Arts

Summertime NC peaches

18One of the great joys of summertime for many North Carolina families is a drive to the Sandhills to visit one of the roadside peach stands that dot the region.
The well-drained Sandhills provide for peach trees what the California Napa Valley does for grape vines. When the peach blossoms survive the late winter frosts and when spring and early summer bring the right amount of rain, it is hard to find anything that tastes better than a Sandhills peach.
Even a perfect peach has to be picked and eaten at the right time.
Peaches are temperamental. A just-picked, fully ripened peach can taste better than the most elegant dessert at a five-star restaurant.
But peaches do not age well. A perfectly delicious, fully ripe peach is right on the edge of disaster. Deterioration and decay begin almost immediately. The best peach will not be as good after a few hours, and it can be a mushy mess of decay in a few days or less.
Peaches don't travel well either. Ripe ones bruise easily. Temperature variations and the lapse of time make the peach less and less appealing every minute after it leaves the tree.
So the best way for a North Carolina family to get a bite of a most delicious peach is to buy a ripe one right after it is picked.
The temperamental peach can sometimes drive a peach farmer crazy as he tries to manage the timing of its growth and harvest. But its nature is also a godsend for the Sandhill growers. It is this temperamental nature that keeps families driving down to the Sandhills to experience the perfect peach taste that is available only close to the source.
Over the last few years, many North Carolina small farmers found that they can no longer compete with the larger operations. As much as they love farming and farm life, many have had to find other lines of work.
Sandhills peach farmers face some of the same challenges. But, as a result of the peach’s temperamental quality, freshly picked peaches sold by the orchard owners directly to consumers are worth much more than those sold before they are ripe to large wholesalers and grocery store chains.
This phenomenon helps explain why North Carolina peach farmers have resisted the pressures of consolidation longer than most small farmers.
Since it is better to buy peaches as close to the source as possible, small orchards can make more money selling directly at their roadside stands than they can by selling large quantities to wholesalers.
Thankfully, there are still plenty of these family-run orchards in the Sandhills, where we can buy those precious peaches from the same people who grow them.
Greene’s Pee Dee Orchard’s peach stand on U.S. Highway 74 is on the west side of the bridge across the Pee Dee River between Wadesboro and Rockingham. (Don’t miss the fresh peach ice cream that Greene’s family makes on the spot.)
Greene is just one of a proud group of Sandhills peach farmers.
“There are lots of others you should mention, lots of other good peach growers around here.” Greene’s friend and fellow peach grower, the late beloved Watts Auman told me. “We are like a big clan. And the truth is, all Sandhills peaches are almost always real good, if you get them fresh and ripe.”

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

Cape Fear Studios goes miniature with new exhibit

17a“When you look at a miniature … The beauty is in the details.”
— Bill Richardson
Cape Fear Studios is presenting the Sculpture and Miniature Challenge exhibit from July 26 to Aug. 20. The exhibit will feature 2D and 3D small works by local artists. The studio is located at 148 Maxwell Street, Fayetteville. The exhibit is open Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Best of Show will be determined by guest judge, Silvana Foti.
“2D art exists primarily in a flat, two-dimensional plane, (painting, photograph), while 3D occupies space with a measurable height, width, and depth, (sculpture),” according to Study.Com.
Pandy Autry, president, Cape Fear Studios, shares, “Miniature Art is an intriguing art form that reflects our world on a smaller scale emphasizing details that can get lost in a greater work. Having a show of only miniatures allows us to focus on these pieces, as they are often overlooked when mixed with larger pieces. I hope the show can continue to expand to more awareness and focus our visitors to seek and explore the world of art in miniature.”
Silvana Foti is the guest judge of the Sculpture and Miniature Challenge exhibit. She holds an MFA from the University of Notre Dame and a BFA from St Mary’s College, Notre Dame. She is affiliated with the Association of Academic Museums and Galleries and the Association of Art Museum Curators, New York, to name a few. She is a tenured professor of art at Methodist University and was the executive director of the David McCune International Art Gallery on the campus.
“As a practicing artist, Silvana is best known for her expertise in printmaking. In addition to participating in more than 50 artist exhibitions, her former and current art gallery representation encompasses works on display in nine galleries throughout North Carolina, New York City and Chicago. Her personal works are on display in more than 45 public and private collections,” according to her biography.
Nancy R. Edge won Honorable Mention in the show with the piece entitled “Tundra Swan.”
“I like to play with light. The light follows the form. Light mirrors the swan’s feathers. The contrasts of light within nature are captured by the medium of pastels,” she said.
Small-scale is beautiful. Stop by the Cape Fear Studios Sculpture and Miniature Art Challenge. Admission is free. For more information, contact Cape Fear Studios by email at https://www.capefearstudios.com or phone at 910-433-2986.

Ayana Washington: Fayetteville’s creative genius

14Fayetteville has produced some exemplary talent across a variety of industries. From the NFL field to the big screen and the Grammy’s, this area’s knack for being the “hometown” of global superstars is worth a brag. A city that hosts one of the largest army bases in the world, two major universities, a major highway, and an ever-changing and growing economy, Fayetteville is the perfect backdrop for a hometown to Hollywood story.
Ayana Washington is a local creative who everyone should be keeping their eyes on. Founder and the driving creative force behind Book Black Women, Washington has curated artistic and cultural events for families and adults alike.
She is coming in hot off some highly anticipated and enjoyed events, including her highly successful stage production, 400 Years: The Evolution of Black America. Her success is the outcome of her persistence in seeing more art programs and shows in her hometown.
One could say that Washington is destined for greatness. Born at Womack Hospital to a family of musicians and servicemembers, creativity with equal parts determination and grit was there from the beginning. As with any musically inclined family, music education was just a part of everyday life. Her stepfather, a music teacher, introduced Washington to all genres of music and helped her “finetune” her ear, an era of her life she calls the “first step.”
Her resume reads like that of a seasoned professional. From Director to Producer to Creative Director, Washington has done it all, and done it well.
Her past credits include Dolly in Hello Dolly (Actress), Mrs. Phelps in Matilda The Musical (Actress), The Addams Family Musical (Costume Designer), Be Real Macy Weave (Costume Designer), In The Blood (Director), Frankenstein (Director), The Blueprint (Producer), 400 Years: The Evolution of Black America (Co-Producer), the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra Independence Day (Featured Artist), and the Juneteenth Celebration (Creative Director).
Her upcoming project is the Darkness Rising Mental Health Block Party (Creative Director).
While Fayetteville is home, Washington spent some time away from the area, gaining new friends and experiences along the way.
“I traveled the States alone and learned a lot different ways of living and different perspectives. Living in places unlike your hometown will open your eyes to so much! When I stopped in Minnesota I was introduced to musical theatre. My 'second step' was built by my first director Christopher "CT" Teipner and my first MD Derick Rehurek at Lakeshore Players Theatre.
"They pushed me to play during my first show and made me fall in love with musical theatre. I moved around to a few more states before I fell on really hard times and had to seek refuge on my mother's couch. I am grateful for that second step because I learned to embrace all that I am; the weird, the quiet, and the artistic,” she recalls.
Coming back to Fayetteville has been rewarding for Washington and has allowed her to spread her wings far beyond her imagination. She has made connections that will last over a lifetime and built an organization that will go far beyond Fayetteville.
“Being back home felt different. I started seeing, feeling, and noticing more as a black woman in the arts. It was all still very new to me and wasn't sure what to say or do ... but I knew the things I was experiencing weren’t right,” she said. “I auditioned for Caroline at Change at Cape Fear Regional Theatre and this is where the 'third step' was formed for me. The content of that show mixed with some things that happened backstage made me want to do something but again, I wasn't sure what. It wasn't until a few years later that I was venting to my friend Michael Houck (Founder of A Yellow Beanie Project) that I had the idea to create a sort of safe place for black women, Book Black Women, Inc. He pushed me to make it a reality and I did.
"Cerina Johnson (No Longer Bound Ent, LLC; CEO), Mary Kate Burke (Cape Fear Regional Theatre; Artistic Director), and Tyanna West (Art of Sankofa; CEO) claim the 'fourth step.' I planned and executed every Book Black Women Inc. event on my own and it was
such a learning experience.
“Burke showed how important it is to strive for excellence backstage. Order and professionalism from the backstage crew, talent, lighting, ushers, and programs are as important as the spectacle produced on the stage itself. Cerina helped me learn networking and discernment are also important. Show your authentic self, collaborate, and network across unapologetically.
"Tyanna is the friend that will say your name in every room and I owe most of my opportunities to her. She grounds me and helps me not to lose my artistic, optimistic, and daring side. She reminds me that safety in black art is always the point, so safety in black art is always first;” Washington said of her journey to this point.
She’s been the literal voice on the stage, the brains, and creativity behind a TikTok viral video, and has secured contracts in other cities and states to do what she does best: create, in whatever form she’s needed. Washington’s career is headed toward more success and opportunity.
Washington is excited about the next step and what it has to offer her, saying, “This fourth step is so important to me because during this step I won BroadwayWorlds 2020 Best Vocalist, became a commission member with Fayetteville Next Advisory Commission, obtained Creative Director and Theatrical Director credits, and won Fayetteville's 40 under 40. This step has also propelled me to my fifth and current step with Dr. DeSandra Washington at FTCC and Carlita Victoria, CEO of Darkness RISING.
"Today, as I watch two of these women navigate their professional lives, I am inspired and pushed to be better. Being a black woman in business is difficult and being a black woman in art is difficult.
"You must invest in yourself and (even as an introvert) push to promote yourself which they do so well! Learning to navigate these new lessons is both beautiful and challenging and I’m excited to see the next step it leads me to.”
Stay up to date on all things Book Black Women at http://www.bookblackwomen.org/ and Ayana Washington at https://bit.ly/3LwOBF4.

(Photo: Ayana Washington is taking Fayetteville by storm. Photo courtesy of Ayana Washington)

FSO closes out Sunset Summer Series at Botanical Garden

14Prepare for an electrifying night of music and excitement on Friday, Aug. 16 with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra’s string quartet at Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Don’t miss the grand finale of the Sunset Series summer concerts, featuring a thrilling game of Music Bingo.
Experience the electrifying sounds of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra's star cellist, Jesse Smith, alongside the dynamic Magnolia String Quartet. Get ready for an unforgettable night packed with legendary hits from icons like Elton John, Paul McCartney, Frank Sinatra, and more.
Get ready to crank up the excitement with Music Bingo — a thrilling twist on the classic game. Imagine jamming out to snippets of your favorite tracks while battling it out against fellow music lovers for awesome prizes. Forget the DJ; this is going to be taking it up a notch with electrifying live music!
Here's how it works:
• Musical Clues: Instead of letters and numbers, the quartet plays a 30-second song snippet. Expect pop classics, modern hits, and tunes everyone knows.
• Mark Your Card: If you recognize the song and see it on your bingo card, mark the square.
• Achieve a Win: Complete a traditional 5-in-a-row pattern to win.
• Prizes: Winners receive Symphony tickets, Garden experiences, FSO or CFBG swag, and more!
This high-energy event lasts about an hour and features two intense rounds of bingo.
Food trucks will be on-site, serving up mouthwatering delights alongside a fully stocked bar and a variety of other drink options. Plus, you’ll have full access to explore the stunning garden grounds throughout the event.
Event Timeline:
• 5:30: Food Trucks open and Bingo Cards available to guests
• 6:30: Music Bingo Round 1
• 7:15: Music Bingo Round 2
Admission for this Event (includes entry & bingo game cards for 2 rounds):
• Members Ages 13+: $5 (+tax)
• Non-Members Ages 13+: $15 (+tax)
• Members Ages 6 to 12 – $3 (+tax)
• Non-Members Ages 6 to 12 – $5 (+tax)
• Ages 5 and Under: Free
There is no need to purchase a ticket ahead of time for this event. Cash and card will be accepted for tickets at the time of admission.
Things to Know:
• Limited seating will be available, so bringing your own chairs is recommended for comfort.
• The Garden is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Arrive early to enjoy the grounds or explore during the event.
• The Garden Gift Shop will be open.
• Food trucks will start serving at 5:30 p.m., but you can also bring your own food.
• The event is rain or shine. They prefer to be outdoors but will move to the Orangery if needed.
Be sure to check the Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s website for up-and-coming events at https://www.capefearbg.org/
The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra’s season opener is “Music of the Knights” on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Seabrook Auditorium. Experience the iconic music of Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Elton John, and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber performed by Broadway’s most gifted voices alongside your Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org or by calling the FSO office at 910-433-4690.

The Creative Studio by Jae Renee: Where business and creativity meet

16The Creative Studio by Jae Renee, once located at 8152 Fayetteville Rd in Raeford, has moved to a new, more spacious building now located at 8116 Cliffdale Rd, Suite 120 in Fayetteville. This new location offers the company a more luxurious feel, more space and greater visibility in the community.
The Creative Studio partners with clients to deeply understand their needs and deliver exceptional, beautifully crafted experiences that elevate their brands. Effective collaboration between clients and creatives is a powerful force that drives brand innovation.
By working together, clients and creatives can combine their unique perspectives and expertise to create something truly exceptional.
The Creative Studio understands that when clients actively participate in the creative process, they bring valuable insights and ideas that can inspire new and innovative approaches to branding. This partnership allows for a deeper understanding of the client's vision and goals, resulting in brand experiences that are perfectly tailored to their needs.
This collaboration takes place with various creative amenities offered by The Creative Studio. Creative amenities have become a new frontier in space utilization, offering unique opportunities for individuals and businesses to enhance their creative projects.
By incorporating innovative amenities into event spaces and workspaces, such as podcast studios, photography studios, and content studios, the Creative Studio by Jae Renee aims to provide a dynamic environment for creativity and collaboration. These amenities offer a range of features and resources designed to inspire and support individuals in their creative endeavors.
One of the key benefits of creative amenities is their ability to transform everyday spaces into extraordinary environments. The 1600 sq foot space offered by the Creative Studio is a prime example of this transformation. It has been carefully designed and curated to cater to the needs of podcasters, photographers, content creators, and event organizers.
In addition to the physical space, creative amenities include access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources. The Creative Studio is equipped with top-of-the-line podcasting equipment, professional photography gear and cutting-edge content creation tools. These resources enable individuals to produce high-quality work and explore their creative potential.
The studio also offers a range of services, such as audio and video editing, post-production assistance, and event planning support, further enhancing the overall creative experience.
They know the value of a talented, diverse team. Designers, developers, strategists — all working together. Each project is unique. Each client has specific needs.
Their team is a diverse mix of photographers, PR experts and experienced creative directors. This variety brings a wealth of skills and experiences to every project. Each member was carefully chosen for their unique background and expertise.
In addition to creative services and amenities, The Creative Studio has The Creative Campus. This "provides an alternative safe space and judgment-free zone for teens who possess a creative ability or who want to learn more about tapping into their creativity." Teens can work with like-minded individuals and produce creative content like live stage plays, performances, fashion shows, podcasts, photo shoots and more, all with the goal of building their personal portfolio.
To learn more about their new space, services and The Creative Campus be sure to explore their website: https://thecreativestudiobyjae.com/

(Photo: ae Renee and her family cut the ribbon at the Creative Studio's new location on Cliffdale Rd. Photo courtesy of The Creative Studio's Facebook page)

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