The NCHSAA has released the 2025 softball playoff brackets for this year's state championships Five Fayetteville-area softball teams have been selected for the playoffs in the 3A and 4A classifications South View softball took down Gray's Creek for the second time this season in a defensive battle to capture the United 8 Conference tournament championship after the Bears won the regular-season title Here are the playoff pairings for all Fayetteville teams that made the cut to advance to the playoffs Welcome, Mickeymickey@disney.comManage MyDisney AccountLog OutFayetteville man who died after being shot multiple times identifiedSunday 2025 11:38PMPolice said the shooting happened on Barton's Landing Place.FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- The Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) is investigating a deadly shooting that happened Sunday morning Police started the investigation after arriving at a condominium complex around 10:30 a.m That's where officers found a person who had been shot multiple times police identified the man as 36-year-old Donte Maurice Vanclief Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Detective C Johnson (910) 584-6703 or Crimestoppers at (910) 483-TIPS (8477) ALSO SEE Masked man shoots, kills gas station employee in Harnett County robbery A person with multiple gunshot wounds was found in at an apartment complex off Cliffdale Road and later died from his injuries according to a news release by the Fayetteville Police Department Officers responded to a call at around 10:22 a.m to the 600 block of Barton's Landing Place They found a person who had suffered "multiple gunshots to the upper torso." Medical personnel on the scene treated the person who was transported to a local hospital where the person died The name of the victim is being withheld due to the nature of the investigation and until next of kin can be notified The case is being investigated by the Police Department's Homicide Unit Anyone with information regarding is asked to contact Detective C Crimestoppers information can also be submitted electronically by visiting http://fay-nccrimestoppers.org and completing the anonymous online tip sheet or by downloading the FREE “P3 Tips”app available for Apple devices in the Apple App Store and available for Android devicesin Google Play Pitts can be reached at mpitts@fayobserver.com Rain: 7am to 7am: .00  Month: 1.51 Year: 25.00 Recorded temps:  High: 68 Low: 46 A Fayetteville man is accused of robbing a convenience store and robbing it again 19 hours later Twenty-year-old Kaden Courtney is facing two counts of aggravated robbery According to the Fayetteville Police Department the store located on North Leverett Avenue was robbed just after 4 Thursday morning The male suspect – wearing a hooded jacket a mask and gloves – fled the scene before officers arrived the store was reportedly robbed again by a suspect wearing the same attire and fleeing in the same direction The next day Fayetteville’s Criminal Investigations Division developed Courtney Detectives contacted Courtney at his residence the clothing worn during both robberies was reportedly located CBS17.com 1 killed in shooting at Fayetteville gated condo complex off Cliffdale Road Motorcyclist dies in Fayetteville crash along Pamalee Drive YMCAs in North Carolina launch online mental health hub for teens VIDEO: Driver injured after smashing pickup truck into Sanford jewelry store Door cam video shows triple Raleigh shooting scene at school year-end party Emergency meeting to address Fayetteville violent crime Child killed in daytime Durham neighborhood shooting smashes into Sanford jewelry store (Courtesy: Balous Jewelers) Snake on beach caught on video in Maryland 3rd alligator in less than a month at NC coast in Brunswick County woman injured in Sampson County rollover SUV crash FAYETTEVILLE -- The gap in housing availability and affordability in Fayetteville is widening Over 40% of households were cost-burdened in 2023 the city's long range planning and special projects manager about 38% of households were cost-burdened in 2022 and about 29.7% of houselholds were cost-burdened in 2021 according to the city's 2024 housing assessment Cost-burdened households are those spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs Fayetteville was additionally about 1,179 housing units short of demand in 2023 An additional 1,145 housing units are needed per year to meet the projected population growth "From the start of 2023 to the end of 2024 more than 2,700 housing units were completed need housing available at a lower cost than market rates." Average rent for apartments in Fayetteville estimated Fayetteville needed 8,000 additional housing units with rent less than $875 a month and about 5,500 units below $500 a month to relieve cost-burdened households That need increased in 2023 to 8,400 units needed at less than $875 a month and 6,400 units needed at less than $500 a month Bostick presented this assessment to the City Council at its agenda session Tuesday and made recommendations for next steps Three of those next steps include amendments to the Unified Development Code that are scheduled to be proposed to the council at its next meeting Tuesday said the amendments are a part of the city's efforts to remove obstacles and encourage more housing and more affordable housing The first amendment being proposed is to revise lot frontage requirements Lot frontages must have access to a public street under current code The amendment would change the code to allow for lot frontage on public streets adding some flexibility to development plans across all zoning types This amendment was one of 20 preliminary recommendations brought to the City Council by the Housing Crisis Task Force in September The City Council created the task force following the city's 2024 declaration it is in a housing crisis The 10-member group began meeting in June and is tasked with providing recommendations to the council on ways to relieve the city's tight housing market The second amendment being proposed on Tuesday is to provide more flexibility for accessory dwelling units independent residential unit located on the same property as a single-family home according to the American Planning Association Five changes are being proposed within the amendment All parking and sidewalk requirements would be removed These changes are required by state law following the most recent legislative session City staff is proposing additional changes regarding location and occupancy Current code only allows units up to the second floor would allow them to be added to a third floor a resident can have a total of two accessory units under current code The proposed amendment still keeps the limit of two units per property but allows for any combination of attached or detached units The amendment would also change occupancy requirements to allow one family per unit Current code limits the occupancy to two people total across both units The number of requests for accessory units the city sees averages in the teens every year Curth said the ordinance regarding units was adopted about a decade ago and has received regular reviews and amendments by staff and each time they have seen the number of units rise -- a trend Curth said he hopes to see continue With Fayetteville being a city that is primarily low-density adding these minimally impactful residences could help the housing market "It is important to potentially add a small increment of additional housing in a lot of those areas because they are near schools they are near services where it might otherwise be impossible" to add residences The third amendment being proposed Tuesday pertains to modular housing -- defined as prefabricated housing that is built off-site which must still meet city building codes and inspections The amendment will establish that definition for modular housing as well as expand when and where it is allowed City code only refers to it as prefabricated housing currently which would not need to meet city codes by definition and limits the use to single-family dwellings The proposed amendment would allow for additional housing types "We're seeing the technology changing nationally so that people are building everything from single-family homes to large multifamily buildings with modular housing," Curth said the technology used and even the design aspects of it have all developed to a much higher level than they were 30 60 years ago when some communities adopted standards about housing constructed off site." Curth said these code changes have been discussed internally for years as staff has watched the technology grow Arkansas Renters United and Fayetteville Strong sent out a joint press release in support of the three amendments Arkansas Renters United is a renter's rights group Fayetteville Strong is a resident-run organization with the goal of making Fayetteville "more walkable bikeable and equitable," according to its website "Our members often experience our housing crisis firsthand," said Billy Cook "These common-sense policies give people more affordable choices and make it easier for families to live close to work We need more housing options and fewer roadblocks." City staff is also about to begin piloting initiatives to provide same-day inspections and permitting for developers to accelerate their construction timeline we're gaining days or weeks of construction time for people," Curth said Curth said while the city works toward relieving the housing crisis he felt it was important to temper expectations about how much any one change can do "I don't think any one proposal that staff has brought forward is going to be a cure to the housing woes in Fayetteville," he said What's nextFayetteville City Council will discuss the amendments at 5:30 p.m and earned a degree in multimedia journalism from Harding University in Searcy Her love for journalism began with taking freelance sports photos for her local newspaper and her involvement with multiple school publications She moved to Northwest Arkansas in 2024 to be closer to family before finding the reporter position at the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Northwest Arkansas Newspapers LLC Material from the Associated Press is Copyright © 2025 audio and/or video material shall not be published rewritten for broadcast or publication or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and noncommercial use The AP will not be held liable for any delays errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing A man was killed Sunday morning in a shooting at a Fayetteville apartment complex officers with the Fayetteville Police Department responded to an apartment complex in the 600 block of Barton’s Landing Place Vanclief was pronounced dead at a local hospital Johnson at 910-584-6703 or Crimestoppers at 910-483-TIPS (8477) (This story was updated to add new information.) My family went downtown to the Dogwood Festival on April 26 and found it bustling and full, from Hay Street to the promenade next to Festival Park Plaza to the park itself to the children’s play area off Ray Avenue. I got to visit Drake Lanier, the hot sauce man out of Lexington and that’s always a festival highlight for me the vibe was good for the city’s premier festival which has seen some turbulence over the past couple of years Hours later, shots were fired on Maiden Lane, not far from the festival but the incident cast a shadow over day two of the weekend event “We have had enough,” the mayor said in a city news release. Opinion Pitts: Mayor's race preview? Fayetteville City Council debates homeowner's program including a familiar one that has been debated before in Fayetteville — a proposed curfew for unattended minors that begins at 9 p.m The Fayetteville City Council would have to approve the ordinance If we judge by social media — and take that with the large grain of salt it deserves — a lot of the reaction I have seen to Colvin’s announcement has been supportive of a curfew including some who wondered why it took so long When the city takes a look at juvenile curfews Fayetteville City Council members and city officials find what their peers elsewhere have already found based on data: A curfew’s impact is usually negligible; worse it can create new problems in an attempt to solve existing problems; and curfews operate in a legal gray area that puts into question their long-term viability as a solution But none of that is likely to touch gun violence I guess you have to see it this way: The kind of teenager who is willing to pull a trigger and take someone’s life has already made up in his mind to cross one of society’s brightest red lines What is the likelihood that this kind of offender will give any thought to a curfew Opinion Pitts: Fayetteville City Council puts youth curfew on hold, looks at partnerships. That's a good thing. This is an election year for the City Council although Colvin said the issue is not politically motivated "It’s more expedient and convenient to avoid controversy during an election," he told me "Avoidance would have been the more political decision." do we throw up our hands in the face of gun violence One thing about youth gun violence is that both the aggressor and the victim tend to be young we’re losing kids and will continue to lose more kids in the future without any solution But we also have to recognize that solutions that work may not be as showy as a curfew Opinion Pitts: Supreme Court decision boosts Fayetteville leader in fight against ghost guns Then there’s the issue of securing guns in homes and vehicles. As I’ve written before, North Carolina has a statewide epidemic of guns being stolen from unlocked cars It could be a prime way that young people get weapons they otherwise might be too young to purchase but they require long-term commitment and time — often not helpful to politicians in an election year Opinion Editor Myron B. Pitts can be reached at mpitts@fayobserver.com chief jailer at the Cumberland County Detention Center when she started out as a detention officer before climbing to the top of the ranks in 2014 “She is a dedicated member of her church and a passionate published writer,” a statement from the Sheriff’s Office said “Major Adams cherished her family and had a passion for travel.” A 1990 graduate of Terry Sanford High School Adams is the married mother of three adult children Her daughter also works for the Sheriff’s Office In April, Adams listed her self-published book, “Learn from the Greatest Networker: How Jesus Built a Movement, Not Just a Team,” on Amazon “Tandra Adams unveils the Kingdom principles behind how Jesus handpicked and multiplied a team that changed the world This isn’t just another leadership book—it’s a spiritual guide for entrepreneurs and ministry leaders who are tired of hype and ready for Holy Spirit-led growth,” the book’s synopsis reads the Sheriff’s Office adorned her department SUV with a memorial flower arrangement and blue ribbon It was parked prominently outside the detention center by the afternoon More: The Fayetteville Police Department wants more women to join its ranks. Here's how Bogertey said Adams impact in the community reached beyond the walls of the jail when her concerns launched a backpack giveaway program for students The idea came to Adams after she worried about the children of incarcerated individuals not having gear for school the Sheriff’s Office hosts a giveaway each August where all students can get a backpack of school supplies and a haircut "Her sudden passing is a profound loss for both our agency and the community We ask that you keep her family and the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office Detention Center in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," the Sheriff's Office statement said Adams' cause of death was not immediately known Norton can be reached at fnorton@fayobserver.com (This story has been updated to correct Adams' alma mater.) A Fayetteville advocacy group hosted a free market on Ray Avenue on Saturday attracting residents to display their creative skills and give away products to those in need Fayetteville Freedom For All hosted the event from 11 a.m displaying products that were free for members of the public to take home The products being displayed included clothes said she was inspired by free markets in other cities around the state they have these free market’s every month," Rodriguez said “I just really like the concept of bringing stuff and just giving it away for free and I like the community-building aspect of having different skill-sharers and music and art.” What exactly is a Really Really Free Market?Rodriguez said the free market is a way for residents who live in the richest country in the world “We have people doing creative writing workshops they’re a way to come together as a community they’re a way to help people who are in need and they’re a way to just be in community to share your skills.” said the free market can provide for residents who are focused on investing in necessities "We all have stuff laying around the house we’re not using encourage people to be in community with each other and share in that way," he said Why Fayetteville?Cook said that after seeing the success these free markets have had in ciies across the country he understood the impact it could have on Fayetteville "The idea is to get the community together and to stop making people have to spend money," he said "We thought it would be nice to bring it to Fayetteville.” Cook said he was surprised to see how many residents responded positively and the amount of traffic brought in by the event I’m not terribly surprised about it because it’s a good thing that we’re doing but I just wasn’t expecting it that fast," he said "I thought for the first time we would have a nice little flow but it’s a lot more people than I was expecting and a lot more of a positive reaction than I was expecting from everyone.” Are there plans for more?Rodriguez said other cities "We are trying to do it every couple months," she said "I think ideally we’d love to be able to have volunteers who would be willing to run it monthly It's just a matter of capacity and stuff like that.” Public safety reporter Joseph Pierre can be reached at jpierre@gannett.com Chicken wing fans in Cumberland County have two new reasons to celebrate taking over the former Bojangles building near Methodist University The restaurant chain, which has more than 40 locations across the Southeast, offers traditional and boneless wings in 30 different flavors, alongside menu items like Philly cheesesteaks, fried rice, burgers and seafood, according to the company's website Previous coverage: Chicken wing chain set to open its first Fayetteville location in former Bojangles Just up the road in Spring Lake, The Wing Company also recently opened its new location at 400 S The restaurant announced its opening earlier in April with a live video on social media and promises, “THE BEST WINGS ON EARTH!", according to an April 7 Facebook post The Wing Company has several locations across North Carolina, including Hope Mills, Pembroke, Coats and Lumberton, according to the company's website Attempts to reach both restaurants for comment were unsuccessful May 2 On the web: touchdownwings.com On the web: theoriginalwingco.com Reporter Lizmary Evans covers dining, retail, entertainment and culture for The Fayetteville Observer. You can reach her at LEvans@gannett.com books and other products laid out on a blanket at Fayetteville's Really Really Free Market on Ray Avenue A gardener displays her plants at Fayetteville's Really Really Free Market on Ray Avenue An artist shows off her collection at Fayetteville's Really Really Free Market on Ray Avenue Push for higher teacher pay in North Carolina The Carolina Hurricanes are ready for the start of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs which starts Tuesday night against the Washington Capitals Mayor Mitch Colvin and the Fayetteville City Council is holding an emergency meeting Monday to address violent crime in the city The man was shot and killed at the Barton’s Landing Place gated condo community in Fayetteville on Sunday morning An employee was shot and killed at a gas station convenience store late Saturday night and the Harnett County Sheriff's Office is still looking for the suspect Job Alert: US Customs and Border Protection Future plans for Wake County parks and trails Avelo Airlines cancels Bahamas route at RDU Wake County plans to invest in local parks and trails Teen shot and killed in Durham neighborhood Officials have released the name of a man shot and killed May 4 at a Cliffdale Road apartment complex was shot multiple shortly before 10:30 a.m He was pronounced dead at Cape Fear Medical Center and all involved parties are cooperating," a news release said More: Fayetteville's mayor has a solution to youth gun violence. Will it work? | Opinion Video posted to social media shows the victim lying on the grass outside of a building and another man walking around with a long rifle Police are also seen in the video detaining at least two people Law enforcement has not said if an arrest has been made Johnson 910-584-6703 or CrimeStoppers at 910-483-TIPS (8477) CrimeStoppers information can also be submitted electronically by visiting http://fay-nccrimestoppers.org or by downloading the free P3 Tips app available for mobile devices Vanclief's killing is the 21st homicide investigation for the Fayetteville Police Department thus far in 2025 A 78-year-old wife of a retired Army chief warrant officer was identified by police as the victim of a fatal hit-and-run April 12 Suk Kyong Szafranski was struck by a vehicle around 8:30 p.m. in the area of North Reilly Road and Telfair Drive, police said. She was pronounced dead at the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, according to the Fayetteville Police Department. The incident happened just blocks from the Fayetteville home she shared with her husband of 50 years, according to her obituary. Related: CrimeStoppers tip leads to arrest of Fayetteville man in fatal hit-and-run a CrimeStoppers tip led detectives to the home of Jamal Andre Holliday officers located a 2021 Kia Forte in the front yard with damage consistent with the collision is charged with felony hit-and-run and driving with a revoked license He is being held in the Cumberland County jail with bail set at $35,000 A visitation and memorial service for Szafranski is 6-8 p.m. May 5 at Lafayette Funeral Home on Raeford Road Watch today's top stories and most popular videos which provide you with features like past/future radar and customizable layers Trust us to help you plan the best day possible with the most accurate weather forecast available We recognize our responsibility to use data and technology for good We may use or share your data with our data vendors The Weather Channel is the world's most accurate forecaster according to ForecastWatch, Global and Regional Weather Forecast Accuracy Overview you might notice a slight uptick in Wookies Droids and a slew of other intergalactic characters as in "May the Fourth be with you" -- is known in some circles as Star Wars Day purely to celebrate a beloved piece of culture in a spirit of fun and silliness it's perfect fodder for a promo theme at a Minor League ballpark Just about every Minor League team has a Star Wars-related promo at some point on the calendar, so be sure to check out what your local club has planned Here's a look at what a few teams have on the docket for this weekend -- and this month Clearwater Threshers (Single-A PHI)vs. Bradenton Marauders (PIT), 6:30 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » The Threshers -- whose roster includes two of MLB Pipeline's Top 100 prospects in right-hander Andrew Painter (No. 7) and Eduardo Tait (No. 89) -- are auctioning off their game-worn custom jerseys to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation Show up early dressed as your favorite character and stay until the postgame fireworks show ends Durham Bulls (Triple-A TB)vs. Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (MIA), 6:35 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » View this post on Instagram A post shared by Durham Bulls (@durhambulls) Las Vegas Aviators (Triple-A ATH)vs. Tacoma Rainiers (SEA), 7:05 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » Las Vegas is a city that sometimes seems like it would fit right into the universe of this film franchise and it's also a city that knows how to put on a show There's a strong chance the Aviators' home of Las Vegas Ballpark is going to host one of the liveliest best-dressed Star Wars crowds in the Minors Hartford Yard Goats (Double-A COL)vs. Chesapeake Baysox (BAL), 1:10 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » The Yard Goats, who have a reputation for fully embracing offbeat ideas at Dunkin' Park, are bringing out specialty lightsaber churros and offering Jedi training at this matinee. It's likely to be the only Star Wars promo in baseball at which live goats will be present. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hartford Yard Goats 🐐 (@hartfordyardgoats) Fort Wayne TinCaps (High-A SD)vs. Dayton Dragons (CIN), 1:05 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » and you can stick around for a postgame autograph session organized by the club Vancouver Canadians (High-A TOR)vs. Hillsboro Hops (AZ), 1:05 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » The epic space opera franchise set in a galaxy far Canada's only Minor League Baseball team gets in on the Star Wars Day action with a "light sword" giveaway for the first 1,000 fans under 12 Fans of all ages are encouraged to turn up in costume -- wearing Star Wars apparel gets you 50% off a grandstand ticket purchased at the box office on May 4 Fayetteville Woodpeckers (Single-A HOU)vs. Salem (BOS), May 9, 7:05 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » Here's your chance to take a trip to Hoth without all the ice and Tauntaun stench as the Woodpeckers are dedicating this year's iteration of Fayetteville's annual Star Wars Night specifically to "The Empire Strikes Back," the second film of the original trilogy featuring Luke Skywalker on the front and AT-AT Walkers across the back including a lightsaber and a pregame costume parade The Woodpeckers' postgame Star Wars-themed fireworks show will be "bigger and better than you've ever seen," per the club Buffalo Bisons (Triple-A TOR)vs. Charlotte Knights (CWS), May 31, 6:05 p.m.Ballpark guide »Tickets » The Bisons have a family ticket special running through May the Fourth for this end-of-the-month game at which Lucas Films-certified Fan Costumers -- include a life-sized Jabba the Hutt -- are scheduled to make appearances throughout the concourse The team will also sell laser swords in a fundraising effort for Compass House Buffalo has a 15-year history of custom Star Wars Night jerseys This year's feature Clone Wars hero Ahsoka Tano Visit MiLB.com to view all 120 Minor League Ballpark Guides Josh Jackson is an editor for MiLB.com. Follow and interact with him on Twitter @JoshJacksonMiLB Fayetteville Academy's girls lacrosse team has etched its name across the state as one of the best after ending the regular season 13-0 on Thursday afternoon The Eagles marked their 13th consecutive win with a 16-4 victory over Cape Fear Academy with milestones from senior Vanni Initini who became the only girls lacrosse player in North Carolina history to surpass 500 career goals "I'm proud on the Dad side and on the coaching side " head coach Vincent Intini said about his seniors' achievements "It's all about the preparation for the whole team then we kind of just sit back and enjoy the fruits of everyone's success." the Eagles still don't feel they are at the top of the state as a team going into next week's NCISAA 2A playoffs NCHSAA PLAYOFF TRACKER: NCHSAA spring sports playoff schedule, scores: Terry Sanford tennis claims No. 1 seed FREEDOM CHRISTIAN SOFTBALL: Freedom Christian prioritizes defense while aiming for back-to-back championship success "We know that there are a lot of people who see our record and make it a season goal to knock you off — it's a season-maker," Intini said "But we don't see ourselves at the top; that won't happen until we are fortunate enough to win a state championship we're still hungry and still driving like everyone else." the Eagles faced an early playoff dismissal after their do-everything attacker suffered a season-ending injury versus Asheville School in the second round of the playoffs And with the state playoffs beginning next week the Eagles will go into the postseason with a point to prove and a tad bit of pressure on themselves to get over the hump and vie for their first state championship in program history But the pressure isn't so much as a championship-or-bust feeling for Fayetteville Academy; it's about sending off the seniors with a season to remember and giving the underclassmen a feel for what it's like to compete in late postseason games "The pressure is not so much about wins or losses," Intini said "But our seniors this year are the ones that started this program five years ago the pressure is wanting them to feel what it's like to be a state champion then they can go the rest of their lives knowing they're state champions The pressure is just my desire for the senior class to win." As the Eagles clean their slate mentally of their unblemished record they're 'back to work' as they await their potential top seeding in the NCISAA playoffs that'll be announced on Sunday FAYETTEVILLE -- Police say a man was arrested Friday for robbing the same convenience store twice in one day Ron Wood has been a professional journalist in Arkansas for about 40 years He has covered state and federal courts in Northwest Arkansas since 1995 Over the course of his award-winning career he has covered a wide range of beats including city and county governments Game Recap: Softball | 5/1/2025 7:50:00 PM — Fayetteville State (13-19 overall secured a decisive 9-4 victory against Elizabeth City State in a thrilling softball game on Wednesday during the second round of the CIAA Softball Championship Tournament Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here A motorcyclist was killed Sunday night in a crash on Pamalee Drive in Fayetteville officers with the Fayetteville Police Department responded to the 1700 block of Pamalee Drive the motorcyclist was found in the woodline but the rider was pronounced dead at the crash scene The name of the motorcyclist will be withheld until family members are notified Game Recap: Softball | 5/1/2025 6:17:00 PM putting together two hits in four trips to the plate while adding an RBI The Broncos will face Elizabeth City State in the loser's bracket of the double-elimination tournament The ballgame ended with that seventh-inning rally falling short compiling three base knocks in the ballgame Fayetteville State's highest scoring inning was the seventh The Broncos out-hit the Trojans at a 9-8 clip and went 4-for-13 (.308) with runners in scoring position Fayetteville State pitchers faced 34 Virginia State hitters in the game allowing one ground ball and nine fly balls while striking out seven The Broncos drew four walks from Virginia State pitching Virginia State was led offensively by Shamya Hankins who went 1-for-2 with a triple and three RBI Hailey Darrington led the Trojans' pitching staff Thanks for visiting and pairings have been completed for all spring sports Twelve sports teams will represent their school and Fayetteville in this year's NCISAA playoffs Here's where each team will play along with the sports playoff schedule NC'S NEW LEADER IN GOALS: Undefeated Fayetteville Academy girls lacrosse led by state’s first 500-goal scorer NCHSAA SPORTS SCHEDULE: NCHSAA spring sports playoff schedule, scores: Terry Sanford tennis claims No. 1 seed Freedom Christian baseball put together a 20-5 season and went 8-0 in the NCISAA Sandhills Athletic Conference to also win back-to-back conference tournament championships following a shutout win over Village Christian Northwood Temple (6-8) at The O'Neal School (5-8-1) Freedom Christian softball completed another special season with only two losses and winning back-to-back SAC tournament titles that notched the Patriots a double-bye and No Fayetteville Academy capped off its season with a flawless record the state's all-time leader in goals scored It will go into the state playoffs as the top seed and Fayetteville's only private school program represented (8) Greensboro Day (3-10) at (1) Fayetteville Academy (13-0) Girls' soccerFayetteville Christian girls' soccer took home this year's SAC tournament championship for the first time since 2022 The Warriors secured a spot in the NCISAA 3A playoffs and Fayetteville Academy's 13-4 record earned the Eagles a No Northwood Temple (6-11) at Gaston Day (10-9) Berean Baptist (4-9-1) at The Burlington School (14-4-1) Village Christian (9-7) at The O'Neal School (9-6) Thales Academy-Apex (9-8-1) at Fayetteville Christian (12-4) Fayetteville Academy (4-4) at (8) The Burlington School (6-9) Shorebirds Slug Three Home Runs to Win Series Finale in Fayetteville NC: The Delmarva Shorebirds (7-20) finished their series against the Fayetteville Woodpeckers (14-13) with an 8-4 win on Sunday evening Luis Guevara put Delmarva ahead in the first inning with a two-out Fayetteville swiftly responded in the bottom half with a two-run home run by Caden Powell Delmarva counterpunched in the third as Raylin Ramos and Edwin Amparo each hit two-run homers The Woodpeckers battled their way back in the sixth by scoring twice on an RBI single by Justin Trimble and a wild pitch that brought Max Holy home The Shorebirds' offense delivered much-needed insurance in the eighth as Andrés Nolaya provided an RBI double to score Cole Urman from first Yasmil Bucce then hit the third home run of the night for the Shorebirds; his two-run blast gave Delmarva their largest lead at 8-4 Those proved to be enough runs for the bullpen and Deivy Cruz combined to allow no earned runs in 5.1 innings securing an 8-4 victory for Delmarva in the finale Eccel Correa (1-2) earned his first win of the season Starting pitcher Joan Ogando was saddled with the loss for Fayetteville The Shorebirds continue their 12-game road trip on Tuesday in Myrtle Beach with the first pitch of the opening game scheduled for 6:35 p.m Box Score and the Fayetteville area is gearing up for all the festive flavors and fun the May 5 holiday brings here are five things to know about Cinco de Mayo festivities across Cumberland County While it’s a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the 1862 Battle of Puebla where Mexican forces triumphed over the French The holiday has become widely celebrated in the United States as a way to honor Mexican culture and cuisine The Fayetteville Observer asked readers in an April 25 survey to tell us which restaurants or bars in Cumberland County have the best margaritas At the top of the list was the margaritas at Rancho de Leon "They use house-made mix that tastes fresh and not overly sweet or fake tasting," said one respondent Related: What is a Mexican hot dog, and where can you find one in Fayetteville? Best tacos in townWe also asked survey respondents for the best tacos, and again, one name stood out — Rancho De Leon handmade corn tortillas and authentic flavor Looking to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with music and food Here are a couple of events happening in Fayetteville this weekend There will be beer, tacos, 25 vendors, a mechanical bull, a craft fair and and face painting and a bounce house for children at Gaston Brewing Company, 421 Chicago Drive, from noon to 4 p.m. May 3, according to the event page Special deals on Cinco de MayoTaqueria Las Delicias Mexican restaurant, at 524 S. Reilly Road, offers a free-drink-with-purchase special on May 5, according to the restaurant's Facebook page On the Border is offering $5 margaritas on Cinco de Mayo at its Fayetteville restaurant at 115 Glensford Drive, according to the company's website Cumberland County's Chipotle locations are 3101 Raeford Road in Fayetteville; 1918 Skibo Road in Fayetteville; 4715 Ramsey St in Fayetteville; 2814 Town Center Drive in Hope Mills; and 8031 Graves St Bad Daddy's Burger Bar is having its "legendary" margaritas made with "mucho tequila & fresh lime" for $4 on May 5, according to its website The Fayetteville restaurant is located at 1800 Skibo Road Moe's Southwest Grill, at 201 N. McPherson Church Road in Fayetteville, offers a free side of queso with every entree purchase May 5, according to the company's website Pulling into the driveway of Lanuti’s Glass at 623 E Rock Street in Fayetteville feels like taking a wrong turn and are about to intrude on someone’s calm Saturday morning Denise and Rich Lanuti usually meet guests warmly at the door before they welcome visitors inside to experience Denise’s sparkling world of glass located beneath the Lanutis’ two-story home built seven years ago serves as an artistic playground for exploration and creation for the two Tabletops are covered with fine glass powder shelves contain multicolored fragments waiting for a purpose and walls are adorned with finished works that appear to dance in the light Dustin Staggs is a features writer for the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette entertainment and community stories that showcase the vibrant culture of Northwest Arkansas joined the Democrat-Gazette features team in July 2024 Dustin’s magazine story was named a Story of the Year finalist in the "In-Depth News Story" category by the Associated Collegiate Press making him the only Arkansas college student to earn this recognition that year Dustin has cultivated strong connections within the local arts and entertainment community and finds joy in spotlighting the creative talents and inspiring stories of the region FAYETTEVILLE — Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s new horticulture director is on a mission to make his mark by promoting sustainability and helping locals identify native plants that can thrive in their own backyards his peace and his way of giving back to the community The 40-year-old Maine native and recent transplant to North Carolina has since January served as the director of horticulture at Cape Fear Botanical Garden where he’s working to make gardening less intimidating even for those who swear they can’t keep a cactus alive "Horticulture is for everybody," Premo said April 30 "We want people to know about the natural world and how to sustain our native plants for the future Previous coverage: Here's how Cape Fear Botanical Garden plans to revitalize its Heritage Garden A path planted earlyPremo said he grew up surrounded by green spaces from his mother’s backyard full of 200 tomato plants to summers spent helping his aunt in the garden and his uncle on a dairy farm in upstate New York Though he said he originally studied criminal justice a college landscaping job changed everything Premo said working alongside a 75-year-old landscaper who could push mow and outwork the younger guys opened his eyes to a new field of work he hadn't previously considered "To see someone at 75 years old be passionate about what he's doing Premo said he decided to pursue an associate degree in landscape turf management about 10 years ago which led to more than a decade of hands-on experience — including a leadership role at the Philadelphia Zoo — before joining Cape Fear Botanical Garden he said he wants to find a new use for it and prevent the materials from going to waste Looking aheadAs Premo settles into his new role at Cape Fear Botanical Garden he said he's focused on optimizing the garden’s existing plant life across its 80 acres which includes relocating plants to environments where they can thrive such as moving full-sun species out of shaded areas and moving shade-loving plants away from direct sunlight He said he also hopes to launch a large-scale composting operation that can support the garden’s soil health while also serving local nonprofits "Being able to start composting at a significant level where we're providing that to our community partners as well and working with a community partner for getting the greenery." While most garden visitors take in the blooming paths and native landscapes without thinking twice Premo said he and his team spend hours planning what goes where and why companion planting and transitioning areas to better reflect their intended use "It’s about using the right plants for the right place and creating a sustainable environment," he said Premo said the team works collaboratively in the field each day often alongside dedicated volunteers who he learns from every day as he settles into his new role From their collective experience and his own Premo suggests gardeners in the Fayetteville area plant native plants that are easy to maintain and won't compete with one another Premo said the Joe Pye weed is a great native plant for borders as the plants are tall is another easy-to-grow and beautiful plant and spreads easily commonly referred to as the native honeysuckle Premo said rose mallow is perfect for wetter areas and is not only tall but showy with big blooms; coupled with the redbud trees that are great early spring bloomers with pink flowers along the branches it's more than possible for gardeners in the Sandhills region to develop a green thumb "You can grow native plants or vegetables in containers," Premo said or $11 for military service members with valid ID and adults 65 and older Membership: Individual annual memberships are $50. For more information and membership options, visit capefearbg.org/memberships/ On the web: capefearbg.org Game Recap: Softball | 5/2/2025 1:21:00 PM SC -- An explosive offensive output was not enough for Fayetteville State on Friday as the Broncos tallied six runs but could not hold the Lincoln (PA) Lions at bay This was the second loss of the double elimination softball championship causing Fayetteville State Softball's season to come to an end with a record of 12-20 putting together one hit in four trips to the plate while adding an RBI The Broncos got the scoring started early, putting one run on the board in the top of the first inning. Fayetteville State scored twice, with one run coming across on Patterson's single. The Lions then gained ground, narrowing the lead to 2-1 until the Broncos expanded their advantage in the third. Freshman Cheyenne Payne came across to score the lone run of the inning for Fayetteville State bringing the score to 3-1 in favor of the Broncos Lincoln (PA) came back to tie the ballgame at three before Fayetteville State reclaimed a 6-3 advantage in the sixth inning as Lincoln (PA) scored four times over the remaining one inning to grab the 7-6 win Lincoln (PA) had a player ejected at the bottom of the sixth for colliding with the catcher Fayetteville State was not able to capitalize getting out in the top of the seventh while leaving two runners on base Fayetteville State's highest scoring inning was the sixth Fayetteville State pitchers faced 32 Lincoln (PA) hitters in the game allowing three ground balls and 13 fly balls Lincoln (PA) was led offensively by sophomore Aliya Rose who went 2-for-4 with a triple and two RBI Sophomore Chloe Foster led the Lions' pitching staff Thanks for visiting A Skibo Road restaurant in Fayetteville is getting rebranded The Fayetteville Smokey Bones location at 1891 Skibo Road will be converted into sports bar Twin Peaks senior director of corporate communications for FAT Brands "Twin Peaks construction is expected to start in May," Mandzik said in an email April 28 "We look forward to reopening as a Twin Peaks and serving the Fayetteville community our made-from-scratch food in the ultimate sports lodge atmosphere." Mandzik did not say when Twin Peaks will open The restaurant is described as "the ultimate sports lodge" with "made-from-scratch food (an) innovative cocktail program and sports on wall-to-wall televisions." Twin Peaks' extensive menu includes entrees like burgers Related: New chain restaurant proposed for Fayetteville's South Raeford Road. Here's what we know "The global restaurant franchising company has identified this strategy as a key growth pillar for the brand and currently has a pipeline of approximately 30 Smokey Bones locations they are looking to convert over the next several years," the release said More food news: Kitchen glitch: Fayetteville restaurant temporarily moving The Smokey Bones in Fayetteville first opened its doors in late July 2003 Smokey Bones appears as closed on Google and the company’s store locator, according to its website A visit to the restaurant on April 30 confirmed the location’s closure All signs had been removed from the building’s facade and orange spray-painted X’s were visible along the perimeter "This Smokey Bones location has permanently closed Please visit our website to view our nearby locations." A few people were seen loading kitchen equipment onto trucks one said the restaurant’s last day was April 27 The first Smokey Bones restaurant converted into a Twin Peaks was in Lakeland “Converting Smokey Bones locations to Twin Peaks provides a significant return on investment as altering a standing restaurant with similar square footage and real estate draw like Smokey Bones cuts out about a year and a half of construction time,” Ken Kuick “Twin Peaks is our fastest-growing concept producing strong and growing average-unit volumes We believe this strategy will further drive the brand’s robust expansion plans domestically as it continues to redefine the polished casual dining sector.” Welcome, Mickeymickey@disney.comManage MyDisney AccountLog OutPower restored for thousands in Fayetteville after hours long outageThursday 2025 11:27PMPWC said it is working to find the cause of the outage.FAYETTEVLLE (WTVD) -- Power was restored to thousands of customers on Thursday after an outage left many in the dark According to the Public Works Commission (PWC) power outage map more than 10,000 customers were without power including at Fayetteville State University PWC said it is working to find the cause of the outage the power was restored to all 10,000 customers Fayetteville’s own celebrity chef isn’t closing shop —  the floors in her Owen Drive kitchen are just getting redone Judith “Chef Judy” Cage, the woman behind the culinary gem, posted a social media video with her business partner Rashawn Moore on April 28 dispelling rumors that the restaurant is closing saying they're only temporarily relocating as you know we have been at the Owen Drive location for a little over six years," Cage began After some playful banter between the business partners it’s had a lot of complications … We have done all that we can," he said we actually have a project that is going on through the ownership They are restructuring our floor in our kitchen They are completely redoing our floor in the kitchen." More: Uptown's Chicken and Waffles features Southern-style comfort food Moore said the Owen Drive restaurant will close for about three or four weeks for the renovations and that in the interim Uptown’s Chicken & Waffles will operate out of 1911 Murchison Road We’re getting new floors in the kitchen so we don’t fall through,” Cage said She said the hours will remain the same — 10 a.m "We're still gonna make it good," Cage said "I need y'all to make sure y'all come on over and see us and support us Cage has minor celebrity status in Fayetteville after several appearances on Food Network channel competitions including "Supermarket Stakeout," where she beat four other chefs in 2019 She also appeared on "Chopped," "Cutthroat Kitchen'' and "Restaurant Impossible." Hunter is living proof that it’s never too late to return to your passion — and finish what you started “My favorite title will always be ‘Mom,’” she said That’s been one of the most empowering things I’ve done for myself.” Hunter’s life has always revolved around service As a veteran of both active duty and civil service roles in the Army she spent years putting others first — her country Her military service shaped her into a leader even serving as a division chief for many years After years of putting a “halt” on her dreams Opinion ‘I will forever be grateful to Methodist University for saving my life.’ “and I realized I was so close to finishing my degree I’ve wanted to be in the medical field since I was in first grade Methodist University wasn’t her first guess — but it quickly became her first choice Methodist University tour: 'This is where we belong'She still remembers her admissions tour at MU like it was yesterday who is also a retired Army veteran) tagged along for the visit “We just kept looking at each other,” she recalls and we were just silent.” Hunter remembers calling her daughter a student at another university at the time “It was this overwhelming feeling — like this is where we belong,” she said but nowhere else felt like this,” she said you feel wrapped in support from the moment you step on campus.” also transferred and now attends MU — a full-circle moment that Hunter describes as one of her proudest the mother-daughter duo also share a sisterhood — both are members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc the elder Hunter made history on campus by chartering the first chapter of the Divine Nine sorority at Methodist University paving the way for other students to find connection She praises the university for creating spaces where all types of students feel seen and valued “I’m usually the oldest in all of my classes,” she said The professors here are so invested in every student’s success The campus has events and activities that make you want to be involved — no matter your age Microbiology professor says Hunter is 'the definition of an engaged student'Academically especially after discovering a surprising new favorite: microbiology “I didn’t know how much I’d love it,” she said “She has a way of making it click for everyone — whether you’re 18 or 48.” Klabonski describes Hunter as “the definition of an engaged student and she asks poignant questions that push our class discussions deeper into the real-world applications of the biological concepts we’re covering… She is honestly a joy to have in my classes.” Hunter is honest about the sacrifices behind the scenes — the kind that often go unnoticed “Leaving the workforce to go back to school full-time Her advice for anyone questioning their own journey “Your time frame is your time frame,” she said “Don’t compare yourself to anyone else and don’t be afraid to take the path that looks a little different.” Hunter hopes she’ll be remembered not just as a student − but as a force of compassion “I want people to remember that I cared,” she said Frann Haskins is a marketing content producer for Methodist University in Fayetteville Delmarva Falls in Back-and-Forth Game Against Fayetteville Shorebirds Unable to Overcome Five-Run Fifth by Woodpeckers NC: The Delmarva Shorebirds (6-20) were defeated by the Fayetteville Woodpeckers (14-12) on Saturday by a score of 10-5 It took just one pitch for Braylin Tavera to put the Shorebirds ahead as he hit a lead-off home run to start the game marking his third homer of the series and fifth of the season Yasmil Bucce followed with a long ball of his own giving Delmarva a quick 2-0 lead after the back-to-back homers the Woodpeckers answered with two runs in the bottom of the frame on an RBI single by Max Holy and a wild pitch to make it a 2-2 game entering the second Fayetteville capitalized on a throwing error during a stolen base attempt to take a 3-2 lead in the second inning Delmarva countered in the third inning with a two-out RBI single by Maikol Hernandez that brought Braylin Tavera home The Shorebirds took the lead in the fourth on a run-scoring single from Andrés Nolaya thanks to an RBI double by Jancel Villaroel and a bases-clearing double by Justin Trimble The Woodpeckers pushed two runs across in the eighth inning to extend their lead to 10-4 Andrés Nolaya drove Alfredo Velasquez home with an RBI single in the ninth Rafael Gonzalez (2-2) earned the win for Fayetteville with Bryan Bautista (0-1) taking the loss for the Shorebirds The series concludes on Sunday as Chase Allsup gets the start against Joan Ogando Box Score A proposal to install signs to deter panhandling in downtown Fayetteville sparked division among City Council members this week with one councilman warning it could violate civil rights and criminalize poverty The suggestion was included in the Council Homelessness/Mental Health Committee’s presentation by city Economic and Community Development Director Chris Cauley at the April 28 regular meeting “Panhandling downtown has also increased,” Mayor Mitch Colvin said at the meeting The signage is for educational purposes for those individuals that may be down there.”  Fayetteville has previously attempted to regulate panhandling through its Traffic-Pedestrian Safety Ordinance That ordinance made it illegal for drivers and pedestrians to exchange items on marked public roadways According to a 2018 article from The Fayetteville Observer the city's strategy leaned more toward education than punishment voluntary compliance of the ordinance is the ultimate goal,” a Fayetteville spokesman said at the time Colvin said that similar signage had been used in the past and referenced a previous effort by the Downtown Alliance encouraging donations to local organizations instead of individuals Cauley said the signage proposal would keep panhandling at bay “Reminding residents of the laws against panhandling … may help deter the activity voicing concerns that the proposal could infringe on First Amendment rights this sounds more like the safety considerations that happen on an intersection don’t apply necessarily to our big “I don’t think I’d be interested in discouraging otherwise free speech in our downtown.”  Benavente referenced past legal challenges in other cities where similar anti-panhandling laws were taken before a judge The Durham County case Benavente is referring to is from 2013 when Durham attorney Scott Holmes helped a group of unhoused individuals charged with panhandling violations get help from social services instead of jail time an act made to avoid criminalizing poverty That’s what they decided — that asking for money is free speech,” Benavente said When the motion was made to move both the panhandling signage and a separate item regarding pallet shelters for the unhoused to the May 5 work session Benavente urged his colleagues to vote separately on the two items The motion to improve funding for security at the Day Resource Center passed unanimously “I would love to support the pallet shelter vehemently,” he said “but I’d ask that you consider removing the panhandling because it’s an unnecessary exploration into ultimate violation of people’s civil liberties.”  the council voted 9-1 to table both items for further discussion at the May 5 work session Benavente cast the sole vote against the motion City Attorney Lachelle Pulliam confirmed that the proposal had not yet been vetted by her office but noted that while First Amendment protections are relevant place and manner restrictions” if the council moves forward Carter can be reached at ccarter@gannett.com.