room, hip-hop/step aerobics class, outdoor basketball, athletic fields, playground, pool

Hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday Contact: 910-433-1088; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/westover

PARKS AND TRAILS

All-American Trail

Perimeter of Fort Liberty

• Features: 10- to 15-foot-wide unpaved pathway for hikers, runners, and cyclists

• Contact: visitfayettevillenc.com/listing/ all-american-trail/6737/

Arnette Park

2165 Wilmington Hwy.

• Features: Athletic fields, disc golf, horseshoes, playground, tennis courts, track, trails, outdoor volleyball

• Hours: 9 a.m.-dusk in summer; 9 a.m.4 p.m. in winter

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/86/2974

Arsenal Park

801 Arsenal Ave.

• Features: Civil War trail markers; ruins of the U.S. Arsenal that was destroyed in 1865 by Union troops commanded by Gen. William T. Sherman. Part of the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex.

• Contact: 910-486-1330; museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov/arsenalpark

Cape Fear River Trail

511 Sherman Drive

• Features: 7-mile one-way paved trail along the Cape Fear River between Jordan Soccer Complex and past Clark Park. Open to walkers, joggers, bicycles, rollerblades, other non-motorized transport, and the Cape Fear Mountain Bike Trail. The trail

PARKS & TRAILS

is not a loop. Parking is available at Clark Park and Jordan Soccer Complex.

• Contact: fcpr.us/parks-trails/trails/capefear-river-trail

Clark Park

631 Sherman Drive

• Features: Nature Center museum, StoryWalk, playground, trails, mountain bike trail

• Hours: Park, 8 a.m.-dusk; Nature Center, March-October, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, NovemberFebruary.: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday

• Contact: 910-433-1579; fcpr.us/parkstrails/parks/clark-park

Cross Creek Linear Park

324 Ray Ave.

• Features: Greenway that connects historic sites and points of interest

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/parkstrails/parks/cross-creek-linear-park

Cross Creek Park

213 Green St.

• Features: Marquis de Lafayette statue, water fountain, track, trail

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/188/3029

Cumberland Heights Memorial Park

1009 McKimmon Road

• Features: Green space

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/189/3029

Douglas Byrd School Park

1616 Ireland Drive

• Features: Athletic fields, outdoor basketball court, gym, track, green space

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/183/2974

Eastover Ballpark

2721 Ball Park Road

• Features: Pickleball courts, athletic fields, picnic shelter, playground, track

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/191/3029

Ed Herring Park

6115 Lexington Drive, Hope Mills

• Features: Playground, picnic shelter, grills

• Hours: Dawn to dusk

• Contact: 910-426-4109; townofhopemills. com/483/Parks-Amenities

Ernest Freeman Town Park

192 Euclid St., Stedman

• Features: Playground, picnic shelter

• Contact: 910-323-1892; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/

FacilityDirectory/226/3111

Festival Park

225 Ray Ave.

• Features: 14 acres downtown, main stage, paved promenade, walkways

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/parkstrails/parks/festival-park

Fire Station Park

101 N. Eastern Blvd.

• Features: Outdoor basketball court, green space, picnic shelter, playground

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/192/3029

Freedom Memorial Park

101 Bragg Blvd.

• Features: Monument to Fayetteville’s service members who lost their lives in battle since World War I

• Contact: 910-867-7776; freedommemorialpark.org

General Lee Park

Intersection of General Lee and Goodview avenues

• Features: Green space, playground

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/194/3029

Glen Reilly Park

948 Glen Reilly Drive

• Features: Athletic fields, green space, horseshoes, picnic shelter

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fayettevillenc.gov/Home/ Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/195/854

Godwin Town Park

4924 Markham St., Godwin

• Features: Outdoor volleyball court, track, playground, picnic shelter, green space

• Contact: 910-980-1000; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/223/3029

Grannis Park

300 W. Parks Drive

• Features: Green space

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/196/3029

Greenwood Park

1924 McGougan Road

• Features: Athletic fields, playground, green space

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fayettevillenc.gov/Home/ Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/197/854

Hall Park

6060 Hall Park Road

• Features: Athletic fields, picnic shelter,

concessions stands

• Contact: 703-839-2970; distinctlyfayettevillenc.com/listing/ baseball-softball-hall-park/505/

Honeycutt Park

352 Devers St.

• Features: Athletic field, gym, playground, trail, picnic shelter, track, green space

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/199/3029

Hope Mills Lake Park

3609 N. Main St., Hope Mills

• Hours: Dawn to dusk

• Features: Boat ramp, playground, gazebo, observing dock, swimming

• Contact: 910-426-4109; townofhopemills. com/483/Parks-Amenities

Hope Mills Municipal Park

5766 Rockfish Road, Hope Mills

• Hours: Dawn to dusk

• Features: Athletic fields, Hope Mills Veterans Memorial, skate park, dog park, playground, tennis courts, basketball court, horseshoes, picnic shelters, 1.6-mile walking trail

• Contact: 910-426-4109; townofhopemills. com/483/Parks-Amenities

Hope Playground

503 Mc Iver St.

• Features: Outdoor basketball court, horseshoes, green space, picnic shelter

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/200/2974

J.O. Humphries Memorial Park

6207 Brooks St., Falcon

• Features: Track, playground, picnic shelter, green space

• Contact: 910-980-1355; fayettevillenc. gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/224/854

Jessie Brayboy Park

1007 Fontana St.

• Features: Playground, green space

• Contact: 910-980-1355; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/181/2974

Lake Rim Park

2214 Tar Kiln Drive

• Features: Athletic fields, trails, horseshoes, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, playgrounds, aquatics center, StoryWalk

• Hours: November-February, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; SCAN THE CODE TO SEE A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF ALL PARKS & TRAILS IN FAYETTEVILLE.

SPLASH PADS

Open in Fayetteville May 1 to Sept. 30. Free and open when weather permits.

• Features: Aquatic wheelchairs available at Massey Hill Recreation Center Splash Pad.

• Hours: When school not in session, 10 a.m.7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; When school in session at Gray’s Creek, Lake Rim, and Spivey recreation centers, 3-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; when school in session at E. Melvin Honeycutt and Massey Hill, 3:30-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday); 2-7 p.m. Sunday

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/facilities/ aquatic-facilities

Eastover Community Park

2721 Ball Park Road

• Contact: 910-323-0707; distinctlyfayettevillenc.com/listing/ eastover-community-park/7285/

E. Melvin Honeycutt

4665 Lakewood Drive

• Contact: 910-433-1435; fcpr.us/facilities/ administrative/parks-recreation-bondproject-updates/e-melvin-honeycuttsplash-pad

Dorothy D. Gilmore Adaptive Recreation Center

1600 Purdue Drive

• Contact: 910-433-1569; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/dorothy-gilmoretherapeutic

Gray’s Creek Park

5151 Celebration Drive

• Contact: 910-433-1015

J.S. Spivey Recreation Center/Christina Smith Park

500 Fisher St.

• Contact: 910-433-1572; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/180/3029

Kiwanis Recreation Center

352 Devers St.

• Contact: 910-433-1568; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/kiwanis

Lake Rim Recreation Center

1455 Hoke Loop Road

• Contact: 910-433-1175; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/lake-rim

Linden Little River Community Park 5010 Loop Road

• Contact: 910-980-0119; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/222/2974

Mable C. Smith Park

1367 Shadbush Lane

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/202/3029

Massey Hill Recreation Center

1612 Camden Road

• Features: Aquatic wheelchair checkout available

• Contact: 910-433-1569; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/massey-hill

G.B. Myers Recreation Center

1018 Rochester Drive

• Contact: 910-433-1570; fcpr.us/facilities/ recreation-centers/g-b-myers

Spring Lake Recreation Center

245 Ruth St., Spring Lake

• Contact: 910-433-1350; fcpr.us/facilities/ spring-lake-recreation-center

Wade Community Park

4060 Church St.

• Contact: 910-485-3502; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/225/3029

Willie J. Burnette Park

4924 Markham St., Godwin

• Contact: 910-980-1000

SWIMMING POOLS

Open Memorial Day to Labor Day

• Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 1-6 p.m. Sunday

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/facilities/ aquatics/aquatic-facilities/pools

Ronnie “Chase” Chalmers Pool

1520 Slater Ave.

• Features: Six-lane lap pool with depth of 4 to 5 feet, wading pool, water playground

• Contact: 910-433-1137

Keith A. Bates Sr. Pool

4945 Rosehill Road

• Features: Kiddie pool, six-lane lap pool, 24-foot-high enclosed water slide

• Hours: When school in session, 3-6 p.m.

• Contact: 910-433-1382

Lake Rim Aquatic Center

2265 Tar Kiln Drive

• Features: Wading pool, water playground area, six-lane lap pool, 18-foot-high water slide

• Contact: 910-433-1018

Westover Aquatic Center

266 Bonanza Drive

• Features: Eight-lane pool with depth of 4 to 6 feet, wading pool, 12-foot-high water slide

• Contact: 910-433-1383

DOG PARKS

Dogs outside the enclosed area have to be leashed. They have to be licensed and have all current vaccinations. Tags must be firmly attached to the dog’s collar. Owners must supervise dogs.

• Hours: Open dawn to dusk daily.

• Features: Small enclosure for dogs that weigh less than 25 pounds; larger area for larger dogs.

• Contact: fcpr.us/parks-trails/parks/ riverside-dog-park

Riverside 555 N. Eastern Blvd.

• Contact: 910-433-1547; fcpr.us/ Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/209/3029

Bailey Lake 6701 Bailey Lake Road

• Contact: 910-433-1547

Westover

267 Bonanza Drive

• Contact: 910-433-1547

Cumberland County classrooms

Your go-to guide to public, private, and charter schools in

Cumberland County

Cumberland County Schools (CCS) serves 50,000 students across 86 schools, offering a diverse community with students from 76 countries and 118 languages. With specialized support for over 14,700 military-connected students, CCS prioritizes data-driven decisions and innovative curricula aligned with The Cumberland Commitment: Strategic Plan 2026.

CCS Choice Programs empower students to explore passions in science, arts, and culture. Dedicated teachers foster student potential through rigorous academics and holistic support, building positive relationships, and engaging parents as partners. CCS prioritizes excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement to nurture capable, confident, and successful individuals. Learn more about CCS’ community of schools at www.ccs.k12.nc.us.

Photo courtesy Cumberland County Schools.

Jack Britt High School held its 2023 commencement at the Crown Coliseum. Photo by Tony Wooten.

THE BEST CHOICE: COMMUNITY SCHOOLS WITH EVERYTHING YOUR CHILD NEEDS.

A COMPLETE EDUCATION TO CREATE A WELL-ROUNDED AND SUCCESSFUL

Your partner for success.

PERSON.

We educate all children while serving the individual interests, goals and needs of each child and family. We are committed to making sure each child gets personal attention, keeping families informed and seeking their input as partners in their child's education.

Choices to fit the education to your child. We know that one size doesn’t fit all. Our Choice Programs provide educational approaches that help families fit their child’s education to their interests and the ways they learn best.

Great teachers no matter where you go. At every one of our schools in every neighborhood, you’ll find skilled, caring and dedicated educators who will build strong relationships with your child and bring out their potential

Everything your child needs.

Rigorous academics, positive relationships, a focus on the whole child and the support every child needs to succeed—Cumberland County Schools builds pride in children in ways that make a community proud.

Public schools

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Alderman Road Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 2860 Alderman Road

Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-321-0398

Alma Easom Primary Grades K – 1 1610 Westlawn Ave.

Fayetteville, NC 28305

Phone: 910-484-0194

School of Choice: Core Knowledge

Armstrong Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5

3395 Dunn Road

Eastover, NC 28312

Phone: 910-483-2425

School of Choice: Technology

Ashley Elementary Grades 3 – 5

810 Trainer Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-484-4156

School of Choice: Communications w/ Foreign Language

Beaver Dam Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 12059 NC Hwy 210 Roseboro, NC 28382

Phone: 910-838-0008

Ben Martin Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5

430 N. Reilly Road

Fayetteville, NC 28303

Phone: 910-864-4843

School of Choice: Accelerated Learning

Bill Hefner Elementary Grades K – 5 7059 Calamar Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28314

Phone: 910-860-7058

Brentwood Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 1115 Bingham Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-864-5310

C. Wayne Collier Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5

3522 Sturbridge Drive

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-424-7200

School of Choice: Core Knowledge

Cliffdale Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 6450 Cliffdale Road

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-864-3442

Uniform Dress Code

College Lakes Elementary

Grades K – 5

4963 Rosehill Road

Fayetteville, NC 28311

Phone: 910-488-6650

School of Choice: Technology

Cumberland Mills Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 2576 Hope Mills Road

Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-424-4536

School of Choice: Math

Cumberland Road Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5

2700 Cumberland Road

Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-485-7171

School of Choice: Montessoriemphasized Pre-K – 1

Cumberland Virtual Academy K-5

Grades K – 5

800 North St. Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-500-7584

School of Choice: Virtual Academy

District 7 Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5

5721 Smithfield Road

Wade, NC 28395

Phone: 910-483-0001

School of Choice: Classical Studies

E. E. Miller Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 1361 Rim Road

Fayetteville, NC 28314

Phone: 910-868-2800

Year Round School

School of Choice: Language Immersion

E. Melvin Honeycutt Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 4665 Lakewood Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-426-2020

Ed V. Baldwin Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 4441 Legion Road

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-425-0145

Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 5174 Dunn Road

Eastover, NC 28312

Phone: 910-483-8997

School of Choice: Arts

Elizabeth Cashwell Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 2970 Legion Road

Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-424-2312

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Classical Studies

Ferguson-Easley Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 1857 Seabrook Road

Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-483-4883

School of Choice: Math and Science

Gallberry Farm Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5

8109 Byerly Drive

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-424-1490

Glendale Acres Elementary

Grades K – 2 2915 Skycrest Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-484-9031

School of Choice: Communications with Foreign Language

Gray’s Creek Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 2964 School Road

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-483-3352

Internationally Themed

Howard Hall Elementary Grades K – 5 526 Andrews Road

Fayetteville, NC 28311

Phone: 910-822-5100

School of Choice: Classical Studies and Language Immersion (offered K only)

J.W. Coon Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 905 Hope Mills Road

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-425-6141

J.W. Seabrook Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5 4619 NC Hwy. 210 S. Fayetteville, NC 28312

Phone: 910-323-2930

School of Choice: Classical Studies

Lake Rim Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 1455 Hoke Loop Road Fayetteville, NC 28314

Phone: 910-867-1133

School of Choice: Accelerated Learning with Science and Primary 1 (offered K-1 only)

Long Hill Elementary Grades 2 – 5 6490 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, NC 28311

Phone: 910-488-0012

School of Choice: Learning-Centered Academy

Loyd Auman Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 6882 Raeford Road

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-868-8153

School of Choice: Technology

Lucile Souders Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5

128 Hillview Ave. Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-488-6705

School of Choice: Math and Science

Manchester Elementary Grades K – 5 611 Spring Ave. Spring Lake, NC 28390

Phone: 910-436-2151

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Math and Natural Science

Margaret Willis Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 1412 Belvedere Ave. Fayetteville, NC 28305

Phone: 910-484-9064

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Technology

Mary McArthur Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5

3809 Village Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-424-2206

School of Choice: Arts, A+ School

Montclair Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 555 Glensford Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28314

Phone: 910-868-5124

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Primary 1 (offered K – 1 only)

Morganton Road Elementary Grades K – 5

102 Bonanza Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303

Phone: 910-867-4137

School of Choice: Language Immersion

New Century International Elementary Grades K – 5

7465 Century Circle Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-487-2340

Ponderosa Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 311 Bonanza Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303 Phone: 910-864-0148

Uniform Dress Code School of Choice: Math

Raleigh Road Elementary Grades K – 1 8330 Ramsey St. Linden, NC 28356 Phone: 910-488-0850

Rockfish Elementary Grades K – 5 5763 Rockfish Road Hope Mills, NC 28348 Phone: 910-424-5313

Sherwood Park Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 2115 Hope Mills Road Fayetteville, NC 28304 Phone: 910-424-4797

School of Choice: Technology

Stedman Elementary Grades 2 – 5 7370 Clinton Road Stedman, NC 28391 Phone: 910-483-3886

School of Choice: Math

Stedman Primary Grades Pre-K – 1 155 E. First St. Stedman, NC 28391 Phone: 910-484-6954

School of Choice: Math

Stoney Point Elementary Grades K – 5 7411 Rockfish Road Fayetteville, NC 28306 Phone: 910-424-3945

Sunnyside Elementary Grades K – 5 3876 Sunnyside School Road Fayetteville, NC 28312 Phone: 910-483-4319

Vanstory Hills Elementary Grades 2 – 5 400 Foxhall Road Fayetteville, NC 28303 Phone: 910-483-0809

William H. Owen Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5

4533 Raeford Road

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-425-6163

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Language Immersion – Spanish

W. T. Brown Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5

2522 Andrews Church Road

Spring Lake, NC 28390

Phone: 910-497-1258

Uniform Dress Code

School of Leadership

Walker-Spivey Elementary

Grades Pre-K – 5

500 Fisher Road

Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-483-5656

Uniform Dress Code

Warrenwood Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5 618 Rosehill Road

Fayetteville, NC 28311

Phone: 910-488-6609

Westarea Elementary Grades Pre-K – 5

941 Country Club Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-488-1705

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Math and Science

middle SCHOOLS

Anne Chesnutt Middle

Grades 6 – 8

2121 Skibo Road

Fayetteville, NC 28314

Year Road School, Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Foreign Language and Global Communication

Cumberland Virtual Academy 6 – 12

Grades 6 – 12

800 North St. Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-500-7985

School of Choice: Virtual Academy

Douglas Byrd Middle Grades 6 – 8 1616 Ireland Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-483-3101

Uniform Dress Code

Gray’s Creek Middle Grades 6 – 8

5151 Celebration Drive

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-483-4124

Hope Mills Middle Grades 6 – 8

4975 Cameron Road

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-425-5106

Howard Learning Academy

Grades 6 – 8

1608 Camden Road

Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-485-1634

John R. Griffin Middle

Grades 6 – 8

5551 Fisher Road

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-424-7678

Lewis Chapel Middle Grades 6 – 8

2150 Skibo Road

Fayetteville, NC 28314

Phone: 910-864-1407

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Cultural and Performing Arts

Luther ‘Nick’ Jeralds Middle Grades 6 – 8

2517 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-822-2570

School of Choice: Math and Science

Mac Williams Middle Grades 6 – 8 4644 Clinton Road

Fayetteville, NC 28312

Phone: 910-483-8222

Max Abbott Middle Grades 6 – 8

590 Winding Creek Road

Fayetteville, NC 28305

Phone: 910-323-2201

School of Choice: Global Studies

New Century International Middle Grades 6 – 8

7455 Century Circle

Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-487-2001

School of Choice: Language Immersion

Pine Forest Middle

Grades 6 – 8

6901 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, NC 28311

Phone: 910-488-2711

School of Choice: Learning Styles

Reid Ross Classical Grades 6 – 12

3200 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-488-8415

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Year-Round Classical Studies

Seventy-First Classical Middle

Grades 6 – 8

6860 Raeford Road

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Classical Studies

Southview Middle

Grades 6 – 8

4100 Elk Road

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-424-3131

Uniform Dress Code

School of Choice: Multiple Intelligences

Spring Lake Middle Grades 6 – 8

612 Spring Ave.

Spring Lake, NC 28390

Phone: 910-497-1175

Westover Middle Grades 6 – 8

275 Bonanza Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28303

Phone: 910-864-0813

Uniform Dress Code

High SCHOOLS

A.B. Wilkins High Grades: 9 – 12

1429 Skibo Road

Fayetteville, NC 28303

Phone: 910-864-5438

Cape Fear High Grades 9 – 12

4762 Clinton Road

Fayetteville, NC 28312

Phone: 910-483-0191

School of Choice: FFA Academy of Agriculture and Natural Sciences

Cross Creek Early College High Grades 9 – 12

1200 Murchison Road

Butler Building, Suite 100 Fayetteville, NC 28301

On Campus of Fayetteville State University

Phone: 910-500-7551

School of Choice: Accelerated Learning and College Credit

Cumberland International Early College Grades 9 – 12

1200 Murchison Road

J. Knuckles Building

Fayetteville, NC 28301

On Campus of Fayetteville State University

Phone: 910 226-6485

School of Choice: Accelerated Learning and College Credit, Focus on Language, Culture and Diplomacy

Cumberland Polytechnic High Grades 9 – 12

2201 Hull Road Fayetteville, NC 28303

On Campus of Fayetteville Technical Community College

Phone: 910-486-7300

Cumberland Virtual Academy 6 – 12

Grades: 6 – 12

800 North St. Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-500-7985

School of Choice: Virtual Academy

Douglas Byrd High Grades 9 – 12 1624 Ireland Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-484-8121

School of Choice: Academy of Finance and Academy of Green Technology

E. E. Smith High Grades 9 – 12

1800 Seabrook Road

Fayetteville, NC 28301

Phone: 910-483-0153

School of Choice: Fire Science and Academy of Math and Science

Gray’s Creek High Grades 9 – 12

5301 Celebration Drive

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Phone: 910-424-8589

School of Choice: Academy of Information Technology

Jack Britt High School Grades 9 – 12

7403 Rockfish Road Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-429-2800

School of Choice: Integrated Systems Technology and Applied Engineering

Massey Hill Classical High Grades 9 – 12 1062 Southern Ave. Fayetteville, NC 28306

Phone: 910-485-8761

School of Choice: Classical Studies

Pine Forest High School Grades 9 – 12

525 Andrews Road Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone: 910-488-2384

School of Choice: Academy of Information Technology

Ramsey Street High Grades 9 – 12

117 Quincy St. Fayetteville, NC 28301 Phone: 910-437-5829

Reid Ross Classical Grades 6 – 12

3200 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, NC 28301 Phone: 910-488-8415

School of Choice: Classical Studies

Seventy-First High Grades 9 – 12

6764 Raeford Road Fayetteville, NC 28304

Phone: 910-867-3116

School of Choice: School of Arts

South View High Grades 9 – 12 4184 Elk Road

Hope Mills, NC 28348 Phone: 910-425-8181

School of Choice: International

Baccalaureate Academy and Academy of Public Safety and Security

Terry Sanford High Grades 9 – 12

2301 Fort Bragg Road Fayetteville, NC 28303 Phone: 910-484-1151

School of Choice: Academy of Global Studies

Westover High Grades 9 – 12

277 Bonanza Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303

Phone: 910-864-0190

School of Choice: Academy of Engineering Technologies and Academy of Health Sciences

Private & Charter schools

Alpha Academy Charter Public School 8030 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28304

Bal-Perazim Christian Academy 4921 Bragg Blvd., Fayetteville, NC 28303

Berean Baptist Academy 518 Glensford Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28314

Birds Nest Montessori School 6867 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28304

Capitol Encore Academy Charter Public School 126 Hay St., Fayetteville, NC 28301

Cornerstone Christian Academy 3000 Scotty Hill Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303

Destiny Now Academy 6974 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28304

Fayetteville Academy* 3200 Cliffdale Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303

Fayetteville Christian School 1422 Ireland Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28304

First Impressions Academy 6925 Nexus Court, Fayetteville, NC 28304

Flaming Sword Christian Academy & Daycare 3230 Legion Road, Hope Mills, NC 28348

Freedom Christian Academy 3130 Gillespie St., Fayetteville, NC 28306

Greater Fayetteville Adventist Academy 2601 Lone Pine Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28306

Guy Schools Inc. 985 S. McPherson Church Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303

Liberty Christian Academy 6548 Rockfish Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306

New Life Christian Academy 1420 Hoke Loop Road, Fayetteville, NC 28314

Northwood Temple Academy 4200 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311

Renaissance Classical Christian 6427 Cliffdale Road, Fayetteville, NC 28314

Riverside Christian Academy 2010 Middle River Loop, Fayetteville, NC 28312

Rockfish Christian Academy 7604 Rockfish Road, Fayetteville, NC 28376

St. Ann Catholic School 365 N. Cool Spring St., Fayetteville, NC 28301

Saint Patrick Catholic School 1620 Malborough Road, Fayetteville, NC 28304

The School of Hope (students with autism only) 111 Burns St., Fayetteville, NC 28301

Trinity Christian School of Fayetteville 3727 Rosehill Road, Fayetteville, NC 28311

Village Christian Academy 908 S. McPherson Church Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303

910-223-7711 K-12

910-487-4220 K-12

910-868-2511 pre-K3-12

910-867-4073 Age 2 and up and K-2

910-849-0888 K-12

910-867-1166 pre-K4, K-12

910-494-6566 K-12

910-868-5131 pre-K-12

910-483-3905 K-12

910-339-0524 K-8

910-764-3500 K-12

910-485-7777 pre-K-12

910-484-6091 pre-K-12

910-484-8308 pre-K, K-2

910-424-1205 pre-K4, K-12

910-868-9640 K-12

910-822-7711 pre-K4, K-12

910-221-0400 pre-K4, K-12

910-323-4026 K-12

910-848-6000 K-12

910-483-3902 pre-K-8

910-323-1865 pre-K-8

910-339-5683 K-12

910-488-6779 K-12

910-483-5500 K-12

Academy offers financial aid.

Cumberland County Board of Education

The school board has nine nonpartisan members. Six members are elected by district, and three are elected at large. Each member serves a four-year, staggered term. Regular board meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month.

Deanna Jones Chair District 2

Seventy-First, Westover 910-678-2312

deannajonesboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Susan Williams District 5

Pine Forest, Cape Fear 910-678-2312

susanwilliamsboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Nathan Warfel Vice chair District 6

South View, Gray's Creek, Jack Britt 910-678-2312

nathanwarfelboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Jacquelyn Brown At large: All districts 910-678-2312

jacquelynbrownboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Alicia Chisolm District 1 E.E. Smith 910-678-2312

aliciachisolmboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Judy Musgrave At large: All districts 910-678-2312

judymusgraveboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Carrie Sutton District 3

Terry Sanford, Westover 910-678-2312

carriesuttonboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Greg West At large: All districts 910-678-2312 gregwestboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Donna Vann District 4

Douglas Byrd, Seventy-First 910-678-2312

donnavannboe @ccs.k12.nc.us

Marvin Connelly Jr. Superintendent 910-678-2300

ccssuperintendent @ccs.k12.nc.us

Exploring resources

Dive into free programs, story times and engaging activities no matter your age at Cumberland County public libraries.

The Cumberland County Public Library offers free access to interactive spaces, technology, and resources for the whole family. All branches have a dynamic schedule of free programs for all ages, ranging from toddler story time, to technology help for adults. Branches feature sensory-inclusive manipulatives and interactives for youth; with Headquarters Library featuring play items such as a giant light wall, construction crane, and wind tunnel.

To get a library card, preregister online or go to any library branch with a photo ID and proof of a Cumberland County address. Children younger than 16 need parental approval to get a card. Cardholders have access to e-books, audiobooks, children’s materials, and music and videos. The library also has guides to online learning, homeschooling, jobs and careers, and it offers homework help for kids.

Every branch has public-access computers that can be used for free. A library card or a free, temporary computer-use card is required to use the computers. Those who don’t have a card may use 15-minute express terminals.

The Local & State History Room, at the Headquarters Library downtown, can assist in specialized ancestry, genealogy, or historical research.

• Headquarters Library: 300 Maiden Lane, 910-483-7727, ext. 1345

• Bordeaux Community Library: 3711 Village Drive, 910-483-7727, ext. 1381

• Cliffdale Regional Library: 6882 Cliffdale Road, 910-483-7727, ext. 1383

• East Regional Library: 4809 Clinton Road, 910-483-7727, ext. 1414

• Hope Mills Community Library: 3411 Golfview Road, 910-483-7727, ext. 1435

• North Regional Library: 855 McArthur Road, 910-483-7727, ext. 1436

• Spring Lake Community Library: 101 Laketree Blvd., 910-483-7727, ext. 1459

• West Regional Library: 7469 Century Circle, 910-483-7727, ext. 1481

Innovate and educate

From HBCU pride to technical training, local colleges offer an array of continued education pathways.

FAYETTEVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY

“Bronco pride” reigns at Fayetteville State University, part of the University of North Carolina System and the state’s second-oldest public institution of higher education, having been founded in 1867.

FSU is a historically Black university, with bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs in high-demand and high-paying career fields, including computer science and cyber security, business, nursing, criminal justice, and social work. With more than 6,800 students, FSU is among the most diverse institutions in the nation.

Led by Chancellor Darrell T. Allison, FSU’s exciting growth and economic development includes a new Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and other retail outlets. The University’s renovations on campus and in Bronco Midtown are at the center of revitalizing the Murchison Road corridor in collaboration with the City of Fayetteville.

The Fayetteville-Cumberland Regional Entrepreneurship and Business Hub served more than 5,000 participants, launched 54 new businesses that created 250 new jobs, and saw minority- and women-owned businesses, veteranowned businesses, and small businesses within the targeted region secure more than $30 million in contracts.

The University continues its commitment to serving our military service members and their families. FSU is the only HBCU currently approved as a partner for AIR University’s Associate-to-Baccalaureate Cooperative Program.

FSU is an NC Promise school, which means that its tuition rate makes a college education more affordable. Undergraduate tuition in the program is $500 per semester for in-state students and $2,000 per semester for out-of-state students.

Contact: 910-672-1111 or www.uncfsu. edu

FAYETTEVILLE TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Fayetteville Technical Community College offers a broad range of programs leading to the award of associate’s degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Courses with transfer credits for entry into four-year universities are offered as well. FTCC also offers a robust Continuing Education program including Summerscapes, an educational summer program for youth.

FTCC is military-friendly and has a wide variety of affordable and flexible education programs for students at all stages of life: those seeking associate degrees transferable to a four-year college; those looking for training to move directly into the workplace; and those seeking new skills for career advancement or personal enrichment.

“Community colleges have played a significant role in increasing educational attainment, improving lifetime earnings, and powering the nation’s economic growth,” said Mark Sorrells, the fifth president to serve FTCC.

Study programs include nursing, dental hygiene and assisting, and many other health care fields; law enforcement, firefighter training, emergency

Science and Technology Building at Fayetteville State University. Contributed photo.

Health Technologies Center at Fayetteville Technical Community College. Contributed photo.

HIGHER EDUCATION

management, and other public safety fields; cybersecurity, computer programming, digital media technology, and other computer technology fields; supply-chain management, accounting, hospitality management, and other business fields; engineering; and welding, carpentry, plumbing, and other skilled trades.

FTCC’s new Nursing Education & Simulation Center at the Fayetteville campus provides state-of-the-art training and facilities, providing students with an excellent foundation to achieve success in health care professions. The new FTCC, Cumberland County Regional Fire & Rescue Training Center, including the unique (only indoor facility on the East Coast of the United States) Swift Water Rescue Training Center, provides safe and critically important all-weather training to students pursuing a career in the field of emergency response.

Founded in 1961, FTCC is the thirdlargest community college in the state, with the Fayetteville campus at 2201 Hull Road, a 10-acre satellite campus in Spring Lake, and a location in the Liberty Training and Education Center (LTEC) on Fort Liberty.

Contact: 910-678-8400 or faytechcc.edu

METHODIST UNIVERSITY

As Cumberland County’s only independent, four-year institution of higher education, Methodist University’s reputation is unmatched with employers seeking graduates who are grounded in the liberal arts tradition and expertly prepared for a variety of careers and educational pursuits.

MU offers more than 80 areas of study on its beautiful 600-acre campus, plus online degrees that give students of all ages (and from any location) opportunities to advance their education and career. MU offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees to approximately 2,000 students from across the United States and more than 50 countries.

The expression “numbers don’t lie” couldn’t be more appropriate when looking at the unique opportunities Methodist University affords its students, employees, community, and state. MU has more than 100 student clubs

and 20 NCAA sports programs (that have won nearly 80 team and individual national championships).

MU was recently named one of 10 “Must Watch” Universities in North America by Higher Ed Digest, and the New York Times listed MU in the top 16% for social mobility of its graduates.

MU was named the No. 1 most diverse university in North Carolina by Niche Rankings for two of the past three years and gives more than $25 million in scholarships every year. Nearly all (97%) students receive financial aid.

With hundreds of graduates, students, and staff serving in the military, it’s no surprise MU receives Military Friendly and Best for Vets Gold Rankings annually. On-campus and online programs are perfect for busy/working adults, active military, veterans, and their families.

Contact: 910-630-7000 or methodist. edu

Thomas R. McLean Health Sciences Building at Methodist University. Contributed photo.

Diverse devotions

Fayetteville’s rich religious landscape offers something for every faith and community.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY WOOTEN

Fayetteville, and Cumberland County at large, is home to a plethora of houses of worship with distinct architectural styles, services, and languages, representing the faiths practiced by its congregants.

The Hindu Bhavan of Fayetteville gives offerings of nuts and holy basil water (prasad) to the deities during a pooja; Beth Israel Congregation welcomes visitors with a menorah at the entrance and offers loaner kippahs to wear during prayer; St. John’s Episcopal Church catches eyes with its white exterior and multiple spires; Holy Trinity Episcopal Church guides congregants’ attention to the center of the worship space with its labyrinth tiles; Haymount United Methodist Church sneaks in light through the mesmerizing stained glass windows; First Presbyterian Church reminds downtown Fayetteville of the time with its looming bell tower; and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church’s powerful organs sing with the churchgoers in the pews.

Whether you’re Protestant, Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Unitarian, or other, you’ll find the perfect place of worship for you. FAITH

Hindu Bhavan temple at 907 Cedar Creek Road.

Haymount United Methodist Church at 1700 Fort Bragg Road.

Abney Chapel, 2996 Rosehill Road; 910-488-7525

Arran Lake Baptist Church, 1130 Bingham Drive; 910-424-7211

Baywood Church, 1830 Baywood Road; 910-483-2916

Beauty Spot Missionary Baptist Church, 7572 Raeford Road; 910-868-9151

Berean Baptist Church, 517 Glensford Drive; 910-868-5156

Beth Israel Congregation and Community Center, 2204 Morganton Road; 910-484-6462

Camp Ground United Methodist Church, 4625 Campground Road; 910-867-9436

Cape Fear Baptist Church, 100 Indian Drive; 910-323-5556

Cape Fear Baptist Church, 6401 Butler Nursery Road; 910-644-0005

Carroll Memorial Baptist Church, 2220 Camden Road; 910-423-8814

Cedar Falls Baptist Church, 6181 Ramsey St.; 910-488-5810

The Church at Cedar Creek, 4010 Cedar Creek Road; 910-483-6895

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 3200 Scotty Hill Road location temporarily closed; Services Sundays at 1 p.m. at 9701 Cliffdale Road; and 1:30 p.m. at 5810 Rockfish Road, Hope Mills; 910-629-4198

Church of the Open Door, 4445 Cliffdale Road; 910-864-3237

College Heights Presbyterian Church, 1801 Seabrook Road; 910-323-2018

Chua Khanh Hy Buddhist Temple, 5113 Camden Road; 678-925-2202

College Lakes Baptist Church, 4704 Ramsey St.; 910-488-8344

Cornerstone Baptist Church, 3000 Scotty Hill Road; 910-867-1166

Covenant Love, 420 Dunn Road; 910-323-1515

Cross Creek Presbyterian Church, 430 S. McPherson Church Road; 910-864-4031

Epicenter Church, 2512 Fort Bragg Road; 910-485-8855

Evans Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, 301 N. Cool Spring St.; 910-483-2862

Fayetteville Community Church, 2010 Middle River Loop; 910-323-5313

Faymont Baptist Church, 3663 Cumberland Road; 910-425-7108

First Baptist Church, 201 Anderson St.; 910-483-0477

First Baptist Church, 302 Moore St.; 910-483-6505

First Presbyterian Church, 102 Ann St.; 910-483-0121

Grace United Methodist Church, 2005 Ireland Drive; 910-424-0894

Hay Street United Methodist Church, 320 Hay St.; 910-483-2343

Haymount Presbyterian Church, 2760 Rosehill Road; 910-822-1083

Haymount United Methodist Church, 1700 Fort Bragg Road; 910-484-0181

Highland Presbyterian Church, 111 Highland Ave.; 910-485-2147

Hillside Holiness Church, 2510 Brody Drive; 910-323-5447

Hindu Bhavan of Fayetteville, 907 Cedar Creek Road; 910-824-7289

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 1601 Raeford Road; 910-484-2134

Hood Memorial AME Zion Church, 2801 Rosehill Road; 910-822-1014

Immanuel Baptist Church, 219 Hull Road; 910-484-1257

Islamic Center of Fayetteville, 2415 Rosehill Road; 910-920-9990

Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church, 306 McArthur Road; 910-488-5406

Korean Baptist Church, 6873 Cliffdale Road; 910-867-5118

Korean Bethel Presbyterian Church, 901 Bunce Road; 910-864-5739

Lafayette Baptist Church, 501 Hope Mills Road; 910-425-1306

Lake Lynn Baptist Church, 3105 Seven Mountain Drive; 910-425-1464

Lebanon Baptist Church, 3329 Beard Road; 910-483-1988

Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 5414 Raeford Road; 910-424-2344

MacPherson Presbyterian Church, 3525 Cliffdale Road; 910-867-2113

Main Post Chapel, Building 1-1510 Sedgwick and Merriweather Road, Fort Liberty; 910-396-1121

Manna Church, 5117 Cliffdale Road; 910-867-9151

Masjid Omar Ibn Sayyid, 2700 Murchison Road; 910-488-7322

Massey Hill Baptist Church, 1027 Southern Ave.; 910-321-0815

Mattock Memorial AME Zion Church, 444 Gillespie St.; 910-485-4231

Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 16 Johnson St.; 910-868-2770

Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, 1027 Old Wilmington Road; 910-323-9302

Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, 1217 Murchison Road; 910-483-8486

New Beginnings Christian Church, 940 S.Reilly Road; 910-867-8692

Northwood Temple Church, 4250 Ramsey St.; 910-488-7474

Peace Presbyterian Church, 3203 Ramsey St.; 910-488-3211

Refuge Church, 1268 Ireland Drive; 910-912-4697

Saint Andrew Kim, 1401 Valencia Drive; 910-630-2316

St. Andrews United Methodist Church, 121 Lofton Drive; 910-488-4648

St. Ann Catholic Church, 357 N. Cool Spring St.; 910-483-3216

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 1000 Andrews Road; 910-488-1797

St. James Lutheran Church, 1424 Morganton Road; 910-484-8052

St. John’s Episcopal Church, 302 Green St.; 910-483-7405

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church, 509 Ramsey St.; 910-323-0161

St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church, 202 Hope Mills Road; 910-425-0401

St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 806 Arsenal Ave.; 910-484-1531

St. Nicholas Eastern Orthodox Church, 735 Southern Ave.; 910-484-7771

St. Patrick Catholic Church, 2844 Village Drive; 910-323-2410

St. Paul’s in the Pines Episcopal Church, 1800 St. Paul Ave.; 910-485-7098

Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 614 Oakridge Ave.; 910-484-2010

Second Missionary Baptist Church, 522 Old Wilmington Road; 910-483-5925

Shekinah Faith Temple, 2060 Goins Drive; 910-339-9337

Simon Temple AME Zion Church, 5760 Yadkin Road; 910-867-1182

Smith Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, 19 Boundary Lane; 910-483-4437

Snyder Memorial Baptist Church, 701 Westmont Drive; 910-484-3191

Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2601 Lone Pine Drive; 910-484-5397

Temple Baptist Church, 3159 Sanderosa Road; 910-483-7620

Trinity Christian Church, 3727 Rosehill Road; 910-488-6779

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 669 Country Club Drive; 910-429-8399

Village Baptist Church, 906 S. McPherson Church Road; 910-678-7178

Walstone Memorial Baptist Church, 260 Walstone Road; 910-488-6311

Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2505 Village Drive; 910-485-8128

Here's to your health Hospital systems offer specialized care for civilians and service members alike.

CAPE FEAR VALLEY HEALTH SYSTEM

Cape Fear Valley Health, which has eight hospitals in the region, continues to expand its health care services. In the past year, it has been wrapping up a 100-bed expansion project at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and continuing the planning of a new medical school in partnership with Methodist University.

Overall, the system has more than 1,000 beds and sees more than 1 million patients annually. The private, not-for-profit health system has 7,400 employees and 1,300 providers on its medical staff. Its main campus is Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. Other facilities include HighsmithRainey Specialty Hospital, Cape Fear Valley Rehabilitation Center, Behavioral Health Care, Bladen County Hospital, Hoke Hospital, Health Pavilion North, Health Pavilion Hoke, Betsy Johnson Hospital, and Central Harnett Hospital.

“Cape Fear Valley Health’s mission is to provide exceptional health care for every patient, and our goal is to improve the quality of every life we touch,” said Mike Nagowski, CEO of the health system. “We

are proud to be part of the communities that we serve across the region.”

Since Cape Fear Valley Medical Center opened in 1956, it has grown to become North Carolina’s eighth-largest hospital. It specializes in cardiac care, cancer treatment, and surgical services as well as neuroscience, pediatrics, rehabilitation, orthopedics, and more.

For more information, call 910-615-4000.

FIRSTHEALTH OF THE CAROLINAS

FirstHealth of the Carolinas, a private, not-for-profit health care system, is headquartered in Pinehurst. Its more than 6,100 employees serve 15 counties in the mid-Carolinas. The health system is licensed for four hospitals with 610 beds. The system is comprised of FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst; FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital-Hoke in Raeford; FirstHealth Moore Regional HospitalRichmond in Rockingham; and FirstHealth Montgomery Memorial in Troy. In Fayetteville, FirstHealth offers convenient care and specialty services such as orthopaedics, urology,

interventional pain medicine, ENT, and neurology.

FirstHealth offers specialty and subspecialty care and technologies that are typically exclusive to academic institutions including cardiothoracic surgery, interventional cardiology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, oncology, neonatology, behavioral services, and bariatric surgery.

The system includes Reid Heart Center, a brand-new outpatient cancer center that opened in 2023, facilities for inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, hospice and palliative care, home care, community outreach programs, behavioral health services, fitness facilities, concierge, specialty, primary, and convenient care practices, dental care centers, a hospitality house, EMS and critical care transport services, a philanthropic foundation and a host of other services. FirstHealth demonstrates a commitment to treating the whole patient and improving the health of the communities it serves.

For more information, visit firsthealth.org.

FirstHealth of the Carolinas. Contributed photo.

We proudly accept both Tricare and VA patients

Dedicated to Your Heart Since 1989

Cape Fear Cardiology Associates is the preferred and most trusted Cardiology group in Fayetteville, having served Cumberland and the surrounding counties for over 30 years.

We are proud to say we started and continue to operate as a private practice, allowing us to provide prompt, quality care cost-efficiently.

We are committed to preventing, detecting, and treating cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease, emphasizing improving our patient’s quality of life and overall health.

As a result of this commitment, we offer many services on-site, which allows us to have adequate information to establish the best treatment plan for our patients.

WOMACK ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Located in the heart of Fort Liberty, Womack Army Medical Center serves the health care needs of active-duty service members, their family members, military retirees, and their families. Womack provides health care to about 200,000 eligible Tricare beneficiaries. Womack offers most specialty referral services and has six primary care clinics on Fort Liberty and two others off post.

The medical center offers a number of health care services, including cardiology, hematology-oncology, obstetrics-gynecology, inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services, pulmonology, orthopedics, vascular surgery, a mild traumatic brain injury clinic, pain management, internal medicine, services for substance abuse, otolaryngology, ophthalmology, preventive medicine, physical therapyoccupational therapy care and pharmacy, gastroenterology, allergy care, physiatry, podiatry, optometry, physical exams, and refractive eye surgery.

Other health care resources available are the Fayetteville Rehabilitation Center, Fort Liberty Intrepid Spirit Center,

Fort Liberty Blood Donor Center, and Womack Health and Support Center. The on-post clinics include Byars, Clark, Joel Pediatric, Womack Pediatric, Robinson Health, and Womack Family Medicine Residency Clinic. The two primary care clinics for family members and retirees are Hope Mills Medical Home and Linden Oaks Medical Home. The emergency department also encompasses a Fast Track Clinic, open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday.

For more information, call 910-907-6000 or visit https://womack.tricare.mil/.

FAYETTEVILLE NC VA COASTAL HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

The Fayetteville Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Fayetteville VA Health Care Center are part of the Fayetteville NC VA Coastal Health Care System, one of the fastest-growing veteran health care systems in the nation with an enrollment of more than 85,000 veterans across southeastern North Carolina.

The system includes one medical center in Fayetteville; two health-care centers in Fayetteville and Wilmington; nine community-based outpatient clinics in outlying counties; a jointly funded

Veterans Affairs/Department of Defense Rehabilitation Center; jointly funded Veterans Affairs/Department of Defense Acute Care Dialysis Center located at Womack Army Medical Center in Fayetteville; and a VA dental clinic located on the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro.

In Cumberland County, veterans can receive care at one of several VA facilities that provide primary care, women’s health services, mental health care, pharmacy services, surgery, imaging services, and medical and specialty services.

Health care services offered at the Ramsey Street and Raeford Road locations include cardiology; dermatology; neurology; gastrointestinal, pulmonary, gynecological, urological, and orthopedic care; and general surgery. The main campus on Ramsey Street includes a Community Living Center, which provides skilled nursing and medical care. The Fayetteville VA Dialysis Center, at 2301 Robeson St., provides kidney care.

For more information, call the Fayetteville VA Medical Center on Ramsey Street at 910-488-2120.

Fayetteville Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Contributed photo.

MILITARY

New name, same mission

A year

after the name

change,

Fort

Liberty continues to honor its rich history and dynamic future, celebrates unity and the enduring spirit of service.

BY ARIA SPEARS

If you’re new to the Fort Liberty region, you’ve likely heard longterm residents correct themselves in conversation over the past year: “Fort Br — I mean, Fort Liberty,” more than once. One year after Fort Bragg was redesignated Fort Liberty, adjusting to the new name has been easier for some than others.

Fort Liberty Public Affairs Office collected views of the name change from Fort Liberty residents out and about with mixed results in a video by Jason Ragucci:

Some were casual, such as two service members shrugging and saying, “It is what it is.”

One unnamed civilian employee said, “I think it should stay the way it is. It’s a waste of money. It’s been Fort Bragg forever, and even if they do change it, people will still refer to this as Fort Bragg.”

Another unnamed service member was nonchalant: “Honestly, I just heard about it, so it doesn’t really affect me too much.”

“It’s good,” said another unnamed soldier. “I’m glad we don’t have

Confederate generals honored throughout the country, although we should remember our history.”

“It doesn’t matter what you call it, it’s still a military base. I still come to work every day,” said an unnamed service member with enthusiasm. “Here to win peace around the world. Save people from bad guys, so you can call it Fort Liberty, Fort Bragg, Fort NFL, I don’t care.”

Changing to “Fort Liberty” was part of a U.S. Dept. of Defense effort to rename assets named after individuals associated with the Confederate Army during the Civil War. Though widely recognized, not everyone knows the reason behind why Fort Bragg became “Fort Liberty.”

WHY “FORT LIBERTY”?

The name Fort Liberty, which took effect June 2, 2023, is rooted both in history and the installation’s identity. In a Fort Liberty Garrison Public Affairs Office video by Jason Ragucci, retired Command Sgt. Maj. Steven England,

Members of the 82nd Airborne Division fire M119 howitzers in sync with the annual flag ceremony at the 4th of July Celebration event, July 4, 2022. Photo by Sharilyn Wells, Fort Liberty Garrison Public Affairs Office.

Fort Liberty area resident and Naming Commission Community Forum member, said, “There’s so much diversity on Fort Bragg, diversity in people, and diversity in units. So we were really wrestling with [deciding on] a person.”

Retired Gen. Dan McNeill, Fayetteville resident and chairperson of the Naming Commission Community Forum, said the names of those offered for the renaming of Fort Liberty were “all over the map,” but primarily known for brave acts of valor.

According to McNeill’s recollection of a Naming Commission meeting, an unnamed Gold Star spouse (the spouse of a service member fallen in combat) stopped the commission members in their tracks when she pointed out that any name would leave some individuals behind.

Following this up, she said, “I think you have to name it after what the men and women of Fort Bragg stand for. And I think ‘Liberty’ fairly represents what they stand for.”

According to the Associated Press, Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue, the commanding general of the XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Liberty, said, “Fayetteville in 1775 signed one of the first accords declaring our willingness to fight for liberty and freedom from Great Britain … Liberty has always been ingrained in this area.”

STATUS OF THE NAME CHANGE TODAY

Fort Liberty remains the only installation not named after a person, according to the Associated Press. Col. John Wilcox told the Associated Press that the cost to rename the installation was then estimated to be about $8 million.

Outward-facing signs have been changed, but residents have likely noticed Fayetteville streets such as Bragg Boulevard remain as reminders of the town’s history. There’s a reason why Fayetteville is known as a “community of History, Heroes, and a Hometown Feeling.”

Perhaps coexisting “Fort Bragg” and “Fort Liberty” signs across the region serve as symbolic heralds of both

Fayetteville’s history and its future. The remaining “Fort Bragg” signs remind residents of the complex history of the region that established the community as it is today. And the “Fort Liberty” signs convey hope for what it will become.

ABOUT FORT LIBERTY

According to Military One Source and Fort Liberty Garrison Public Affairs Officer April Olsen, Fort Liberty is home to:

• Over 51,000 active-duty troops

• Over 1,600 Reserve Components

• Over 2,000 Temporary Duty students

• Over 20,000 DOD civilians and contractors

• Over 71,000 active-duty family members

• 125,000 retirees and family members in the area

Key commands include the 18th Airborne Corps, known as the nation’s Contingency Corps, and the 82nd Airborne Division, best known for the Global Response Force and its ability to deploy quickly when needed.

The Army Special Operations headquarters is also on post, as is the secretive Joint Special Operations Command. The sprawling installation includes the headquarters of the Army’s largest command, U.S. Army Forces Command, which oversees the bulk of the nation’s warfighters.

Not only a military powerhouse, Fort Liberty is also an economic juggernaut, with a yearly impact of more than $8 billion for the state of North Carolina, with most of that centered on Cumberland and surrounding counties.

VISITING FORT LIBERTY

There are numerous entry points to Fort Liberty, but if you don’t have a military ID, your first stop will be the All American Visitor Control Center.

The center, located where the All American Freeway meets Fort Liberty, is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, including federal holidays. A government-issued ID card, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration, as well as a valid reason for entering the installation, are required.

Fort Liberty Paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division during an airborne training exercise Sep. 16, 2023. Photo by U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jacob Moir.

Six Facts about Fort Liberty

Why the change to “Liberty”: A commission named the installation “Fort Liberty” after numerous discussions with local stakeholders from the community. Garrison officials said community leaders were having difficulty zeroing in on one name among the installation’s long list of heroes. But they coalesced around the name Liberty at the suggestion of a Gold Star family member.

Camp Bragg to Fort Liberty: It’s hard to imagine Fayetteville or the North Carolina Sandhills without the looming presence of Fort Liberty. But that was a distinct possibility in the early 1920s, as the Army looked to shutter several training posts that were built during World War I. It was largely the effort of Brig. Gen. Albert Bowley, who commanded Bragg from 1921 until 1928, that saved what was then Camp Bragg and helped lay the foundation for the modernday post. Bowley would later tell historians his efforts were “politics both Army and civil” that enlisted the aid of local and state leaders to secure the installation’s future.

Conservation for Endangered Woodpeckers: Fort Liberty is home to several endangered and rare plants and animals. The most notable is the red-cockaded woodpecker, the presence of which threatened the post’s existence in the early 1990s and spurred a conservation effort that has been repeatedly praised for helping protect both military training and the small, palm-sized birds. Other species that call Fort Liberty home include the St. Francis’ Satyr butterfly — the only known population lives on post — and the Venus flytrap, a rare carnivorous plant whose exact locations are a close-kept secret to protect them from poachers.

Major Leagues on Post: Then-Fort Bragg made history in the summer of 2018 when Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association partnered to host the first regular-season professional sports matchup on an active military base. The Miami Marlins beat the Atlanta Braves 5-2 in the contest, which was broadcast on ESPN. While the grandstands were removed after the game, the field itself is still used by the Fort Liberty community.

Keeping Soldiers Fed: Fort Liberty is home to nine dining facilities (DFAC) and numerous other dining options meant to sustain more than 50,000 hungry soldiers each day. The busiest time of the year for Fort Liberty’s food-service professionals is Thanksgiving, when hundreds of soldiers and civilians prepare thousands of pounds of turkey, beef, and all the traditional trimmings of the holiday meal.

Religious Diversity at Fort Liberty: There are at least seven different religious traditions included in the Religious Support Schedule on Fort Liberty including Asatru/Norse, Buddhist, Wiccan, Catholic, Islamic/Muslim, Jewish, and Protestant services at different times throughout the month.

Sculpted by Leah Heibert in 1960 and 1961, using Sgt. Maj. James Runyon as a model, the Iron Mike statue depicts a World War II-era Airborne trooper with a Thompson submachine gun at the ready.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Caleb Barrieau, XVIII Airborne Corps Public Affairs.

Anaya Harris shows her excitement during the Fort Liberty Fair. Photo by Tony Wooten.

Fayetteville

AT A GLANCE

• Fayetteville is the sixth-largest city in North Carolina with a population of about 208,873 people.

• It is home to Fort Liberty, the largest military installation by population in the nation.

• Fayetteville is named after French Gen. Marquis de Lafayette in 1783, remembered for fighting for America in the Revolutionary War.

Fayetteville City Council

The Fayetteville City Council includes nine council members and the mayor. Council members are elected from districts to two-year terms. The mayor is elected at large. All the seats were up for election in November 2023.

Malik Davis Dist. 2 910-973-0256 malikdavis@ fayettevillenc.gov

Brenda McNair Dist. 7 910-433-1992 brendamcnair@ fayettevillenc.gov

Mario Benavente Dist. 3 910-635-5458, mariobenavente@ fayettevilleNC.gov

Courtney BanksMcLaughlin Dist. 8 910-433-1992 courtneybanksmclaugh@ fayettevillenc.gov

D.J. Haire Dist. 4 910-574-5399 djhaire@ fayettevillenc.gov

Deno Hondros Dist. 9 910-433-1992 denohondros@ fayettevillenc.gov

The mayor acts as the official head of city government and presides at City Council meetings. The mayor is a voting member of the council who appoints council members to committees and liaison positions. Every month, Fayetteville City Council holds regular meetings every second and fourth Monday, which are open to the public. They can be attended in person or watched live on FayTV on Channel 7 of Spectrum Cable.

Mayor Mitch Colvin 910-433-1992 mitchcolvin@ fayettevillenc.gov

Lynne Greene Dist. 5 910-605-1647 lynnegreene@ fayettevillenc.gov

Douglas Hewett city manager 910-433-1990 doughewett@ fayettevillenc.gov

Mayor Pro Tem

Kathy Jensen Dist. 1 910-433-1992 kathyjensen@ fayettevillenc.gov

Derrick Thompson Dist. 6 910-433-1992 derrickthompson@ fayettevillenc.gov

Kemberle Braden police chief 910-433-1819 kemberlebraden@ fayettevillenc.gov

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden provides tours and educational programs for all ages and abilities. Photo by Tony Wooten.

Cumberland County

AT A GLANCE

• Cumberland is the fifth-largest county in North Carolina with a population of about 337,000.

• It is home to nine municipalities: Fayetteville, Eastover, Falcon, Godwin, Hope Mills, Linden, Spring Lake, Stedman, and Wade.

• It was named after the Duke of Cumberland, Prince William Augustus, the British commander who defeated the Highland Scots at the Battle of Culloden in 1746.

Glenn Adams, chair, Dist. 1, 910-678-7771 or 910-223-1400, gadams@ cumberlandcountync.gov

Toni Stewart , vice chair, Dist. 2, 910-678-7771 or 910-476-4444, tstewart@ cumberlandcountync.gov

Veronica B. Jones, at-large, 910-678-7771, vjones@ cumberlandcountync.gov

Leadership

The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners has seven members who are elected to four-year terms. Two members are elected from District 1, three members are elected from District 2 and two members are elected at-large. The terms are staggered, and the members elect the chairman and vice chairman annually.

The District 2 seats are up for election in 2024. Commissioners Michael Boose and Jimmy Keefe are not running for reelection.

Every month, Cumberland County Board of Commissioners holds regular meetings every first and third Monday, which are open to the public. They can be attended in person or watched live on Cumberland County North Carolina TV on Channel 5 of Spectrum Cable.

Michael Boose, Dist. 2, 910-678-7771 or 910-860-3889, mboose@ cumberlandcountync.gov

Jimmy Keefe, Dist. 2, 910-678-7771, jkeefe@ cumberlandcountync.gov

Jeannette Council, Dist. 1, 910-678-7771 or 910-488-0691, jcouncil@ cumberlandcountync.gov

W. Marshall Faircloth, at-large, 910-678-7771, wmfaircloth@ cumberlandcountync.gov

Clarence Grier, county manager, 910-678-7723, cgrier@ cumberlandcountync.gov

Ennis Wright , sheriff, 910-323-1500, sheriff@ccsonc.org

Cumberland County Government 117 Dick St., Fayettevlle, NC 28301 | Phone: 910-678-7771 cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/commissioners-group/commissioners/commissioners

SHOPPES

STREET 4251 Ramsey St Ste 102 Fayetteville, NC 28311-2130

FAYETTEVILLE PAVILION 2043 Skibo Road #101 Fayetteville, NC 28314

Roland Bersch and his daughter Eva.

Photo by Tony Wooten

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Sing with CCA! Volunteer! Purchase Tickets! Become a Sponsor! cumberlandchoralarts.org

Neighbors Serving Neighbors

Check out the Benefits Your Hometown Utility Provides

At PWC, our employees are also your friends and neighbors who make the difference for our customers. Our commitment to excellence enables us to provide world-class utilities and exceptional customer service, as well as programs and services with added benefits for you.

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Social Media – To keep you connected and informed Visit our website for more information, including tips to conserve power and water.

Where Your Children Come First

www.kidsfirstpedsraeford.com

Kids First Pediatrics of Raeford and Fayetteville has created a professional and caring medical environment for infants, children, adolescents and their families. We provide complete pediatric and adolescent care.

Pediatric Services We Provide Check Ups, Sick Child Visits & More in Raeford and Fayetteville

• Well Child Visits

• Sick Child Visits

• Vaccine & Immunization Schedule

• 2023-2024 Guide to the Flu

• School, Sports, & Camp Physicals

4005 Fayetteville Road Raeford, NC 28376

Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Vaccines & Immunizations

• ADHD Testing & Treatment

• Asthma Symptoms & Treatment

• Breastfeeding Support

• Urinalysis

• Strep and Mono Screen

• Vision and Hearing Tests

Jose Buenaseda, MD, FAAP

Leamor Buenaseda, MD, FAAP

Sreelekha Sashidhar, MD, FAAP

Christine Arnold, CPNP-PC

Melanie Pitts, DNP, NP-C

Beverly de La Rosa, CPNP-PC

Danielle Trigg, CPNP-PC

Cinthia Follrod, CPNP-PC

Rachelle Olson, FNPC

2694 NC 24-87 Cameron, NC 28326 Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 910.500.KIDS (5437) 2035 Valleygate Dr., Ste. 101 Fayetteville, NC 28304 Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 910.677.0007

Mon. to Fri., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 910.306.KIDS (5437)

910.848.KIDS (5437) 6415 Brookstone Lane, Ste. 101 Fayetteville, NC 28314

Brookstone office only 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturdays for sick/urgent appointments, established patients only.