Looking to get back to a fitness routine and get back into shape this new year? You're not alone! As resolutions are set, many people strive to prioritize their health and fitness goals.

Traditional Gym Workout

After a hiatus, it's time to reignite your fitness routine and embrace the benefits of a traditional gym workout. With its wide range of equipment, professional trainers, and motivating atmosphere, a traditional gym provides numerous benefits to help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether you prefer strength training, cardio workouts, or group exercise classes, a traditional gym offers a variety of options to suit your preferences and target different muscle groups. Furthermore, the supportive environment of a gym can play a crucial role in keeping you motivated and accountable for your fitness journey.
Here are a few fitness center options to consider:

Fit 4 Life Health Clubs- https://fit4lifehealthclubs.com
Planet Fitness- https://www.planetfitness.com/
The Spa Fitness Wellness Center- https://www.thespafitnesscenter.com/

New Fitness Options to Explore in the Upcoming Year

This year, let's make getting into shape exciting and fun. Say "goodbye" to the boring and mundane workout routines and "hello" to fresh and exhilarating approaches. There are endless options to keep you motivated and engaged beyond the traditional gym environment.

POUND

Unleash your inner rockstar and infuse your workout with high-energy, drum-inspired cardio. Get ready to rock your body and break a sweat with this exhilarating full-body drumming session. Rather than simply listening to music, you can embody the music with Ripstix®, drumsticks that have been specially designed for exercise. POUND takes drumming and transforms it into a highly effective workout method. Suitable for individuals of all fitness levels, this unique approach to fitness is sure to leave you feeling energized and accomplished.

Catch a Class at the YMCA of the Sandhills at 3910 Ellison Street, Hope Mills on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. For more information call 910-303-8283.

Trapeze, Circus or Aerial Silks

Mastering the skill of executing captivating performances using various apparatus like silks, trapeze, sling, or hoop is the essence of circus arts. These artistic endeavors not only serve as a creative outlet but also offer a comprehensive fitness routine. By engaging in these activities, you can boost your self-assurance and cultivate a sense of joy while simultaneously achieving optimal physical fitness.

Air Born Aerial Fitness, located at 4910 Yadkin Road, offers a variety of classes with different techniques, apparatus and skill levels. See the full schedule here:
https://www.airbornaerialfitness.com.

Pole Fitness

Pole Fitness is a form of pole dancing that maximizes the potential of the pole as a versatile fitness tool. It engages the entire body, enhancing muscle definition, flexibility, coordination, posture, and strength in the upper body and core. The range of exercises available with a pole is astonishing, resembling those performed in a gym but utilizing one's own body weight as resistance.

Studio X Pole Fitness studio, located at 5129 Bragg Blvd, has a variety of Pole Fitness classes as well as Chair Dance, Floorography, Belly Dancing and other fun ways to get fit. See their full schedule at www.studioxpolefitness.com

Trampolining

Indoor trampoline parks have been emerging all over the place. However, they are not just a fantastic destination to bring the whole family, but also a wonderful chance to engage in an enjoyable exercise session. Trampoline workouts are considered to be aerobic exercises, similar to activities such as jogging or cycling. However, unlike high-impact exercises like running or fast walking, trampoline workouts are low-impact, which means they put less strain on the joints and reduce the risk of injury or fatigue.
Some indoor trampoline parks to check out:

Urban Air Adventure Park- www.urbanair.com/north-carolina-fayetteville
Sky Zone- www.skyzone.com/fayetteville

Rollerskating

Roller skating can help you burn a similar amount of calories as participating in group cycling or putting in a moderate effort on the rowing machine. In addition to the calorie-burning aspect, skating also offers other advantages such as enhanced balance and core stability, which could potentially reduce lower back pain.

Round-A-Bout Skating Centers has two local locations with weekly specials, special events and lots of open skate times for the public. Find out more information here: https://www.round-a-bout.com/

Here are some fitness trends that haven't reached our area yet, but are worth keeping an eye on:
Cycle Karaoke
HulaFit
Punk Rope
SURFSET Fitness
Lightsaber Fighting

Daddies come in all forms: fathers, uncles, grandfathers and godfathers. There is no one way to be considered a “daddy.” And that bond is one a girl will never forget and one that leaves an impact on a man’s heart forever. Principal Warriors Car Club is sponsoring its 2nd Annual Daddy & Daughter Dance,

“A Date with Daddy” on Feb. 10th from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the 82nd Airborne Division Association Fayetteville Chapter building located at 606 Johnson Street.

The dance is semi-formal and a great opportunity for daddies and daughters to bring out their finest dresses and suits. Festivities start at 3 p.m., with dinner, snacks and photo opportunities to commemorate the night. The DJ kicks up the music starting at 4 p.m. for dancing and the official daddy daughter dance off.

There will be vendors, games and networking with other amazing fathers and father figures. Tickets are $30 per couple and an additional $10 for each additional young lady and can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/daddy-daughter-dance-tickets-723799131687.

Principal Warriors Car Club was founded by Dion Dink Parker. Parker said, “Our mission is to mentor our youth by showing them they can have nice things without being in the streets and helping our community through charitable contributions and work.” The Daddy and Daughter is an event that Fayetteville residents can look forward to for years to come.

“We plan on making this a yearly event,” Parker said.

The idea behind the dance came from a member.

“One of our members suggested we do this event to show that fathers, uncles and grandfathers are a part of their girl's lives,” Parker said.

The car club was established here in Fayetteville. Its members are avid participants in community outreach, organizing car shows that raise money for a range of local charities and scholarship funds.

Last year, the club raised $7K during their 8th Annual Scholarship Banquet. Scholarship money goes to local students to assist in paying for the increasing cost of college. Principal Warriors Car Club has a full schedule as they gear up to support and raise money.

Mar 9 - Mommy and Son Dance
Mar 30 - Charity Car Show
Apr 27- Charity Car Show
June 8 - Charity Car Show
July 27 - Scholarship Ball
Sept 7 - Charity Car Show
Oct 12- Charity Car Show

The next big event for the car club is their Mommy and Son Dance. This is an opportunity for moms (or aunts or grandmothers) and sons to get dressed in their best and come take a turn around the dance floor.

Principal Warriors Car Club makes it fun and easy to be a part of a difference in the community. All their charity car shows are open to the public and are a good time for everyone involved.

Make sure to follow the club on social media to stay up to date on all the club's events and how you can be a part of the solution, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057611231834.

Let’s have Dinner!

For years, I have looked forward to this very special and unique fundraising event. This year, I invite Up & Coming Weekly community newspaper readers and hundreds of Fayetteville and Cumberland County residents to join us as we celebrate The CARE Clinic’s 27th Annual Week of CARE Dinner.

I always know when Valentine's Day is approaching because The CARE Clinic begins preparation for the Week of CARE Dinner.

This unique fundraising event has brought friends and families together for decades. This year's Dinner is scheduled for February: Celebrating Love through CARE!

Join me and our family as three of Fayetteville’s finest and most CARING community restaurants and food service providers prepare three distinct menus with take-home meals for this year's event.

As I said, this unique CARE Clinic fundraiser gives you plenty of convenient and delicious options to choose from: You get to select the day you want to pick up your food (Feb. 3rd to 10th ), the time of your event (lunch or dinner), the venue (Luigi’s, The Coffee Scene, or Dorothy’s Catering 2), and your Menu (Chicken Marsala, Spaghetti, Bacon, Vegetable or Crustless Meat & Veggie Quiche).

There are many choices, and with all the fixings, it is for one tax-deductible donation to The CARE Clinic of $175.00. Pretty cool, huh? This event will sell out, so place your order by January 26th. To participate in the Week of CARE Dinner event, contact Tara Martin at 910 485-0555 or email your order to Development@thecareclinic.org.

Tara can also provide more information about how you can get involved, contribute to, or support the great work The CARE Clinic is doing in Cumberland and the surrounding counties.

For those unfamiliar with The CARE Clinic, it is a non-profit 501c3 organization located at 239 Robeson St, in downtown Fayetteville, that has provided free quality healthcare to uninsured adult residents of Cumberland and surrounding counties since 1993.

The clinic is run primarily by volunteers and offers various services, including primary Care, simple dental extractions, diagnostic testing, and outside specialist referrals.

These services are free and made possible through grants and community support from fundraising events like the Week of CARE Dinner.

This event and others throughout the year provide financial stability for the clinic while celebrating and thanking the Fayetteville/Cumberland community for making The CARE Clinic’s mission possible and successful.

Everyone here at Up & Coming Weekly loves to eat and drink, and most events we are involved with seem to center around food.

This adds credence to the theory that food is one of the strongest unifiers of people across the globe. Food has undoubtedly been the primary element of hospitality for centuries, welcoming guests, initiating discussions, and sharing expressions of love and concern.

This is what The CARE Clinic is all about. Hosting the annual Week of CARE Dinner this February and sharing a meal with friends and family celebrates and demonstrates that love and Care. Join us in supporting the event and the continued work of The Care Clinic. As always, thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.

Henry C. Tyson, a Fayetteville native and local businessman, announced his candidacy to seek the open District 2 Seat on the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners. Henry will appear on ballots for the primary election, scheduled for March 5th, with the general election scheduled for November 5th.

“Cumberland County has given me and my family immense opportunity, and it is a place with unlimited potential that is rapidly growing,” Tyson said. “After careful thought, prayer and discussion with my wife, family, and friends, I offer and ask the voters to allow me to serve a bigger role to address the challenges Cumberland County faces and securing a better future for our community. The cost of living, high tax rates, and lack of clean public water in the county are some of the most pressing issues that need to be addressed.”

Tyson, a lifelong Cumberland County Resident, graduated from Campbell University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government. Tyson comes from a long line of family invested in community service.

His grandfather served on The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners from 1958-1970 with the last six years as Chairman of the Board. Henry McMillian Tyson II, his uncle, served on the commission from 1993 until 1997.

Judge John M. Tyson, Henry’s father, currently serves the people of North Carolina on The North Carolina Court of Appeals. In July 2016, the junior Tyson was appointed by past Mayor Nat Robertson and the Fayetteville City Council to serve on the city’s joint sign ordinance review task force, which successfully revised the city’s sign ordinances for the first time in 19 years.

Tyson has served as chairman and vice chairman of the Government Relations Committee for the Greater Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce, has served as a past member of the Legislative Action Committee for The Long Leaf Pine Association of Realtors, and a past member of the City of Fayetteville Historic Resources Commission which helps guide the architectural character of Historic Downtown Fayetteville.

Tyson currently serves as a commercial real estate broker and co-owner of Tyson Commercial Real Estate and The Hub Fayetteville located downtown. He is married to Lynnsey Taylor Tyson, and they are expecting their first child, Grady James Tyson, any day now.

“The prospect of becoming a father has made me believe that we must all work hard to do our part to make Cumberland County a better place to live, raise children, and do business. I want to thank our current outgoing Commissioners Jimmy Keefe and Michael Boose for their years of service to the community.”

Col. (Ret) Gregory Gadson and Terese Schlachter will be the keynote speakers at the Lindsay Lectures event on Feb. 7, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event, hosted at the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations

Museum in Fayetteville, will feature a discussion about Gadson's life journey, as detailed in his new book

"Finding Waypoints: A Warrior's Journey Towards Peace and Purpose."

The Lindsay Lectures series is one of the museum's signature outreach events, dedicated to honoring military history makers and their impact on U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Soldiers. Renee Lane, Executive Director of the ASOM Foundation, says the event will provide a space for the community to engage with the rich history of the armed forces.

Col. (Ret) Gregory Gadson's story of resilience and courage has inspired many. After losing both legs in an IED attack in Iraq in 2007, Gadson defied the odds and, within eight months, was mentoring the New York Giants to their 2008 Super Bowl win. His incredible journey continued as he later starred in the major motion picture "Battleship" and became a sought-after motivational speaker.

Terese Schlachter, co-author of "Finding Waypoints," will join Gadson on stage to discuss the challenges faced and the waypoints that sustained him throughout his remarkable life. From his early days at West Point's Army Black Knights football team to a distinguished military career, the discussion promises to be an inspiring exploration of resilience, purpose, and the indomitable spirit of a warrior.

Fayetteville's largest Army museum serves as a hub for education and dialogue. Lindsay Lectures, made possible by the ASOM Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit working closely with the museum, provides a platform for renowned authors and lecturers to share compelling narratives tied to the museum's storyline.

Renee Lane emphasizes the importance of these events in encouraging dialogue and discovery among visitors.

"The Lindsay Lectures bridge the gap between military history and the present, fostering a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by our armed forces," said Lane.

Lane also believes that “bringing in distinguished speakers like Col. Gadson and Terese Schlachter gives the community unique perspectives on the warrior's journey. These events open conversations and create connections beyond the exhibits, enhancing the overall visitor experience."

The Lindsay Lectures event will draw a large crowd, including military personnel, veterans, and the wider community. Attendees can expect to hear Gadson's inspiring story firsthand and gain insight into the challenges and triumphs faced by U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Soldiers. In addition to the keynote speakers, the event will include a book signing and Q&A session. The event is just one of many ways that the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum is honoring the legacy of those who have served in the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations forces.

This exclusive event is open to the public, offering an opportunity for the community to gain firsthand insights into the experiences of a true American hero. For more information and to reserve a spot to attend, visit asomf.org/event/gadson/ or contact the museum at 910-643-2778.

ASOM encourages the community to take advantage of this chance to witness a powerful discussion about the warrior's journey, resilience, and the waypoints that lead to peace and purpose. Col. (Ret) Gregory Gadson’s and Terese Schlachter's insights promise all attendees an evening of inspiration and reflection.

For the last twenty-four years, Eric McRay has been cultivating his artistic influence and presence in North Carolina to wide audiences. That influence will be coming to Fayetteville in January 2024 with a new exhibit offering the African American experience from multiple perspectives.

Titled “Wings and Roots,” McRay’s exhibit will be comprised of collage paintings incorporating numerous artistic styles and influences. According to McRay, this includes components and influences from folk art, cubism, African art, modernism, and America, culminating in an “amalgam of images and influences to create striking images.” McRay sees his art, and this exhibit in particular, as an important exercise in reflection. He wants the viewer to see his work as a way to create dialogue and allow viewers to see what they want to see in the work. As a result of this approach, McRay has not always led with his ethnicity in his work but rather focuses on great art and “the result will take care of itself.”

Working out of his studio in Raleigh, McRay has been a full-time artist since February 1999 when he made the decision to harness his artistic craft and sensibilities that he has been honing since grade school. When asked at what point in his life did he realize he wanted to focus on his artistic talent, McRay provided a definitive moment: the first grade.

When his teacher was in awe of one of his drawings, she gathered teachers to view his impressive result. It was then that McRay had an epiphany and realized his work “had value beyond myself and that his artwork was his 'superpower.'” It was in fourth grade that he began generating revenue from his work by providing his classmates drawings for their supplies and other accouterments.

When it comes to the current exhibit and providing the community with access to his work, McRay emphasizes the importance of the invitation. Rather than taking a "if you build it, they will come" approach to his work, McRay focuses on "Build it and INVITE them and they will come."

That approach has served the artist well, as his work has been highlighted in numerous outlets, including Southern Living magazine which was a “game changer” for McRay’s career. Viewing himself as an art educator, McRay has ties to the Fayetteville community which includes having students from Fayetteville travel to Raleigh to take his art classes on occasion.

He also installed an art exhibit at the Fayetteville Museum of Art seventeen years ago and wanted to return to Fayetteville to share his latest work. For his "Wings and Roots" exhibit in January/February 2024, McRay wants “a lot of eyes to see this work” and is confident people will want to view it. It’s fair to say that members of the Fayetteville community will indeed want to as well.

The exhibition will be on display Jan. 29 to March 15. An artists' reception wil be held Feb. 8 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m..

Food is one of the strongest unifiers of people across the globe. For centuries, food has been used as a tool to welcome guests, initiate discussion, and share expressions of love. The CARE Clinic is hosting their annual Week of CARE dinners again this February to celebrate the love that comes from the sharing of a delicious meal.

The CARE Clinic, located at 239 Robeson St, is a 501c3 organization that has provided free, quality healthcare to uninsured adult residents of Cumberland and surrounding counties since 1993.

The clinic is run primarily by volunteers and offers a variety of services including primary care, simple dental extractions, diagnostic testing, and outside referrals to specialists. All these services are possible due to community support and grants.

Events like the Week of CARE provide financial stability for the clinic while also celebrating the connection with the community that makes all of this work possible.

This year’s Week of CARE Dinners is scheduled to run from Feb. 3rd through the 10th. The clinic is partnering with three local restaurants during the week that are offering take-home meals that each feed approximately 6 people.

These restaurants include Luigi’s Italian Chophouse & Bar, Dorothy’s Catering 2, and The Coffee Scene. Each meal comes with an entrée and a variety of sides. This event takes place every year on the week prior to Valentine’s Day.

It is a time of year to celebrate love, and this event encourages sharing that love through good food, gathering with friends, and supporting local businesses.

The CARE Clinic will be taking meal orders until Jan. 26th. Each meal is $175 and can be picked up on any select night of your choosing during the week.

To participate in this event, visit www.weekofcare.com or call The CARE Clinic at 910-485-0555.

Our state’s constitutional system mirrors the federal system in some ways. North Carolina has three branches of government, for example. We have a bicameral legislature. And we have a judiciary composed of trial courts, a court of appeals, and a supreme court.

There are also critical differences, however. One is that while the federal system concentrates executive power in the president and those he appoints to run federal departments and agencies, North Carolina’s executive branch consists of 10 independently elected officials. And most of their powers aren’t specified by the state constitution. They’re granted by the state legislature — which means lawmakers can take them away.

As the 2024 election cycle begins, we can expect the presidential race to soak up lots of attention. North Carolina’s gubernatorial race will, too. I’m sure I’ll devote many columns to these contests myself. But that means the other nine elections for Council of State are at risk of being overshadowed.

So, from now until the March 5 primaries, I’ll be writing a series of columns profiling candidates for these executive offices. After March, I’ll devote additional space to the general election contests for lieutenant governor, state treasurer, state auditor, state superintendent of public instruction, attorney general, labor commissioner, agriculture commissioner, insurance commissioner, and secretary of state.

The latter is today’s featured race. Unlike identically named officials in other states, the secretary of state in North Carolina has little to do with election administration.

Actually, before last year I’d have written that the office had nothing to do with election administration, but a bill passed by the General Assembly in 2023 changed the composition of the State Board of Elections and classified it as an agency within the department of the secretary of state.

As a practical matter, this means little. The bill also states: “The management functions of the state board of elections shall not be performed under the direction and supervision of the secretary of state.” Yep, this is just as odd as it sounds.

In reality, the secretary of state is an administrative and regulatory officer. Businesses, lobbyists, and charities must register with the secretary of state to operate in North Carolina, for example.

Democrat Elaine Marshall was first elected to the office in 1996. A former state senator, Marshall has no primary challenger this year. Three Republicans are seeking their party’s nomination to challenge her in the fall.

Jesse Thomas recently retired from Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, where he headed the insurer’s Medicaid division. Thomas is a longtime health plan executive, working for enterprises in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and elsewhere. He also ran a health-purchasing office for the state of Illinois. Thomas advocates term limits for the office he seeks, and says he would use its powers to promote economic growth and reduce “red tape and overburdensome regulations.”

Chad Brown serves as territory manager for Pennsylvania Steel Company in the Gaston County town of Stanley. A former professional baseball player (for the Toronto Blue Jays and Pittsburgh Pirates), Brown entered politics by winning election as mayor of Stanley, then went on to three terms on the county commission. He currently serves as chairman. If elected, Brown promises to “fight for the common person to help give them some direction through a cumbersome government.”

Christine E. Villaverde is a former police and probation officer who worked most recently as a safety and continuity of operations consultant for the state judicial system. In 2022, Villaverde was the Republican nominee for North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District, losing to Democratic incumbent Deborah Ross.

She says her professional experience has “laid a strong foundation” to “create effective solutions and policies for the problems facing North Carolina and America today.”

Thomas, Brown, and Villaverde all have campaign websites where you can learn more about their backgrounds and priorities. North Carolina’s secretary of state has traditionally been a low-profile office but that doesn’t make it unimportant. Early voting for the March primary begins February 15.

Editor’s Note: John Hood is a John Locke Foundation board member. His latest books, Mountain Folk and Forest Folk, combine epic fantasy with early American history (FolkloreCycle.com).

One of the best examples of expressive mark-making is a signature on a piece of paper (or a tablet) since it is a personal and unique form of self-expression. Signing your name on a legal document is not just a legal mark of identification - you are also making a statement about who you are, how you want to present yourself to the world. Your signature can convey personality, attitude and even emotions through its style and handwriting form.

Appreciating the infinite ways people sign their name is the first step in appreciating the act of mark making in art. Like signatures, mark making is a physical act, how one holds the pencil or pen and the pressure being applied, as well as the speed of the signature or mark, are all contributors to an expressive style.

Mark Making: The Art of Expressive Drawing is an invitational exhibition and opens Thursday, Feb. 1 at Gallery 208 in downtown Fayetteville. Visitors to the reception or exhibit will see the variety of ways drawing is more than simply conveying information. Visitors will have an opportunity to experience the ways mark making conveys emotion, energy and is a personal response to a subject by nineteen different artists.

Seeing how artists use mark making in distinctive styles and genres is an opportunity for visitors and artists to experience the differences and similarities between the works. Also, a variety of styles at the same location has the potential to enrich the overall artistic community by encouraging dialogue and cross-pollination of ideas between different artists and genres.

Mark Making: The Art of Expressive Drawing is not a narrow view of the medium of drawing, but an expansive way to see how drawing is fundamental throughout the creative process. We may look at an etching and admire the product of ink on paper, but it is through the drawing process that the print exists. The mark making with colored pencils by Callie Farmer results in beautiful tonal forms, but the subtle mark making is still there: the colored pencil touches the paper, the colored pencil is lifted from the paper, repeat, repeat, repeat.

Horse by Shane Booth is a work created by a professional photographer. Booth’s image of an abstracted horse was created with his 1867 vintage studio camera. An ornate gold leafed picture frame borders the black space surrounding the animal. With lead pencil and a scratching technique, Booth created a diagrammatic grid of line and circles on the surface of his photograph. Subtle and unexpected, everything in the work, including the frame, supports the overall mystique of how unlike processes and materials have the potential to evoke the ethereal; as well as bring new meaning to the subject.

In a different approach to the unearthly and utilizing see-through layers, Andrew White explores the figure by drawing a series of skeletons on drawing paper and tracing paper. For the finished work, White has mounted the tracing paper drawing on top of the drawing paper to create a subject in flux. Overlapping lines (in different values) and the changing directions of the lines create a shifting or moving image.

Comparing the charcoal drawings in the exhibition is the easiest way to see the potential of line qualities. Johanna Gore’s charcoal drawing, Study of Justice, establishes the way a line can merge from delicate to assertive to create a sense of movement and energy in the work. Gore also embraces imperfection and creates messy mid-value smudges in contrast to the dark, sharp, expressive single line dividing the composition into thirds.
In comparison, Jaeden McRae conveys a type of space in which the negative (ground) is equal in importance to the positive objects (the figure). McRae uses the side of his charcoal in the drawing titled Interior with Chair to articulate the subject of a table, chair and stacked forms in a mid-value range interior setting. The artist is confident in his placement of objects with bold, wide, expressive mark-making. Using a directional light source, McRae creates a delicate environment of shifting lines and reductive perspective. As the light moves to the upper area of the picture plane, linear forms are absorbed into the brightness; in the lower composition shifting lines move into the darkness of the shaded area.

Compared to the solid modeling of objects by McRae, Lee Wilson’s print is a series of scratchy marks expanding and contracting to reveal a story about the figure in the center of the composition. Titled Mia Appearing, Wilson created the image on a pronto plate by repeating drawn lines to create the dark and dense figure emerging from a flattened background.

Several works in the exhibit are inspired by modern anime and modern cartoon style. Both styles emphasize flat shapes and color, lines are always emphasized. The multicolored relief print by Jennifer Patten titled Empty Room, Red Walls is an example of the modern anime style due to its complexity and the character in motion. For this relief edition, the artist used the repetition of black lines to trap the floating colors, unifying the image to create the angst of a situation.

A painting in the exhibit by Katey Morrill is an excellent example of how an artist utilizes paint and paintbrush as the mark-maker to create expressive drawing qualities in a painting instead of a pencil or charcoal. In comparison, Dwight Smith’s large format drawing titled Spiritual Quest is the traditional expressive drawing on paper. Large in scale, 28” x 40,” the size is relevant for the viewer to sense the physicality of the making process. Visitors to the gallery will experience the speed of the signature or mark as the artist quickly moved across the surface of the paper to make expressive marks with charcoal, colored pastels, pencil, and paint.
Coming from the abstract expressionist tradition, Smith’s work is the quintessential example of the abstract expressionist style - emphasizing the process of making instead of the final product, bold and expressive marks to create a sense of movement and energy.

Several artists build off the surface of the paper or the surface of the image in mixed media works. McRae sews waxed thread into a charcoal drawing of the skull – an illusion and the real interface to create new meaning. Chantel Dorisme creates white-on-white works by sewing white materials (thread or yarn) into the white of the paper as a way to explore the idea of line-making. In one work, Dorisme draws the figure by perforating the paper, the perforations creating the implied line of the figure.

The exhibition includes nineteen artists: Daishaun Griffith, Dwight Smith, Shane Booth, Johanna Gore, Jennifer Patten, Katey Morrill, Callie Farmer, Caitlyn Barnett, Mackenzie Brawley, Chantel Dorisme, Brittany Floyd, Carlos McCain, Jaden McRae, Cheyanne Rogers, Chelita Sipe, Jason Smalls, Andrew White, Lee Wilson, and yours truly!

Mark Making: The Art of Expressive Drawing has several advantages for the artists and the viewers. The exhibit exposes different approaches to art, broadening our understanding and appreciation of the art world. Hopefully, it will encourage creativity and experimentation with new techniques and approaches, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

The public is invited to the reception of Mark Making: The Art of Expressive Drawing at Gallery 208, Thursday, Feb. 1, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The gallery is located at 208 Rowan Street and there is plenty of parking in the back of the gallery. The exhibit will remain up until the end of May. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, please call 910-484-6200.

Fans of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra are well aware of their popular On Tap events. These events feature a select group of musicians from the orchestra performing at various local bars and restaurants.

One of the main attractions at these gatherings is the jazz quartet once headed by Kris Vargas, a talented trumpet player. Vargas, who is also a member of the Army band, relocated to Belgium in November, much to the dismay of those who have enjoyed his musical performances. He is now the proud member of the prestigious Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe band or SHAPE.

Symphony on Tap events have exciting news to share: the jazz quartet has made a comeback with a fresh addition to their lineup. Ronnal Ford plays second oboe and English horn in the symphony. At the Symphony on

Tap events, he will showcase his versatility by playing not only the saxophone but also a range of other instruments he is proficient in.

Ford is a highly skilled and adaptable musician, renowned for his exceptional abilities. In his role as a performer, he is proficient in a wide range of instruments including Flute/Piccolo, Oboe/English horn, Clarinet/Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Soprano/Alto/Tenor/Baritone Saxophones, Violin, Viola and Cello. Additionally, he demonstrates his talent by arranging music for different ensembles.

Ford and the other members of the jazz quartet will be having their first performance at Heckler Brewing Company on Mardi Gras, which falls on Tuesday, Feb. 13th. Fans of the On Tap Events are in for a delightful surprise as they will be treated to fresh tunes and updated musical arrangements.

Speaking of Heckler Brewing Company, they have recently moved to a larger facility! Their new address is 5780 Ramsey St #102, and they have also started offering food options.

Here is a list of all of the Symphony on Tap events to date::
Feb. 13 at 7 p.m.: Symphony on Tap at Heckler Brewing Company
5780 Ramsey Street, Suite #102, Fayetteville
Jazz Quartet Performing

March 15 at 7 p.m.: Symphony on Tap at Gaston Brewing Taproom
421 Chicago Dr, Fayetteville
Violin & Piano Duo Performing

April 13 at 7 p.m.: Symphony on Tap at Dirty Whiskey Craft Cocktail Bar
5431 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills
Jazz Quartet Performing

May 5 at noon: Symphony on Tap at District House of Taps for Brunch
1240 Bragg Rd, Fayetteville
Violin & Guitar/Piano Duo Performing

June 22 at 7 p.m.: Symphony on Tap at Dirtbag Ales
5431 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills
TBD

The Symphony on Tap events organized by the FSO are completely free and do not require any reservations. Make sure to stay updated by following them on Facebook to get the complete schedule of their events and to stay informed about any new additions. https://www.facebook.com/FaySymphony

Big News for Next Season

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra has revealed their plans to commission a fresh musical composition that will be showcased at some point during Black History Month 2025. Ahmed AL Abaca, a composer and conductor from Chicago, will create this brand-new composition.

This musical piece will showcase the diverse talents and instruments that Ronnal Ford, mentioned above, is capable of playing. The two men know each other and have had the pleasure of working together before. The FSO has embarked on an exhilarating venture, which promises to be a momentous event for the spectators when it is unveiled in 2025.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in challenge and controversy.”
Dr. Martin Luther King

“Sociologists define social movement as an “organized effort to change laws, policies, or practices by people who do not have the power to effect change through conventional channels,” said Francesca Polletta, sociology professor, University of California, Irvine.

“Conflict sets boundaries between groups by strengthening group consciousness and awareness, and separateness from other groups. Conflict is a necessary part of society. It helps society to integrate and to function,” said Georg Simmel, sociologist.

Conflict has positive and negative effects on society. The positive effects are enhanced communication, growth, strengthened relationships, innovation, creativity and opportunities to gain experience and new skills. The negative effects are fragmentation, social disintegration and division. Conflict can create chaos or community.

Civil Rights and Women's Rights are social movements created by a conflict with the legal and cultural inequalities in society. These two movements are organizations of social change.

The success of the Civil Rights and Women’s Rights movements was based on the strategy of participatory democracy. Ella Baker, a Civil Rights Leader, introduced the policy and practice to the Civil Rights social movement.

“Given that, I have been a National Organization of Women Activist and the National Organization of Women was founded as a civil rights organization in 1966. I do believe that the Civil Rights movement was the model for the Women’s movement. We have used the peaceful protest many times since 1966 to bring attention to women’s issues. We recognize the importance of the Civil Rights movement for expansion of voting rights to include women of color. We share with Martin Luther King the preservation of increasing voter rights for all. We have used compassionate collaboration with like-minded organizations to achieve our goals. Our actions have been the inspiration for revolutionary changes in our lives such as reproductive rights, legislation to stem violence against women, and efforts to achieve equity in the workplace for all,” said Roberta Waddle, National Organization of Women activist.

“The Ella Baker Participatory Democracy model is a grassroots organization. It entails 'bottoms up' representation and decision-making from the community, the absence of celebrity as a sole leader and direct action in response to challenges. The goals were achieved by the development of human and community resources, voter registration drives, mass meetings for strategy, peaceful protests, literacy education, and conscious raising,” said Carol Mueller, sociology professor, Arizona State University.

The Women’s Rights Movement adopted conscious raising, peaceful demonstrations and marches for recognition of their concerns. It was a win-win for the Civil Rights and Women’s Rights movements with the Civil Rights Law of 1964 and Title VII. Title VII prohibited discrimination by sex by realities such as pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

“History books stated Civil Rights Movement spanned from 1954 to 1968, The Civil Rights Movement remains active today. The words and passion of Martin Luther King empowered the momentum to the Philadelphia 11. It is the term given to the eleven female priests who were ordained on July 29, 1974, two years before the Episcopal Church recognized women were suitable. Statistically, Senior Rectorship are filled by males in churches 77 % vs 23% by females. There is a pay scale differential based on sex. I am grateful and supportive of the changes that have occurred to support women clergy, but there is still much to do. The Episcopal Church recognizes inequality, gender gap, and racial disparities. So much of society wants to stay on the sun deck of true change to admire the horizon, but how many are willing to hang out in the engine room (like the Episcopal Church) where it is hot and steamy to ensure the ship continues to progress in the right direction for Civil Rights?” said Rev. Nancee A Cekuta, Rector, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

Poverty and economic justice have been ongoing social movements since the 1964 Watts Riots and Poor People’s Campaign. Why are we still addressing poverty with the continuous allocations for social welfare programs for the past 60 years? Two factors can be globalization and globalism. Globalization began in 1971. International trade and capital flow emerged with the selling of mortgage securities sold abroad. Globalism is the adoption of policies with the intercontinental perspective superseding the national. Globalization is the distribution of technology, products and jobs, across international borders. Finance Capitalism is an innovation of Globalization. Finance Capitalism is economic and political domination exercised by financial institutions or financiers. Finance Capitalism rewards the highly educated and computer proficiency populations. Unions and social welfare programs are a non-issue. Physical laborers and lesser educated have a limited job pool and require social welfare assistance. The impacts of globalization are job insecurity and price instability. Open borders are a factor in Globalization.

“I believe if Dr. Martin Luther King were alive today, first I believe he would speak heavily against the open border policy of the current administration. Dr. King would ask at what expense do we allow for open borders and not consider the less fortunate citizens protected by the U.S. Constitution,” said Dr. A. Jamale Johnson, pastor, Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church.

The U.S. Constitution grants illegal aliens /undocumented immigrants many of the same rights as citizens by the Fourteenth Amendment. The policy of Open Borders can address the lack of border policies or resources for the enforcement of a border policy. Open border policy can create excessive demands on social services, infrastructure and security risks. The positive effects of Open Borders can allow persons from other countries to enter the workforce and augment the labor force.

According to the PEW Research Center, by 1966, 63 % of Americans had an unfavorable opinion of King, including 44% who viewed him highly unfavorable. Today 81% of American adults say he had a positive impact on the country.

“Dr. King would try to rally leaders who had a passion for the welfare of the people. Even though the leaders in Dr. King's era were not all united [on] his approach to non-violence. They did not share the same values for the liberation of Black people. I believe he would want to help and train leaders to address needs in their respective communities,” said. Dr. A. Jamale Johnson, pastor, Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church.

“Two of King’s leadership traits were the encouragement of creativity, innovation, and participation through alliance, teamwork, and diversity, “said Brig. Gen. Al Jamerson, U.S. Airforce.

The writer leaves the reader with a question from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Where do we go from here, Chaos or Community?”

“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” John Steinbeck

As I sit here in my warm, comfortable den with my 2 energetic dogs, Buffy and her mom, Sugar, and look out in my backyard at how the tapestry has changed from beautiful flowers, gardens, and pretty green lawn, I wanted to take time to enjoy this season of ‘winter.’

We know that with each of our four seasons comes a wave of different emotions; from the excitement of summer to the freshness of spring to the introspection of autumn. Then we await the darker days, sometimes gloomy days of winter, though it be very challenging at times.

We tend to spend more time indoors, experience less sunlight and daylight hours, and turn to more slumber. With all of these changes in the natural environment comes changes in our moods and emotions. We tend to feel our emotions and moods change with fatigue and depression, etc. Then, in many cases, this makes winter one of the most dreadful times of the year for many people.

However, when we look at nature and the wise ways our bodies connect to it, we see how this quieter time of year actually holds its own value as part of an essential cycle in balance. But as John Steinbeck, the poet wrote, "we need the winter to give the season its sweetness."

Even though the winter represents phases of dormancy and stillness and change in scenery in natural elements, the darker months of winter still can bring replenishment and rejuvenation. It even gives us a chance to spend more time with friends and family, within the coziness of our homes. We have time to restore our energy by inward reflection and creativity.

Allow me to share some things that will help you embrace this season as much as the summer-fall seasons.

Let’s look at some ways to reap the rewards of this introspective season.

1. Sleep:

You and I both know winter is an ideal time to slow down our pace and catch up on all of the rest we missed throughout the year.

I love to sew and make blankets; I’m also a soap maker and the winter season gives me more time to do a lot of these activities. Winter is also a time to hibernate.

Because it gets darker earlier, it gives me time to go to bed a little earlier and languish the darker mornings. We all love to cuddle up under the warm cover and just sleep a little longer.

Getting adequate sleep is essential for staying healthy. The body does some great things for us at night when we get proper sleep. So, turning down the bright lights and screens will result in great benefits for us. Around us all the time, this practice may take a few days to adjust, but it will improve the depth and quality of our sleep, recharging our body and spirit for the rest of the year.

2. Replenishing the Spirit:

Winter is a season to nourish our creativity. During the winter season, we turn inward and make space for new projects and activities; getting ready for the holidays to come during this season.

Whatever our choice is — from cooking, decorating, sewing, crafts, etc., the main thing is to engage in activities that leave us feeling inspired and full of energy and optimism. So let us consider winter to be our incubation phase and the great season to create and render our visions for the year.

3. Time with Family and Friends:

Finally, dreary weather often makes us want to stay indoors, eat more food and cozy up on the couch, watch our favorite TV show or be on our social media in our own little of the house.

So then, why not invite some family and friends to join? Winter is a great time to reconnect over a nourishing meal or cup of tea/hot cocoa, share stories, catch up and laugh.

As we live in a culture that places incredible value on doing and being productive, we often miss out on the act of simply being. There are so many things that distract us from engaging with our families right in our own homes. Family is the ultimate of all creation on the earth and rightfully so.

Families who share quality time together tend toward strong emotional bonds as well as a sense of stability and belonging. Likewise, friendships with deep heart connections (not just shared interests) provide a broader base from which to draw when challenging life events occur.

I implore you to embrace winter as a season to truly nurture the human connections that mean the most and enjoy food or couch-potato time with loved ones.

Relax your mind and give thanks for all the things you have been given during this season of your life.
Enjoy the moment!!

Figure skating is both an athletic and artistic pursuit. Figure skaters often begin training at very young ages and undergo intense sessions if they have goals to skate competitively.

However, the majority of people who take to the ice during the holiday season or when local rinks have open skate sessions probably do not aspire to compete in national competitions or the Olympics.

Such individuals enjoy the physical workout and want to learn to skate better.

It's never too late to learn how to skate. These guidelines can help the process for beginners.

• Start with realistic expectations. Your first time out on the ice might not be your finest hour of skating. Although some people are "naturals," learning to balance on two thin blades on a very slick surface takes practice. Go slowly and expect that you will fall several times. Increase your confidence in small increments.

• Build up your core. According to former professional figure skater Cleo McGee, ice skating is a sport that requires a lot of core strength. Enroll in a pilates or yoga class or another core-strengthening activity, which can help you once you're on the ice.

• Consider a figure skating club. Aspiring skaters in the United States can find places (and often coaches) with whom to train through the U.S. Figure Skating body.

Search for a club near you online. In Fayetteville, the Airborne Ice Skating Learn to Skate team skates at Cleland Ice Rink at Fort Liberty.

• Get the right equipment. Beginner skaters may be tempted to rent skates, and that is fine for the first time out on the ice.

However, if you commit to figure skating, it's best to purchase skates that fit you well. Used skate blades may be dull and not as well-maintained. Also, invest in hip pads, padded shorts and knee pads to protect areas of the body when falls inevitably happen.

• Avoid blisters and cold hands. Wear gloves and two pairs of socks to protect your extremities. It's cold on the ice, particularly when skating outdoors.

• Hit the rink at the right time. Learning to skate with dozens of harried skaters zooming around you can induce anxiety. If possible, try to visit the rink when it is relatively empty and the ice has been freshly prepped. Trying to glide when there are a lot of ice shavings and people can prove challenging.

• Take some lessons. Learning the right technique is key, and the U.S. Figure Skating Association recommends working with a trained coach. These early lessons will help you learn basics like skating on two feet, stopping, performing dips, getting up from falls, and eventually spins and jumps, if desired.

Learning proper skills from the start can move progress along and help prevent injuries.

With a little patience, bravery and training, beginners can get started on their figure skating journeys.

It is not an immediate emergency like a vehicle crash or a 5 alarm fire, but it is building up steam.

The United States faces a growing shortage of physicians, both family practice and specialists.

The Association of American Medical Colleges projects a shortage of 51,000 to 139,000 doctors by 2033, a mere 9 years away, and up significantly from the last time the Association made a projection. The expanding shortage stems in part from the combination of growing numbers of aging Baby Boomers and retiring physicians.

Factor in that treating 85-year-olds generally requires more time, effort, and expertise than treating 25-year-olds, and it is apparent that medical care is likely to get more difficult to find for all of us, health care insurance notwithstanding.

Enter the proposed Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine, a joint effort of the 2 local institutions.

Already on board are a Dean, a Director of Admissions, and other academic personnel. Construction of the School of Medicine campus is expected to begin later this year, with the first class matriculating in 2026.

The hope and anticipation is that the College of Medicine will train physicians, many of whom will live and practice medicine in Cumberland County and throughout southeast North Carolina, just as the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University has done for its region.

Full disclosure: I serve on the Methodist University Board of Trustees and am thrilled by what this new School of Medicine can mean for all of us.

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We are nearly a month into 2024 – time to check up on our New Year’s resolutions, especially those involving our health. Did you try Dry January, and how is that going? Are you sticking to your exercise program? Eating your fruits and veggies? Sleeping well and enough?

My experience with health resolutions over the years is that the more I can incorporate them into my daily life and routine, the more likely I am to stick to them.

For me, that means fruits and veggies in the fridge at all times, a regular bedtime routine that does not involve scrolling on my phone (I sometimes cheat on this one if I wake up in the wee hours), and regular exercise outside the gym.

Fitness classes are part of my routine, but real life intrudes all too often at the same time as the classes, leaving me to my own devices. These include online yoga classes and walking Lulu several times a day, both a necessity for someone who lives in a condo with no yard and a great way to get in my steps, 7500 to 10,000, occasionally more.

Building movement into my daily life makes it far more likely that I am actually going to do it.

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And finally, a friend in Texas who holds diametrically opposed political views to mine recently emailed a fanciful opinion piece by conservative writer Allysia Finley in the Wall Street Journal.

It relates the tale of a fictional fellow aptly named Rip who went into a coma on New Year’s Eve, 2019, and woke up 4 years later to a very different world.

Rip’s astonishment upon waking seems largely focused on higher prices (bad), the Supreme Court’s banishment of Roe v. Wade and affirmative action (good), unemployment and Covid payments to individuals (bad), the advent of Keytruda and government funded tuition to private schools (good).

All I could think of is I wish I had slept through parts of the last decade just like Rip but for very different reasons.

Vulnerability. Collaboration. Intentionality. Accountability.

These 4 words seemed to be the resounding message of the recent Women of Many Hats of Fayetteville networking and empowerment event.

Women from across Fayetteville and Cumberland County met in one location. Some came by personal invitation, some came by obligation, and some came by accident. However, each attendee and each body present in the room left with a stronger and more focused vision of themselves and for themselves.

Pastor Tyshana Mabry-Diaz, the founder of Inspiration with Ty and the visionary of this event, was simply walking in obedience.

“I didn't know how in the world I was going to do it, but I just knew I had to obey God," she said.

Standing wholly on her faith, she went on to birth one of the biggest movements this city has ever seen…and this is only the beginning.

The vendors were in place and the event videographer, Ahmod Goins, stayed busy capturing beautiful moments. From start to finish, the event featured some of Fayetteville's prominent — and even little known but “need to know” — business owners, wives, mothers, and influencers. Yes, we hear the word “influencer” so much in today's vernacular, but there are women who are genuinely making a positive impact in the lives of many.

Take Ebony Walker. Deemed as Your Literary Midwife, this speaker and marketplace minister has a heart and passion for helping authors, speakers, and those with a story to create the books and resources needed to leave a legacy. She shared a personal testimony that ignited the women to remember they are weapons of mass destruction and the hats they wear only create the ammunition they need for the next level.

Demetria Davis, public figure who is skillful with the art of demonstration, spoke on the many hats we wear.

She adorned herself with a variety of pieces, each showing the various titles she (and others) are entrusted with. The key to successfully operating? Knowing your foundation and choosing to love and lead with love.

Her position resounded that iron must sharpen iron and we need each other to balance the weights of each hat we wear.

Judith Cage, celebrity chef and veteran, excited everyone with her millionaire mindset. As a world traveler and business owner, she made it clear that showing up and connecting to the right people will bring you the access and success you desire.

Confidence is key and forgiveness is necessary. Don't let the hats you wear, or the hats thrown at you, cause you to become bitter and stuck.

Quinn Peurifoy caused a lot of eyes to water, as she shared her personal story. The best way to describe it is that her vision changed when her vision changed! If it sounds like an oxymoron, just know that life circumstances and unexpected events can do one of two things: make you bitter or make you better. This realtor chose the latter of the two.

Stephanie Glover, a mature influencer, content creator, and self-proclaimed introvert, walked the audience with boldness. She shared how she refused to be the status quo for women of her age. Her ability to pivot, even while in a life altering season, has afforded her the access she never knew was available to her. And it’s all because she chose to show up!

ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul is a PR and Marketing powerhouse who spoke on timing and seasons.

She shared a story of how 6 years prior, on the same date as the WOMH event, she was in Charlotte at an event with Oprah then came back to Fayetteville for an event at the Fuller Recreation Center, where the WOMH event was held.

And now, she is on her way to Vegas to do red carpet PR for the annual Super Bowl Gospel Fest.

Makeeka Harris, veteran and owner of KidCreate Studio, is big on leadership. She is intelligent in the realms of business planning and strategizing, also making it palatable for children to learn these mindsets early. As a wife and mother, she injects leadership and value into her family and community.

Tonika McGeachy-Dunbar is a bold, comedic, and unapologetic entrepreneur. Unafraid to take chances, this post photo booth owner shared her story of losing incomes but never losing hope.

She has endured major life changes the last few years, becoming a widow and having a career change, but she has never forgotten what it means to connect and commit.

Tyshana Mabry-Diaz closed out the panel by declaring that we all just need to walk in obedience and get in the room. Her heart was pure and her passion was evident, as she released hope into the ladies (and gentlemen) in attendance.

She allowed the attendees to recognize that wearing many hats was doable — as long as they don't try to do it alone. And in only a way that she can, Ty ended the event with a graduation ceremony. The beauty of seeing women free themselves and throw their hats in the air was liberating, unifying, and unforgettable.

There is so much more to be said about this event. However, just make sure you're in the room next time. You'll be shocked by what can happen when we lend a shoulder and lean on another's shoulder. It’s ok to not be ok, but it's NOT ok to stay that way.

While many hats may be upon you, much support is always within reach. Take care of yourself so that the assignments of your hats don't suffer.

Physical activity is a key component of a healthy lifestyle, and an effective fitness regimen is one that combines strength training with cardiovascular exercise.

Recommendations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services urge adults to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity each week. Aerobic activity includes cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, dancing, cycling, or other activities that increase the heart rate and improve cardiorespiratory fitness.

Though cardiovascular exercise is often discussed in terms of its heart healthy benefits, the Cleveland Clinic reports that aerobic activities benefit various parts of the body, including the heart but also the brain, the joints, skin, and muscles. Cardiovascular exercise is a key component of an effective fitness regimen. By committing to cardio, adults can benefit various parts of their bodies.

Cardio and your heart
Routine cardiovascular exercise leads to a decrease in resting blood pressure and heart rate. That is beneficial for the heart because it ensures the heart does not have to work unnecessarily hard. Cardiovascular exercise also improves good cholesterol levels and lowers blood fats, each of which also helps to improve heart health.

Cardio and your brain
The Alzheimer's Society reports that studies have shown that exercise that increases heart rate in middle-aged or older adults has led to improvements in thinking and memory and lower rates of dementia. The Cleveland Clinic notes that cardio also decreases stroke risk by increasing blood flow to the brain.

Cardio and your joints
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become brittle and fragile from a loss of tissue. That tissue loss can be a side effect of aging, but even though the National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that half of all women over 50 will develop osteoporosis, older adults are not helpless against the condition. The Cleveland Clinic notes that cardiovascular exercise can help fight osteoporosis and reduce risk for hip fractures. It is also important to note that men are not immune to osteoporosis, which has long been considered a more significant concern for women than men. Though women's risk for osteoporosis is greater than men's, UC San Diego Health reports that between 20 and 25 percent of all hip fractures occur in men.

Cardio and your skin
Physical activity increases circulation, which the Cleveland Clinic reports leads to clearer, healthier skin. Cardio promotes better blood flow to the skin cells on the face, which can reduce signs of aging and improve complexion.

Cardio and your muscles
Cardio increases oxygen supply to the entire body, and the Cleveland Clinic notes that allows muscles throughout the body to work harder and more efficiently. In addition, routine cardiovascular exercise allows muscles to adapt to an increased workload, which can improve daily life by making routine physical activities easier.

On Jan. 19, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Blissful Alchemists located at 414 Ray Ave, Fayetteville, Brittany Campbell will host her 3rd Annual Vision Board for the visionaries who want to see their dreams come to fruition. This enchanting event is designed to illuminate your dreams and aspirations while celebrating the power of community, friendships, and self-discovery.

Campbell explains why a vision board is essential when planning out what you want your life to look like.

“I did some soul-searching and asked myself deep questions to determine what to put on my vision board. Once filling the board, I had a clear vision of the direction of my day-to-day life. I believe you stay stuck unless you know what makes you happy and where you want to go in life,” she said.

Campbell is an entrepreneur and a community builder. She is the proud owner of Sunshine Beauty & Bliss in downtown Fayetteville. Her story began when she wanted to create an environment where women could feel their best and find inner sunshine. In 2015, Campbell opened Sunshine Artistry, a beauty service that provides body sensitivity and sun safety, adding makeup artistry, hair styling, and spray tanning. Seeing the broader vision, in 2018, Sunshine Beauty & Bliss was birthed.

But Campbell didn’t stop there. She is a co-founder of Blissful Alchemist, a community of beauty and wellness for entrepreneurs.

“I envisioned Blissful Alchemists as a beauty and wellness country club, a place for everyone to come together, uplift spirits, and explore a range of beauty and wellness services and classes,” she said. “This vision would not be a reality without the foundation laid by my beauty business, Sunshine Beauty & Bliss, originating as a spray tanning, specialty hair, and makeup venture from my home to blossoming into a partnership with Saha

Happyness in February of 2022. Last year, I began hosting events with my dear friend and colleague, Serena Gunn. Serena is now our Program Director and still operates her own healing business, Compassionate Change, along with being the executive director of Heal Holistic Journey Services.”

Sunshine Beauty & Bliss now houses ten other women entrepreneurs. Campbell’s generosity and support have helped many women achieve their dreams of entrepreneurship. She is recognized as one of Fayetteville’s 40 Top Business Professionals and Community Leaders Under 40, and nominated by Fayetteville’s Readers’ Choice Award.

It all started with a vision and then putting it onto a board that helped Campbell see that her dreams were within reach.

“Balancing the entrepreneurial journey and my role as a military spouse and stepmother to my stepdaughter in Michigan has been a rollercoaster of hard work, dedication, and remarkable outcomes. My overarching goal is to establish a community space where individuals can find joy and connections, making the business journey synonymous with creating a vibrant and supportive environment,” Campbell shared.

Join Campbell as she shares her journey to entrepreneurship. She will share how she persevered, survived operating a business during the COVID-19 epidemic, and built a team of successful women entrepreneurs whom she affectionately refers to as her “Sunshine Squad.” The satisfaction you get from watching your dream manifest from a vision into reality is one of the most rewarding feelings. Learn from an experienced, caring, passionate woman and see why, “Your Future’s So Bright!”

Tickets can be purchased by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vision-board-night-your-futures-so-bright-tickets-780718739767 or by calling 910-303-0912.

Courageous, Ambitious, Intelligent women are coming together on Jan. 20, at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the John D. Fuller Sr. Recreation and Athletic Center, located at 6627 Old Bunce Rd, Fayetteville, to celebrate Women of Many Hats, hosted by Inspiration With Ty. For women who wear many hats, this is an event not to miss.

Tyshana Mabry-Diaz, a military wife, was given the vision to connect women entrepreneurs in the area. Stationed in Fayetteville two years ago, she has met many women who juggle running households and businesses.

Mabry-Diaz believes that to grow a business, help may be closer in proximity than you think. She curated a powerhouse panel of local women who are successful at their crafts to share their insights, knowledge, and tips that can help take business to the next level.

“Being a visionary, I see Fayetteville and the surrounding areas growing into a phenomenal place of resources for its communities. I meet a lot of talented people in our city, and this event will introduce you to like-minded people to connect and grow with. We are expecting new business connections, as well as, life-long friendships,” Mabry-Diaz said.

In speaking with Mabry-Diaz, she is excited about seeing Fayetteville’s growth with young entrepreneurs. Aware that women wear many hats when running a household and a business, this event will uplift and empower them after hearing powerful testimonies from women they can identify with.

“We can have it all, but we cannot do it all on our own,” she said.

She knows how essential it is to bring women together to uplift, guide, and forge strong personal and business relationships. You don’t have to go on your journey alone.
With a panel of prestigious women, new and established business owners, and vendors, this is promising to be an impactful event.

Light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages will be served. Wear your favorite hat as a symbol to inspire and uplift women. The inspiration behind this event is from scripture: Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Purchase tickets on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/women-of-many-hats-tickets-758947350957. For questions about the event, email Mabry-Diaz at Tyshana.mabry@gmail.com

Calling all creative artists! Unleash your inner artistic energy as you are transported back into the colorful and vibrant ‘90s era. This in-person event will take place on Jan. 24, from 6 p.m to 8:30 p.m, at Dirty Whiskey Craft Cocktail Bar at 5431 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills.

Thomas Ferguson opened Black Canvas in July of 2022 to support local artists, visual and performance based.

“We do this by curating events that highlight real artistry and talent. Our gallery/studio (located at 805 Elm St.) is used to house a creative community here in Fayetteville. We have created a space and brand for every artistry regardless of age, race, or artistic background,” Ferguson expressed.

Ferguson is a twenty-seven-year-old entrepreneur and self-taught artist. His business partner, DJ Wolf, provides the music at each event, often theme-related. They formed a brotherhood that has propelled them into providing our community with a safe, fun, and creative space.

Ferguson said, “From meeting DJ Wolf outside of the Gallery to building a relationship with him, over time, we have put in a lot of hours to create memorable events. I opened Black Canvas to highlight local artists and create a space where art and music lovers come together to support each other.

"I am big on collaboration. I feel collaborating is what’s missing from our area. When you enter our gallery, our goal is that you are relaxed and comfortable enough to ignite your creative spirit and use your gifts to innovate.”

Although a dress code is not required, you are encouraged to dress according to each theme. So, pull out your ‘90s gear. Whether you are a seasoned artist or just looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for everyone.

Ferguson shared that prior parties/events were filled with excitement, laughter, and exposure for artists.

Get ready to party in ‘90s style. You can show off your artistic side while enjoying music, karaoke, and drinks. This is a great event to make memories with family and friends. Art supplies will be provided.

Tickets are available on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paint-party-cocktails-90s-edition-tickets-785505818047?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR2cMQLX7NiS2YY2W2c7aLCxxIO62kedpmgIvzMPx_dEsJFGEO0Q4F4n7-Y or by calling 910-361-2844.

Monarch Family Single Parents Non-Profit Inc. is gearing up to host the 2nd Annual All-White Charity Ball, an event that celebrates and supports single mothers and fathers who raise their children alone. The ball will take place on Saturday, Jan. 27, at the SkyView on Hay, a prestigious venue located at 125 Hay St. in Fayetteville. The event will start at 6 p.m. and end at 11 p.m..

Ashley Graham, the event organizer, is committed to creating an elegant and purposeful evening that genuinely embraces and bolsters single parents.

"It's pivotal to accentuate their unwavering commitment and fortitude in nurturing their children,” said Graham.

The All-White Charity Ball provides an opportunity for attendees to network with diverse businesses, gain invaluable insights and support, and contribute to a movement championing the resilience and unwavering dedication of single mothers and fathers.

Monarch Family Single Parents Non-Profit Inc. is a community-based organization that provides essential resources, educational platforms, training and family-centric events to support single parents and their families. The proceeds from the All-White Annual Charity Ball will be used to amplify the organization's mission, ensuring a sustained influx of aid and resources for the single-parent community.

"Monarch Family is devoted to furnishing indispensable resources, educational platforms, training avenues and orchestrating family-centric events," shared Graham. "Our overarching goal is to weave a safety net that empowers single parents to thrive in their roles."

The event offers the community a chance to unite in solidarity with single parents and celebrate their unwavering commitment and fortitude in nurturing their children.

Tickets for this highly anticipated event are available for purchase, promising an evening teeming with camaraderie and celebration, all while tangibly impacting the lives of single-parent families. For further details and ticket acquisitions, individuals interested in contributing to this noble cause can visit https://www.monarcfamily.com/all-white-annual-charity-ball or directly contact Ashley Graham at ashley.graham@monarchfamily.com.

Job fairs are an exciting opportunity for individuals looking to jumpstart their careers or explore new job opportunities. These events bring together employers from various industries who are actively seeking talented individuals to join their teams.

The main attraction of a job fair is, of course, the abundance of job opportunities available under one roof. Instead of spending hours searching through online job boards or submitting countless applications, attending a job fair allows you to meet with multiple employers in one day.

There are several fantastic local job fair events taking place in 2024 that you should definitely consider attending:

January 17
Walk In Wednesday - Cape Fear Valley Health (Main Hospital), 9 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48pfyV4.
Operating Room Registered Nurse Virtual Hiring Event, 10 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48pfyV4.

January 18
Executive Personnel Group LLC, 10 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/41MNfxp.
Cape Fear Valley Clinic LPN/RN Virtual Hiring Event, 9 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48pfyV4.

January 22
Amazon Information Session, 9 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/47t0X9U

January 24
Healthcare Virtual Job Fair, 11 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48GGzD9

January 26
Technology Virtual Job Fair, 11 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/3SaXeJN
Med/Surg Hiring Event, Cape Fear Valley Health, 1 p.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48pfyV4

January 31
Veterans Virtual Job Fair, 11 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/4aQtucc.
Wound Care and ICU Step Down Registered Nurse Virtual Hiring Event, 10 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48pfyV4.

February 1
Recruit Military Job Fair-Iron Mike Conference Center, Fort Liberty, 11 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48MJOc3.
Acute Rehab Registered Nurse Virtual Hiring Event, 10 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48pfyV4.

February 5
Diversity Virtual Job Fair, 11 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/3S9y3qQ.

March 7
Fort Liberty Hiring Event, 11 a.m. Visit https://bit.ly/48m5EUj.
Job fairs are an invaluable resource for anyone in search of new job opportunities or exploring a new career path. They provide a unique platform where job seekers can interact directly with employers and make a lasting impression. The abundance of job opportunities available and the chance to explore new industries make job fairs an exciting and worthwhile endeavor.

Whether you're a recent graduate looking for your first job or a seasoned professional seeking a career change, job fairs provide a platform where you can connect with potential employers face-to-face.

Here are some extra sources for job fairs, job postings, and other forms of employment support:

Hiring Events, Job Fairs and Job Postings in Fayetteville/Raleigh NC Area Facebook Group
https://bit.ly/48nOllr

NCWorks
https://www.ncworks.gov/

FTCC Career Development Center
https://bit.ly/48nOo0B

CEED
https://www.ncceed.org/

When people think of music, the first places that come to mind most often are Nashville, Atlanta, New York City, and LA but the truth is, Fayetteville has the names and talent to be listed among those cities.

Nestled in the heart of the city in a log cabin at 2770 Breezewood Ave, is Cabin Fever Studio Productions, a full-service recording studio named perfectly during the pandemic.

“We are located in a log cabin…The cabin fever thing was during COVID. When everyone was saying, yeah I have cabin fever…So it all just came together,” said founder and owner, Lynne O’Quinn.

“Creating REAL music with REAL musicians” is not only the mission of the studio but the driving unique quality that makes this studio a must-visit for up-and-coming artists and established artists alike.
Cabin Fever Studio Productions provides clients with the latest technology while also holding the tradition of analog recording. Musicians who choose to record at the studio have access to large rooms, able to accommodate bands of various sizes for recording.

Artists who would like to have live instruments played can also book a musician through the studio. This includes everything from drums and bass to backup vocals. Cabin Fever Studio Productions is also in the business of securing music rights for its clients and offers remixing and mastering services.

Cabin Fever Studio Productions was founded four years ago by Lynne O’Quinn, a local award-winning musician. A 30-year industry alum, O’Quinn has had a successful music and music management career.
2024 is bringing in some new names to the studio. According to O’Quinn, the most exciting thing currently happening with the studio is the acquisition of a new Vice President, world-renowned and award-winning bassist Andy McKinney.

For those who are classic rock or country music fans, that name brings up memories of riffs and favorite songs. McKinney has been in the music industry for over two decades, with a resume to match.
McKinney was a songwriter, bassist, and backup vocalist for Molly Hatcher and the 90’s classic rock band, Barrage, where he was lead vocalist.

His experience with the most seasoned in the business doesn’t stop there. He has played for Charlie Daniels, Marshall Tucker, Nick Carter (Backstreet Boys), North Carolina’s own James Taylor (Boston, he’s ours), Vince Neil of Motley Crue, and David Bowie. His talent goes well beyond instruments, his voice, and his ability to write, as he has been the stage manager for headliners such as Rod Stewart, KISS, and Panic! at the Disco.

With performances and collaborations such as these, it’s no surprise that Andy was inducted into the Southern Rock Hall of Fame in Macon, Georgia.

His iconic purple bass (Prince wasn’t the only one) can be viewed at the Atlanta Hard Rock Cafe. He’s also graced the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine and has been named Europe's #1 Bassist, for two years running.
McKinney is excited to bring his experience and talent to Cabin Fever Studio Productions to help elevate local artists and continue to put Fayetteville on the map in the music scene.

O’Quinn and McKinney are headed to the Carolina Country Music Awards later this month in a big way. McKinney is not presenting an award this year, but he is due to accept one of the award's biggest accolades, the Gold Medal. This award goes to musicians who have made an impact in the music industry and continue to do so.

Cabin Fever Studio Productions is ready to make music with you with some powerhouse industry veterans like Andy McKinney and Lynne O’Quinn.

For anyone looking to book time at Cabin Fever Studio Productions, visit the website at https://cabinfeverstudioproductions.com/. Studio time is by appointment only.

It’s not the CMAs that get people excited south of Nashville, it’s the CCMAs. The 8th Annual Carolina Country Music Awards are set for Jan. 20th at the House of Blues in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at 6 p.m.

The awards are bringing the best and brightest in the local music scene under one roof, a night to recognize the region's music excellence. Not to be mistaken for any other award show, the Carolina Country Music

Awards boasts a roster of 28 performers for the night. More than an awards show, it’s a major country music concert.

The 8th Annual CCMAs has dozens of industry achievement awards to be presented to a star studded lineup of talented country music singers and songwriters. Co-hosting this year’s show with CCMA founder Christy

Andrulonis, otherwise known as radio personality Sweet Tea, is local WBTW-TV chief meteorologist, Frank Johnson of and Bill Bowman, publisher of Fayetteville, North Carolina’s community newspaper Up & Coming Weekly.

Previous CCMA award winners Greg Parrish and Paige King Johnson are both set to hit the stage with a very special performance by Texas native singer/songwriter, Donice Morace, who has opened for chart-topping artists such as Kenny Chesney.

The CCMA recognitions and awards will include the Lifetime Achievement Award, Male and Female Artist of the Year, Christian Country Single of the Year, Entertainer of the Year, the Sweet Tea Making a Difference award, and the Gold Medal awards.

One of this year’s Gold Medal award winners is classic rock and country bassist legend, Michael Andrew McKinney, or as he prefers to be known, Andy McKinney. McKinney has played with the biggest names on the Billboard charts, like James Taylor, and managed the stage for names just as big, like KISS. With over two decades in the business onstage and off, McKinney is truly humbled to be recognized and honored by the CCMA.

“[This is] a huge thing for me. I went through some sacrifices throughout my life…with being in music… to come out of it … it feels really good,” McKinney said.
McKinney will be joined by Fayetteville Music Hall of Fame member Lynne O’Quinn, who is his long time friend and manager. Also appearing is Eastern North Carolina’s popular band, recording artists, and former CCMA award winner, Rivermist. They will open this year’s show performing the National Anthem. Greg Adair, Rivermist’s drummer and general manager, loves the musical experience Sweet Tea Andrulonis has created with the CCMAs.

“Christy and Jeff Andrulonis are wonderful people doing great things for the country music industry. They have a great event that supports and nurtures a lot of young local musical talent. I mean, we are not considered a country band, but we have a couple successful crossovers. We’ve won the CCMA Best Group of the Year 2021, and Rivermist has again been nominated for that award this year. It’s going to be fun and exciting night.” Adair said.

Winner to performer is a common theme with the CCMAs, proving that it can be a catalyst for local artists' careers.

“Some of these performers don’t get the recognition or publicity for the talents they were blessed with. There are extremely talented singer/songwriters that are 20 to 25 years old trying to make it somewhere in the Carolinas. This event gives them a chance to showcase their talents. This is their Special night! Many CCMA award winners have gone on to very successful careers in the music industry,” Adair said of the opportunity the CCMAs provides for its winners. The CCMAs don’t just help catapult careers, it validates them. The Carolina Country Music Association Hall of Fame hosts some big names in country music. According to Jeff Andrulonis “Over the years we have inducted into our Hall of Fame Zakk Turner, Greg Rowles, and Mark Herdon from the band Alabama.”

That’s pretty impressive. This year’s Hall of Fame Inductee is Billboard‘s, Multi-Gold, and Platinum recording artist, John Berry. Berry’s career has had longevity and success, with hits Change My Mind, She’s Taken A Shine and There He Goes in the ’90s, Will You Marry Me, Time In A Bottle, Lady, and Let’s Stay Together in the 2000s. Berry also had a show that aired for two years here in the U.S., the UK, and New Zealand called Songs and Stories with John Berry, introducing his name, voice, and songwriting skills to a brand new audience. Berry is currently keeping busy performing in theaters and churches around the country. His induction will mark the 30th anniversary of his debut album, a fitting mark of this momentous occasion in his career.

The CCMAs were founded by Christy Andrulonis, Executive Director of the Carolina Country Music Association, entrepreneur, radio host, and music advocate. She hits the airwaves every day as the mid-day host of Carolina Country Radio (100.1 in Fayetteville, 93.9 in Myrtle Beach, and 106.3 in Wilmington) as Sweet Tea.

She and her husband Jeff own the radio station and started their business right here in Fayetteville in 1995. When asked what inspired her to create the CCMAs, she said, “The Carolinas have some of the most amazing singer-songwriters. Their musical stories tell about their lives in the Carolinas. This is a night to celebrate their accomplishments in the country music industry.”

The CCMAs are Andrulonis’ passion, the event is a labor of love.

“For me, it's like a family reunion when I see all of our artists and catch up with old friends,” she said. Her hope for the future of the CCMAs is “Years of stories of the Carolinas for generations to enjoy.”
Tickets are still available and range in price and experience. For those who just want to come, support, and enjoy the show, main-level tickets are available for $45. VIP tickets are available for $130 and include second-level VIP lounge access, food, and a choice of beverages from water to adult beverages.

For music lovers who want to see how the show works behind the curtain, watch rehearsals, and see how the show comes together for one of the greatest nights in the Carolinas, there’s the VIP Box Seat and Backstage Pass option.

These ticketholders have exclusive box seats, this space will provide the best views of the show and each box seat area can hold up to 8 guests, backstage passes for all 8 guests, and access to the VIP lounge. An extra perk of this level ticket is the ticketholder business logo being placed on the CCMAs’ promotional material. No matter the price of your ticket, everyone gets to walk the red carpet and network! Dress to impress the camera and talk to the industry’s leading experts. All tickets can be purchased online at https://www.carolinacountrymusicassociation.org/carolina-country-music-awards.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “two effective health practices to address obesity are eating a healthy-reduced diet and exercising regularly. The establishment of and maintenance of exercise/physical fitness at a gym is a proven modality for treating the diseases of obesity and overweight.”

Anytime Fitness Strickland Bridge in Fayetteville is an available option. There is also the option of an Anytime Fitness App.

“The Forbes survey results are fitness, losing weight, and improving diet are the top New Year’s resolutions. The paradox is that 22 percent of the respondents fail to keep these gym-related resolutions after two or three months,” said Connor Pitre.

Sayvon Sampson, trainer, Anytime Fitness Strickland Bridge, addresses the question, “what makes it so hard to stick with New Year’s resolutions that are gym-related?”

“There are quite a few reasons that fitness-related New Year’s resolutions usually always fail. They fall under one of these categories: money, misinformation, and lack of direction. Starting with money, a lot of people are under the assumption that all they need to get in shape is to start coming to the gym.

"There are so many material things that can be purchased to drastically improve your gym experience and the likelihood of sticking with your goal. So, they grab their 5-year-old running shoes, throw those on while having eaten one time that day, and scoop down C4 before going to the gym. The person makes a commitment to work out 7 days a week. These actions are not conducive for sustaining the gym-related New Year’s resolution,” said Sampson.

The five-year-old running shoes have outlived their effectiveness. It is recommended that exercise shoes be replaced at least yearly. When the shoes are too broken in, there is a loss of support to feet, ankles, and knees for various impact-related activities.

Over the next few weeks, it can become painful and too painful to walk. Constant pain from minimal stimulus is not easy to “tough it out.” Purchase a good pair of running shoes at minimum.

The average meal consists of 300 to 700 calories. A person can burn 1200 to 1800 calories for daily maintenance. When a person adds an hour work-out after leaving the job, that is an additional 400 to 1300 calories they can burn. The person coming to the gym after work in many cases ate a meal in the early afternoon.

The misconception is eating less is effective for getting in shape resulting in weight loss. During the early days of the fitness journey, the body needs to recover from the exercise. If the body cannot recover from the exercise, there are physical reactions. Everything is going to hurt; you are going to get weaker and in some extreme cases experience rhabdomyolysis.

Simply, you are over-training and under-recovering. It can take weeks, months, for the body to recover well from a 7-day in a row training. The body recovery requires supportive energy and protein foods.

C-4 pre- workout supplements contain beta-alanine, creatine nitrate, arginine, and caffeine. It is a source of energy, enhances performance and enhances focus. It is advisable to check with a physician or pharmacist for interaction with prescribed medications before ingesting pre-workout supplements. C-4 has a side effect of anxiety, an itch or a tingle, diarrhea, headache, and stimulated blood pressure.

Lack of direction is a significant factor contributing to not keeping gym-related resolutions.

“What do the goals of getting in shape or losing weight actually mean in practice? How does a person know if the practices are achieving the objectives? If the person sees the loss of a few pounds on the scale, is that good?” said Sampson. “The person can be losing fat or muscle. Losing muscle is not a good thing. Losing weight and keeping in shape are not the same practices. Training, eating, supplements need to coalesce with each other. The bodybuilder, advanced gym goer, and marathon runner have different protocols. The new gym-goer also has a specific protocol.

"New gym goer needs to do more foundational exercises or compound movements to bring up their guaranteed imbalance. The recovery time for the body after exercising is different for the bodybuilder, marathon runner, advanced gym goer, and the new gym-goer.”

The Anytime Fitness Strickland Bridge training program focuses on high intensity training and meal plans that complement the person’s goals.

“We have software that calculates how many calories our clients are burning with us, so we can be accurate as possible. Body composition scanner to measure muscle gained and fat lost. We have nutrition consultations to teach clients how to measure and track their macros to ensure we are meeting the necessary deficit/surplus,” shared Sampson.

Power up at Anytime Fitness Strickland Bridge 951 Strickland Bridge Road, Fayetteville.

The gym provides amenities such as Aerobics, Zumba, Personal Training, Day Training experience, Base Burn workout, Free weights, My Zone Belts, Group Training Cardio, Free Fitness Consultation, 24/7 Access, 24/7 Security, 30-Day-Training Experience, Cycling, Coaching Service, Virtual Coaching and World-Wide Access.

For more information, contact Anytime Fitness Strickland Bridge by phone at 910-425-2542.

Growing up in the ’90s and being a fan of poetry meant staying up late to watch shows like Def Poetry Jam and spending endless hours roaming the library's stacks to find the poet that spoke to the soul.

With the environment of the poetry scene changing along with the evolution of technology and digital spaces, the face-to-face poetry scene has slowed. Dre Sansbury is looking to change that with Pull Up Poet. The event is hosted by Fayetteville State University and the FSU Department of Performing and Fine Arts, with the support of The Arts Council of Fayetteville and Cumberland County on Jan. 27th at 7 p.m. at Butler Theater on 1200 Murchison Rd. Tickets are $10 for the general public and free for FSU students with a student ID. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/30441983/pull-up-poet-fayetteville-butler-theatrefayetteville-state-university

Six legendary poets will hit the stage for a captivating and interactive night of spoken word poetry and some surprises that you’ll have to be there for. Featured poets are Suave the Poet, Nick Courmon, Sh8kes, Poetic Zae, Megan Rickman, and Tam’ia King.

Sansbury promises the event will move the soul through the words about the human experience. Each performer has taken great care to create a journey for the audience, unlike anything they have experienced thus far in poetry.

One thing that won’t be a surprise is the event’s live taping to be featured on Amazon Prime Video. Even with the event set for release on the mega platform, Sansbury has secured the freedom to keep everything from production to sponsors local.

“I’m being allowed to use my own team. I’m being allowed to produce it…Everything is self-made in terms of everything being authentic and everything being Fayetteville. I’m allowed to use Fayetteville-based everything. All the poets are from North Carolina, but not from Fayetteville,” Sansbury said of his dedication to keeping this event fueled by local experience and creativity.

This event is not the first event for Sansbury. As an active veteran member in the poetry community, Sansbury has made a living from his words, literally. He currently hosts shows up and down the East Coast, mainly in Philadelphia and Atlanta. He also teaches poetry to middle and high school students through his collective Lost Voices. Not to leave the little ones out, he just added a poet who is creating a curriculum for teaching poetry to elementary school students.

Schools interested in bringing the Poetry Education program to their school can contact Sansbury directly via email, andresansburyjr@gmail.com.

For those looking to become a sponsor, there are options for businesses of all sizes. Smaller sponsorship packages range from $100 to $500 with some sponsorship perks like business logo placement on flyers, tickets to the event, and t-shirts.

For businesses looking to invest more, sponsorship packages range from $750 to $1,500 with sponsorship perks including business logo placement on banners, front-row tickets to the show, performer meet and greet, and logo featured in the Amazon Prime Video. Details about sponsorship packages can be found online.

To stay up-to-date on the latest poetry events happening around the city, join the Facebook group Poetry in Fayetteville at https://www.facebook.com/groups/480905015309199.