Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary musical event presented by the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. Titled "A String Serenade: A Collaboration with Brendan Slocumb," this show promises to be a masterpiece that you won't want to miss.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. The performance takes place at the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra will be teaming up with the incredibly talented violinist, Brendan Slocumb, for a truly mesmerizing collaboration. Together, they will showcase the remarkable skills of 28 of their string musicians, creating an enchanting experience filled with breathtaking melodies.

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to partnering with talented musicians from the local community, and Brendan Slocumb is a prime example.

Slocumb, originally from Fayetteville, started playing the violin at the young age of nine. He pursued a music degree at the University of North Carolina and has since been involved in numerous musical projects.

In addition to performing with the orchestra, Brendan also devotes his time to teaching music to students of various ages, from kindergarten to high school.

The upcoming performance will showcase pieces by celebrated BIPOC composers, including Florence Prince, Jessie Montgomery, and Daniel Bernard Roumain. Anna Myers, the Symphony's Executive Director, discussed the importance of selecting these composers for the concert.

“The term BIPOC stands for Black, Indigenous, Person of Color. We think that it is important to program music by a wide variety of composers so our audience can be exposed to many talented composers,” said Myers.

She went on to highlight another piece that will be performed at the same event.

“One of the featured pieces in the program is Vivaldi’s 'Concerto for Four Violins.' Featured soloists include Brendan Slocumb, FSO Concertmaster, Fabian Lopez; FSO Associate Concertmaster, Megan Kenny; and Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra Concertmaster, Halle Adams. We are very excited to feature these four fantastic musicians on this program.”

The Friendship Missionary Baptist Church on 400 Campbell Ave., will host the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra for the very first time.

The FSO frequently partners with different venues, such as churches, to hold their music performances.
Located in the heart of Downtown Fayetteville, the church offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere for this upcoming concert.

Brendan Slocumb possesses not just musical abilities, but also writing skills. He has authored books such as "The Violin Conspiracy" and "Symphony of Secrets."

On Jan. 20th, he will be available for a book signing event at City Center Gallery & Books at 112 Hay St. from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., preceding the concert.

Stories about Basketball and North Carolina go together like dogwood trees and spring. This year’s fourth annual MLK Dream Jam is one such unfolding story readers will be remiss to miss attending. The MLK Dream Jam will be held Jan. 13 and 15 at the Terry Sanford High School Gymnasium.

Doors open at 11 a.m. both days and all day tickets are $10. Kids under 5 years old are free.

Starting in 2019, the MLK Dream Jam is a Fayetteville-held basketball tournament between public and private schools throughout the city. With bragging rights, pride and opportunities for exposure on the line, high school students from public schools are matched against fellow athletes from their private school contemporaries in a yearly tournament to display their talent, skill and abilities on the court. Not only is it an opportunity to settle personal beliefs of which team is better, but it also stands as a chance to impress scouts from more prestigious organizations such as those in The National Collegiate Athletic Association.

Karl Molnar, former coach and partial founder of the event, is a key player behind the realization of this idea. From coaching Terry Sanford basketball to setting up job training for students with learning disabilities and special needs at local schools, Molnar has expressed his passion for opening up paths and opportunities for the youth of today and the generations to come. Speaking on the purpose behind the MLK Dream Jam, Molnar stated,

“It’s to get these kids the opportunities they deserve. It allows the entire basketball community to come together as a whole and compete together. One big issue that comes up while coaching is the constant fluctuation of players. Kids change teams and go to others for better opportunities. So with this, those kids still get to play together and compete with one another once a year for those bragging rights. It’s to bring the local basketball community together and shine a spotlight on our local players.”

Originally designed as a fundraiser for Terry Sanford sports, the event has since evolved to become the budding community staple it is today. This year, the leading role has been passed from Molnar to head coach of the Terry Sanford girls’ basketball team, Chris Goodman. Goodman has worked alongside Molnar since the tournament’s inception and has had a hands-on role in the development of the organizational methods, networking, and event direction. Together, with their passion and genuine care for the players, Molnar and Goodman have gone above and beyond in crafting one of the most exciting sports experiences in North Carolina.

“When it started, I’d hope it’d be a community event everyone looks forward to. In 10 years, we’d be packed with coaches, people, and players. We did that the first year!” said Molnar about his vision for the future of the event.

“My favorite memory of the event happens every year, honestly, but it was most impactful the first time. As I was watching the games, realizing that there was only standing room at that moment, that the place was filled to the brim with people. It was surreal," said Molnar.

The MLK Dream Jam’s fourth year positions itself to be one with intense competition. With both private and public schools reaching for glory, the competition between local schools will be fierce.

Normally, private and public school teams do not play each other in the regular season as they are not in the same competitive circuit. However, as any competitor knows, this arbitrary barrier does not stop rivalries, connections, and friendships from being made between players on both sides of the education system.

Many players hop from team to team with the aim of placing themselves in a position to take advantage of the tools and opportunities their new team’s organization might offer to them. This regular migration of players, while posing a challenge to coaching staff and tournament organizers, is one of the exact reasons for the event and part of the thought process that goes behind creating the event’s tournament bracket.

“Molnar had a vision of bringing all the Cumberland County school teams together under one roof, public and private.” Goodman said. “We consider things like each individual player’s history, their connections with other teams and players, and their abilities. Things like ‘Is there a player that used to play at the opposing school?’ ‘Do these players have friends on the other team they normally wouldn’t get to play against?’ We also like to consider the physicality of the teams so as to better pair them with their opponents so that the game is fair, competitive, and fun for everyone to watch,” continued Goodman.

However, an event of this caliber isn’t easy to organize. Goodman talked about the communication with the local coaches and how they are largely focused on the regular season for their teams rather than a local tournament for bragging rights.

As previously mentioned, issues with communication is only one aspect of the difficulties dealt with when developing the tournament’s bracket. The process from start to finish is one of continuous communication with the basketball community, negotiating with event sponsors, reserving the basketball courts for the tournament and personal dedication from the tournament’s organizers and helpers.

All that effort, time, and devotion to the love of the game of basketball pays off, however. Each year, fans, coaches and community members are treated to a high-energy tournament fueled by the drive and determination of those on the court.

Goodman mentioned that we should be keeping an eye out for the number one ranked female high-school basketball player in the country, Sarah Strong. Playing for Grace Christian School in Sanford, Strong has helped lead her team to a dominating 15 – 0 record this season as a forward on the girls’ varsity basketball team.

“I’m looking forward to the competitiveness. This year, I think the private schools are stronger, but the public schools always play with a bit more heart,” said Goodman.

When it comes to supporting the next generation, youth sports, and the local community, the team behind the MLK Dream Jam are helping lead the charge towards more sustainable avenues facilitating success and prosperity for the children and young adults of society in Cumberland County.

The Dream Jam will be held in the Terry Sanford Gym. Parking can be found in the school lot or along Ft. Bragg Rd. Refreshments will be available to purchase from Rocket Fizz.

I often wonder how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. would feel about the current state of affairs in 2024.
He embodied a strong determination for equality, justice and truth, and there is still much work to be done.

His legacy is still with us today and that is why The Fayetteville Cumberland County Ministerial Council Inc. presents the 31st Annual MLK “Embracing the New” Worship Service on Sunday, Jan. 14 at 5 p.m. at Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church.

“I am a preacher’s kid, husband, father, follower of Jesus Christ and educator for 17 years,” said
Dr. Lindsay Whitley, associate minister of Revival Temple Church of God in Christ and guest preacher of the MLK worship service. “I am just thrilled about this opportunity to bring a message to our community.”

Whitley hails from Little Washington, North Carolina with deep spiritual roots. At the tender age of 12, he moved to Montgomery County in Troy, North Carolina where his father became a pastor. He graduated from UNC Charlotte and moved back to Montgomery County where he has served in numerous positions in various school systems.

He currently serves as the Associate Superintendent of Communications and Community Engagement for Cumberland County Schools.

Being a preacher’s kid, the church has always been a second home to Whitley and he learned about God at a very early age.

“I knew that there was a God when I was in my mother’s womb,” said Whitley. “My parents taught me about God, how to know Him and how to serve Him for myself.”

November 2011 was when the faith leader accepted his calling to the ministry. Some would say that he was hesitant at first, but he wanted to be sure.

On the cusp of a faithful new endeavor, the anointed missionary forged ahead with the mission of being the hands and feet of Jesus which means to give back and serve our communities. Some examples entail providing food to the hungry, resources for addiction, medical care, spiritual counseling and more.

Great pastors strive for excellence every Sunday morning especially when it comes to preparing a fervent sermon that teaches the whole counsel of God’s word.

“I prepare my sermons by praying and I always think about what God would want me to say,” said Whitley.

“I study, meditate on the word of God and deliver what God would like for me to say to that particular audience.”

The venerated minister has many spiritual role models but his closest spiritual exemplars are his parents, Paul Whitley, Sr. and Joycetine Whitley.

“I saw them when things were going well and saw them during the lowest points of their lives,” said Whitley. “They still lived honorable lives and did everything in life to glorify God.”

He added, “It was about the model and example of not just acting a certain way in front of people, but actually being saved for real and having a relationship with God for real.”

Ministry has its challenges, and for Whitley, those challenges boil down to seeing so many people who are hurting.

“You see people where they are, but you are able to see their potential,” said Whitley. “It is about being able to lead people, empathize with them, pray for them and not carry that load internally.”

When asked what prayer has he been praying the longest, the kingdom shaker stated, “I have been praying for our youth and young people,” said Whitley.

“I see that once they arrive at adulthood they sometimes take a different path than the things that they were taught.”

Whitley added, “They get sidetracked with things in life that are not really productive to their success and my prayer is that they will be saved and get to know Jesus.”

The Christian motivator’s ultimate goal is to be a wonderful husband, father and to make a greater difference in people’s lives. He is grateful for being chosen to deliver a rousing sermon that will stir the audience.

“I am extremely thankful for the opportunity that Pastor Sharon Thompson-Journigan and the FCCMC have given me to speak at the 31st Annual MLK Worship Service,” said Whitley. “It is going to be a night of hope, renewal and coming together to lift up Jesus Christ.”

The Fayetteville Cumberland County Ministerial Council is a 501(C)3 organization. All donations are tax deductible and can be sent to PO Box 40802, Fayetteville, NC 28304 or CASHAPP $FCCMC28304

Brace yourself for a night of thrills and intense competition as two rival university teams plan for a showdown at Cleland Ice Rink at Fort Liberty.

Comprised of skilled and experienced graduate and undergraduate students, The George Washington University Men’s Ice Hockey team prepares to grace Cleland with their third game of 2024. The GW team was named the 2023 ACCHL Fall Classic winner. The challenger, the High Point University Hockey Panthers, have been training hard to battle against the GW team in the new year. Fueled by years of competition, both teams from the up-and-coming AAU college hockey league are biting at the bit to face off once again in a must-watch event.

Held at 1606 Rock Merritt Ave. at Fort Liberty, Cleland Ice Rink opens their doors to passionate fans of Hockey often, holding frequent events for the Marksmen and plenty of other hockey teams from N.C.

Cleland is also home to the Airborne Ice Skating Team, Cape Fear Youth Hockey, and Camp Patriot, Cleland’s main hockey team outside of youth hockey. As well as starting an adult hockey program in the coming weeks, Cleland offers open hockey times for youth and adults respectively.

Although on the Fort Liberty military installation, Cleland invites civilians and military personnel alike to join in on such an exciting event. Join fans, students, alumni, and hockey enthusiasts on Jan. 26, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. for only $5. Food and drinks are available to be purchased in the front office.

Cleland’s assistant manager Delaney says, “We treat everyone who enters this rink like they are family to us and I think that creates a very welcoming environment not commonly seen at hockey games.”

“I’ve been coming to Cleland practically my whole life. My family has been stationed at Liberty quite a few times and I played hockey and figure skated here until I moved,” she added.

Delaney’s love for Cleland is shared by many visitors, skaters, and families involved in the rink.

She offers great advice for those new to Fort Liberty, “Look at the criteria to get on base and plan ahead. Give yourself a 15-20 minute window to get through the gate and find the rink. If it’s your first time getting on post, don’t forget to get a visitor’s pass at the main gate."

Celebrate the new year with a charged and exciting event that your whole family can enjoy. With both sides bringing a rich history of success, these hockey powerhouses will certainly have fans on the edge of their seats. Both the George Washington University Men’s hockey team and the High Point University Men’s hockey team invite you to watch and enjoy their upcoming clash.

Don’t miss out on this chance to witness an exciting face-off at Fort Liberty’s beloved rink. For ticket purchase and more information visit https://liberty.armymwr.com or contact 910-396-5127.

Emergency responders were dispatched at 1:53 p.m. on Jan 4. to respond to a gas leak near Bragg Boulevard and Bargain Street. The gas led to evacuations and road closures.

The 12-inch gas line, maintained by Piedmont Natural Gas, was hit by a North Carolina Department of Transportation subcontractor.

“A subcontractor working for the general contractor Barnhill struck a natural gas line along Bragg Blvd. while doing work for a contract awarded by the NCDOT last year,” said Andrew Barksdale with the NCDOT.

Roads impacted because of the leak were Bragg Boulevard from Swain Street to Sycamore Dairy Road and Sycamore Dairy Road from Bragg Boulevard to Legend Avenue. Motorists were advised to avoid the area.

As of now, Bragg Boulevard from Swain Street to Sycamore Dairy Road will remain closed possibly until midnight. Sycamore Dairy Road has been reopened.

People from local businesses and residents were evacuated from the area.

Fayetteville Area System of Transit assisted with the evacuation efforts, transporting people to Westover Recreation Center. Cumberland County, American Red Cross and Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation worked together to set up an overnight shelter for those who were impacted by the leak.

“We want to ensure Fayetteville residents have a safe and secure community,” said Fayetteville spokesman Loren Bymer.

“This collaborative effort between the Fayetteville Police and Fire Departments alongside the Red Cross and Cumberland County exemplifies what it means to be a ‘Can Do’ city.”

The evacuation order was lifted at approximately 1:30 p.m. in the area after the Fayetteville Fire Department conducted air monitoring.

Piedmont Natural Gas stopped the leak at 11:52 p.m. on Jan. 5.

In today’s article, I am going to give you all the basics you need to know about purchasing a home. In later articles, I will go into more detail about each factor.

The first question you should ask yourself is should you buy a home? There are several important considerations.

I know interest rates are going up and may be as high as 8% but remember rent is 100% interest. Also consider these factors:

1. You can do anything you want with the property

2. Appreciation benefits, including leverage of cash invested

Owning a home is an investment many people can understand better than buying stocks because they get the tangible daily lifestyle benefit of living in the home. However, the financial benefits are also significant and can be more substantial than stock investing.

As a home appreciates, it accrues faster than a stock might because you get the appreciation on the entire home’s value, not just the gain of your down payment cash invested. And, if you sell the house, you’d be exempt from paying any taxes on that money gained.

3. Tax benefits

The significant savings from tax benefits can often make owning the same as, or cheaper than, renting.

4. Mortgage costs stay the same as rents rise

5. Forced savings

“Over time homeowners build a net worth about 40 times higher than that of a renter.”

Knowing that owning a home is better in the long run than renting still means you have to find the right home! When looking for a home, it is best if you understand the kind of real estate market you are in. The first factor in a market is Supply and Demand. Most real estate markets are influenced primarily by job growth. However, our market is unique. We have relatively very low job growth which should make us a very stagnant market. But Fort Liberty, which at times does grow, always moves soldiers in and out of the market. On average Fort Liberty creates about 5,000 house sales each year. That is 10,000 transaction sides (5k buyer sides and 5k seller sides).

Quick market review of where we are today:

Our Existing market (homes that are not new construction) is still under-supplied up to $500,000. This means more buyers are looking for existing homes than there are homes for sale under $500k.
New Construction 2023 will be the second-highest-selling year in eight years. New Construction is not as under-supplied as existing is, but is approaching a balanced market. That means the right number of new homes is being produced for the right amount of buyers.

The big challenges to New Construction are the cost of land, land, materials and labor

So, if you are going to buy in our market, how are you going to make a safe and wise purchase?

What are the factors that make a home valuable?

For instance, just because existing construction is undersupplied up to $500,000 does not mean I can sell my home at $500,000.

What does the buying market think of my location?

What does the buying market think of my Neighborhood design?

What does the buying market think of my House design and features?

Knowing what makes for a good location, a good neighborhood design and a good house plan will enable you to purchase a home that your family will enjoy. It is a safe and wise purchase that can be sold in the future and build your wealth.

Next time we will discuss what makes a good location, a good neighborhood design and a good house plan.

It has been my habit to go to sleep in one year and wake up in the next, and I did just that as 2023 transitioned into 2024. It feels fresh and clean to find oneself not only in a new day but with an entirely new year stretching out before us. But I have questions, many questions, and more than a little trepidation for 2024.

The elephant smack in the middle of 2024’s living room is the coming election cycle, with offices up for grabs from President of the United States to Cumberland County Register of Deeds. I feel safe saying there are precious few Americans of any political stripe looking forward to the major races.

The Presidential contest is shaping up to be a rematch between two wildly unpopular candidates, one preoccupied with the 91 felony charges facing him, and the other struggling to convince voters he has done a good job. “Mud” is not a strong enough word to describe what awaits us in the Presidential race.

Closer to home, the N.C. Governor’s race also looks like a doozy, likely pitting a former state Senator and two-term Attorney General against our current Lieutenant Governor, who speaks with fire but has not a hint of executive experience. This one, too, is not going to be pretty for all sorts of reasons.

While politics will dominate 2024, our daily lives are impacted by other factors, some of which matter a great deal to some of us and others that affect us not at all.

The North Carolina General Assembly, like most state legislatures, enacted new laws that take effect at the first of the year, and here are several that may be of interest.

More and more of us now drive electric vehicles or aspire to do so, and the cost of doing so is going up. State registration fees for EVs rose from $140 to $180 with the new year and will increase to $215 in July. The higher fees are because EV owners do not pay gasoline taxes to support road maintenance, so the legislature is trying to make up for that.

To no one’s surprise, the General Assembly continued its efforts to restrict voting by enacting additional changes in election laws in 2023. Remember to take your ID to the polls this year, and if you are registering to vote in North Carolina or want to cast an absentee ballot, be sure to check 2024’s stiffer requirements.

And, in its wisdom, the General Assembly also loosened the regulations for teenaged drivers to become licensed. It remains to be seen whether this was a good idea, but various highway safety organizations opposed the changes.

In our own community, a veteran local journalist recently posed this question to me. Now that Congress and the US Department of Defense have rechristened Fort Bragg, originally named in honor of a Confederate general, to Fort Liberty, should Bragg Boulevard and Fort Bragg Road also be renamed?

Could we? Will we? What on earth would we name them?

And finally, preoccupied as we now seem to be with celebrity at all levels, what about Taylor Swift? Will she stay with her current football star boyfriend or will she go her merry way, telling us all about it in song?

Welcome to 2024! Fingers crossed that it will be healthy and happy for all of us, and stay tuned!

The 2024 Polar Plunge for Special Olympics goes beyond the excitement and thrill of freezing water. Individuals, organizations and businesses alike brave ice-cold temperatures with a shared goal: to support Special Olympics Cumberland County athletes with participation and fundraising.

The joint effort from participants to overcome the frigid waters mirrors the challenges often faced by athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Held at the Lake Rim Aquatic Center at 2265 Tar Kiln Dr. on Jan. 20, from noon to 1:00 p.m., the Special Olympics of NC invites plungers, volunteers and sponsors to join them for this thrilling event. The Special Olympics of NC hopes to crush their goal of raising $2,000 with the help of their plungers.

The Special Olympics is a global movement to create a new world of inclusion, empowering youth and adults with disabilities through the joy of sports.

Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, this organization has grown into not only a nationwide but a worldwide organization that has touched the lives of millions. The Special Olympics spans over one hundred ninety countries and supports over 5 million athletes, coaches, and volunteers with thirty-two Olympic-type sports.

The Special Olympics holds campaigns and fundraisers year-round, partnering with Publix for in-store icon fundraising. This movement branches outside of playing sports, working towards inclusion, and respect for those of all abilities. Athletes involved in the program build self-esteem and confidence, create long-lasting friendships, and give them an outlet to express themselves.

According to their official website, they ask that you help, “Advocate for a more inclusive community for people with intellectual disabilities by taking part in one of the many opportunities to make a difference!”
Spread the word through a pledge for inclusion, “I pledge to look for the lonely, the isolated, the left out, the challenged and the bullied. I pledge to overcome the fear of difference and replace it with the power of inclusion.” Their pledge reminds us just how much the Special Olympics cares for each and every life they’ve touched and how they’ll continue to do so for as long as they can.

Not only is this event an incredible opportunity to give back to the community, but it’s also wonderful for plungers’ health. Polar plunges promote circulation and decrease inflammation all while having the potential to improve your immunity and boost your mood.

Studies show that an ice-cold dunk can ward off depression and if utilized consistently can lower blood pressure and heart rate. Others use ice plunges for pain relief and the huge rush of endorphins it provides.

Polar plunges are often organized as fundraisers for various causes, so those who love the thrill of leaping into the cold can do so for charitable causes year-round.

2024’s Polar Plunge isn’t the only way to support the Special Olympics. Along with their Publix campaigns, monthly donation programs, and company partnerships, The North Carolina Special Olympics offers opportunities to donate vehicles, sponsor athletes, and volunteer. There’s no time like the present; join the Polar Plunge event today.

For more information and to register, visit give.specialolympicsnc.com, their Morrisville headquarters, or contact 919-719-7662.

For great tips on building and growing business, join Roza Wright and Zaakira Troyer at their Vision Board Brunch on Jan. 14, from noon to 5 p.m., at Diamond Venue on 328 Gillespie St. The brunch will be a fun way to connect with local business owners and get impactful information to start or advance business.
Roza Wright started her company, Roza’s Catering, ten years ago. Born in New York to hardworking immigrant parents from Haiti, her story resonates with determination, resilience and the pursuit of a better future.

“Life has not been easy for me. My witnessing my parents’ relentless work ethic as a child instilled in me an unwavering drive for success. However, the passing of my father, who had worked tirelessly without reaping the fruits of his labor, ignited a fire within me. From that day, I promised myself I would equip my children with the necessary tools for their success. Not wanting to do the traditional 9-5 … that commitment fueled my entrepreneurial spirit and paved the way for the birth of my own business,” Wright explained.

Through years of trials and triumphs, Wright learned invaluable lessons about building a successful business and overcoming obstacles. She is passionate about sharing all she discovered by providing webinars that have impactful tips on growing and sustaining a successful business.

Zaakira Troyer knows what it takes to succeed in business. She built a thriving real estate business with her husband, accumulating rental properties and flipping houses for impressive earnings. But her entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. In 2023, Zaakira launched Dream Girl Society as a way to share her insight into entrepreneurship and empower women to have more. Whether it's financial independence, work-life balance, or simply creating the life of your dreams, Dream Girl Society is here to guide you every step of the way.

“I received a phone call from Roza asking me to host a brunch and how beautiful it would be, and she then invited me to be the main speaker. I was so surprised because this was literally something I desired and had on my vision board! Of course, I said yes, and we got to work. We are super excited about our Vision Board Brunch as it is a beautiful manifestation for both of us. I can’t wait to share my unique way of making vision boards that actually come true, and connecting with like-minded creative and ambitious women,” Troyer shares.

Wright and Troyer want to share their journey. They believe that success should be accessible to all who dare to dream. No matter the background or circumstances, everyone has the power within themselves to create their own path toward prosperity. This is sure to be an empowering event not to miss.

Writing down dreams and goals on a vision board will help to see them manifest. A limited amount of space is provided to vendors to get their products noticed, connect with other entrepreneurs, and gain insight into how to grow their businesses.

“We are super excited about our Vision Board Brunch, as it is a beautiful manifestation for both of us! I can’t wait to share my unique way of making vision boards that come true and connecting with like-minded, creative, and ambitious women,” Troyer added.

Enjoy music, drinks, food, and gift bags.

To purchase tickets for this exciting event, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/see-into-your-future-vision-board-brunch-tickets-717908703257 or by calling 910-581-7941.

There is no doubt that WFNC's radio history has played an essential role in the lives of tens of thousands of Fayetteville and Cumberland County residents since 1940.

Founded by John Gilmer Dawson and managed by his son Victor Dawson and his family under the flagship brand, Cape Fear Broadcasting, WFNC proudly and continually served the Fayetteville community until it was purchased by Cumulus Broadcasting in 1999.

To this day, WFNC remains the "go-to" airwaves media source for news, views, and information impacting the community.

As WFNC 640 AM radio station enters its 83rd year, it debuts a new and refreshing radio personality that reflects the high media standards, integrity, and tradition the Dawson family initially bestowed on the community.

They hired radio personality Bill Murphy to replace the retiring Jeff (Goldy) Goldberg, which marked the end of a confusing eighteen-year, oxymoronic Liberal agenda that anchored an otherwise traditional conservative radio station. Murphy understands the vital role of media and professional Talk Radio in a community.

He invited me on his show last week in a bold step, ending Up & Coming Weekly newspaper's five-year banishment imposed by Goldberg. Here, I experienced Murphy's style, and his pleasant, jovial, nonjudgemental personality. After listening to his interviews with Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin, political pundit George Breece, and Hope Mills Police Chief Stephen Bollinger, it was refreshing to sense the impact and positive influence he will have on all facets of our community.

Murphy is conservative by nature, but his professional demeanor and news media experience will ensure fair, honest, and balanced reporting on important issues, programs, events, and organizations in the Fayetteville and Cumberland County communities.

No one can be more pleased with Murphy's entry into our media market than we are. Local Talk Radio, when appropriately executed, aligns itself with the same media principles as local community newspapers like Up & Coming Weekly.

And, without a local TV station and a scarce and sporadic daily newspaper, these media principles and values become even more critical.

More specifically, Talk Radio and local community newspapers engage the residents. They foster involvement by accentuating, examining, and showcasing local events, issues, and concerns.

For both, information access is essential. Residents are encouraged to voice opinions and share their views about local news, issues, and community events. This fosters diverse perspectives while encouraging critical thinking and understanding viewpoints on critical issues affecting Fayetteville and Cumberland County.

U&CW newspaper and WFNC provide a platform for promoting arts and culture venues that accentuate our local talent, traditions, and quality of life. This also defines Fayetteville's brand creating a sense of identity and pride among community members in all nine Cumberland County municipalities, including Fort Liberty.

So, we welcome Bill Murphy to the Fayetteville community and wish him well. We encourage our U&CW readers to tune in to WFNC 640 AM to Murphy's GOOD MORNING FAYETTEVILLE Show on air from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., Monday through Friday. He can be reached at 910-864-6400, or *640 on your cell phone, if you have an idea or significant event you would like to promote.

Thank you for reading the Up & Coming Weekly Community Newspaper.

Massey Hills Lions Club’s signature event is no ordinary Golden Corral buffet. The Shucking for Sight Oyster Roast has been steadily going on for over a half-century, attracting visitors from all over the nation.

The event will occur on Saturday, Jan. 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 1613 Camden Road, Fayetteville.

Oyster season is popular in North Carolina, which starts in October and runs through March. Event Coordinator Michael McCaskill is proud to share that the oyster roast is one of the oldest and largest one-day oyster events in the state of North Carolina.

The Massey Hill Lions Club has served the Fayetteville community for over 65 years. One of the club’s primary functions is to serve people with eye problems.

The club helps with screenings, eye exams and glasses, with helping restore their sight, and with purchasing an eye dog, McCaskill shared. According to the club’s website, the Lions Club also hosts other noteworthy events: local homeless feedings, an annual golf tournament, a senior legion baseball team and community/club clean-up.

The Massey Hill Lions Club is looking to draw a large crowd.

“Last year, we sold 560 tickets. This year, we’re trying to expand things, selling 750 tickets. We increased the size of the tents to accommodate folks and give them a little more elbow room,” McCaskill states.

This all-you-can-eat event will leave not only bellies full of steamy oysters but also hearts full of joy in this family reunion-like environment. McCaskill, who describes the event as family camaraderie, shared that it is an atmosphere where guests can be reacquainted with one another and make new friends.

“Generations of people have continued to come back for 51 years to participate in this event. They’re not only like having a good time, but bringing a community spirit,” he said to Up and Coming Weekly.

Steaming the oysters is a process. The oysters are unloaded off the truck, cleaned, steamed, placed in the basket, delivered once done, and dumped on the table for guests to feast on. Guests can stand while eating. The event will also have chairs to accommodate guests who choose to sit and eat.

“We will keep bringing the buckets to the tables until they tell us
to stop,” he stated.

Buckets of tongs and other tools will be on deck for guests to crack open the shells. Just the joy of the gathering makes McCaskill’s heart smile. He shared that he enjoys watching guests come for this celebratory feast, jokingly referring to them as professional oyster eaters.

In addition, the Lions Club will provide butter, sausages, hushpuppies, tea, and water to enjoy with their oysters.

“If they leave hungry, it’s their fault because we feed them oysters as long as they want to eat,” McCaskill said jokingly.

The best part of this event is the deeply rooted community connection, with generations of guests continuing to support and participate in the event. “The Massey Hill community in general, has always been close-knit. Many families, including my own and many of the other members’ families, grew up in the Massey Hill area and worked at the mills that used to be prevalent throughout that area,” McCaskill said.

Oysters may be broken, but the lifelong legacy of this event, now 51 years strong, is an unbreakable and continuous bond.

Ticket Information

Tickets are advanced ticket sales only (no door ticket sales) and cost $50 per person. Don’t wait until the last minute! Please get your tickets soon before they sell out.

There are many ways to purchase tickets. Tickets can be purchased from any Lions Club Member by visiting the Massey Hill Lions Club on Saturday, Jan. 13th, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., by email at masseyhillionsclub@gmail.com, or at the following site locations: Massey Hill Drug Store at 1072 Southern Avenue; and Classic Coiffures at 3710 Morganton Road. Interested sponsors can also contact the Massey Hill Lions Club if interested in sponsorship.

Kids in kindergarten through 3rd grade will enjoy a sweet and educational program at Sweet Factory’s event Sweet Currency Extravaganza on Jan. 20th from noon to 2 p.m. The Sweet Factory is located at 2733 Freedom Parkway Drive, Suite 6.

The event is where Kanitra Blount, co-owner of the Sweet Factory, will partner with Crystal McLean, an author with a career in finances, to promote healthy financial advice to children.

At the event, the children will hear McLean read her book, "No,No, Sonny, Save That Money!"
Afterward, they will do an activity in the craft corner inside the establishment that coincides with the book.

“Financial literacy is my passion,” McLean said. She said it is one of her daily pursuits.

“I understand a lot of children are not learning this topic at home or school,” she said. She added that school curriculum does not provide an opportunity to learn it until late high school years.
Young and impressionable

McLean said this event makes money fun for the young and impressionable.

“It’ll begin to take away the dread society puts on finances and give them a strong foundation without the fear of managing money,” McLean said.

Blount added on, “I started Sweet Factory to teach my children the business aspect of life and teach them money management,” she said.

She said she thinks this is a great opportunity to share with the community.

“Literacy is not always fun for some students,” McLean said. “This gives a shift to learning. They get the chance to listen to someone read to them and at the same time get the opportunity to apply the concepts taught in the book in a fun way.”

One of the pillars of Sweet Factory is creativity.

The crafts corner inside the business hosts creative activities monthly. This event’s activity has not been determined.

Both of McLean’s books will be available for purchase.

“Harmoney and the Empty Piggy Bank” was McLean’s first book. She wrote it to teach her daughter money lessons.

She wrote it after she went to Barnes and Noble and couldn’t find a finance book for her daughter’s age range or anything fun enough.

She said the Lord laid it in her heart to write the book since she couldn’t find what she was looking for.
Then, once it became popular, she noticed the need for a younger set of kids who were impressionable and eager to learn about money.

That’s when she came up with the Dr. Seuss-esque book, “No, No, Sonny, Save That Money!” This will be read at the event.

The two are thrilled to have each other as partners for this event.

“Sweet Factory being in our community is more than just candy,” McLean said. She said it is a family environment where the children can get knowledge too.

Scholarships are a form of financial aid awarded to students to pay for education. Unlike loans, scholarships do not have to be paid back. Scholarships are usually awarded based on academic merit or other achievement or financial need. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when applying for scholarships.

• First, make sure you have a current Free Application for Federal Student Aid on file with your school’s Financial Aid office. Students aged 24 and younger will need their parents’ income tax return information to complete the application.

Applications can be completed online. Most scholarships require students to have a FAFSA on file whether or not the student is eligible for grants and/or loans. Some scholarships are specifically need-based. A current FAFSA helps determine a student’s financial need.

• Every school has a specific time period to apply for scholarships. Make sure you pay attention to application deadlines and know when the scholarships are available. For example, scholarships applied for during the spring semester will be applied to student accounts the following Fall and Spring semesters.

• Check the scholarship criteria of the scholarships you apply for. Make sure you meet the GPA requirement, credit hour requirement, program of study
requirement, etc.

If you do not meet/maintain the criteria, your scholarship offer may be rescinded.

• Most schools have some type of requirement, for example, writing a thank you letter to the donor, for students to accept the scholarship and the funds be applied to the student’s account.
Make sure you pay attention to deadlines for submitting required information. Not following through on required actions may cause your scholarship offer to be rescinded.

• Unless noted otherwise, most scholarship funds are applied directly to the student’s account and most scholarships are divided equally between Fall and Spring semesters.

• If a scholarship application requires any type of essay response, make sure you pay attention to the details. Spelling, punctuation, and grammar are important.

Be sure to give a complete response to each question. Scholarship applications are usually reviewed numerous times by different reviewers.

Your responses to essay questions are the chance for you to shine and make yourself stand out from the rest of the applicants.

Are You Ready to Learn More? Contact us today.

Wana Navu Kava Bar, situated at 500 N. Reilly Road, is celebrating their one-year anniversary.
This unique establishment, owned by Casey and Chole Benhaim, stands out from typical bars due to its emphasis on kava. Kava forms the core ingredient of most of their beverages. To gain a deeper understanding of kava, we spoke with owner Chole.

“Kava is a plant. The roots of the kava plant are ground up, strained, mixed with water and consumed for ceremonial and recreational purposes. Kava is found in the South Pacific islands including Fiji, Vanuatu and Hawaii.”

In the past, Pacific Islander communities would typically crush, chew and grind the root and stump of the shrub. They would then soak it in cold water, creating a beverage that was used during ceremonies and cultural practices. These rituals were believed to enhance the connections between different groups, reaffirm social standing, and facilitate communication with spirits.

“We offer kava, freshly strained, on draft and mocktails, a variety of botanical elixirs and locally sourced kombucha, coffee and tea. Our drinks are crafted with care, using only the freshest ingredients. We offer a variety of all-natural, non-alcoholic beverages made from the earth to help you relax and rejuvenate” Chole went on to say.

The Benhaims are convinced that their success over the past year can be attributed to their distinctive menu and philosophy.

They firmly believe that the combination of these factors has set them apart from their competitors.

“Our philosophy is to be an establishment that allows people to come in and relax, socialize, and access an alternative to alcohol. We're the only establishment in Fayetteville that offers an alternative to alcohol and still has a ‘bar’ feel plus we have many weekly/monthly events for kids and adults alike.”

Wana Navu is also grateful for the tremendous support shown by the residents of Fayetteville over the past year.

“We're amazed at how accepting Fayetteville has been! We have been welcomed with open arms and we love that we're able to provide an environment that allows people to “party like it's 1999” without alcohol!”
In celebration of their first year, they will be hosting an anniversary celebration on the 13th of January.

Experience unlimited kava for just $10 throughout the entire day, accompanied by live music from 2 p.m. until midnight.

Indulge in delicious food, engage in fun games, and enjoy a discount of $2 on specialty drinks.

For political journalists, a standard tool of the trade is the New Year prediction column. Especially when the date is an even number, signifying the start of a presidential or midterm election cycle, pundits typically offer up a series of forecasts about who will win, who will lose, and whom the losers will blame.

Who’ll take credit for the wins? The victorious candidates, of course! That’s no prediction. That’s a metaphysical certitude.

On first impression, such columns may seem awfully risky. After all, pundits possess no great superhuman insight that other folks lack. We inevitably get some predictions wrong. Often, many are wrong. Doesn’t that ruin our credibility?

Nah. Let’s face it: most of us have little credibility to risk. Readers enjoy prediction columns even though they recognize columnists are far from prescient. And columnists enjoy writing them even though they recognize some readers (not most, thank goodness) will actually remember the predictions.

As we enter the 2024 election cycle — try not to shudder when you read that, I dare you — I’ve decided not to predict the future. I’m going to do something else, something surprising, perhaps even transgressive. I’m going to predict the past.

Or, more to the point, I’m going to predict some 2024 events that I know are going to occur, because they will be commemorations of important events in the history of America in general and North Carolina in particular.

I refer to the approaching semiquincentennial of our country’s birth as an independent republic. On July 2, 1776, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution declaring 13 of Britain’s North American colonies to be “free and independent states.” Two days later, on July 4, delegates to the Congress approved (and perhaps signed) the formal Declaration of Independence as we know it today.

The celebration of America’s 250th birthday won’t start in 2026, however. It’s already begun. Last month, there were commemorations in Massachusetts and elsewhere of the semiquincentennial of the Boston Tea Party, which occurred on December 16, 1773. Over the course of the ensuing year, outraged patriots across the colonies took a number of additional steps toward a decisive break with Britain:

• On July 18, 1774, Virginia leaders George Washington and George Mason presented a document at the Fairfax County Courthouse. Their “Fairfax Resolves” challenged British abuses of colonists’ rights and called for the convening of a Continental Congress to discuss how to respond.

• Other colonies took up the cause. On August 25, delegates representing 44 counties and towns met in New Bern as North Carolina’s first Provincial Congress. While affirming their loyalty to King George III, the North Carolina leaders declared that “any act of Parliament imposing a tax is illegal and unconstitutional,” and that “our Provincial Assemblies, the King by his governors constituting one branch thereof, solely and exclusively possess that right.”

• On September 5, 1774, the first Continental Congress began its proceedings in Philadelphia. North Carolina’s three delegates were Joseph Hewes and William Hooper, both of whom signed the Declaration of Independence two years later, and Richard Caswell, who became our state’s first governor.

• On October 25, 1774, Penelope Barker organized a protest in Edenton. Fifty-one women met to declare their opposition to “taxation without representation” and pledged not to purchase British imports of tea and cloth. “It is a duty that we owe not only to our near and dear connections,” they stated, “but to ourselves.”

The town’s historical commission has embarked on a yearlong commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Edenton Tea Party. The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is coordinating a broader effort, in conjunction with the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, to recognize key North Carolina contributions to the fight for independence. Private initiatives such as the American Enterprise Institute’s We Hold These Truths project will focus additional attention on the founding principles of our country.

I’m looking forward to the celebration — and to the address President Haley will deliver in Philadelphia, on July 4, 2026.

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).

The new year is bringing in new business to Fayetteville including a natural hair care salon, Veronica Serenity Beauty Studio. Located at 402 Santa Fe Drive, inside the Montra Sharadae Spa and Business Suites, the studio's ribbon cutting is set for Jan. 6th at 3 p.m. The grand opening will introduce current and potential clients to the new space, refreshments, and door prizes.

“I’m having people come from all over. It’s pretty much a ceremony to introduce my business…I’m just excited. Have people come, mingling, getting to know each other, and booking…we want people to book!” said owner Veronica Harris.

Harris said the opening of the beauty studio has been a whirlwind journey and the outcome is beyond her wildest dreams.

“I focus more so on the natural side. I do braids, I do locs, anything dealing with the natural…In 2016 I graduated from Cosmetology School at Craven Community College…been working in the booth rental for seven years, and finally just decided that if I don’t do it now, then I’ll never do it. I just felt like it was my season for me to step out on my own,” she said. “I definitely furthered my education with the natural hair.”

Nestled in a shopping center at the corner of Yadkin Road and Santa Fe Drive, Veronica Serenity Beauty Studio is bringing natural care closer to those in the Westover area and beyond. Harris secured the new space through a fellow entrepreneur, friend, and business coach, Tia Sharadae. One of Harris’s biggest influences is stepping out on faith and securing her own space.

“I’m ready to take it to the next level,” she said.

Natural hair care is a booming industry with some black women choosing to step away from chemical relaxers. Even with women who wear wigs, keeping the hair healthy and protected under them is an essential part of the hair care process.

“I’m all about maintaining the health of my client's hair. For me, it’s not so much about the money. It’s about just the quality of the clients and the health of their hair and the money comes with that.” said Harris when asked about her passion for natural hair care.

Natural hair care includes trimming ends, deep conditioning, protective styles, braids, and coloring of natural hair. Veronica Serenity Beauty Studio will also offer loctician services. The studio will offer cleansing washes, installation, retwist, restoration, extensions, and styling of locs. Those looking to take their locs out without doing the “big chop” will find comfort at the studio. Harris has learned and mastered the technique of combing out locs for those who want a change or have decided that the hairstyle is just not for them. While this process is a long and tedious one, clients will find the space a relaxing one to be in. From the moment clients enter the building they are met with the ambiance of self-care. Light colors, crystal chandelier, fluffy leather seats, and the sounds and smells of serenity await current, new, and potential clients.

Those interested in booking services can do so on Verconica’s Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Ronihair25.

PWC, Fayetteville Cumberland Parks and Recreation and Duke Energy sponsor the Annual Grinding of the Greens Christmas Tree Recycling Program. The-Fayetteville Cumberland Parks and Recreation will be collecting live Christmas trees during the week of January 8 through 12.

How did live Christmas Trees become so popular in the United States?

“References to Christmas trees in private homes or establishments in North America date back to the late eighteenth and early nineteenth century. Flanders mentions a reference to a pine tree in North Carolina in 1786. In 1805, a school for American Indians run by Moravian missionaries sent students to fetch a small green tree for Christmas. Similar examples pop up in the first half of the nineteenth century in the Midwest, and further West, such as the German immigrants in Texas, who decorated trees with moss, cotton, pecans, red pepper swags, and popcorn.

“The image of the decorated tree with presents underneath has a specific origin: an engraving of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, and their children gathering around the Christmas tree, eyeing the presents underneath, was published in the Illustrated London News in 1848. The premier women’s magazine in America, back then, Godney’s Lady’s Book reprinted a version of the image a couple of years later, as The Christmas Tree. This single image cemented the Christmas Tree in the popular consciousness,” according to Time Magazine

In 1994, PWC, Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation and Duke Energy established the Annual Grinding of the Greens. “The Fayetteville Cumberland Parks and Recreation enhances the quality of life by providing safe, accessible, affordable, and leisure recreation activities for all citizens,” according to their website.

The Public Works Commission was created by an act of the North Carolina Legislature to provide utility services to all citizens and industry within the city of Fayetteville, Town of Hope Mills and surrounding incorporated areas.

“The Public Works Commission is owned by the City of Fayetteville and its citizens” according to Fayetteville Public Works Commission. Duke Energy Progress is an electrical company in Wade, North Carolina.

The environmental benefits of the Annual Grinding of the Greens are reducing the carbon footprint.
“The production of long-lasting bark mulch releases the Carbon Dioxide slowly over several years as part of the natural process. The carbon is stored in the soil and prevents the release into the atmosphere which is one primary cause of global warming.,” according to Inverse.com.

“We are gearing up for the 30th Annual Grinding of the Greens. This is our recycling Christmas tree program. When I say ‘our,’ it is referring to the long-standing partnership of PWC, Duke Energy, and Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation. It is an opportunity for those with live trees to put them on the curbside.

"This program has taken place so that we can use recyclable materials and to keep them out of the landfill. The mulch is used in the beautiful Fayetteville Community Garden and local community parks,” said Lamont Hinson, Communication and Community Relations, PWC.

Join us for the community event of the Grinding of the Greens on Jan. 13, at 8:30 a.m. Public officials and representatives of PWC will be in attendance. The drop off location is the Christmas Tree Pick-Up, Fayetteville Community Gardens, on Vanstory and Mann streets, Fayetteville.

The event has a “great smell like Christmas even though Christmas is over and into the New Year,” said Hinson.

Have live trees out on the curb for pick-up on Jan. 7. It is recommended all ornaments, stands and trimmings are removed from the live tree. Fayetteville-Cumberland County Parks and Recreation will pick up the trees during the days of January 8 through 12 for residents of Fayetteville.

For those who miss the pickup dates or reside outside of Fayetteville, the live trees can be dropped off at the Christmas Tree Pick-Up, Fayetteville Community Gardens, corner of Vanstory and Mann streets, off Wilmington Road before Jan. 13.

For the real-estate investor enthusiasts, mark your calendars for Jan. 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., as the North Carolina Real Estate Investors Association invites you to their highly anticipated monthly event, the first in 2024. Cheryl Gleason-Friel will host the event at The Main Event, located at 580 Cross Creek Mall in Fayetteville.

Cheryl Gleason-Friel has been working with the NCREIA Fayetteville group for six years as a Certified Property Manager.

She is also an Accredited Real Estate Mentor and Investor with over 30 years of experience in the property management field and the co-founder of Patriot Real Estate Services, LLC., managing over 300 doors in the Fayetteville and surrounding area as well as Sanford, Smithfield, Lillington, Cameron and more.

Her dedication to excellence and commitment to providing exceptional service have made her a trusted name in the local real estate community.

“I am networking, as usual, and consulting to bring in new real estate investor business and landlords to continue to grow our market share in Fayetteville. I have been working with the NCREIA Fayetteville group for six years now. I always look forward to our monthly meetings because they are packed with education, networking, and the best people, from newbie investors to the experienced.

"I am excited about 2024 and all the limitless opportunities it will bring,” said Cheryl.

She added, “We are officially one team as of Dec. 11th, 2023. Exciting news for us as we now manage well over 2,500 rental properties in the Triangle and Sandhills areas, with a heightened focus on Fayetteville in particular, with such a robust rental market in part due to Fort Liberty.”

Cheryl has successfully completed over five hundred property flips/turnovers, maintaining timelines and profits while minimizing liability to reach the clients’ common goals.

Cheryl obtained an undergraduate degree from Bridgewater State University and a Master’s from Bentley University.

She is also the organizer and group leader of the North Carolina Real Estate Investors Association in the Fayetteville market, which provides education, training, services, and opportunities for novice and experienced real estate investors while promoting high standards of ethics and a positive influence in our community.

During this exclusive event, Cheryl will be sharing her insights and strategies on property management and real estate investment. This is an opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field.
Kathie Russell is a Certified Mediator, Real Estate Coach and Mentor.

“I am a retired real estate attorney whose practice focused on helping real estate investors. Now, I am one of 4 executive team members of NCREIA. I am passionate about real estate investing and can talk about it for hours and never tire of it. I love to help others discover investing and see the financial freedom it brings. Watching someone with no investment experience join our group, become educated, and then do their first deal is extremely fulfilling. We truly help people change their lives,” Russell stated.

Kathie gave more information about NCREIA by adding, “I have been with NCREIA for over 15 years (we used to be called Triangle Area Real Estate Investors Association, but after we expanded, we changed the name). We have 3 chapters: Raleigh, Wilmington and Charlotte. There is a main meeting once a month in each chapter location. We try to bring nationally known educational speakers to help our members learn all facets of real estate investing.

"We also have around 15 subgroup meetings, half on Zoom and half in person. We have Women in Real Estate, Experienced Investors, New Investors, Short Term Rentals, Commercial Real Estate, Marketing, NCREIA West Raleigh, NCREIA Wake Forest, NCREIA South Raleigh, and NCREIA Fayetteville, as well as a couple of other specialty subgroups and special topical seminars.”

NCREIA is the top Real Estate Investing association in North Carolina. They provide hands-on training with high-level experts, experienced investors, and vendors.

They provide multiple opportunities with valuable education programs, networking, and growth. In addition, members of their community have access to off-market deals across the state (and even into bordering states).

The mission of the North Carolina Real Estate Investors Association (NCREIA) LLC is to provide education, training, services, and opportunities for the novice and experienced real estate investors while promoting high standards of ethics and a positive influence in the community. Don't miss out on this chance to network with fellow investors, gain valuable knowledge, and uncover new opportunities within the Fayetteville real estate market.

To register for the event, visit their website at: https://www.ncreia.com or call 919-604-9093.

Introduction to Dry January and the non-alcoholic trend
As we enter a new year, many people are participating in the trend of Dry January, where they abstain from drinking alcohol for the entire month. This practice has gained popularity in recent years as a way to reset one's relationship with alcohol and start the year off on a healthier note.
Benefits of participating in Dry January

This month-long break from drinking has more benefits than just a chance to detox. First and foremost, it can improve your physical health by giving your body a break from the negative effects of alcohol, such as liver damage and increased risk of certain cancers. It can also lead to improved mental health by reducing anxiety and improving sleep. Additionally, participating in Dry January can save you money and give you a chance to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. And perhaps most importantly, it can give you a sense of accomplishment and a fresh start for the new year.

The rise in popularity of non-alcoholic options beyond Dry January

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the availability and consumption of non-alcoholic options, and this trend is showing no signs of slowing down. As consumers become more health-conscious and prioritize moderation, they are seeking out alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.

This trend is also fueled by the growing demand for inclusivity and catering to individuals who do not consume alcohol for personal, religious, or medical reasons. With social media playing a significant role in shaping consumer preferences, businesses are taking notice and responding with a wider range of non-alcoholic options. By providing more choices for non-drinkers, companies are not only meeting the needs of a growing market but also promoting a responsible and inclusive drinking culture. As this trend continues to gain momentum, it's clear that non-alcoholic options are here to stay and businesses that adapt to this shift will thrive.

Exploring the variety of non-alcoholic options available

With more and more people choosing to reduce or eliminate their alcohol consumption, the demand for non-alcoholic options has skyrocketed. From mocktails to alcohol-free beer and wine, there are now a plethora of choices for those looking for a non-alcoholic beverage. This shift in consumer behavior has also led to an increase in the quality and variety of non-alcoholic options available, with many brands focusing on creating sophisticated and flavorful alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks. The range of non-alcoholic choices has expanded beyond the traditional options of water, soda or juice. Craft beer companies such as Athletic Brewing Company exclusively offer non-alcoholic beer, while other beer brands have introduced at least one alcohol-free alternative for their customers. In addition, completely alcohol-free bars like Umbrella Dry Bar in Raleigh have gained significant popularity.

Whether you're simply interested in taking part in Dry January or seeking to incorporate non-alcoholic choices into your daily life throughout the year, there is a wide array of alternatives available for you to select from.

Sober Bar Finder: https://soberbarsnearme.com

Find Alcohol Free Drinks Online & In Shops: https://betterwithout.app/

The Crown Coliseum presents Air Supply, Saturday, Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. The band is currently on their “The Lost in Love Experience” tour. Up & Coming Weekly recently caught up with Graham Russell and his mesmerizing accent in the Philippines for an insightful late-night phone interview.

Air Supply was formed in 1975 in Melbourne, Australia. The soft rock duo consists of Englishman Graham Russell, guitarist, and Australian Russell Hitchcock, lead vocalist.

Fate brought them together as the two forged an instant friendship and musical connection. Little did they know they embodied a musical spirit that would drive the 80s decade with monumental music.

“We were in Jesus Christ Superstar in Australia and I was on a mission to get something going, so when the show closed we had somewhere to go, could work together and create something,” said Russell.

“We knew the show would last about 18 months and the first day I met Russell Hitchcock, the penny dropped.”

He added, “he had this amazing voice and had the best voice in the show by a long margin. I knew I had to work with this guy and that is how it all got started.”

The name of the band derived from a dream that Russell had the evening before they had to tell the record company.

“I had a dream, and in the dream, I saw this big billboard that was pure white,” said Russell. “On the perimeter of it were flashing lights going off really fast and in the middle of the billboard were two big black words, Air Supply, and I told Russell about it the next morning.”
Russell added, “We didn’t know what it meant and it was the only name that we had so we had to go with it.”

Russell was 13 years old when he first realized that he had a love for music. He could play the guitar and started writing songs for no particular reason. It wasn’t until he saw The Beatles live in 1964 at a local cinema that everything fell into place. That particular moment was when he knew he wanted to be “that guy” on stage.

“Everything that I did from that moment forward was a journey towards that,” said Russell. “Even during my school years, I always wanted to be in a band and I wanted to be a musician.”

Air Supply is known for delivering sentimental ballads with a passion that cannot be denied.

“The music that we create is very emotional and romantic, but it was never by design,” said Russell.

“We did not sit down and say nobody writes romantic songs so let’s do that.”

He added, “it is just the way it has always been, this is who we are and that is our sound.”

Their first record in Australia was “Love and Other Bruises.” The duo has had a string of chart-topping hits through the years that have cemented their place in the soft rock genre. They include “Making Love Out of Nothing at All,” “Lost in Love,” “The One That You Love," “Here I Am,” “All Out of Love” and more. Russell’s favorite song to perform is the epic lead single “All Out of Love” and they always close the show with it because it is their most successful song.

“The song has been in at least 20 movies and in TV shows after 45 years and that is quite alarming,” said Russell. “It is a song that everybody knows.”

He added that sometimes when he is on a plane, the person next to him will ask him what he does for a living. He tells them that he is in the band, Air Supply, and they will ask the name of one of the songs. Russell says “All Out of Love” and immediately the individual knows the song.

Russell and Hitchcock have favorite artists and are huge Beatles fans.

“I am a song person and there is no greater songwriter than McCartney,” said Russell. “My favorite modern musicians are The Rolling Stones, Peter Gabriel and Sting.”

When Russell is not writing songs, his favorite pastime is digging into the soil in his garden.

“I am an avid gardener and I grow a lot of vegetables and flowers,” said Russell. “I have a massive greenhouse and when I get home it is a great grounding process for me because it really balances my life and I love creating something from nothing from the earth.”

Russell’s advice to aspiring musicians is to keep doing it, believe in yourself, don’t quit and you will find success.

“You have to keep going but be prepared for rejection,” said Russell. “Be prepared for people to tell you that your songs are terrible, you sound awful and you can’t play the instrument.”

The legendary band has a plethora of projects on the horizon.

“We are approaching our 50th year together in 2025, we have a new album coming out next spring, an autobiography coming out, a documentary and a musical,” said Russell.

“For our anniversary, we are going to rent a big ocean liner and sail off with about 1,500 fans into the sunset.”

And what can the audience expect from their performance?

“The audience can expect us to come out with guns blazing and it is going to be loud, powerful and very orchestral,” said Russell.

“The whole show will sweep everyone away because people have no idea we are like this and it will probably be the best show they have ever seen.”

Visit https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/air-supply or call 910-438-4100 for more information and to purchase tickets.