Mark Sorrells was a proud Fayetteville Technical Community College president on May 17 during two commencements, where the achievements of nearly 2,500 graduates were celebrated at the Crown Coliseum. “Your commitment, perseverance, dedication and hard work have brought you to this milestone,” Sorrells said in a news release. “You started this journey with a goal, and today, you stand as proof of that commitment and drive to succeed. Your accomplishments are not just personal triumphs. They elevate you as future leaders for our community and state. By embracing lifelong learning, you will remain agile and be equipped to adapt to and benefit from the challenges and opportunities that derive from an evolving economic landscape. We are immensely proud of you and encourage you to keep growing, evolving and investing in your future.” Graduates from programs in allied health technologies, funeral services, nursing, business and computer information technologies crossed the stage during the morning ceremony, according to the school. The afternoon ceremony honored graduates from arts and humanities, math and sciences, public service and engineering and applied technology. FTCC, according to the release, awarded more than 3,919 associate degrees, diplomas and certificates to the class of 2025. Kirk deViere, chair of the Cumberland Board of County Commissioners, was keynote speaker. “You represent the true fabric of our community,” deViere said. “Some of you came here directly from high school, eager to begin your professional journey. Others returned to education after years in the workforce, balancing family responsibilities, full-time jobs and coursework with remarkable determination. And nearly a quarter of you are military-connected, bringing a unique perspective and experiences from Fort Bragg and beyond.” Jeff-Michael Fowe, with double associate degrees in science and engineering, received the N.C. Community College System’s Academic Excellence Award. He will attend N.C. State in the fall on a Goodnight Scholarship. Dori Winters, who graduated with an associate degree in polysomnography, earned the McLean President’s Award.
***
Some big news from The Longleaf Pine REALTORS Association for the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine coming our way. “Our association has always been committed to the betterment of our community, focusing on creating opportunities that foster growth, health and prosperity,” David Zeitz, the association president, said in a news release about the gift of $250,000 for the school, which plans to welcome its first class of students in 2026. “This donation marks one of the most historic investments we’ve ever made, and it underscores our unwavering belief in the power of education and our belief in this community.” The school is already under construction behind Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. “This is a remarkably generous gift, and I know it’s the largest gift made in their history,” said Stanley Wearden, president of Methodist University. “I know this gift is because they recognize the value of the medical school and the transformative effect it will have on our entire region in terms of healthcare outcomes and economics, as well. They are not giving this gift because it will be beneficial to realtors, but, of course, having a new medical school will attract a lot of new talent to this area, and that will be good for realtors, also, because people will be moving in and wanting to purchase homes.”
***
“I just can’t believe that this day is here,” WRAL TV anchor Debra Morgan bade an emotional farewell Wednesday on her final newscast with the Raleigh station. “How did 32 years fly by so fast? Trust is so hard to earn and very easy to lose, so, please know how much I value the trust you placed in me. I never wanted this to be about me on TV. I always think of you. How can I tell a story or ask a question that will help you or some tidbit that might make your life easier or maybe make you laugh, maybe even cry together as we share a tough moment. When you’ve told me you’ve counted on us, and said we were your lifeline, what an honor. I’ll be forever grateful for all of you for welcoming me into your home. Thank you for making me feel as though I am part of your family. It is truly the biggest compliment I can receive. I can’t imagine a more fulfilling life, and I thank you for that.” Debra Morgan has been the consummate television journalist, and Debra Morgan set the television bar high for other news journalists to come.
***
“Never hesitate to buckle your seatbelt — it could be the difference between life and death,” Mark Ezzell, director of the Governor’s Highway Safety program, said in a news release about the “Memorial Day Click It or Ticket” campaign, which runs through June 1. “It’s too risky to take that chance.” Thus far this year, according to the release, 158 unbelted passengers or drivers have died in motor vehicle wrecks.
***
Residents who complain about speeding motorists along our city streets could not be more correct, and some motorists along Morganton Road near Haymount drive the roadway like they are competing in the Daytona 500.
***
“I am a 70-year-old Tar Heel fan,” Joseph Coffey of Winston-Salem writes in an email about my May 18 column on the life and death of Larry Miller, the University of North Carolina basketball consensus All-America, who was the catalyst from 1966-1968 in what kickstarted the college basketball dynasty under the late Coach Dean Smith at Chapel Hill. “Thank you for your piece on Miller. It was a great read for me.” Larry Miller died at age 79 on May 11 in Bethlehem, Pa.
***
“Bill, enjoyed your column on Larry Miller,” Ann Highsmith writes in an email about the passing of the UNC basketball great from 1966-1968. “I remember well all the excitement surrounding those UNC basketball days with Rusty Clark, Larry Miller, Dick Grubar, etc.” Yes, and we cheered all the harder because Franklin “Rusty” Clark was our hometown basketball hero.
***
Danny Kinlaw was one of those handsome Fayetteville natives with an engaging personality. He could wear a green blazer, white shirt and yellow necktie like no other on a Sunday morning church gathering, where his Lord and Savior was king. He was a trustee for his East Carolina University alma mater, and a Pirate to be sure on football Saturday afternoons. He enjoyed captaining his boat, the Lady Kaye, on the coastal waters, family cookouts, fish fries and sunsets at Ocean Isle Beach. He always stood when a lady walked into the room, because Danny Kinlaw believed it was what a gentleman should do. He had that Ben Crenshaw-winning smile on the golf course. And most of all, Danny Kinlaw loved Kaye Edwards Kinlaw, his bride of 63 years, with all his heart. Daniel Vernon Kinlaw was 81 when he died May 18 at his home.
***
No surprise in learning that Cumberland County Schools again has been awarded the Purple Star Award. “For the fifth consecutive year, being recognized with the Purple Star Award is a powerful testament to Cumberland County Schools’ unwavering commitment to our military-connected students and their families,” Superintendent Marvin Connelly Jr. said in a news release about the honor from the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. “With more than 25 percent of our students coming from military families, it is our duty and honor to ensure they receive the support and resources they need to thrive. This award reflects our continued efforts to build a strong community where every student feels valued and empowered.” To earn the award, according to the release, all schools in the district submitted comprehensive documentation detailing their efforts to foster a welcoming and supportive environment for military-connected students. No surprise when you have Cumberland County Schools Military Family & Youth liaisons Reggie Fields and Isaac Rancour leading the way.
Coming Sunday: “It’s been a great place to practice,” and a physician’s dream to cherish
Bill Kirby Jr. can be reached at billkirby49@gmail.com or 910-624-1961.
We’re in our third year of CityView Today, and so many of you have been with us from day one in our efforts to bring the news of the city, county, community and Cape Fear region each day. We’re here with a purpose — to deliver the news that matters to you.
