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We have an incredible week of celebrations in Fayetteville and I’m excited to reflect on with you which exemplifies our city’s warmth, perseverance, and spirit of togetherness.
This week, Fayetteville marked the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s Farewell Tour with a two-day celebration that honored his enduring legacy of liberty, justice, and equality. Our very own Mayor Pro Tem Jensen read a proclamation at the reenactment of his 1825 arrival, which was complete with a horse-drawn carriage and the Fayetteville Independent Light Infantry. I heard the Regency costume ball at the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens transported guests back in time to Lafayette’s era and the Lafayette Trail Tour offered a deep dive into Fayetteville’s 250-year history, showcasing Lafayette’s carriage and the bed where he once slept. The ceremonial dinner was wonderful with music and theatrical performances. As the only namesake city Lafayette personally visited, I am proud that Fayetteville embraces our unique heritage and renewed its commitment to the ideals that he championed.
With everything happening this week, did you know the Fayetteville Public Works Commission’s celebrated their 120th anniversary. This is milestone showcases its storied origins and its forward-thinking mission. What began in 1905 with wooden water pipes has evolved into the largest public power agency in North Carolina and the 36th largest in the nation. Over the decades, PWC has served as the bedrock of innovation and community investment, steadily expanding utilities to keep pace with Fayetteville’s growing demands. Congratulations PWC!
Our community embraces heroes, so I wanted to highlight Private First Class Roland Leon Bragg as he exemplifies extraordinary valor and resilience, capturing the very essence of American service and sacrifice during World War II. Serving as a paratrooper, he took part in nearly 30 combat jumps and played a key role in the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded the Silver Star for a daring rescue mission after he and a comrade drove a captured German ambulance under heavy fire to transport wounded soldiers to safety, even getting shot at by US forces. A decision was made to rename Fort Bragg in his honor, ensuring his story continues to inspire service members, reminding us that individual acts of heroism can profoundly shape our shared history.
Finally, if you have time this weekend and looking for something interesting to do, I invite you to join us Saturday at Segra Stadium from noon to 4 p.m. for the inaugural Mac & Cheese Festival. Few things unite people more than comfort food, and with over 19 flavors available, there’s sure to be something you’ll love. Come enjoy live music, refreshing drinks, and even some live wrestling! I said it….wrestling. Go for the VIP ticket and get early entry plus free samples make it well worth it!
I do appreciate every one of you for spending a few moments reading these each week. I love this community and it clear as speak to residents that Fayetteville is a community bound by care, history, and pride. Have a great week!
Best,
Douglas J. Hewett
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