Entertainment

Cross Creek Chordsmen bring ‘Fun, fun, fun’ to Fayetteville

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Tuesday, 16 October 2018

Written by CASEY SHAFFER

The term “barbershop quartet” often brings to mind a vision of men wearing boater hats and striped vests. But local crooners The Cross Creek Chordsmen are anything but dated. With a modern twist on a classic theme, this chorus brings the best of both worlds to every show. The group offers a unique blend of sounds combined with crazy humor and a lot of fun. The Chordsmen have come a long way since the group formed five years ago, and they’re proud to announce their first fundraiser concert, “Fun, fun, fun,” Saturday, Oct. 20. 

The Cross Creek Chordsmen consists of 15-20 men varying in age, profession and background. Many of its members have been singing together for much longer than five years. Some of them originally belonged, in the ’70s and ’80s, to a different group, which eventually dissolved. 

“We are going to showcase many of our classic barbershop songs with a modern twist,” said Joshua Gray-Heim, events coordinator for the Chordsmen. “We are so excited to have our District Quartet Champions, ‘Technically Sound,’ as our guest quartet as well as a quartet from our singers.” 

The theme for “Fun, fun, fun” came from one of the group’s new songs that morphed into an entire show because the whole group loved it so much. The group is close-knit, and the members describe it as more than just a group of men who sing together. 

“For me, it’s like being in a fraternity,” Gray-Heim said. “It’s another family. Each of us is completely different from the next; however, we all come together for the love of music.” 

This group has a lot more to it than “Fun, fun, fun.” The members participate in several community events for local nonprofits, including “Christmas in the Garden” at Cape Fear Botanical Garden; Heritage Days at the Poe House; Singing for the Carolina Highlands and Carolina Inn Facilities; Cottonade Parade of Homes; SwampDog Games; Eastover Days; and many others. 

Part of the attraction of this group is the fact that the performers specialize in being unique. They customize each performance. Heading into the holidays, the Chordsmen are booking up quickly for Christmas sets. 

“I first met the Crosscreek Chordsmen last Christmas season when they performed live on The River/106.5 WMRV,” said Christy “Sweet Tea” Andrulonis, afternoon host on All American Country/100.1 WFAY. “If you are planning an event and are in need of a unique sound and lots of fun, this is the group for you! Weddings, local events even singing telegrams. – you name it, and these talented vocalists can sing it.” 

The Chordsmen also have a special event planned for Oct. 28 called “Paint Fayetteville Pink.” It is a breast cancer awareness fundraiser. This event will be located at Huske Hardware in downtown Fayetteville and will feature a classic car show and special guest local musical talent Kascie Page. 

“Fun, fun, fun” is set for Oct. 20 at the Arran Lake Baptist Church Family Life Center, which is located at 1130 Bingham Dr. Showtime is 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. Call 910-729- 2063 for more information. 

Historic carriage rides offer a new perspective on downtown

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Monday, 08 October 2018

Written by CASEY SHAFFER

When strolling through downtown Fayetteville, it’s almost like taking a step back in time. The quaint local shops, the historic buildings, and, of course, the horse-drawn carriage rides. Run by the Cool Spring Downtown District, the rides run spring, summer and fall. There are two more regular tours scheduled for this fall – Oct. 13 and Nov. 15. 

For more than three years, S and S Carriage Rides has been meandering along the cobblestones of downtown, offering rides to couples, individuals and families. There is nothing like the nostalgia of hearing the clip-clop of the horse’s hooves along the pavement. Not only are the rides a relaxing, unique way to enjoy downtown, they offer a great way for newcomers and visitors to learn more about the area. Over one-third of carriage riders are from out of town, with two-thirds of those being from out of state. 

That being said, the rides can even provide life- long citizens with surprising historical tidbits and narratives that aren’t often heard. 

Dr. Hank Parfitt has been organizing the carriage rides since they started in Fayetteville, and it’s easy to see his passion for the job. “We have a love for local history. We don’t just rattle on, we relate the events to the people and the times,” Parfitt said. 

His favorite part of the job is watching guests connect with Fayetteville. “You see somebody with that ‘aha!’ moment with a new historical fact,” he said. “It’s so much fun to see people respond like that. We are exposing people to the best side of Fayetteville.” 

The carriage rides are not just a job for Parfitt, they are a part of his life. “All of our tour guides go to a one-on-one training session with the city historian,” he said. “We are constantly looking for ways to increase our knowledge.” 

Parfitt is currently enrolled in American History courses at Fayetteville State University. 

In addition to the regularly scheduled monthly rides, there are themed rides that take place throughout the year. Themed rides are some of the most popular offerings, especially around the start of the holiday season with A Dickens Holiday taking place in downtown Fayetteville the day after Thanksgiving. 

“It’s a gentler, kinder way to start the season” Parfitt explained. “You can avoid the crazy chaos of the mall and Black Friday.” 

The rides during A Dickens Holiday on Nov. 23 run from 1-9 p.m. Expect to see the drivers, carriage and even horses decked out for the occasion. 

There is also a Halloween tour led by Count Dracula, a Christmas ride with Santa Clause and an Easter ride with the Easter Bunny. Valentine’s day is also a very popular time of the year – the carriage drivers have seen their fair share of proposals and anniversaries. Mother’s Day gets its own theme as well.

Whether riders are seeking a romantic date, a charming family outing or a spur of the moment jaunt around town, they can relax and enjoy the beauty of downtown Fayetteville – and learn some- thing new – on a historic carriage ride. 

Carriage rides are offered throughout the year, with a small break during the colder months. Tours take place from 1-6 p.m., leaving from the Cool Springs Downtown District office at 222 Hay St. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $20 with a military ID and $15 for children under 12. 

To make a reservation, call City Center Gallery & Books at 910-678-8899 or visit www.sands- carriagerides.com/ or www.facebook.com/ Sandscarriagerides. 

Native American powwow to celebrate unity and heritage

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Monday, 08 October 2018

Written by DR. SHANESSA FENNER

The ninth annual Running Water Singers Powwow is set for this Friday, Oct. 12, from 5-11 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 13, from noon-11 p.m., at 102 Indian Dr. in Fayetteville. 

“A Native American powwow is where several different tribes come together, and we dance, sing and do everything that has to do with our culture,” said Bradley Jacobs, event representative. “There will be handmade crafts and beadwork, speakers, dancers, Native American flute music, a hand drum segment, 20 cultural dances and competitions, three food vendors, 20 merchandise vendors, cultural songs, the honoring of veterans and much more.” 

Jacobs added that some individuals make a living by selling their handmade crafts at all the powwows throughout the East Coast. 

“We hold our powwow at Les Maxwell Indian School; it is the school where all Native Americans from Cumberland and surrounding counties were bussed to during segregation,” Jacobs said. He added that the opening ceremony is a significant part of the events each day. “There is one thing that we always do at the beginning of the powwow each day, and that is bring the American flag, Native American flag and our sacred Eagle Staff out.” 

One of the highlights of the powwow is the delicious Native American food. Look forward to Indian fry bread, buffalo burgers, buffalo Indian tacos, col- lard sandwiches and more. 

Like most cultures, dance plays a big part in Native American history. “There will be $10,000 in prize money for the Native Americans who compete in the dance competitions,” Jacobs said. 

Native American cultures across the United States are notable for their wide variety and diversity of lifestyles, customs, art forms and beliefs. “The pow- wow is more for cultural awareness and is open to the public, so you can come out and see how we really (are) rather than how TV portrays us,” said Jacobs. “We don’t go scalping people, and we don’t hit (anyone) over the head with sticks.” 

Native Americans have a rich history and a lot to share, which is why powwows are so important – so they can share their heritage with people who want to learn more about Native Americans and their tribes. 

“My grandfather, Chief James Pernell Jacobs, was the first Indian chief that was elected by ballot for the Coharie Indian Tribe of Sampson County,” said Jacobs. “He was awarded so many awards throughout his lifetime, received the Jefferson Award and was known for helping his tribe and others no matter what.” Jacobs added that growing up, he was taught about unity and helping others. 

The nonprofit organization is always in need of donations to support the event. “We do a lot of legwork, and we ask people we do business with for help,” said Jacob 

“The only thing we reap from the powwow is to educate the public and help the young kids to not lose their heritage.” 

This is a drug- and alcohol-free event that is open to the general public. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for youth ages 7-12, $5 for seniors 60 and older, $5 for military with ID, and free for children ages 6 and under. The weekend pass is $12. For more information, call 910-308-7249. 

Hotel California comes to Givens Performing Arts Center

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Monday, 08 October 2018

Written by DR. SHANESSA FENNER

Primary Health Choice, Inc. presents Hotel California – “A Salute to the Eagles” band Friday, Oct. 19, at 8 p.m. at Givens Performing Arts Center. 

“We actually had Hotel California back in 2011, so this is their second time coming here,” said Chad Locklear, director of marketing of GPAC. “They came before and we had a great turnout from the community, so we thought we would invite them back again for our 2018 Homecoming.” 

Hotel California, the original Eagles tribute band, will perform during UNC Pembroke’s homecoming celebration. The band will showcase classic hits that include “Take It Easy,” “Desperado,” “The Long Run” and “Hotel California.” 

The band was founded with intentions of filling the void left by the demise of The Eagles. For three decades, the band has been recreating the legendary sounds. They’ve captivated audiences all over the world since then and set the bar in 1986 by remaining the industry lead substitute for The Eagles. 

The band toured relentlessly in the ’80s through today and have shared the stage with The Doobie Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Gretchen Wilson, REO Speedwagon and more. 

Their stage show has evolved into one of the most popular productions on the North American festival circuits that has audiences dancing and enjoying the music. 

The homecoming festivities for UNCP will take place Oct. 15-20 and will include athletic games, a step show, a homecoming dance, a tailgate party, an alumni awards banquet, midnight madness event, a bonfire, Ms. UNC pageant and much more. 

“We try to bring acts here that will engage and entice our alumni,” said Locklear. “We have a lot of alumni that come home for homecoming, so this is one of the shows that is geared more towards that crowd. 

“We are looking forward to a festive week, so come join us for the fun.” 

Tickets cost $31-$36. Alumni tickets cost $18, $15 for children, $16 for faculty and staff and $10 for UNCP students. For more information, call 910-521-6361 or visit www.uncp.edu/ advancement/alumni/homecoming-2018.