Caring for Those With Dementia

Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementias should strive to continue to do as much as they can for as long as possible. And home might just be the best place.

“The preferred environment for those with dementia is generally at home,” said Dr. Jane F. Potter, chief of the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Dr. Potter served on the expert panel to help develop content for the Home Instead Senior Care network’s free Alzheimer’s Disease or Other Dementias CARE: Changing Aging Through Research and Education Training Program.

The following, from Dr. Potter and the Home Instead Senior Care network, are tips on how to help family caregivers continue to engage older adults with Alzheimer’s in everyday activities:

1. Allow seniors to do as much as they can but don’t expect them to do what they can’t. Give clear instructions which may mean giving instructions one step at a time.

2. Simplify the task. When dressing, put that senior in a position to do as much as possible. Make it easier to dress, for instance, by laying out clothing in sequential order, with the underwear and socks on top.

3. Start an activity and then ask the senior to help. If your mom has forgotten how to make that favorite family recipe, begin the process and have her help with whatever she can.

4. Make activities easier or change the activity. If that older adult can’t play bridge now, play war or another card game instead.

5. Remember, it’s more than just about task. Turn a bath into an opportunity to smell different soaps or, when picking out clothing, discuss fashion or special colors.

6. Remember that exercise can help keep seniors active longer. They should get up and move more, not less.

No matter what the activity, bring fun and happiness to the endeavor.

“Laughter is great, and use plenty of it to stay engaged with a senior loved one,” Dr. Potter noted.

For more information about the free Family Caregiver Training for family caregivers of seniors dealing with behavioral changes of Alzheimer’s and other dementias call 910-484-7200 or visit www.HelpforAlzheimersFamilies.com.

Contributing writers, Martha Owen and Susan Guy, franchise owners of Home Instead Senior Care. For more information visit www.homeinstead.com/647.

Photo: Home is the preferred environment for those suffering from dementia.

Fayetteville Technical Community College dedicated its 50th Anniversary Sculpture during the August meeting of the board of trustees. Even though the addition alone of a unique sculpture to the college landscape is grandiose, the significance of the sculpture represents even more than the aesthetic presence at the 2201 Hull Road campus.

The sculpture takes us on a journey that began with the passion and determination of Dr. Dallas Herring, known as the father of the North Carolina Community College System. Herring’s selfless public service and concern for all persons in North Carolina desiring higher education paved the way for ease of accessibility to affordable, high-quality education.

The sculpture represents a vision for our community shared by a group of local business leaders from Fayetteville in the late 1950s and early 1960s who wanted a skilled workforce to meet the needs of business and industry and increase economic development.

The sculpture represents the 50-year span of unwavering dedication and commitment of College leaders, such as Dr. John Standridge (first director), Howard Boudreau (president, 1963-1983), Dr. Craig Allen (president, 1983-1996), Dr. Linwood Powell (president, 1996-1997), Dr. Larry Norris (president, 1997-2007), Dr. Larry Keen (current president, since 2007), members of the FTCC Board of Trustees and directors of the FTCC Foundation, Inc., the caring faculty and staff members, and most of all, FTCC students in their quest for higher education and improved qualities of life.

The sculpture represents a commitment shared and embraced by the citizens and business representatives of Cumberland County and surrounding areas who turn to the community college for expedient, customized, effective employee training in response to changing technology and workforce-related needs. These citizens and business leaders, in turn, serve the college in advisory capacities, as faculty and staff members and in other ways, ensuring that FTCC’s education refl ects workforce needs and additional opportunities for higher education.

The sculpture, located in front of the Tony Rand Student Center, was designed and created by local Artist David McCune as part of the college’s anniversary celebration through the FTCC Foundation, Inc. Fifty galvanized steel pipes in various lengths and placed to form a circular, spiraling structure portray student growth in awards granted each year at FTCC over the past 50 years. The sculpture includes four glass-covered plates positioned parallel with the sidewalks around the base. Each plate contains information about the FTCC Foundation Board, Dr. Dallas Herring, FTCC historical information and information about the artist.

FTCC President Dr. Larry Keen acknowledges the special meaning to the College represented by the sculpture: “The 50th Anniversary Sculpture visually illustrates the growth in students at FTCC over the past 50years. An interesting side note is McCune’s use of a design concept for the sculpture that is often referred to in educational institutions — the concept of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The length of each pipe correlates mathematically with student growth at FTCC. It’s a visual display of how the school has served others over the past 50 years. And we at FTCC are truly honored to serve in this role that changes lives positively through education.”

As FTCC crosses the bridge from its first 50 years into the second half of the centenary, the signifi cance of the 50th Anniversary Sculpture will become increasingly more meaningful. The sculpture will gracefully weather and endure as time passes but will always project the spirit refl ective of the first 50 years, standing tall and pointing upwards with great expectations for an even brighter future.

Ballet has been delighting audiences for centuries; it was first developed in the Italian Renaissance in the 15th century. Ballet is an art form renowned for the grace and beauty that its performers emanate after years of intense training. This December, audiences will have a chance to enjoy the incredibly skilled dancers from the North Carolina State Ballet as they perform the traditional Christmas tale, The Nutcracker.

Fayetteville’s own Charlotte Blume, the artistic director for the North Carolina State Ballet, will choreograph The Nutcracker, the traditional two act and three scene Christmas ballet. Blume has been teaching and performing in North Carolina for more than 40 years. She is the principal teacher and choreographer of The Charlotte Blume School of Dance. Her work here has included such noteworthy productions as Raymonda, Painting of Degas and Swan Lake, which is annually preformed in the spring by her students.

As a teacher, Blume loves the challenge of developing new talent and keeping tradition in tact while bringing newness to the performance each year.

“I try to find talent that suits the part in each production and develop them into the part. It is a challenge because we try to keep the level of choreography professional. The dancers have to really come up to the challenge — and I like that,” said Blume. “Being a part of this performance each year gives me an opportunity to refresh the show every season. There is always something different, so people are getting a fresh look each year, which is important because we have a big repeat audience. Whenever people come to see this, they will see a refreshed look or see something they haven’t seen before.”

This year The Nutcracker consists of a cast of 65 dancers and actors and features four international guest artists. The fi rst guest artist, Gabor Kapin, hails from Budapest, Hungary. He is a principal dancer for the N.C. State Ballet, and will perform the role of “Cavalier.” Kapin was trained at the Hungarian Dance Academy, but he is hardly a stranger to the North Carolina stage, as this will be his third performance with the N.C. State Ballet. Sokvannara Sar is a dancer from Cambodia, and will share the role of “Cavalier.” He was trained at the School of American Ballet in New York, but is also well versed in Khmer, a traditional Cambodian dance. He has worked as a soloist in the Pacific Northwest Ballet, and he is the subject of a documentary entitled Dancing Across Borders.

Playing “The Sugar Plum Fairy” for her third season is Alicia Fabry who was raised in France. Fabry has studied ballet at the English National Ballet School, which is located in London. She has also performed with the Ballet Chicago Studio Company. Fabry will share the role with Margret Severin-Hansen who studied dance at Huntington School of Ballet in her home town of Huntington, Long Island. Hansen also studied ballet with the Royal Danish Ballet for six weeks. She has been a member of the Carolina Ballet since 1998.

The Nutcracker will be performed on December 2 ,8 and 9 at the Crown Coliseum at 3 p.m. Purchase tickets online at crowncoliseum.com. Tickets cost $16 and military ID Card holders receive a $2 discount. They can also be purchased through the Crown Center Theatre Box Office, which is located at 1960 Coliseum Dr. Call (910) 323-5088 for more information.

Photo: Alicia Fabry dances the role of The Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker.

Christmas is a special time of year filled to the brim with traditions. One of the most popular and beautiful traditions around America is the hanging of Christmas lights. People often cruise around town in the evenings to compare and observe the various festive displays. This year Lu Mil Vineyard is offering a different option for lights — its annual Festival of Lights.

Located in Dublin, N.C., Lu Mil Vineyard is a 58-acre vineyard that was opened by the Taylor family in 2005. The vineyard was born out of innovation and has always been a site used to test new equipment and ideas. The vineyard produces muscadine wine, a grape native to North Carolina, but the gift shop and tasting facility is incredibly multifaceted and completely family friendly. The shop also offers jellies, jams, alcohol-free wines, juices, ciders, sauces, syrup and even grape seed extract pills.

During the Festival of Lights there is even a country buffet. “The Country Buffet is also offered every night that the show runs at $10 (plus tax) per person. It includes several meats, vegetables, salads, breads, desserts, tea and coffee. It is first-come, first-served with no reservations taken, but a lot of times, last year, we would suggest to groups to be there to eat at 5 or 5:30 p.m. and they could all eat together that way and then do the light show after the meal. The later in the evening — and the season — the busier it gets,” said Denise Taylor Bridges, owner of Lu Mil Vineyards.

The Festival of Lights is far more than just a collection of lights in the middle of a field. Bridges says “…the Festival of Lights is a drive-through light show with hundreds of thousands of lights synchronized to music to create a Christmas production for the entire family. Our vineyard is a beautiful place year round but it seems almost magical the way it is transformed into a winter wonderland with lights, music, the aroma of delicious food and our hot muscadine cider. For the kids, there is the candy store, Santa, muscadine slushies, animated figurines, the nativity scene and Kiddie Land, which offers great photo opportunities.”

This is the sixth year of the light festival, and it has grown every year. “We opened the vineyard in December 2005 and decorated a few trees and just hung a wreath or two that year and added a few lights the next year. We found that people would come by the vineyard just to ride through and see how pretty everything was decorated for this wonderful time of the year,” said Bridges. “So the next year we added lights to some of the buildings, the grain bins, the bridge, added a few animated items, etc. and we have continued to add venues, cabins and other features at Lu Mil over the last few years and now they are part of the Festival of Lights. It grows every year … more lights, different scenery and music every year. Our newest addition is the candy shop. It is located next door to the General Store (where the Country Buffet will be served).”

The show opens on Saturday, Nov. 24, and runs every Thursday through Sunday through Dec. 9 and nightly beginning Dec. 13 thru Dec. 23. The light show runs from 6 to 10 p.m. and the Country Buffet is open from 5 to 9 p.m. Admission is $10 per car (1-4 persons), $20 per van (5-11 persons) and $40 per bus (12 passengers or more). The vineyard also rents out a double-decker bus for $5/person with a minimum of 20 people in order to reserve it. Lu Mil Vineyard is located at 438 Suggs-Taylor Rd. Elizabethtown just off Hwy 87 in Dublin. For more information, visit www.lumilvineyard.com or call 866-5891.

Every year for the past 32 years, Snyder Memorial Baptist Church has been honored to bring the annual production, The Singing Christmas Tree to the Fayetteville Community. It has been a Fayetteville tradition since 1980; this year the production features 250 singers, two handbell choirs and a 40-piece orchestra.

The spirit of Christmas will fill the room as singers from several generations come together to perform musical selections that will bring joy to everyone. The Intergenerational Choir is made up of 40-50 children, 100 teenagers and 100-125 adults. Your ticket will be honored up until 30 minutes before the show starts; there are no seat guarantees after that.

This year’s theme is These Three Gifts, which will focus on the importance and significance of each of the three gifts of the magi as it explores the type of gifts we give for Christmas.

“The structure of the singing Christmas tree is the same each year but the music and the theme is re-done every year. If you have been to one of the shows in the past, rest assured that you have never seen the performance that will be presented this year,” says Dr. Larry Dickens, minister of music at the church.

Dickens is conducting his 14th production of this magnificent show. He is also an adjunct professor of church music at Campbell University Divinity School where he teaches his love of music to graduate students.

“This event is a gift to the community and it is free. All we ask from everyone attending the show is to bring a few canned goods to be donated to two local food-distribution centers,” explained Dickens.

There will be six performances and tickets are disappearing fast, so if you have plans to attend the performance this year, get your tickets soon.

“A lot of hard work and commitment goes into making sure that the production comes together well. Volunteers from the church and the community come together and work overtime to make sure that everyone is ready to give their best performance,” said Dickens.

There are several options for obtaining tickets. Tickets are available at the church office, Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets can also be picked up in the church office on Sunday morning or you can call the church office at 910-484-3191 and request tickets be mailed to you. These tickets are going fast so get yours now.

The singing Christmas tree only comes once a year and you don’t want to miss it. Performances will be held on Thursday and Friday, Nov. 29-30 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1-2 at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Seating will be guaranteed up until 30 minutes before the show begins so arrive early. Grab your coats, your canned goods and your tickets, and get ready to attend the largest holiday performance presented in our area. Excitement is in the area so don’t be late because you don’t want to miss any of The Singing Christmas Tree.

Photo: The Snyder Memorial Baptist Singing Christmas Tree has been a holiday tradition in the community for more than 30 years.

THANKSGIVING 2012

For as long as I can remember since the Precious Jewels came along, the Dicksons have celebrated Thanksgiving in Chapel Hill with family from all branches, friends and people who have become friends over the years.

My first memory of this tradition involves toting a diaper bag for babe # 1, who is now a married man in his early 30s. My cousin’s house, which held the first of more than three decades of Thanksgivings for us, was later destroyed by a fire caused by a Christmas tree, then replaced by one on a lake, making for a memorable setting for a fall gathering almost every year. The annual cross-Piedmont trek to get there is a dear tradition, complete with a station wagon loaded with Thanksgiving foods and accompanied by sing-alongs to a Triangle radio station which plays the long version — all 18 and a half minutes — of Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant” every Thanksgiving morning.

Since the only certainty in life, though, is change, this year we are changing. We are moving the entire Thanksgiving production to the North Carolina coast, where we will be eating our turkey and dressing beside the lovely salt water and keeping our fingers crossed for good weather so some of our nearest and dearest can spill out onto the porch.

Most of us are looking forward to the change of scenery, but it has prompted me to ponder what is most precious about these gatherings of people — some kin, some not — who have come to love each other.

Beyond family, our little Thanksgiving band generally includes two retired and esteemed educators from the Triangle area and a young man who immigrated to the U.S., from what was then Yugoslavia, when he was 18. He, his Charlotte-born wife, and their two daughters are an integral part of our very American celebration. There have been people my father referred to as “connections,” not exactly relations but perhaps kin to relations or in-laws of relations; in other words, some connections not involving DNA. There have been relatives from Belgium and Austria, a man in full black leather motorcycle gear whose name I never knew, and once an Ethiopian family who played native musical instruments. This year, we have several new people coming — some from a branch of the family which has generally been to the other in-laws for Thanksgiving, and a single woman friend we invited for the heck of it.

And then, there is the food!

The Chapel Hill cousin and her Belgian husband always do the turkey, dressing with apples and walnuts and gravy, and this year a Precious Jewel is frying a turkey as well. There will be rice and mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes with marshmallows — a hold-over from the days of many young children that always seems to get eaten anyway, some green vegetables — I always cross my fi ngers for asparagus with hard-boiled eggs crumbled on top, yeast rolls, Kentucky horse-race pie along with other pastries, and, everyone’s fave, an ice cream turkey! I am also hoping for some scalloped oysters, but we have several wildly allergic diners, so we shall see.

There will be hugs and kisses from people who have not seen each other since last Thanksgiving and some who saw each other last month. There will be displays of photographs, the occasional tiff and maybe a tear or two, and little ones either rowdy or screaming. One or two particularly full diners will grab a quick nap in a chair, overcome by the bounty of the occasion.

A new tradition has arisen in very recent years, the brainchild of the Precious Jewel generation which has moved from running around outside to more adult fun. It is the annual Turkey Bowl, to which members of my generation are not invited. It involves the younger cousins and some of their friends going out either before or after the big day to — what else — Go bowling!

I look forward to and treasure our Thanksgivings together, not because they are glamorous or special, because they are not. Our Thanksgivings, like millions of other Thanksgiving gatherings throughout our nation and wherever Americans might gather in far-flung corners of the world, are our family’s evolving way of celebrating and enjoying being together if only for one day a year and for being part of this great nation.

It is our reminder that even in these trying times, we are grateful for so much. I am also grateful that Thanksgiving is a one day holiday that requires very little decoration since we all know what is about to overtake us next month.

Feeling Thankful

Christian music fans are thankful for new music from David Crowder!

The band may no longer exist, but David Crowder is still making great music.

He is back today with an exclusive new release, iTunes Session, recorded live at Capitol Studio in Hollywood. It features nine stripped down, organic tracks, including moving interpretations of David Crowder*Band’s “Let Me Feel You Shine,” “How He Loves,” “Because He Lives,” and a powerful take of “The Old Rugged Cross.”

In an intimate behind-thescenes video, Crowder shares, “What I love about music is that a song can be in different packages or different environments, but the heart of it, the thing that connects a person to it, is still present. For these songs to have new skin on them and have these beautiful new voices contributing to them is a really beautiful moment.”

Remember Audio Adrenaline? Well they are back, and boy are their fans thankful!

Kevin Max, formerly of DCTalk takes over the lead vocal duties on the new album from Audio Adrenaline. “Kings & Queens” is “just an incredible song about this idea of when we love the least of these, God wraps these little orphans in his majesty and they can become kings and queens,” shares Mark Stuart. “It gives you that idea that these are God’s favorites, these little kids that have been forgotten. There’s going to be a special place in heaven one day because of what they’ve been through here. It’s just a triumphant, majestic song that just connects so deeply with Hands & Feet and the message of Audio A right now.”

So what is the Hands & Feet Project? Five years ago, the band gathered in Hawaii along with their biggest fans for what they thought was their last performance. Since that emotional finale concert, founding members Mark Stuart and Will McGinniss have tirelessly worked to raise awareness and support for the 100 orphans currently being cared for in orphanages in Jacmel and Grand Goave, Haiti. The official music video for “Kings & Queens,” which was taped in Jacmel, Haiti at the Hands & Feet Project Children’s Village, showcases the beautiful children of Haiti.

Everyone is thankful when some of the best worship music of 2012 is only $5!

Passion: White Flagwas recorded live at the Passion 2012 conference earlier this year and includes radio hits “One Thing Remains” featuring Kristian Stanfill, Chris Tomlin’s “White Flag”, and “10,000 Reasons” by Matt Redman. Also included on this set of 14 acclaimed tracks is “Sing Along” featuring Christy Nockels. Worship.com says, “It’s no exaggeration to say there is not a single track on this recording not worth downloading and carrying with you.”

Through the month of November, Passion: White Flag is only $5 on Amazon MP3!

Photo: David Crowder

The Fayetteville FireAntz have gotten off to one of the best starts to open their season in team history and there are many who have noticed. Averaging more than 4,000 fans per game at the Crown Coliseum, the FireAntz are bringing exciting hock-ey action back to the ice in Fayetteville.

The FireAntz have a lot of exciting games coming up and you’ll want to make sure to mark your calendar and bring your family and friends to the games.

Thursday, Nov. 22: A Thanksgiving Tradition

There is much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving sea-son — family, friends and the FireAntz having a home game on Thanksgiving night. The FireAntz have hosted a game on Thanksgiving each season and it has become a Fayetteville tradition. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving day with your family and loved ones and then bring them all to the FireAntz game and cheer along with your FireAntz family.

The best way to enjoy the Thanksgiving night game is to get cheaper tickets, of course. In order to do that, fans should get a group of family and friends, 10 or more people, and pre-order tickets from the FireAntz office. The savings are great and it’s just a little something extra to be thankful for during Thanksgiving.

There is one other thing to be thankful for on Thanksgiving with the FireAntz. Long time rival, the Knoxville Ice Bears, will be their opponent. The former Southeast Hockey League (SEHL) foes have one of the longest rivalries in league history and when the two teams collide it’s always a really exciting time for the fans. In their only meeting on home ice this season the FireAntz beat the Ice Bears 4-1, in exciting fashion, in front of 4,341 cheering fans.

Saturday, Nov. 24: Kids Night brought to you by Lee Hyundai

The FireAntz are hosting Kids’ Night on Saturday, Nov. 24. The best part about it is that tickets for children will be free if they redeem their vouchers. Vouchers for free children’s tickets will be sent to schools in Cumberland County and, when redeemed, can be traded for free kids’ tickets to the FireAntz game.

Adding to the theme of Kids’ Night is the fact that the FireAntz are having Mascot Night. More than 20 mascots from various sports teams, school and businesses will be on hand to entertain. It’s sure to be a fun night for kids of all ages.

Saturday, Dec. 1: Military Appreciation, Operation Toy Drop Celebrated

The FireAntz, once again, will host Military Appreciation night as they host another long time rival, the Huntsville Havoc. For the third consecutive season they will team up with military from Fort Bragg for the 15th annual Operation Toy Drop. Fans are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to the game for donation to Operation Toy Drop — an airborne operation that collects thousands of toys annually for area children and families in need of a little help during the holiday season.

Fans can donate toys even if they are unable to attend the game by dropping a toy off at the FireAntz office at 220 A N. McPherson Church Rd. or by visiting www.op-toydrop.net to find locations of local drop boxes.

Many of the FireAntz corporate partners take part in the night and fans and season ticket holders always come out in large numbers to join them as they show their support to the men and women of the armed services for all of their sacrifices. Military Appreciation nights have, over the years, attracted the largest audi-ences and are guaranteed to be a great time.

Make sure to come out to the Crown Coliseum and join in on the excit-ing season for the FireAntz this year. For more information on the FireAntz, or to purchase group tickets at a re-duced rate visit the FireAntz Website at www.fireantzhockey.com.

Photo: Join the FireAntz for a series of fun-filled events this season.

For Laura Stevens, and the cast of The Heart of Christmas Show, the months leading up to Christmas are orchestrated chaos. Countless hours of rehearsals, set building, choreography changes and long nights lead up to two weeks of exhausting performances. The group puts on shows for local schools in addition to performing for the public the weekend after Thanksgiving. But at the end of the performances, no one remembers the exhaustion leading up to the production of The Heart of Christmas Show. Instead, they remember the laughter and love that are the essence of the show. And that’s what they hope their audience takes away as well.

“When was the last time you really took a moment … stopped your hustle and bustle and took the time to celebrate the Christmas Season?” asked Stevens. “This show celebrates everything that is Christmas. From winter wonderlands to funny reindeer to tear-jerking songs of hope to the glory of the birth of Jesus Christ, the reason for the season, this show covers all the wonderful colors of Christmas!

It is her belief that in celebrating those colors, Christmas remains the magical time it is supposed to be. And in Fayetteville, The Heart of Christmas Show is integral to the magic of the season.

Celebrating its 14th anniversary, the show is a “full-blown, whistles and bells, Broadway-style production that has something for everyone!” If you’ve never gone to the show before, you need to fasten your seatbelts and prepare yourself for a full-on visual and auditory experience that will make you laugh and cry, all while reminding you that Christmas is really all about love.

The first half of the show is humorous, and you will find yourself laughing, and maybe singing along with the cast as they take you on a trip down Santa Claus Way. The second half of the show portrays the true meaning of Christmas through deeply moving and spiritual songs that are accompanied by dance.

Stevens explains that people come from all across the Southeast to see the show. For many, it is a family tradition, almost the starting point of their holiday season. For many, finding a show of this caliber in Fayetteville is mind blowing. The show has been compared to shows you will find in professional theatres in Myrtle Beach, S.C., Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and Branson, Mo. The show features a 36-member cast of singers and dancers. At its center are the beautiful and talented members of Voices of the Heart.

The group started in 1998 as a teaching outlet for Stevens, a vocal performance coach. That year, she picked eight of her students between the ages of 11 and 15 to start the group. The next year, the group entered a national gospel competition and won the best overall award in a competition that featured more than 200 adult acts. That was the impetus for the creation of The Heart of Christmas Show, which features young performers who use their talent to help sick and abused children in the community. The motto of the show is “Children helping children.” This is an ethos the girls who are chosen to be in Voices of the Heart live day-in and day-out, as they keep a heavy touring schedule singing at churches, patriotic events, fairs and large gospel venues. Most recently, they helped kick-off the Community Concert series opening for the legendary Gladys Knight.

This year is one of change for the group, which lost a veteran member last year. This year the group has expanded its core, and Stevens expects great things. The group is led by veteran performers Rachel Crenshaw, 17; Hannah Godbold, 17; Katelyn Godbold, 15; and Hannah Pritchard 14. Joining the group this year are Taylor Bridges, 16; Kaylan Sinclair, 15; and Ashlyn Hall, 12.

“These seven girls offer a rare thing... beauty on the inside as well as the outside. No doubt this will be an exceptional group in talent but it will be remembered as a good-hearted and kind group of girls who showed love and expressed kindness to all,” said Stevens. “They all have relationships with the Lord in ways that I am excited about for this group and for each of them. It’s hard to live as a Christian teenager in the current society and it is very difficult to pass and maintain the requirements of a VOH girl. Very hard. I applaud these seven precious young ladies in their efforts to live a lifestyle that shines bright for the Lord!”

In The Heart of Christmas Show, the group is the central set of performers, but they are joined by other members of Stevens’ studio, as well as by dancers from the Linda Kinlaw School of Dance. Last year, more than 12,000 people came to see this fun, family event. And while many people come to the show for the entertainment, Stevens and her cast know it’s about much more than that. Last year, the show raised more than $32,000 to be distributed to different agencies that help sick and abused children in the community. In years past the children’s programs at Cape Fear Valley Hospital and the Child Advocacy Center have been among the many agencies that have benefited from the proceeds of the show. In total, since its inception, the show has raised more than $350,000.

Stevens knows that while people see the show as a holiday tradition, she has to keep it fresh and new every year. In 2011, the show had some new and exciting arrangements of traditional seasonal songs along with an unexpected but highly applauded Mary Poppins segment! As always, Stevens looks for ways to top the previous year and this year is no different, while the show will still contain some audience favorites, it will also offer some newly arranged songs and dance numbers.“

There are some really cool openers and closers in the show,” said Stevens. “It should be a really exciting show.”

The cast promises that you will “laugh, cry and be in awe of the beauty and wonder of Christmas.”

Stevens said that the show would not be possible without the help of the sponsors, who, even in the midst of economic hardship, have put aside money to continue in their support of the show. She noted that they have taken ownership of the show, and that without their generous giving neither the show nor the donations to charities would be possible.

The show is on stage for public performances two days only: Saturday, Nov. 24 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 25 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 and are on sale now at the Crown Box Offi ce, Hawley’s Bicycle World and Ticketmaster. For more information, visit www.heartofchristmasshow.com.

I have a newfound passion and initiative for helping the homeless. It is very disenchanting to see howmany homeless people live on the streets in Cumberland County. So on Friday, Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the VFW Post 6018 on 116 Chance St., the Fayetteville Cumberland County Ministerial Council, the United Way of Cumberland County and community partners will host the 3rd Annual Homeless and Hunger Stand Down.

“The purpose is to bring nonprofi t organizations, churches and the community together to give information to those individuals who are in need and to make them productive members of society again,” said Bishop Larry O. Wright Sr., chairman of the Homeless and Hunger Stand Down. “Our goal is to serve 1,500 people.”

Wright added that service to our fellow man in the time of need is one of the greatest services that we can provide therefore giving glory to God.

The event will begin with an opening ceremony that will be attended by members of local city councils, county commissioners and organizations throughout the Cumberland County area. There will be 35 to 40 agencies who are responsible for everything from providing educational resources to helping individuals with job searches.

Some of the organizations will provide free lunches, free haircuts, medical and dental assistance, prescription assistance, identifi cation services, child care assistance, VA and housing assistance, educational opportunities and other areas of need.

The Salvation Army will provide a hot meal, with a goal of serving around 900 meals. This year a scholarship will be given to a homeless child.

“We are going to give out clothes, coats, hats and gloves for the winter season,” said Wright. “The police department will be on hand to give out free bus tickets for those who are homeless and not residents of Cumberland County and want to get home totheir families.”

The Piece Magazine will provide gospel entertainment for the event to provide an atmosphere of celebration and hope for everyone.

There will be free transportation provided by the FAST bus system to and from the event.

The Fayetteville Cumberland County Ministerial Council is well known and has been around for 53 years and has taken this outreach opportunity to another level.

“I want the Fayetteville Ministerial Council to get involved in many more outreach events,” said Wright. “I want to be known for more than a bunch of ministers who sit around and eat and fellowship.”

Wright added that they want to be known as a council that gets out in the community and works.

For more information about the stand down, call (910) 568-4276 or send an email to healthelandmin@aol.com.

As much a part of the holiday season as Black Friday, gingerbread houses and egg nog, A Christmas Carol has become a Fayetteville tradition that the community looks forward to each year.

Like clockwork, the show opens the day after Thanksgiving. This year the show runs through Dec. 9.

Written by Charles Dickens and published in 1843, A Christmas Carol tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. A selfish and stingy businessman, Scrooge is visited by the spirit of his deceased business partner Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Yet to Come. These visits shake Scrooge to his core and bring about a change in him — one that affects many lives.

This is the first season that Artistic Director Robyne Parrish is taking part in this tradition and she says that the audience is in for a little bit of a surprise this year.

“We are revamping it this year … we are trying something new,” said Parrish. “We brought in a guest director from the New York/Pittsburgh area, his name is David Little. We are trying to do something different this year. We have a great cast and expect this to be a wonderful production.”

Little is playing his cards close to his chest, but did share a little bit about some of what the audience can anticipate.

“We were looking for a way to reinvigorate the production,” said Little. “We are using the same script but we have reimagined it as if it were a 1940s radio play. There are a few surprises in addition but none I want to share.”

The play opens with a group of actors in the 1940s at a second-rate radio station. They are producing a radio version of A Christmas Carol, and the show takes off from there.

“I am looking forward to seeing how the audience responds,” said Little.

The Board of Directors at the Gilbert has been doing this a long time and this is different from what they’ve done in the past. Some actors are the same as in past performances, but this year the approach is different and Little promises that there are some nice surprises in store.

“It has been fun to work on this process. As a director and a story teller, I love the challenge,” said Little. “This story has been told so often and in so many different ways that it is fun to work on a production that is new and different from what I have seen and done in the past. That is really fun for me.”

While Little hails from Pittsburgh, Pa., he frequently works in New York City. He says he is impressed with Fayetteville and the work going on at the Gilbert Theater.

“I would say I have been really impressed with the Gilbert Theater. They seem to be making big changes and strides forward creatively and artistically. I find that really exciting,” said Little. “I am impressed with the cultural fabric of this city and the place that the Gilbert has within the city and the fact that Robyne (Parrish, the artistic director) and Jeremy (Fiebig, the managing director) and their board of directors seem to have a high priority placed on quality and really developing relationships with the people that they work with.”

The play opens Nov. 23, and runs through Dec. 9. Visit www.gilberttheater.com for show times and ticket information. Reservations are highly suggested.

It’s never too early to celebrate the Christmas spirit and do some shopping. What better way to do both than to take a trip around the world to observe Christmas traditions and eclectic gifts? Now, we know most of us don’t have time to take an actual trip around the world, but on Nov. 17, Cornerstone United Methodist Church will host the 12th annual Christmas Around the World from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. By attending the event, you can get a taste of the world without ever leaving home.

This year’s event will be different from ones held in the past according to Robin Berg, event chairperson.

“This is the first time we have done the event on such a large scale. There is a multi-cultural focus on this year’s event. We plan to have more than 50 vendors representing numerous cultures. The music and entertainment will be diverse as well,” Berg explained.

In years past, the event was primarily a bazaar, but this year it has grown into a multi-cultural festival. Entertainment will be provided throughout the day by the Phillipino Dance Troupe, Voodoo Tattoo (classic rock), Groupa Compartiendo Vida (Hispanic Praise Team), Until November Band, Okinawan Dance Troupe, a gospel band and three other local bands. In addition, the Cornerstone choir will sing.

Vendors will be on hand selling unique merchandise and foods from around the globe. Lip-smacking lumpia, tantalizing tacos and bountiful barbeque as well as other ethnic dishes sure to please the palette will be available. The Cornerstone youth group operates a specialty coffee shop named Blessed Brew and will offer lattes, cappuccinos and regular coffees throughout the day.

There will also be pastries available to enjoy with coffee and baked-goods gift packages available for purchase. Additional events planned include a silent auction and pictures with Santa. The pictures will be available immediately after sitting. There will free shopping bags available for the first 500 attendees.

Children will have their own entertainment area as well. Five “bounce houses” will be provided in addition to slides and games. There will also be cotton candy, sno-cones and popcorn. This is a great way for parents and children to enjoy the event, leaving parents free to shop at their leisure knowing their children are in a fun, safe and caring environment.

“We felt it important to provide outreach on a larger scale,” said Berg.

“This year, 25 percent of the proceeds of the event will be given to the Wounded Warrior Battalion. We are moved to help support the soldiers and families who have sacrificed for us all and are experiencing difficulties in their transition,” Berg said.

Christmas Around the World will take place at Cornerstone United Methodist Church located at 1411 Rim Rd. in Fayetteville. Parking is available at the E.E. Miller Elementary School, which is adjacent to the church. For information, visit www.cornerstoneumconline.com or call 910-868-5686.

Methodist University’s Office of Career Services has launched a new program with several partners, called the MU Exclusive Internship Program.

The program, led by Director of Career Services, Antoinette Bellamy, was unveiled at a luncheon Oct. 25.

“This program underscores our commitment to provide every student with an internship opportunity,” said President Ben E. Hancock Jr.

Coinciding with President Hancock’s goal of creating 100 Partnerships, organizations who are in the MU Exclusive Internship Program will partner with the university to offer ex-clusive internship opportunities to MU students during the 2013 May Term. Several companies are already signed on with the program, including N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Fayetteville’s Public Works Commission (PWC), Spring Lake’s Mayor’s Office, U.S. Army Special Operations Command and Microbac Laboratories.

“By partnering with organizations like these, that understand the complexities of the job market and are willing to assist MU students advance professionally, the MU Exclusive Internship Program will help fulfill the university’s promise to prepare students for productive careers and lives of meaning and purpose,” Hancock said.

Bellamy said her office will work to recruit students for positions based on criteria provided by the partners, screen prospective interns and require students to meet with her staff in one-on-one sessions to prepare them for entering into a professional working environment.

“The MU Exclusive Internship Program provides students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience,” Bellamy said. “Students will be able to develop entry-level skills in a specific occupation, and practice the basic career management skills necessary to obtain, sustain and advance in their fields.”

Learning is also an aspect of internships, and students interns are expected to meet several learning outcomes, such as developing job-specific competencies, exploring their chosen career field, gaining a broader knowledge of the organization and developing their personal and interpersonal skills like communica-tion, self-confidence and assertiveness.

In their internships, students will get a 3- to 10-week experience during the summer to work at least 100 hours or longer during the regular academic year. The internships will come in many forms, part-time or full-time, and could be paid or non-paid. All of the internships will include learning objectives, observations, evaluations and assessments.

In return, the partner organizations will have the opportunity to bring new perspectives to their business, gain quality and motivated candidates for special projects, manpower to free up their normal employees for other projects and tasks and a cost-effective way to recruit and evaluate potential employees.

“Research shows that 60 percent of students who participate in paid internships are more engaged in projects and the organization,” Bellamy said. “Since students must be able to sustain themselves, we encourage paid internships. However, we do understand that some partners are unable to make such a financial commitment.”

Whether paid or not, Bellamy said her office encourages students to con-sider the benefits of the experience. As an additional benefit for students, the experience will be listed on the student’s co-curricular transcript.

Businesses can register as an MU Exclusive partner and post intern-ship positions online at collegecentral.com/methodistuni-versity. For more information on how to become an MU Exclusive partner, contact Antoinette Bellamy at 910.630.7257 or abel-lamy@methodist.edu.

The Fayetteville FireAntz enter the 2012-13 season with high expectations and are very optimisticabout the upcoming season. They have a new head coach, a new assistant coach and a group of dynamic new players that fans are sure to get excited about.

Head Coach Mark DeSantis, 40, makes his debut behind the bench for the FireAntz this season. For the last three seasons DeSantis was the assistant coach for the Rapid City Rush of the Central Hockey League and brings a wealth of experience to the FireAntz. During his playing career DeSantis, a defenseman, played 17 professional seasons and scored 131 goals, with 398 as-sists and tallied 2,108 penalty minutes.

“We are thrilled to have Mark DeSantis as the head coach of our team,” said President/ General Manager Kevin MacNaught. “His attention to detail and commitment to helping us build a championship team were very im-portant qualities that I was looking for when choosing a coach and Mark was the obvious choice.”

Assistant Coach Sean Edwards, 33, also in his first year coaching the FireAntz, played five professional seasons. The University of Ottawa’s most successful cam-paign was in 2004-05 where he notched 15 goals, 22 assists and 87 penalty min-utes in 51 games played. He also was +21 that season.“We are very optimistic about our chances for the upcoming year,” Edwards said. “Coach DeSantis recruited guys with really good character. Along with that we have guys that have a lot of speed and a lot of skill. We’re going to be really fun to watch and have a good chance to win night in and night out.”

Players to Watch

Bobby Reed, Center — Reed is the longest tenured player for the FireAntz, beginning his fourth season with the club. Reed, always considered a leader on and off the ice has been named Captain by DeSantis and is looking to have an-other great season for the club. The Huntsville, Ontario native has increased his scoring output each season with the FireAntz and last season had 40 points in 56 games played.

Josh McQuade, Right Wing — McQuade enters his second professional season, both with the FireAntz, and looks to continue the stellar play that he displayed in his rookie campaign. Last year he averaged just shy of a point per game totaling 22 goals and 26 assists for 48 points in 52 games played. He also notched four goals and an assist in the FireAntz 6-3 victory in the pre-season win over the Augusta Riverhawks.

Andrew Smale, Defenseman — Smale will play his first season with the FireAntz in 2012-13. The 6’4’’, 220 pound defenseman will provide great size, a swift skating ability and leadership on the blue line for the team this season. “Smale will be one of our key defense-men this season.” Assistant Coach Edwards said, “He will log a lot of minutes for us and we’re looking for really big things from Smale this year.”

Marco Emond, Goaltender— Emond begins his first year man-ning the net for the FireAntz this season. The 34 year old goaltender brings a wealth of experience to the team, having played professionally since 1998. With over 200 professional wins and a save percentage over .900 for his career.

Brandon Richardson,Forward — Richardson enters his second professional hockey season and first with the FireAntz. Fans may remember him from the Huntsville Havoc, last season, where he netted 13 goals in 26 games before get-ting called up to the Bloomington Blaze of the Central Hockey League (CHL.) “Brandon is one of our most versatile guys, he can play all three forward posi-tions.” Edwards added, “He’s definitely a goal scorer who has great speed and a great shot.”

Brock Sawyer, Defense — Sawyer is a rookie defenseman for the FireAntz, hav-ing recently graduated from Elmira College in New York. “Brock is an offensive defenseman who plays smartly with and without the puck.” Edwards continued, “The maturity that this guys possesses, for a rookie, is remarkable. He carries him-self like a veteran and we are really happy to have him on our team.”

With a new coach, a new assistant coach and an extremely talented roster the FireAntz are ready for an outstanding year in 2012-13. Make sure to come out to the Crown Coliseum and join in on the exciting season for the FireAntz this year. For more information on the FireAntz, or to purchase group tickets at a reduced rate visit the FireAntz Website at www.fireantzhockey.com

A Dicken’s Holiday is something that the community looks forward to each year as much as bargain hunters anticipate Black Friday and foodies long for Thanksgiving Day feasts. This marks the 13th year of this event, and to be sure, there will be plenty opportunities for merriment and memory making.

On the day after Thanksgiving, for more than a decade, A Dicken’s Holiday has transformed downtown Fayetteville into a Victorian-style wonderland. This year, Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great grandson of Charles Dickens, author of A Christmas Carol, joins the celebration, which lasts from 1-9 p.m.

Dickens has worked as a director and producer for several years. He created his first one-man show in 1993. It was a performance of A Christmas Carol based on readings that Charles Dickens’ regularly performed in the 1860s. Gerald enjoys sharing the works of Charles Dickens with young people and holds workshops and performances in schools and colleges in the Unites States and England.

In celebration of his great-great grandfather’s 200th birthday, Dickens will perform two one-man shows. In the process he will play more than 30 characters. The first show is A Christmas Carol and the second show is Mr. Dickens is Coming! Both plays take place at Hay Street United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., respectively. Both performances are free, but seating is limited.

“As this year is the 200th birthday of Charles Dickens, it’s appropriate that we celebrate our 13th annual A Dickens Holiday with actor Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great grandson of author Charles Dickens, as our special guest,” said Mary Kinney, marketing director for the Arts Council Fayetteville/Cumberland County. “What a treat to have him here in Fayetteville — all the way from Oxford, England!”

The day is sure to be packed with fun as Father Christmas will be in attendance, ready to take photos with passersby. Carolers roam the streets and horse-drawn carriages roll through downtown offering a chance to see the local sights from a new perspective. Take a stroll through the many side streets and enjoy the merchants and arts and crafts vendors in Victorian garb.

While gingerbread houses are a tradition in many homes during the holiday season, this year the event organizers have put a spin on the theme. Cumberland County high school students from nine local schools have built London landmarks from gingerbread. Stop by SkyView and vote for your favorite.

“The gingerbread competition brings a whole new dimension to A Dicken’s Holiday,” said Kinney. “It is truly amazing to see what the competitors are capable of.”

A favorite of many, the candlelight procession from the Arts Council to the Market House starts at 5:30 p.m. Dickens will lead the procession, but that is not the end of the celebration. Once the candles are snuffed out, the sky will fill with fireworks to welcome the holiday season.

A Dicken’s Holiday lasts until 9 p.m. Find out more about this event at www.theartscouncil.com or www.fayettevillealliance.com.

Photo: Gerald Dickens, the great-great grandson of author Charles Dickens joins the celebration this year.

There is plenty of good that comes from growing up on a farm. For award-winning playwright Elaine Wilson Alexander, some of the benefits include a quick, wicked sense of humor and a unique perspective on life, which will be showcased during the world premier of Life As We Know It at the Gilbert Theater. The Gilbert is teaming-up with Up & Coming Weekly to present this unique collection of five of Alexander’s one-act comedies.

Alexander is the daughter of Dave and Barbara Wilson and a fourth-generation Fayetteville native. She grew up on a beautiful 800-acre farm on what is now Morganton Road. It may have been the wide-open spaces and fresh air that stimulated and impacted her creativity, but undeniably, it was her family that taught her to see the lighter side of life .

“Growing up, both my parents were funny. We had several cats on the farm and even they had a droll sense of humor,” said Alexander. “I grew up watching Saturday Night Live and Second City Television. This shaped my sense of humor, too.”

As a child, Alexander said she often felt like an outsider. Her teen years were marked by a battle of “the farm girl versus the “cool girls” from the subdivisions. She was constantly aware of the differences between herself and the other children, but she found these differences more amusing than detrimental. It didn’t take her long to use these insights to her advantage and ultimately put them to good use.

She can pinpoint the moment when she realized she was funny: It was a Brownie meeting. Like most gatherings of young girls, this particular Brownie troop was divided into cliques. Alexander recalls that she showed up to one meeting dressed “out of uniform.” As anticipated, the other girls mocked and teased her for the offense. Rather than get upset, she turned the tables on them.

“We were doing an animal skit and I was a stray cat. I howled and writhed like I was starving. I really put a lot into that performance. By the end of the skit they were laughing uncontrollably. They were nice to me after that,” said Alexander. “Sometimes it’s good to be the outsider. You get more laughs that way.”

As a youngster, Alexander took drama classes and participated in community theatre, however, it took awhile for things to come full circle. She entertained thoughts of being an actress when she was in high school, but words from a loved one changed that course of action. Realizing she was “no Meryl Streep,” she set out to become a journalist. She found great success in the publishing world. She traveled, met and mingled with celebrities and, as a journalist, rose successfully in the ranks of the Fourth Estate before deciding to settle down to raise a family. If anything, her career as a journalist served to sharpen her observation skills. Later she considered getting back into acting but “…I saw myself in a video,” said Alexander. “I looked like a character from the Wallace and Grommet comic strip.” So, she quickly returned to writing — only this time it was writing plays and not articles.

She found that being a mother put her in an excellent position to observe comical “real-life” situations, which are always excellent fodder for entertainers. After all, what parent hasn’t walked away from a school meeting, ball game or other kid-centric activity scratching their head at the behavior and antics of supposedly responsible adults ? Whether it is a PTA meeting filled with moms trying to one-up each other, a yoga class or a trip to the grocery store, Alexander looks to those around her for topics to write about finding much of her humor in the mundane.

“I see the comedy in life and in the unmet ambitions we all have,” said Alexander, adding that “… nobody tries harder than a middle-aged woman. It’s like being in middle school, but now we are combating wrinkles instead of acne.”

Bill Bowman, publisher of Up & Coming Weekly, recognized Alexander’s satirical humor as original and fresh. He believes it is something theatre goers in the Fayetteville community will enjoy and support.

“I read her work and then went to South Carolina to see one of her plays preformed. Needless to say, I was blown away with the humor, the uniqueness of her style and freshness of thematerial,” said Bowman. “Upon returning home, I asked Elaine to send me her plays and, after reading all six of her short one acts, I knew this would be a great opportunity to bring her home and share her work with the community. I asked Robyne Parrish, artistic director of the Gilbert Theatre, and Jeremy Fiebig, managing director, to review her work. They too were impressed. We (Up & Coming Weekly) agreed to partner with the Gilbert to produce her work.” 

Bowman goes on to explain that from the beginning he felt Alexander’s work would be a great fit for the Gilbert Theatre since they have been a long-time advocate of creative and original works and a huge supporter of local talent. From its inception, the Gilbert Theater’s vision has been “… to be the premiere theater in Eastern North Carolina for audiences who value innovative, daring theater that explores the human condition in a respectful, imaginative way.”

Fiebig will direct the upcoming production of Alexander’s work.

“We love the fact that Elaine is a local talent from Fayetteville. In addition to celebrating her work, we want it to celebrate the Gilbert Theater and our unique place in the Fayetteville cultural community,” said Fiebig. “Elaine, knows what life is like here and that is something the audience will appreciate about her work.”

Life as We Know It will open in late December. “We are doing this right after the busiest time of year. People have had to deal with extended family, travel and cold weather. This will be a way to escape and infuse a breath of fresh air into the holiday season,” said Fiebig. “It is going to provide our community an opportunity to celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Gilbert Theatre in an unique, fun and interesting way and, it will be something to get them laughing.”

The proceeds from Life as We Know It will go partially to the Gilbert Theater for expanding its community cultural programs and educational services. Funds will also go to the Cumberland County Kidsville News! Literacy and Education Foundation. Alexander is coming home and this will be the “world premiere” of her works. But, don’t count on it being the last. To find out more about Alexander’s play Life as We Know It go to www.gilberttheater.com.

Photo: Gilbert Theater presents humorist and playwright Elaine Alexander as she returns to Fayetteville in December.

In 1915 playwright Edgar Lee Masters wrote about a huge part of American life, the small town. Not only did his play break down the stereotypical ideas surrounding small-town America, but the unconventional style of this play also ripped through traditional theatre. Phoebe Hall brings this production back to life for the public to enjoy this November at Fayetteville State University.

Spoon River Anthology is a series of free-form poems that describe the lives of the citizens of Spoon River, Ill., a classic small town in rural America. Some may fear that this will lead to a confusing or altogether un-relatable production, but Hall says, “I think audience members will be surprised by how much fun they’ll have with the characters of Spoon River.

“While the time period is ‘long ago’ and we have no way of knowing who is who or what year it is for any given character, I think they’ll find it fairly easy to keep up with who is attached to whom and for what reason. This is very much like a large extended family in that everyone is connected to someone else in some way and once you begin to unravel that, the maze begins to make more sense.”

Many productions romanticize the world in order to provide an escape. Spoon River Anthology does quite the opposite. Instead of creating a fictional world to provide an escape, this production reflects true characters and real truths in life.

“They should expect to be moved, to laugh and to recognize the characters in this small town. We all know them. Some of us are related to them, married to them, teach them, vote for them, love them or even hate them,” said Hall. “But, in the fi nal analysis … we may see ourselves and our own environments in the play.”

Even the actors get an in-depth understanding of the characters as they develop them and portray them on stage.

“As in every play that I direct, my favorite part is watching and helping the actors through the ‘discovery’ phase of rehearsal. I fi nd it very satisfying to see them all have those ‘Aha! moments’ when something fi nally clicks for them about a character and motivation,” said Hall.

Spoon River Anthology was written in 1915, and is set in a time even before that, but the profound truth it portrays about human nature in a small town makes it timeless.

“I think every theme can find some relevance today —it depends on individual perspective. The same issues that plagued Spoon River still plague people in small towns today, so the issues don’t change … just the players,” said Hall.

Spoon River Anthology runs Nov. 17-18 and begins at 7:30 p.m. each night and at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets ordered in advance cost $10 for adults and $8 for faculty, staff and off-campus students. At the door, adults pay $12 and faculty, staff and off campus students pay $10. FSU students with I.D.s always pay $3. Tickets may be ordered by calling the FSU Box Office at (910) 672-1724.

For more information, contact Jeremy Fiebig at 672-2574 or jfiebig@uncfsu.edu. The production will be held in Butler Theatre on the FSU campus.

Shopping for the 2012 holiday season has begun for many people across the state and decorations are starting to appear in all the stores. If you like the excitement of holiday arts and crafts then you are in for a treat as the Association of Bragg Officers’ Spouses brings you the annual 2012 Yule Mart Craft Fair.

The fair will be held on Friday, November 16 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Saturday, November 17 from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

The Yule Mart Craft Fair aims to provide visitors with a wide variety of handmade crafts and artworks sold on site by the artists. The crafts will include holiday décor, furniture, toys, handmade treats, clothing, candles, soaps, pictures and other unique items.

Some of the other features include a Santa Secret Shop where young children can shop for family members. The children will be accompanied by one of Santa’s elves as they browse around the shop looking for gifts that are in their budget. The gifts that the young ones pick out will be individually wrapped so they are ready for the holiday.

There will also be a bake shop full of homemade goodies, and a special area will be set up for a visit from Santa himself. Perhaps you always wanted to take a picture with Santa; well, you will get your chance because he is preparing his best looking smile with his rosy cheeks, to take pictures with you and the children.

This year, the event includes a food court area, too. Sit down, take a break and get something good to eat without leaving the event.

Last year’s event was a great success and organizers are predicting an even better turn-out in 2012. All proceeds from the fair go towards the ABOS Welfare and Scholarship funds, which benefit the Fort Bragg Community. There are expected to be at least 62 vendors on hand, and ABOS hopes to raise even more funds than last year. In 2012, organization distributed $20,000 in grants to local non-profit organizations that serve the Fort Bragg population and demonstrated a need, and $18,000 in scholarships. The scholarship grants are available to any family member of an active-duty or retired soldier with a valid military identification card and who resides in the surrounding Fort Bragg areas or whose sponsor is attached or assigned to Fort Bragg.

For additional information about the Yule Mart Craft Fair and the ABOS, go online to http://fbabos.org. If you are an interested crafter, go to the website complete and submit the application. There are only a few vendor slots available for the 2012 Yule Mart Craft Fair. This year is sure to be fun for the entire family with a little something for everyone. ABOS are trying to make sure that there will not be one dull moment during your visit to the craft fair.

The craft fair will be held at the Hercules Physical Fitness Center, which is located at Building 420 Armistead Street, Pope Army Airfield. Admission for Friday is $5 and Saturday $8. Find out more about Yule Mart and ABOS at www.fbabos.org.

Photo: All proceeds from the fair go towards the ABOS Welfare and Scholarship funds, which benefit the Fort Bragg Community.

Question: Boil 4,000 pounds of spaghetti, add 800 gallons of sauce, plus an assortment of tantalizing sweets and pastries and what do you get?

Answer: The World’s Largest Spaghetti Dinner and Greek Pastry Sale.

On Nov. 14, the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church will host its annual spaghetti and pastry sale. The event runs from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. The take-out meal will be served at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church Hellenic Center located at 614 Oakridge Ave.

“The dinner was started more than 50 years ago by my father-in-law and has grown from serving 400 dinners to more than 10,000,” said Tony Kotsopoulos, event coordinator. “It was designed to raise funds for the church and now supports two local charities as well. I have been coordinating the event for the past 23 years and it has become a labor of love. It can be a logistical nightmare but it uplifts my spirit.”

In order to prepare such a meal, volunteers engage in a choreographed exercise involving preparation and serving.

“There are more than 100 volunteers from the Greek Orthodox community who participate in this labor of love as well,” Kotsopolos stated. “There have been people who have been participating in this event for as long as I have been coordinating it. I enjoy watching the constant flow of traffic throughout the day and seeing people come from all over Fayetteville and surrounding communities. It’s more than the spaghetti they come for. I think it’s about the sense of camaraderie and knowing the monies are going to causes that benefit the community as well,” said Kotsopolos.

The spaghetti meal costs $6.50 and is carry-out only. In addition to the fi ne pasta and sauce, the church auxiliary will have sweets and desserts complementing this fantastic feast. The pastries are available at an additional cost. Arrive earlier in the day, as the pastries are sought-after items.

As part owner of Luigi’s restaurant on 528 N. McPherson Church Rd., Kotsopolos is no stranger to hosting large dinner parties. Once a year however, he and the dedicated volunteers pull out all the stops to provide the public with a meal not soon forgotten.

“This event helps keep my work ethic in check and is a way of saying thank you to the always supportive Fayetteville community,” he added.

For further information please contact the Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church at 910-484-2010 or visit their website at www.stsch.nc.goarch.org.

Photo: An annual event, The World’s Largest Spaghetti Dinner and Greek Pastry Sale is a Fayetteville tradition.

Dear Editor:

If there is an iconic image of Downtown Fayetteville, and its near miraculous transformation, that image would include the marquee of the Cameo Art House Theatre on Hay Street. A dozen years ago, when what is now a foregone conclusion was much more elusive, the renovation of that old theater into the Cameo was an act of faith. Now, reality is at the door, and soon the Cameo may be just a memory.

In case you haven’t noticed, that wonderful invention of Kodak’s creative labs, (digital photography) has turned film into 1s and 0s. Everything is digital. It’s been quite a ride,taking us from big clunky cellular bag phones to the iPhone; from huge film cameras, to slightly smaller video cameras, to incredibly small, superior digital video cameras. It’s changed everything, from the way we read the news, to the way we share Christmas photos, to the way we watch movies. Digital has made a lot of things disappear, including Kodak and maybe the Cameo.

When I arrived in Fayetteville, in 1968, there were four movie houses Downtown: the Broadway, The Carolina, The Colony and The Miracle. The Miracle was the spiffiest, with a long hallway that stretched inside to the large 1,500 seat theater. The line wove by the glass front studios of WFLB, Fayetteville’s only rock’n roll station. On your way to the movies, you could see Ted Michaud, Ron Phelps or Larry “Boom-Boom” Cannon, messing with the constant stream of people who were out for a night on the town. Then multiple-screen theaters came. Then VHS and Blockbuster came. The movie houses left.

Change happens. Ever hear of Vaudeville? It was killed by the movies, the silent movies, which was killed by the talkies, which were killed by radio, which was killed by television, which seems to be dying a long, slow death, morphing, along with many other forms of entertainment, to the Internet.

So digital has overtaken the film industry. Film is history. Film is expensive, to print, copy, ship and display. So just as the telephone companies realized they could make more money by eliminating the telephone poles and underground wires by switching to cellular, the film industry said, “Us, too!”

So let’s get back to the Cameo. So maybe some of you reading this say, “So What? I can see the big blockbuster, shoot ‘em up/ blow ‘em up at the local giant 30-screen cinderblock box.” True, but what about those of you who have experienced the Cameo Art House Theatre? You know who you are.

In 2000, when Eric Lindstrom and Chris and Naseem Keunzel designed and built the Cameo, most folks thought they were crazy. It made no sense. They did it because Fayetteville “needed” an art cinema. If we were going to help transform our downtown into a place that would be a destination, a place that tourists would visit, we needed certain things. They mortgaged everything they owned to get the money to renovate and open the Cameo. It was an investment of more than $600,000 in 1999. Then they finished the upstairs, more intimate screening room for an additional $300,000. They did this on the belief that Fayetteville would come and support them. Many did, but not nearly enough. As is the history of small, independent art-house cinemas across the country, each month is a struggle. It is a struggle that makes Fayetteville a better place to be.

Now, if they were a non-profit organization, they could solicit tax-exempt donations, or grants (as the Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines just did), but they wanted to stay true to their independence. They bet on downtown, and they were right. Now they’re betting on the public (that’s you). A lot of people began to believe in the future of downtown when they saw the Cameo open its doors. Granted a lot of small businesses have come and helped promote the dream of Downtown Fayetteville, but the Cameo is different. It still makes no sense that the Cameo is open. They show the movies that the “big guys” don’t touch. Usually the movies that become the award winners, the movies that you would have to leave town to see. It should have closed years ago.

Lindstrom left the partnership because of work demands, but the Keunzels are still struggling to keep the doors open. They have an architectural company that pays their monthly bills, but they simply can’t afford to underwrite the digital upgrade.

The good news is — they are not alone.

A growing group of supporters is organizing a private fundraising effort to switch the Cameo to digital. The campaign is called, “Go Digital or Go Dark.” An ominous name, but true. By 2013, all major film releases will be available only in a digital format. End of story. Or is it?

It really is up to you. Why should you support this effort? Because if you like what is happening to our town, then you need to help the people who helped make it happen. I always urge everyone to buy something from a downtown merchant ( full disclosure – I am one), so they can stay in business and keep downtown thriving. That’s the only way it can work. This move to digital is the same. The amount is huge — $200,000. Yikes!

Yes, you could write one check for the entire amount, but they’d prefer a smaller amount that will go through the bank. I cannot think of any other private company that I would support in this manner, but this is a for-profit company that has never made much of a profit. Why? Because the mission meant more than the margin, and I’m thankful for that.

To help out, visit www.cameoarthouse.com.

Social Security Offers Online Resources

Editor’s Note: Our regular contributors Martha Owen and Susan Guy donated this space to Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Brenda Brown this week: We recognize how much time is in-volved in keeping a senior’s Social Security infor-mation straight. Whether it is the client, the adult child, neighbor or professional caregiver working to process this information, it is crucial that it is seamless. Below is some valuable information that should make that process easier. — Martha Owen & Susan Guy

Over the River and Through the Woods to www.socialsecurity.gov.

Kids are back in school, and in the breezy after-noons, you can find them raking leaves, or jumping in them. It’s that time of year. Soon, on the way to Thanksgiving dinner, children may be sing-ing in the back seats of cars: “Over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house we go …

”Did you know that the original song had chil-dren in a horse-drawn sleigh on their way to grandfather’s house?

A lot has changed since those days. Take the Internet, for example. A generation ago, no one would have considered mapping out directions on the Web, or ordering a package online, delivered directly to the destination. No one would have imagined doing business with Social Security with a computer.

This Thanksgiving Day, after you’ve enjoyed your feast and exhausted conversation, why not show Grandma and Grandpa how easily they can use www.socialsecurity.gov to avoid un-needed trips to a Social Security office?

For starters, you can take them to the online Retirement Estimator, a tool that helps them figure out how much they may get in monthly ben-efits depending on when they retire. It’s available at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. Or tell them about the hot new service everyone is talking about: the new online Social Security Statement. It provides a record of past earnings, along with projected earnings for future years to give an estimate of future Social Security benefits. It’s available at www.socialsecurity.gov/mystatement.

You also can show them our library of online publications containing all the in-formation they need to know about an array of Social Security, retirement and Medicare subjects. You can see our publications at www.so-cialsecurity.gov/pubs. If they were thinking about retirement, you may want to show them just how knowledgeable you are by suggesting they read the publication, When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10147.html.

And if they’re ready to retire, take them to www.socialsecurity.gov/applyonline, where they can apply online for retirement benefits in as little as 15 minutes — that may be less time than it takes to brew a pot of coffee and slice a pumpkin pie. Once they click the “submit” button, they’re done. (And so are you.)

As you’re preparing to go over the river, through the woods or across town to visit family this Thanksgiving Day, consider inviting www.socialsecurity.gov to the gathering.idMdiUse www.socialsecurity.gov to avoid unneeded trips to a Social Security office.BRENDA BROWN, Contr

The Fayetteville Technical Community College Board of Trustees and FTCC President Dr. Larry Keen dedicated the new General Classroom Building on Monday, Sept. 17. The General Classroom Building was built around the former Service Merchandise building with a design facing Fort Bragg Road and including a large new parking lot. The sprawling 70,000 square-foot building provides much needed additional space for the growing community college and includes 13 classrooms, 13 fac-ulty offices, two conference rooms, seven computer labs and a multipurpose room. It also houses the school’s bookstore and security offices.

The building was built around the existing struc-ture with all-new mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, state-of-the-art technology for teaching and unique green-minded and resource-saving features. As an example, the building is equipped with a rainwater collection system that provides water for the toilets and urinals. The teaching tools in the classrooms and other spaces include smart boards, enhanced computers, monitors and audio-visual gear. Teachers using class-rooms in the building are required to use the technology in their courses.

FTCC Board Chair William S. Wellons Jr. explains the significance of the General Classroom Building: “The purchase of the Service Merchandise Building by the board of trustees was another important step to build and to protect the future of education and FTCC. The purchase and the renovation are great examples of how FTCC is a leader in the community and also demonstrate the foresight of establishing permanence of an educational institution for the people of Cumberland County and surrounding areas. What a great way to pres-ent yourselves to future generations. We, the trustees, FTCC administration and staff are very proud of our efforts and want to thank all of the entities and people who made this purchase and renovation for the future of education possible.”

Dr. Marye J. Jeffries, Fayetteville Technical Community College board chair (2000-2004), recalls how the funding for the General Classroom Building was available: “The passage of the $3.1 billion capital-improvement bond package in 2000 by the North Carolina General Assembly was to provide $2.5 billion to the University of North Carolina system and $600 million to the North Carolina Community College System. The funding would assist universities and community colleges with their most critical facility needs as well as prepare campuses state-wide for a population growth of about 100,000 new students. It was the largest single investment any state had made in higher education facilities.”

Mr. Charles J. Harrell, FTCC board chair (2004-2010) also offers his congratulations to the FTCC Board of Trustees and President Larry Keen for the cre-ation of a state-of the-art 70,000 square-foot General Classroom Building.

The project was funded with money from a state cap-ital-improvement bond package and from Cumberland County. FTCC received $38.4 million from the 2000 bond package, aimed at helping universities and com-munity colleges meet facility needs and prepare for increased student popula-tions. The county provided matching funds. FTCC officials said the funds allowed the school to continue upgrading existing facilities and to acquire new ones.

Fayetteville Technical Community College was established in 1961 and serves more than 34,000 students annually by providing 182 affordable vocational, technical, general education, col-lege transfer and continuing education programs to meet students’ needs and desires as well as the community.

Photo: The new General Classroom Building at FTCC was dedicated on Monday, Sept. 17.

The starter’s gun will fire at 8 a.m. sharp for the 16th Annual Joint Special Operations 10K Run/5K Walk. This year’s edition will take place on Nov. 10. The race, started in 1996, has grown to the point where entries will be limited to 1,000 runners and walkers.

The course is a challenging dirt, mud, gravel and sand trail and is open to all ages and abilities. While a majority of runners come from the Fort Bragg community, there are a number of participants from all across the state as well as some out-of-state runners. All-terrain strollers are acceptable but a standard sidewalk model will not be able to negotiate the course. Pets are not permitted.

The race, certified by USA Track and Field, is sponsored by the Special Operations Communicators Association. The association’s mission is to promote the values established in the Special Operations Forces Truths and Imperatives. It is also an organization that strongly believes in taking care of the operations communicators family. Moral, spiritual and financial outreach is extended to members and their families who need a helping hand for the loss of a loved one, disaster relief and also serves as a morale fund for association activities. Monies are raised via the 10K run, a golf tournament and donations to support scholarships for spouses and college-age dependents of active-duty members of SOCA members.

Todd Spencer, race coordinator since 2007, shared his feelings about the event. “There is something special about leading the runners out on the ATV. The morning is brisk and I look behind me and it’s like a thousand wild horses, cold breath clouding, awaiting the charge. The morning mist is rising from the lake and there is a wave of energy when the starter’s pistol cracks the air”.

Putting on an event such as this can be a logistical nightmare. Every detail is important. 

“Since I have been associated with this event I have been continually amazed at the level of excitement and professionalism our volunteers bring to the race. From pre-race preparation to after-race festivities, everything is taken care of. This is unlike any other race in Fayetteville,” Spencer said.

The entry fee for the race/walk is $25 if received by Oct. 26, and $30 thereafter with shirts available to all participants. Registration can be accomplished on-line at www.active.com or via the SOCA website (www.thesoca.org) and by downloading the application found at 10K Documents. Entries can be mailed to SOCA, Box 73409, Fort Bragg, N.C. 28307.

Pre-Race packet pick-up with t-shirts will be available on November 8th at Sports USA between 3-7 p.m. and the following day Nov. 9 at Dicks Sporting Goods on Skibo Road between 12-3 p.m. Late registrations will be accepted at these locations.

Photos: The Joint Special Operations 5K Run/5K Walk is a great event for seasonsed runners and for families.

Community Concerts is as much about the community as it is about the concerts, really. For this all-volunteer organization, the past two decades have been about working together to show audiences a good time and fi nding new ways to say thanks to those who have helped shape the community.

This year, Community Concerts has another outstanding list of performers scheduled. The concert season opens on Nov. 9 with Gladys Knight. A seven-time Grammy winner, Knight has recorded more than 38 albums and has a philanthropic heart.

She is the national spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association, she supports the American Cancer Society, the Minority AIDS Project, amFAR and Crisis Interventions. She is also a recipient of the BET’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

She’s been topping charts and wowing audiences for more than 50 years. Her latest work is titled Before Me. The album includes Billie Holiday’s “God Bless the Child,” Lena Horne’s “Stormy Weather” and Duke Ellington’s “Come Sunday.”

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Visit www. community-concerts.com or www.atthecrown.com for more information.

Next in the line up is country sensation Martina McBride on Dec. 17. Breaking away from RCA Records after her contract ended in 2010 was a big step for McBride, but she took a chance and signed with Republic Nashville, one of the Big Machine Records labels and has been hard at work. Her latest album, Eleven, was released in October of 2011. McBride co-wrote six of the 11 tracks on the album.

With more than 20 years of entertaining behind her, McBride delivers top-notch performances for her fans. She’ll be at the Crown on Dec. 17.

Styx comes to town on Jan. 19 as the third of fi ve concerts this season. This group has been rocking the stage since the early 70s and isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. They performed more between 1999 and 2012 than they did in the previous years. Early fans of the group remember them for songs like “Come Sail Away,” “Renegade,” “Blue Collar Man” and “Fooling Yourself.” More recent fans have heard their work in TV shows like South Park and Freaks and Geeks as well as on car commercials.

Relive old memories and make new ones at the Crown with Community Concerts. Find out more about this iconic rock and roll band at www. community-concerts.com.

They started out as the Jazziacs in 1950 and were later known as the Soul Town Band. You probably know them better as Kool & the Gang. Known for their versatile sound, Kool & the Gang perform jazz, funk and soul as well at Top 40 hits. With songs like “Ladies Night” (1979), “Too Hot” (1980) and Celebration, a 1980 platinum album, the group has enjoyed great success. Spend an evening with this eclectic group and get your groove on. They will be at the Crown on Feb. 23.

Ricky Skaggs closes the season. He stared in Blue Grass and transitioned to mainstream country music in the late 1970s. He’s won 14 Grammy’s, more than a dozen number one hits and eight County Music Association Awards, including Entertainer of the Year in 1985.

It’s been 53 years since Skaggs picked up the mandolin and he is still going strong. Skaggs is slated to perform at the Crown on April 23.

Find out more at www. community-concerts.com.

Photo: Legendary performer Gladys Knight kicks off this season’s Community Concerts. 

You are so sweet. Don’t sugar-coat it, give it to me straight. I have a sweet tooth. Revenge is sweet. Give me some sugar. Let’s keep this short and sweet.

Clearly, we are a nation fascinated with sugar and sweetness. We talk about it. We sing about it. “Pour some sugar on me”; “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down”; “Sugar … oh honey honey/You are my candy girl” … it’s in our blood, and like so many things, more is not always better.

High blood sugar (glucose) levels that are the result of the body’s inability to use and/or produce insulin is called diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. While it is usually manageable, left untreated complications associated with diabetes include heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease and nervous system damage. On Nov. 7-8, learn more about diabetes care and prevention at Fayetteville Technical Community College at How’s Your Sugar?

Mitzi Johnson is the dean of Health Programs at FTCC, and she’s excited about the services and resources that will be available at the event.

“This idea came from Dave Wilson, one of our foundation board of directors,” said Johnson. “It grew from there and is the result of a group of people who want to do something helpful.”

Services at How’s Your Sugar? include educational opportunities, screening and access to resources. Blood pressure and sugar screenings, Body Mass Index testing and cholestorol screening (for high-risk subjects) are just some of the resources available.

“We are going to have a nurse practitioner on site and she is going to work with pharmacy students,” said Johnson. “They will be talking to people and giving them options for referrals and helping them connect with resources.”

The Army Wellness Center will have a display, as will Better Health and Southern Regional Area Health Education Center.Education is part of the focus here, but changing lives in the bigger goal.

“We want to prevent problems, but we know that in our population, and in the south in general, there are high levels of obesity diabetes,” said Johnson. “Our nursing students, for several years, have done various community health projects — including blood sugar checks. This is an expansion.”

In the past, events like this brought in more than 200 visitors a day, but Johnson is hoping for a bigger crowd this time around. The screenings are more comprehensive, there are several organizations involved and access to resources is more extensive.

“I love the community collaboration, and the fact that there are so many community members taking an interest in this and contributing,” Johnson said. “We already had some resources available and it is a good experience for the students.”

Johnson hopes to see a big turnout from the students, faculty and staff at FTCC but invites the public to attend as well. The event takes place at the Tony Rand Student Center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 7, and from noon to 7 p.m. on Nov. 8. Call Mitzi Johnson at 678-8372 for more information.