The City of Fayetteville’s Solid Waste Division has selected Iris Niang, a student at Berean Baptist Academy as the winner for the Solid Waste Mascot Contest.
Niang's concept and design, “Spiffy” is described as a mascot that “carries a strong, dedicated attitude and charm wherever he goes, taking his trusty recycling bin with him on the way to keep the city’s streets clean.”
“We wanted to add another dimension to our Solid Waste Division, and we believe a mascot will help us educate students and all residents in a fun way,” said Daniel Edwards, Assistant Public Services Director in a press release. “Educating residents is our top priority and it is the best way to demonstrate what right looks like, so our team at solid waste can continue to keep our city clean and beautiful.
On Sept. 16, 2024, students K-12 in Cumberland County, including homeschool students, were invited to create and submit their idea of a solid waste mascot. The contest ran through October 25, 2024
Ten finalists were selected out of 42 entries. Rocky Raccoon, created by Bradley Wallace, won second place and Petey, created by Sarah Moshman won third place.
City council and city staff presented Niang with a $500 educational scholarship at the the City Council Meeting on Feb. 10. All finalists were recognized during the meeting and received various prizes.
To view the winning and finalist's mascot designs, visit FayettevilleNC.gov/Mascot.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
