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Nominations Now Open for the E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026

The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc. is proud to announce that nominations for the prestigious Class of 2026 are officially open. As the organization enters its fifth year of honoring the legacy of E.E. Smith High School athletes, coaches, and contributors, the Hall of Fame invites the community to submit nominations for deserving individuals who have made a lasting impact in the world of sports. Nominations will be accepted through August 10, 2025.

 

Alumni, faculty, and supporters are encouraged to participate in recognizing those whose sportsmanship, leadership, and dedication have helped define the athletic spirit of E.E. Smith High School. Eligible nominees must have graduated in 2015 or earlier and demonstrated excellence either on or off the field as athletes, coaches, or contributors to sports-related programs.

 

To submit a nomination, visit the official nomination portal at:

đź”— https://e-e-smith-alumni-sports-hall-of-fame.ueniweb.com/nomination-form

 

“We’re incredibly proud to reach our fifth year of celebrating the outstanding sports legacy at E.E. Smith High School,” said John Brown, nomination coordinator for the E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame. “Each year, we honor individuals who have not only excelled athletically but have also contributed to our community in meaningful ways. We encourage everyone to start gathering the necessary information today and submit their nominations before the August deadline.”

 

To request a nomination form directly, please contact John Brown via email at jbrown1098@aol.com. All nominations should include detailed biographical information, athletic achievements, and any supporting documentation or testimonials that highlight the nominee’s impact.

 

The Sports Hall of Fame has become a cornerstone of alumni engagement, serving as a beacon of pride for E.E. Smith graduates and fans alike. Previous inductees have gone on to achieve great success in collegiate and professional athletics, coaching, and community leadership—each representing the Golden Bulls legacy with distinction.

As the nomination window opens for the Class of 2026, the Hall of Fame committee is calling on the E.E. Smith community to play a vital role in preserving its rich history and ensuring that deserving individuals are celebrated for their lifelong contributions to sports and the school.

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Arts & Entertainment Business Insurance Industry Media & Communications Sports

Jerome Scott – “The Insurance Guy” – Joins the Fayetteville Liberty as a Pillar of the Community Sponsor

The Fayetteville Liberty, Fayetteville’s professional sports organization and a growing symbol of local pride and community engagement, is proud to announce a major sponsorship partnership with Jerome Scott – widely known throughout the region as “The Insurance Guy.” This collaboration marks the latest step in the Liberty’s commitment to highlighting and aligning with community leaders who actively shape the future of Fayetteville.

Jerome Scott, a seasoned entrepreneur and trusted insurance professional, joins the team as a Pillar of the Community Sponsor — a designation reserved for individuals and businesses who not only contribute to the Liberty’s mission but also consistently invest in the betterment of the local community. Known for his philosophy of “actions over words,” Scott’s reputation as a reliable and service-oriented figure in the insurance world has made him a respected name across the Fayetteville market.

This sponsorship extends beyond a business arrangement; it is a strategic alliance built on shared values: community engagement, empowerment, and progress. “Partnering with the Fayetteville Liberty is a natural extension of my belief that giving back to the community is not just a duty — it’s a privilege,” said Scott. “We’re both committed to lifting up Fayetteville and creating meaningful impact through action.”

Visitors to the Liberty’s official site, www.faylibertync.com, will now see Jerome Scott prominently featured among the team’s key sponsors. As a trusted name in insurance, Scott’s brand offers a wide array of coverage solutions for individuals, families, and businesses. His partnership with the Liberty brings value to local fans and businesses alike — especially those looking for reliable, community-based insurance support.

Beyond his professional success in the insurance industry, Jerome Scott is expanding his influence with the recent launch of his first book and the debut of his new podcast. Both platforms further his mission to educate, inspire, and lead — particularly in the areas of financial literacy, business ownership, and personal growth. These initiatives make Scott an even more dynamic and influential partner for the Liberty, whose values align with these same themes of empowerment and self-determination.

“Jerome is more than a sponsor — he’s an example,” said Robert Lee Edwards Jr. the Fayetteville Liberty Team Market Manager. “His commitment to this city, his drive to uplift others, and his willingness to lead with integrity made this partnership a no-brainer. We’re honored to have him as part of the Liberty family.”

The Fayetteville Liberty welcomes businesses and individuals interested in becoming part of its growing sponsorship program. With partners like Jerome Scott leading the way, the future of Liberty — and Fayetteville — looks brighter than ever.

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or to connect with Jerome Scott – The Insurance Guy, please visit www.jeromescottinsurance.com or www.faylibertync.com.

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Arts & Entertainment Celebrity Culture, Society & Lifestyle Sports World

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc. Announces 2025 Inductees and Special Team Honor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul

Public Relations Director

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc.

Phone: (910) 574-3346

Email: shadonnamack@me.com

⸻

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc. Announces 2025 Inductees and Special Team Honor

Fayetteville, NC — The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc., proudly powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy and Covington Insurance LLC, is thrilled to announce the Class of 2025 Inductees and a special celebration of athletic excellence at this year’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we honor a distinguished group of E.E. Smith alumni whose achievements have made a lasting impact on our community, school, and the world of athletics. We will also pay tribute to the legendary 1981 North Carolina 4A Girls Track Team, celebrating their historic state championship victory.

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, May 25, 2025

Time: 5:00 PM

Location: Crown Expo Center, 1960 Coliseum Dr, Fayetteville, NC

Class of 2025 Inductees:

• Darius Purcell â€“ Class of 2008

• Ben Major â€“ Class of 1979

• Kanetra Queen â€“ Class of 2000

• Ira Cheatham â€“ Class of 1983

• Stan Callender â€“ Class of 1991

• Joseph Vaughn â€“ Class of 1977

• Selena Washington â€“ Class of 1975

• Connie Boykin â€“ Class of 1960

• Charles “Billy” Davis â€“ Class of 1962

• Coach Martin “Rick” Rickman â€“ Legendary Coach

• Tommy McAllister â€“ Class of 1965

This celebration will be a night filled with recognition, inspiration, and reconnection among alumni, families, and supporters of E.E. Smith High School. From athletic triumphs to community leadership, the stories of our inductees exemplify the excellence and pride of the Golden Bulls legacy.

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, please contact ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul at (910) 574-3346 or shadonnamack@me.com.

Let’s come together as a community to honor the past, inspire the future, and celebrate our Hall of Fame family. We look forward to seeing you there!

⸻

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc.

Powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy and Covington Insurance LLC

Preserving Legacy. Celebrating Excellence. Inspiring Generations.

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Arts & Entertainment Celebrity Media & Communications Sports World

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc Powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy to Join Fayetteville Woodpeckers in Jackie Robinson Day Celebration at Segra Stadium

 

(note) There is no betting or gambling. It was a regular game.  

Fayetteville, NC â€“ The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc., powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy, is proud to announce its participation in Jackie Robinson Day with the Fayetteville Woodpeckers on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at Segra Stadium.

 

In honor of this historic day, the Hall of Fame is sponsoring the E.E. Smith High School Boys Baseball Team and Girls Softball Team, along with athletes from Luther “Nick” Jeralds Middle School, for the Field of Dreams experience, where students will run out on the field alongside Woodpeckers players.

 

Luther “Nick” Jerald, namesake of the stadium at Fayetteville State University, was inducted into the inaugural class of the Hall of Fame, and this moment serves as a tribute to his legacy and continued inspiration within the community.

 

Fayetteville State University is also supporting this special evening by sponsoring 1,500 commemorative “42” caps, which will be given to fans entering the stadium. Adding to the excitement, Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

 

EVENT DETAILS:

Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025

Location: Segra Stadium, 460 Hay Street, Fayetteville, NC

Gates Open: 6:00 PM

Game Time: 7:05 PM

Tickets: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Fayettevillewoodpeckers635

 

This event promises to be an exciting and inspirational evening filled with community pride, honoring both local heroes and national trailblazers. The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame invites alumni, inductees, families, and the greater Fayetteville community to come out in support.

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Companies Social Media Sports

Noah Jaghori: The Silent Storm Set to Shake Up MMA Once Again

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The fight world thrives on hype, yet Noah Jaghori has built his legend in silence. An undefeated martial artist with a record of 8-0-1, Jaghori is as elusive outside the cage as he is inside it. No social media antics, no pre-fight theatrics—just pure combat.

For years, Jaghori has remained an enigma, avoiding media spotlights and letting his performances speak for themselves. His rare appearance on the BLATANT Podcast offered the only glimpse into his mindset—a strategic and philosophical approach to fighting that rejects the influencer-driven spectacle of modern MMA. Since then, speculation has run rampant. Training footage leaks, cryptic negotiations, and whispers of a comeback have fueled anticipation.

Now, the rumors have weight. All signs point to June 6th as the date of his return. Fans and analysts are divided—has the sport evolved past him, or has he been refining his already lethal arsenal in the shadows? One thing is certain: if Jaghori fights, he headlines.

Beyond the Cage: Jaghori’s Next Big Move

While his return to MMA remains one of the sport’s biggest unanswered questions, Jaghori has not been idle. Behind closed doors, he has been leading Blokora, a VC-backed crypto agency revolutionizing blockchain applications. With a focus on custom token creation, secure crypto reserves, and NFT-based employee ID systems, Blokora is already gaining traction among high-profile investors.

From the octagon to the boardroom, Jaghori approaches every endeavor with the same discipline and precision that made him a dominant force in combat sports. His transition into tech has drawn comparisons to elite athlete-entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the business world.

The Most Mysterious Fighter in MMA Returns?

With June 6th fast approaching, the questions loom. Can Jaghori reclaim his dominance? Is he still the sport’s best-kept secret, or is he MMA’s greatest “what-if”?

Whatever happens next, Noah Jaghori doesn’t follow the game—he changes it. And if history has shown anything, it’s that you never see him coming.

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Arts & Entertainment Celebrity Culture, Society & Lifestyle Media & Communications Sports

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc., Powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy Announces the Class of 2025 Inductees

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fayetteville, NC – September 23, 2024 – The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc., powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy, is proud to announce the distinguished Class of 2025. These outstanding athletes, coaches, and teams have made significant contributions to E.E. Smith High School athletics, and their achievements will be celebrated at the upcoming Homecoming Football Game and the official Induction Banquet.

The inductees will be introduced at the E.E. Smith High School Homecoming Football Game on Friday, October 4, 2024, before kickoff. The formal induction will take place at the E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame, Inc.,  Banquet on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc., Class of 2025 Inductees:

–  Darius Purcell – Class of 2008

–  Ben Major – Class of 1979

–  Kanetra Queen – Class of 2000

– Ira Cheatham – Class of 1983

–  Stan Callender – Class of 1991

– Joseph Vaughn – Class of 1977

– Selena Washington – Class of 1975

– Connie Boykin – Class of 1960

– Charles “Billy” Davis – Class of 1962

– Coach Martin “Rick” Rickman– Legendary Coach

– Tommy McAlister– Class of 1965

In addition to these remarkable individuals, the  1981 NC State 4A Championship Girls Track Team will also be honored. This historic team, featuring Coach Ida Askew, Dee Hardy, Lisa Thompson, and Colette Williams Valentine, achieved extraordinary success in track and field. Notably, Ida Askew, Dee Hardy, and Colette Williams Valentine have already been inducted into the Hall of Fame for their individual achievements.

About the E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc. :

The E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc. celebrates and honors the accomplishments of former student-athletes, coaches, and supporters who have made significant contributions to the legacy of E.E. Smith High School. Powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy, this initiative seeks to inspire future generations of students to pursue excellence in sports and leadership.

For Media Inquiries, Contact:

ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul  

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Inc.

Public Relations Director

Phone: (910) 574-3346

Email: shadonnamack@me.com

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Fitness Lifestyle Society & Culture Sports World

Lazza Capital celebra victoria doble en MaratĂłn MedellĂ­n 2024 y anuncia patrocinio a largo plazo

Lazza Capital, firma de inversiones con sede en Colombia, marcó un hito significativo al conseguir una victoria doble en el Maratón Medellín 2024, celebrado el pasado fin de semana. Los atletas del equipo Lazza Capital, Walter Nina Ñaupa y Naomi Jepkogei, se coronaron campeones en la categoría de 42km, subrayando el compromiso de la empresa con la excelencia tanto en el ámbito financiero como en el deportivo.

Walter Nina Ñaupa, originario de Perú, cruzó la línea de meta con un tiempo de 2 horas, 19 minutos y 39 segundos. Por su parte, Naomi Jepkogei, de Kenia, dominó la categoría femenina con un tiempo de 2 horas, 39 minutos y 14 segundos.

Yovani Escobar Quintero, CEO de Lazza Capital, declarĂł: “Este triunfo refleja los valores de determinaciĂłn y excelencia que Lazza Capital promueve en todas sus operaciones. La disciplina y el enfoque estratĂ©gico son fundamentales tanto en el deporte de alto rendimiento como en el mundo de las inversiones”.

Además del éxito deportivo, Lazza Capital anunció su compromiso de patrocinar el Maratón Medellín por los próximos 5 años, una decisión que refleja la filosofía de inversión a largo plazo de la empresa y su dedicación al desarrollo comunitario.

“El patrocinio extendido del MaratĂłn MedellĂ­n es una extensiĂłn natural de nuestra visiĂłn empresarial. Creemos en invertir en el potencial humano y en eventos que unen a las comunidades”, añadiĂł Escobar Quintero.

Lazza Capital, reconocida por su enfoque innovador en inversiones impulsadas por inteligencia artificial, planea utilizar esta plataforma para promover la educación financiera y fomentar una cultura de inversión inteligente entre los participantes y espectadores del evento en los próximos años.

Con esta combinación de éxito deportivo y compromiso comunitario, Lazza Capital se posiciona como un actor relevante en el panorama financiero latinoamericano, demostrando que la excelencia en los negocios puede ir de la mano con el apoyo al deporte y el desarrollo social.

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Fitness Lifestyle Sports World

Lazza Capital Celebrates Double Victory at MedellĂ­n Marathon 2024 and Announces Long-Term Sponsorship

Lazza Capital, a Colombia-based investment firm, marked a significant milestone by achieving a double victory at the 2024 Medellín Marathon, held last weekend. Athletes from the Lazza Capital team, Walter Nina Ñaupa and Naomi Jepkogei, were crowned champions in the 42km category, underscoring the company’s commitment to excellence both in the financial and athletic arenas.

Walter Nina Ă‘aupa, hailing from Peru, crossed the finish line with a time of 2 hours, 19 minutes, and 39 seconds. Meanwhile, Naomi Jepkogei from Kenya dominated the women’s category with a time of 2 hours, 39 minutes, and 14 seconds.

Yovani Escobar Quintero, CEO of Lazza Capital, stated: “This victory reflects the values of determination and excellence that Lazza Capital promotes in all its operations. Discipline and strategic focus are fundamental both in high-performance sports and in the world of investments.”

In addition to their athletic success, Lazza Capital announced its commitment to sponsoring the Medellín Marathon for the next 5 years, a decision that reflects the company’s long-term investment philosophy and its dedication to community development.

“The extended sponsorship of the MedellĂ­n Marathon is a natural extension of our business vision. We believe in investing in human potential and in events that bring communities together,” added Escobar Quintero.

Lazza Capital, known for its innovative approach to AI-driven investments, plans to use this platform to promote financial education and foster a culture of smart investing among participants and spectators of the event in the coming years.

With this combination of athletic success and community commitment, Lazza Capital positions itself as a relevant player in the Latin American financial landscape, demonstrating that business excellence can go hand in hand with support for sports and social development.

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Celebrity Education Media & Communications Sports World

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Opens Nominations for 2025 Class

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**FAYETTEVILLE, NC – May 30, 2024** – The E. E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame is thrilled to announce the opening of nominations for the 2025 class. Starting Saturday, June 1, 2024, and running through Saturday, August 10, 2024, alumni and community members are invited to submit their nominations for this prestigious honor.

The E. E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the outstanding achievements of former student-athletes, coaches, and contributors who have significantly impacted the school’s sports legacy. By honoring these individuals, the Hall of Fame aims to preserve the rich history and traditions of E. E. Smith High School’s athletic programs, while inspiring current students to strive for excellence.

Nomination Process and Criteria

Nomination forms can be accessed and submitted through the Hall of Fame website at [eesmithsports.com](http://eesmithsports.com). It is crucial that all sections of the form are filled out completely to ensure the nomination is considered. Nominees must meet certain criteria to be eligible for induction. These criteria include:

1. **Athletes**: Must have demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship during their time at E. E. Smith High School and have graduated at least five years prior to nomination.

2. **Coaches**: Must have made significant contributions to the school’s athletic programs, leading teams to notable achievements and displaying exemplary leadership.

3. **Contributors**: Individuals who have provided substantial support or contributions to the school’s athletic programs, enhancing the overall experience for student-athletes and the community.

Only one nomination is permitted per person each year. This allows for a diverse range of nominees and ensures a fair selection process. The selection committee, comprised of former inductees, school officials, and community leaders, will review all nominations and select the inductees based on their achievements, contributions, and overall impact on E. E. Smith High School sports.

Honoring Excellence and Dedication

The E. E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame not only recognizes athletic prowess but also honors the character, dedication, and hard work of those who have represented the school with distinction. Past inductees have gone on to achieve great success in various fields, reflecting the strong foundation built during their time at E. E. Smith.

The induction ceremony for the 2025 class will be held in Spring 2025, with details to be announced later. This event will provide an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the legacy of E. E. Smith High School’s athletic programs and the individuals who have contributed to its storied history.

Get Involved

We encourage everyone to participate in the nomination process and recognize the excellence and dedication of our alumni. For further information, please visit [eesmithsports.com](http://eesmithsports.com) or contact the Hall of Fame committee. You can reach John Brown at [jbrown1098@aol.com](mailto:jbrown1098@aol.com) or call 1 (267) 625-4464.

About E. E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame

The E. E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame was established to honor the outstanding achievements of former student-athletes, coaches, and contributors who have significantly impacted the school’s sports programs. The Hall of Fame aims to preserve the history and traditions of E. E. Smith High School athletics and to inspire future generations of student-athletes to pursue excellence both on and off the field.

**Contact:**

John Brown

E. E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Committee 

jbrown1098@aol.com

1 (267) 625-4464 

 

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Celebrity Culture, Society & Lifestyle Fitness Media & Communications Sports

E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame to Honor New Inductees at 2024 Banquet Sponsored by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy

**For Immediate Release**

**Fayetteville, NC – 23 May 2024** – The 2024 E.E. Smith Alumni Sports Hall of Fame Powered by Jerome Scott The Insurance Guy will hold its annual Induction Banquet on Sunday at the Crown Complex, located at 1960 Coliseum Dr, Fayetteville, NC. The event will begin at 5:00 PM.

This prestigious event celebrates the exceptional achievements of former athletes, coaches, and contributors from E.E. Smith High School. This year’s inductees are:

– William “Billy” Bristow

– Chris Corders

– Juan Corders

– Sabrina Gregory

– Edgar Farmer Jr.

– Kenneth Haywood

– James McLinnaham

– Terrence Murchison

– Vandella Wood McAdoo

– Anquell McCollum

– Wardell “Junior” Smith

– Bernard Timmons

– Lakeisha Williams

– Richard Williams

– Tillman Newkirk

Additionally, the event will honor the 1967 North Carolina State Championship Football Team and the 1968 North Carolina State Co-Championship Football Team.

**Media Contact:**  

ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul  

(910) 574-3346  

For more information and to RSVP, please contact ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul at the number provided above.