“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.

The Fayetteville Running Club, together with The Child Advocacy Center and community partners, is organizing the annual "Be Their Voice 5k" event at Methodist University. The event, scheduled for Jan. 27th at 8 a.m., aims to raise awareness and combat the harrowing issue of human trafficking, especially during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Partnering with W.O.R.T.H. Court, Fayetteville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Methodist University, and the Child Advocacy Center, the 5k run/walk is a family-friendly event that underscores the significance of combating human trafficking. The event is a pivotal initiative to engage the community in the fight against this pressing issue.

Pre-race packet pickup is scheduled for Jan. 26th at The Coffee Scene Prince Charles in downtown Fayetteville from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. On race day, the schedule unfolds as follows:

• 8 a.m.: Race day registration and packet pickup opens/food trucks open
• 8:45 a.m.: Packet pickup closes
• 9 a.m.: 5k Starts
• 10:30 a.m.: Race course closes
• 11 a.m.: Food trucks close

Participants can register for the 5k for $30, with a price increase to $35 after Jan. 25th. Each registrant receives a commemorative t-shirt to mark the occasion. Further race details and registration information can be found by calling the Child Advocacy Center at 910-486-9700 or by visiting cacfaync.org.

The Child Advocacy Center, a cornerstone in the fight against child trafficking, offers comprehensive services to children and families in need. It serves as a platform where children can feel safe and heard and share their experiences in a secure environment. Additionally, the center is critical in nurturing the Multi-Disciplinary Team process by facilitating ongoing professional education and collaboration among various agencies involved in child welfare and protection.

Mr. Shawn Wussow, a representative from the Fayetteville Running Club, emphasized the significance of community engagement in combating human trafficking.

"Events like the Be Their Voice 5k serve as a platform to rally our community in the fight against human trafficking. It's about raising awareness, fostering unity, and channeling our collective efforts to address this pressing issue,” he stated.

The Be Their Voice 5k event stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity in the fight against human trafficking, showcasing the power of community engagement and advocacy. As the event approaches, the Fayetteville community stands united in pursuing justice and protection for the vulnerable.

“I am fascinated by how magic pulls people in,” said Thomas Caruso.
Magic.

This is exactly what Caruso is hoping to provide audiences with the upcoming production of Cinderella at Cape Fear Regional Theatre.

Caruso, who is directing the production, has seen his fair share of magic. He has directed performances for David Blaine and even Dynamo in London.

Cape Fear Regional Theatre’s production of Cinderella, which debuts on Jan. 25th, will use physicality and acrobats as well as all the other production techniques to bring the audiences into a classic story and simulate magical events like the transformation of mice into horses or fighting a giant in the woods.

“I don’t want to spoil it for anyone,” Caruso said. “I would love for it to be like coming outside a child’s imagination.”

Cinderella will feature Cumberland County native, Mary Mattison, as Cinderella. This is Mattison’s first round back at Cape Fear Regional Theatre since she was a child living in the area. Mattison said she was excited when being cast not just as an ode to her “Disney princess era,” but because she spent a lot of time at CFRT growing up.

“It’s where I discovered my passion and my purpose in life,” she said. “It’s a huge honor to be back.”

This version of Cinderella will be a little different from the Disney cartoon or Brandy’s version from the late 1990s. The story will follow Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella with a cast of 12 children, who will rotate in groups of six between performances, and more than 15 musical numbers. And of course, two princes.

“Even if you think you know the story of Cinderella you’ll be surprised by this one,” said Gabe Belyeu, who plays Prince Sebastian or the villain in the upcoming production. “It's not your traditional Cinderella.”
Belyeu, who is coming back to Cape Fear Regional Theatre for the second time — the first being playing Lord Farquad in Shrek — said he played in a national tour of Cinderella years ago but prefers the version he’s getting to be a part of now.

For Belyeu, this performance explores a lot of themes and challenging ideas. The characters will go through a lot of development right in front of the audience’s eyes.

“We are really leaning into the strength of Cinderella,” said Mattison.

“ … What intrigues me the most is [my character] is more than a high ideal of what male energy is … he doesn’t know the extent of his power is and the extent of what his power can do,” said Sheridan Anetron Marina, who plays Prince Topher in production.

Cinderella will run from Jan. 25th to Feb. 18th and host CFRT’s usual military and teacher appreciation nights. Tickets will range from $19 to $37. The folks at Cape Fear Regional Theatre will also host a Sensory Sunday on Feb. 11th at 2 p.m.

“We work with the Friendship House. We do classes with them over the year. The friends who have been doing our classes will be in the show,” said Ashley Owen, Marketing Director for Cape Fear Regional Theatre.

While often Cinderella is seen as a children’s story, all the actors agreed that this version will have plenty of story and jokes for both children and adults.

“Everyone will get to enjoy it,” said Caruso. “If you loved Oklahoma or The Sound of Music … this will be right up your alley.”

Families looking for some kid-friendly fun in the new year should look no further than Fayetteville’s Historic and Natural Resources District.

This group of Fayetteville Parks and Recreation locations offers a huge mix of fun destinations and programming for the whole family.

The Fayetteville History Museum, at 325 Franklin St., is the hub for history in downtown Fayetteville. From the history enthusiast to families looking for fun, there is something for everyone. Staff operate the museum, museum annex, the Dr. E.E. Smith House and the Massey Hill Mill House. The museum is an educational resource for the Fayetteville-Cumberland County area community.

This winter the Fayetteville History Museum Scavenger Hunt, created in collaboration with the city’s park rangers is titled “Where do they go in the ice and snow?” Clues will be placed around the museum and an answer sheet can be collected from the museum front desk.

Starting Jan. 6th and continuing throughout the month, hunt through the main museum galleries for clues about animals and their winter habitats. This is a self-guided, family-friendly activity and is perfect for children who are eager to learn.

Prizes will be awarded for completed hunts while supplies last. Visit the museum during opening hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Jan. 6th until Jan. 31st. This event is free and open to all.

The fun does not end in Fayetteville’s Historic and Natural Resources District with the Fayetteville History Museum. Clark Park also has a selection of fun programs planned for January.

Clark Park and its Nature Center are part of the Cape Fear River Trail and Moses Mathis “Bicycle Man” playground/trailhead. The area remains a natural woodland and is dedicated to preserving the environment, educating the public on North Carolina’s plants and wildlife and provides the only camping in the area.

Together, these sites form a complex offering hours of enjoyment and education. The Clark Park Nature Center features displays and live animals.

Visitors can picnic overlooking the woods and the highest waterfall in the coastal plain. For those interested in walking or jogging, the park has its own set of unpaved trails, and serves as a trailhead for the paved CFRT.

The CFRT has dedicated mountain biking trails, accessed near the Rivercliff subdivision at the bottom of Eastwood Avenue. Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome on trails as long as pet owners clean up after them.
Towards the end of this month, Clark Park is offering three family-friendly programs.

The Bear Facts is a program that focuses on local bear populations. Many people new to the Fayetteville area are surprised to learn that black bears have always lived here. The community is invited to learn about these big, shy, furry neighbors.

Attendees will learn about their lives, their food, their habitat and what to do in case they ever come across a bear in the wild. This event will be held at the Clark Park Nature Center on Jan. 19 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and is free. Visitors can also plan to attend a Birds of Prey program where they can learn about the different birds of prey that are found around the Fayetteville area.

This learning program will be presented through stories, games and displays. It is suitable for all ages and will take place on Jan. 25 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and is free. Lastly, Clark Park Nature Center is offering a program especially for National Draw a Dinosaur Day.

Attendees will learn about dinosaurs, play with dinosaurs and of course draw a dinosaur! All supplies provided will be courtesy of the park rangers. All that is needed is some creativity. The event is scheduled for Jan. 30 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and is free.

Lake Rim Park offers something for everyone, whether you want to take a stroll on the 1-mile border trail through the wetlands to Bones Creek, play a game of soccer with friends or have a family picnic. The facility boasts an assortment of outdoor amenities, including picnic areas, horseshoe pits, walking trails, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, athletic fields, natural areas and children’s playgrounds
for all to enjoy.

All facilities are open to the public on a first-come, first serve basis unless they are reserved. Like Clark Park, well-behaved, furry family members are welcome to enjoy a walk around the park, but they must be on a leash and under supervision at all times.

For additional information regarding the museum, you can contact local historians at 910-433-1457. For information about the parks and nature programing contact the city park rangers at 910-433-1579. Visitors can also refer to www.fcpr.us for additional Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation information.

The late Davidson economics professor Charles Ratliff was a great teacher who almost led me to a beginning understanding of economics.

Although not accomplishing that objective, he left me with a love of the subject and a long-standing interest in learning more. As a part of this course, Ratliff taught us the history of economic thought.

He used Paul Samuelson’s text, titled simply “Economics,” as our guide. Samuelson, like Ratliff, was a Keynesian, which meant, I think, that when a nation’s economy is struggling, it is a time for the government to pour money into the economy to stimulate activity.

It was, and still is, hard for me to understand how all that works, but I am comforted by the fact that others also have trouble dealing with economic theory.

A few years ago, I tried to get Professor Ratliff to help me understand how these things work. I asked him, “How does the government pouring money into the economy help it grow?”
“Well,” Ratliff said, “that depends on what you mean by money.”

I am still struggling with his response to my query. I thought of it again the other day when I read about the death of another noted Keynesian, Robert M. Solow, the winner in 1987 of the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.

According to his obituary by Robert D. Hershey Jr. and Michael M. Weinstein in the Dec. 21, 2023, edition of The New York Times, “He won the Nobel for his theory that advances in technology, rather than increases in capital and labor, have, been the primary drivers of economic growth in the United States…”

Before Solow set out a different approach, it was generally accepted that economic growth was determined by the growth of capital and labor. But according to his obituary, Solow “could not find data to confirm that common-sense presumption.”

What then determine growth? Entrepreneurs? Geography? Legal institutions? Something else?

Solow told the writers who, years in advance, were preparing his obituary, “I discovered to my great surprise that the main source of growth was not capital investment but technological change.”

What kind of technological change would lead to growth? The telephone? The steam engine? The computer?

The technological change that promises to grow the current economy is, of course, Artificial Intelligence or AI.

Already, AI is taking on tasks that would be impossible or prohibitively expensive if using ordinary research tools.

Given an assignment to write a news article that would include a history of government regulation of atomic energy, for instance, AI. could sort the text of every newspaper report ever written on the topic and select the relevant material. Then, it could instantly assemble a news article that would have taken a reporter hundreds of hours, days, or even years, to research and write.

Recognizing the value of AI’s contribution, there is still a problem. Where does A.I. get the newspaper texts and other necessary information to assemble and write its report? Who, if anyone, must it compensate for the use of these materials?

The New York Times took an important step towards finding an answer to this question last week when it sued A.I. entities, including OpenAI and Microsoft, owners of the popular A.I. program ChatGPT.

The lawsuit accuses the defendants of seeking a free ride on “The Times’s massive investment in its journalism” and alleges that

OpenAI and Microsoft are “using The Times’s content without payment to create products that substitute for The Times and steal audiences away from it.”

However the lawsuit turns out, AI is here to stay.I wish Professor Solow were here to explain how and how much it could increase the nation’s wealth.

Editor’s Note: D.G. Martin, a retired lawyer, served as UNC-System’s vice president for public affairs and hosted PBS-NC’s North Carolina Bookwatch.

It’s the most wonderful time of year. Everything seems possible in January.

Hope springs eternal that this year will be better than the last. But will it? Apply what the eternal optimist T.S. Eliot wrote: “Let us go then, you and I/ When the evening is spread out against the sky/ Like a patient etherized upon a table.”

We have all of 2024 spread out and etherized in front of us just like Eliot’s patient. What could go wrong?

Have you made your New Year’s resolutions? More importantly, have you kept your resolutions? By the time this column appears in mid-January, most New Year’s resolutions will have gone Choctaw Ridge like Billie Joe

MacAllister and jumped into the muddy waters under the Tallahatchie Bridge.

For a more current analogy, most New Year’s resolutions are thrown away like a flute of Champaign tossed by Carolina Panthers owner Dave Tepper onto the heads of Jaguar fans after yet another miserable Panthers loss. Dave imitated Marie Antoinette, who when told the peasants have no bread, responded, “Let them eat cake.”

Dave, when told the Jaguar fans had no more Bud Light, responded by baptizing them saying: “Let them wear Dom Perignon.”

Speaking of baptisms. How about a trial by fryer? 2024 started with a bang with North Carolina making national news with the eye-catching headline “N.C. Pastor arrested after police say he tried to push wife’s coworker into McDonald’s deep fryer.” That is one great headline and a likely precursor to what to expect from 2024.

Let’s get all CSI and go down into the weeds of this wonderful heartwarming tale. According to news reports, a Pastor in High Point, North Carolina became torqued off when his wife reported that she had been disrespected at her job at McDonald’s.

Let us call him Reverend Deepfry. Mrs. Deepfry was training to be a manager at the fast food emporium. Her coworkers allegedly created a hostile work environment by not respecting her authority.
South Park’s Cartman would be sympathetic to her plight. Cartman frequently had problems with people not respecting his authority when he pretended to be a highway patrolman on his tricycle. Fayetteville just had its very own issue with an alleged hostile workplace that cost taxpayers $200,000. But that is another story.

After Mrs. Deepfry explained her situation to her husband, he did what any good Husband and Lord of the Manor would do. He went to her workplace to correct the disrespectful coworker. Reverend Deepfry is alleged to have grabbed the offending coworker and tried to baptize said coworker’s head into the deep fryer.

This restaurant appliance normally contains only frozen French fries instead of a human head. A good head frying clearly would have taught the coworker the error of his ways.

Fortunately for the would-be French fry head, his coworkers did not agree with Reverend Deepfry’s method of atoning for sins. They pulled Reverend Deepfry off before he could cook the head of their coworker. The police report stated coworker “suffered a large contusion to the forehead and right eye, along with scratches on his neck.”

Reverend Deepfry was arrested for misdemeanor assault. McDonald’s reports that Mrs. Deepfry is not employed by the company. This incident is reminiscent of the Sopranos episode in which Artie Bucco, the owner of the Vesuvio restaurant, gets into a ruckus with a gangster over a pretty waitress.

The gangster ends up shoving Artie’s hand into a pot of boiling tomato sauce. Love and cooking, never the twain shall meet.

What are we to make of the Reverend Deepfry incident Does it have theological implications for the coming year? Will this start a cascade of baptisms by fryer? Brown and serve baptisms? A rush on the sale of Ninja air fryers by fast food restaurants to avoid future such incidents? Will Reverend Deepfry be demoted to Fryer Tuckfry me to the moon?

After such a rousing start, 2024 can only get more delightful.

It is an election year which will bring sweetness, light, reasoned discourse, and extensive polite political discourse between you and your friends, neighbors and relatives.

Look forward to a cascade of unbiased political commercials sure to warm the hearts and minds of Americans.

2024 is going to be our Poltergeist Year. They are here — 12 months, plus a Leap Year Day of fun and frolic. A year built on a graveyard of old grudges, new hatreds, and outright kookiness. Fasten your seat belts, it’s gonna be a bumpy night.

What’s that signpost up ahead? You have just crossed over into the Twilight Zone of Years. We’re all gonna need a bigger boat. As Karen Carpenter once sang: “We’ve only just begun." Like Sgt. Phil Esterhaus said in the morning briefings on Hillstreet Blues: “Let’s be careful out there.”

Moving Fayetteville City Council meetings to 2 p.m. instead of 5 p.m. is seen by many Fayetteville residents as another blatant attempt to mask council members' actions from the general public.

Without a doubt, the news media views this as a poor practice for transparency because it limits public participation.

Can you imagine the average citizen asking their employer if they can have the afternoon off to attend an afternoon council meeting?

Without a functional daily newspaper and with no local TV station, it's difficult enough to keep up and stay informed about local governmental decisions.

Now, Mayor Mitch Colvin and five city council members voted to make it even more difficult for taxpayers to attend council meetings by conducting them during the work day, thus hindering accessibility to local elected officials and openness of the decision-making process.

Kudos to council members Mario Benavente, Brenda McNair, Lynne Greene, and Courtney Banks-McLaughlin for defending their constituent's right to know and participate in local government.

These individuals understand the importance of participating in such meetings and how they foster community engagement by discussing local issues, events, and concerns, allowing residents to voice their opinions to their respective representatives.

Transparency in local government is vital to having an efficient, honest government. In addition to local citizens' engagement, an open, transparent government fosters a platform for residents to discuss local issues and concerns and voice opinions. Afternoon 2 p.m. meetings surely stifle those processes.

It's puzzling why our local government doesn't want to encourage citizen input and hear different viewpoints on issues affecting their quality of life.

The 6 to 4 vote to inhibit transparency by moving the city council's planning sessions to 2 p.m. is just one example of our elected officials weaponizing their authority against the citizens of Fayetteville.

We encourage our Up & Coming Weekly readers to be diligent and stay informed on local issues. Subscribe to CityView Today's daily electronic newsletter.

They are doing an excellent job covering both Fayetteville and Cumberland County regularly scheduled meetings. Tune in to WFNC's Talk Radio Show with Bill Murphy every weekday morning on 640 AM on the radio dial.

Murphy has interesting guests every week discussing current and topical local issues.

Of course, please continue to read our community newspaper. Up & Coming Weekly has never been shy about analyzing local issues or voicing an editorial opinion. Honesty is always the best policy!

Thank you for reading Up & Coming Weekly.