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“This Is My Father’s World” Women’s Conference

15When I think of the trials and tribulations of my life, I think of how God, better known as the ‘Lily of the Valley’, brought me through them. He is my everything and I will always thank Him and give Him praise. I am asking anyone who reads this article to get to know God and cultivate a close relationship with Him.
“This is My Father’s World” Women’s Conference will be held Saturday, Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Gardner’s Methodist Church.
“I have had this vision for about ten years now,” said Sandra Holland, Family Life Ministry’s care person at Gardner’s Methodist Church. “I attended a women’s conference at one of the churches in Aberdeen and I was so impressed with it and wanted to bring it back to our women here in Fayetteville.”
Holland added, “I am now getting the opportunity to do that and we are very excited about the women that we have coming that will be speaking.”
What resonated so deeply with Holland about the conference were the speakers, discussion groups, how the women opened their hearts and how they were transparent about their feelings.
“We told each other our hopes, dreams, fears and how we coped with things,” said Holland. “I became very emotional because I felt the presence of the Lord in that place.”
The name, “This is My Father’s World,” was chosen because the speakers are going to take each participant from ant hills to hummingbirds and to bees as they tell their stories from the heart. The day-long agenda entails registration, a continental breakfast and lunch, a welcome and worship service, speakers, a discussion group, sharing time and more.
The keynote speaker of the event is Marianne Liscio. She is a certified speaker for Fayetteville’s Women Connection.
“She is such a commanding and charismatic speaker that will have you laughing one minute and crying the next,” said Holland. “One of the stories that she is going to share is when her father died and how the hummingbird came and brought her healing from that.”
She added, “Marianne has a lot of wonderful things planned for our women’s conference.”
Amy Sparks will be speaking about “From Tragedy to Triumph: A Story of Hope.”
“She will speak about her son’s death, his autism, how she coped and how hope was brought back into her life,” said Holland.
Susan Wilson is from Page Memorial United Methodist Church in Aberdeen and she will speak about “Living The Joy of Divine Healing.”
“She will be speaking about healing from losing a job, losing a life partner and how she has brought healing into the community,” said Holland. “She has started a ministry in Southern Pines for the homeless and she goes out on the street to minister to the homeless.”
Holland added that this conference is going to be from Healing to Hope for 2025.
Developing an intimate relationship with God empowers us through the Holy Spirit.
“My family and I have always been Christians, and we have always gone to church,” said Holland. “I remember a revival that we had at our church when I was 12-years-old and the visiting speaker had dinner with us and talked with me.”
She added, “The next night he asked for people to come to the altar that wanted to give their life to fulltime Christian service. I felt myself standing in the aisle walking down to the altar. When I got to the altar he said, ‘I have been waiting on you.’”
He prophesized to Holland in a profound letter that she would one day become a teacher in a Christian school.
“I am retired now, but I have spent 29 years of my life teaching in the church,” said Holland. “I know it was God’s plan and he has had a plan for my life for 80 years now.”
Women’s conferences are a great opportunity for Biblical fellowship, sharing wisdom to navigate life’s journey and building a sisterhood within a spiritual connection.
“It is important in this day, time and our world to have this kind of conference because people are broken and looking for hope and that is only going to be found in the Lord,” said Holland. “We, as Christians, are going to have to step up and say what we need to say because we have stood in the background too long and let evil take over our world.”
She added, “One of my daughters told me that God let us go through a dark time and now he is letting us have this spark of hope in this new year. This is our time to come back to the Lord and say what we need to say and do what we need to do to be Christians.”
“We welcome everybody and want this conference to be a joyful and spiritual day that we can all join together and worship the one God that we love,” said Holland. “None of us know how long we have on this Earth and it is important for us as Christians to try to reach everyone that we can.”
Registration is $25 per person. All women are welcome. Gardner’s Methodist Church is located at 4555 Rosehill Road. For more information call 910-309-7799.

Celebrate Fayetteville’s Scottish roots with Burns Night

12Historical Overview of Settlers
The first large group of Scottish settlers arrived in 1739, establishing the Argyll Colony along the Cape Fear River. The area was named after a Scottish county known for its whiskey. More than 20,000 additional Scottish settlers arrived in the area between the 1760s and 1780s, creating the communities of Campbellton and Cross Creek. These two settlements would become united and named “Fayetteville” in 1783. Many settlers settled in areas that are now Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, and Moore counties.
Some believe that a second mass migration of Scottish settlers occurred after the Highland Scots lost the Battle of Culloden to the British in 1746. This historic event marked a significant turning point, prompting many Scots to seek new opportunities in the American colonies.
The Scottish migration to the colonies was driven by multiple socioeconomic factors that deeply impacted their homeland. Economic hardships and political instability were among the primary reasons that motivated Scots to emigrate.
Additionally, British authorities implemented a new policy after the Battle of Culloden, allowing Scots to emigrate to the colonies after swearing a loyalty oath. This policy change significantly influenced the migration patterns, leading to a notable increase in Scottish settlers in the American colonies.
Many Scots were motivated by a strong desire to preserve their cultural heritage and traditional values, which they felt were under threat in their homeland. Most common Highland immigrants spoke only Gaelic, leading to the widespread publication of various colonial documents in Gaelic throughout the 18th century.
While Scottish elites who received British education were fluent in English, the linguistic reality of the common Highland immigrants played a crucial role in maintaining their cultural identity in the new world.
In this area, a thriving and influential merchant class emerged, marked by several notable Scottish businessmen who shaped the local economy. Prominent figures included Andrew Broadfoot, who established successful trading ventures, Robert Adam, known for his commercial acumen, James Hogg, who developed significant business interests, and Robert Donaldson, who contributed to the area's mercantile growth.
The community also benefited from skilled Scottish artisans and tradesmen, with accomplished stonemasons like George Lauder and talented architects and builders such as William Bell. Their legacy lives on in the historic buildings that still stand today, serving as tangible reminders of this prosperous merchant class.
Agriculture remained the primary livelihood for many Scottish settlers. They cultivated a diverse range of crops adapted to the local climate, including maize, wheat, oats, sweet potatoes, legumes, and flax. The establishment of grist mills proved crucial for processing corn into meal, a staple food product.
The naval stores industry emerged as another significant economic activity, producing essential shipping materials like tar, pitch, and turpentine. This industry operated alongside related enterprises such as sawmilling and coopering. The cotton industry also developed into a profitable venture, particularly benefiting Scottish women and girls who found employment in spinning and processing activities, contributing significantly to household incomes.
The Scottish influence runs deep throughout North Carolina, evident in the numerous streets and residents bearing Scottish surnames. This rich heritage continues to thrive through various cultural celebrations held throughout the year. The Highland Games showcase traditional Scottish athletics and music, while Tartan Day honors Scottish-American contributions. The annual Robert Burns’ Supper pays homage to Scotland's national poet with traditional haggis, poetry readings, and bagpipe performances, keeping the state's Scottish traditions vibrantly alive today.
Burns Night: Guide to the Celebration
Burns Night, or Burns' Supper, is a celebration of the life and poetry of Robert Burns, a revered Scottish poet born on January 25, 1759. The tradition began on July 21, 1801, when Burns' friends gathered at his cottage in Ayrshire to commemorate the fifth anniversary of his death.
Since then, Burns Night has become a significant Scottish tradition, observed annually on January 25th, Robert Burns' birthday. The event honors his literary contributions and reflects on Scottish culture and heritage.
The Burns Supper menu is a celebration of traditional Scottish cuisine. The meal typically begins with a soup course, featuring options like Scottish broth, potato soup, Cullen skink (a smoked haddock soup), or cock-a-leekie (a leek and chicken soup).
The highlight of the meal is undoubtedly the haggis, a dish made by stuffing sheep's innards with various ingredients and boiling it. It's traditionally served with 'neeps and tatties'—mashed turnips and potatoes. Depending on the host, additional courses such as dessert, cheese, or coffee may be included, all offering more traditional Scottish fare.
The ceremonial aspects of Burns Night add a sense of tradition and reverence. As guests arrive, a bagpiper plays, setting the tone for the evening. Once everyone is seated, grace is said, often using the 'Selkirk Grace,' a well-known Scottish prayer.
The arrival of the haggis is a momentous occasion. Guests stand as a bagpiper leads the procession of the haggis to the table. The host or a guest then recites 'The Address to a Haggis,' a poem by Robert Burns. This is followed by a whiskey toast, and guests sit down to enjoy their meal.
After the main meal, the host or selected guests may share stories about Robert Burns' life or perform his poems and songs. This not only honors Burns but also entertains and educates the attendees.
A key part of the evening is the series of toasts. The 'Immortal Memory' toast honors Robert Burns' legacy. The 'Address to the Lassies' thanks the women who prepared the meal, followed by a toast to their health. The women then respond with the 'Reply to the Laddies,' concluding with another toast. These speeches and toasts add a lively and interactive element to the celebration.
Join Cape Fear Valley Scottish Clans for their Burns Night
The Cape Fear Valley Scottish Clans, a local group, will be hosting their own Burns Night. The group was officially chartered on Aug. 23, 1954, and rechartered in September 1993. Their dedication to maintaining and promoting Scottish heritage has made them a cornerstone of the local community.
The mission of the Cape Fear Valley Scottish Clans is to preserve the history and traditions of the Scots who settled in the region. They achieve this by collecting and preserving records and history, promoting social activities, and coordinating Scottish participation in local and regional civic events.
As a 501(3)c charitable organization, CFVSC also focuses on educating the community about Scottish heritage and encouraging participation from anyone interested in Scottish or Celtic history. With a membership of 80-100 people, they create a welcoming environment for all.
One of the most anticipated events hosted by CFVSC is their Burns Night, which has been a tradition since 1988. This year's Burns Night will take place on January 25 at Gates Four Country Club, starting at 5 p.m.
Guests can look forward to an evening filled with traditional Scottish music from Cross Creek Pipes and Drums, as well as a menu featuring haggis and tatties. Marianne O'Loane, a spokesperson for CFVSC, emphasizes the importance of this event in keeping Scottish traditions alive. She also encourages people to attend because it is a fun and enriching experience.
Tickets for their Burns Night are $37.50 per person, $75 per couple and $10 for a kids' plate. Men are asked to dress in Highland, Military or coat and tie attire. Preferred attire for women is dressy and elegant evening wear. Gates Four Country Club is located at 6775 Irongate Drive. If you are interested in learning more about Burns Night or would like to purchase tickets visit https://www.cfvscots.org/.
Get Involved
If you are interested in Scottish or Celtic history, CFVSC welcomes you with open arms. You don't need a Scottish name or lineage to join; all that is required is an interest in the culture and a willingness to participate.
Becoming a member is a great way to immerse yourself in Scottish traditions, meet new people, and contribute to the preservation of a rich cultural heritage. Whether you are a descendant of Scots or simply have a passion for history, CFVSC offers a community where you can belong. A membership form can be downloaded from the CFVSC website here: https://www.cfvscots.org/
Don’t miss the Gaelic Beginnings Trail, a self-guided heritage trail that maps out key locations and buildings that remain from early Scottish settlers. See the details for the Gaelic Beginnings Heritage Trail here: https://tinyurl.com/546zhcvr
There are also many great resources to learn if you have Scottish roots. The CFVSC has resources on their website at https://www.cfvscots.org/ and also be sure to visit https://ncgenweb.us/cumberland/scottish.htm for additional tools and resources.

Elegant Expressions: Monthly showcase of words, wonders

10The arts scene has been growing over the years, with poetry nights and art showcases popping up in every corner of the county, from downtown Fayetteville to Hope Mills. These events allow for creative expression to be realized and put on full display for the community. Elegant Expressions is the newest addition to the ever-growing list of events that tantalize the mind and eyes. A monthly event at Dirty Whiskey, located at 5431 Corporation Drive, Hope Mills. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. and the show starts at 7:15 p.m. General admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door, and VIP is available for $100. Guests must be 21 to enter. Don’t miss this month's session on Wednesday, Jan. 29: Elegant Expressions: The Whiskey Way. Tickets can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/4gHqOAc
This event is the perfect unity of visual and spoken art (poetry). The brainchild of Suave the Poet and Poetic Zae, Elegant Expressions is elevating the artistic experience of the community while giving a platform to the area's most talented individuals. Each month, Elegant Expressions will offer a new curated experience for guests featuring live art from a local artist, an open mic, and a panel discussion on a selected topic for the night. This month's theme is exploring love and romance in a contemporary world and featuring the smooth sounds of jazz and the melodic voices of local poets and spoken word artists. Guests can grab a drink from the bar, find a cozy seat, and immerse themselves in the one-of-a-kind experience. Featured artists for events will be on hand to discuss, sell, and even create art on-site, as well as custom coloring sheets for all those in attendance. Ending the event is the round couch discussion. This is a perfect opportunity for attendees to interact at the event. These discussions are meant to explore the theme of the night in more depth and allow a safe space for the creative process.
Previously held in another location, Suave and Zae went into 2025 determined to rebrand and start fresh with Elegant Expressions with the intent of drawing the crowd the event is curated for.
“We elevated an idea from an experience that we had out in Raleigh at the House of Arts. Elegant Expressions is that place where you can still experience art and creativity, in a curated space that involves stimulating conversation,” Suave said.
Both Suave and Zae are local poets and spoken word artists, passionate about bringing the art form to everyone, from every walk of life and how art reflects the times we live in. Poetic Zae or Isaiah Ellsberry is also a community activist and workshop facilitator, with numerous successful events under his belt. They both want to see this event become a monthly staple in the community. A place for the great minds and artists of Cumberland County to come together, exchange ideas, and immerse themselves in creativity in the space.
Suave the Poet and Poetic Zae both have a full lineup of shows coming up. To stay up to date on the monthly event, follow both on instagram @Suavethepoet2.0 or @Poeticzae

Join Blissful Alchemists for Vision Board Experience

11Get ready to embark on an imaginative journey, stepping into a whimsical Wonderland. Inspired by the fantastical world of Alice in Wonderland, Blissful Alchemists’ Vision Board Party creates an enchanting atmosphere where creativity knows no bounds.
On Friday, Jan. 24 at 6 p.m. leave reality behind and embrace a space where dreams can flourish. With an environment designed to ignite the imagination, attendees will find themselves exploring the depths of their goals and aspirations like never before.
Get ready to turn dreams into tangible realities with an immersive vision board creation session. Blissful Alchemists will provide an extensive treasure trove of carefully curated supplies including glossy magazines, sparkling glittery accessories, vibrant stickers, and enchanting whimsical printables to help build a vision board that truly reflects eventgoers’ biggest aspirations and deepest desires.
Whether focusing on personal growth, career milestones, or manifesting a more radiant version of yourself, vision boards are a sacred canvas to create a glowing future filled with endless possibilities. Let creativity and imagination run wild using thoughtfully select images, words, and symbols that resonate with the soul's calling. Through this intentional creative process, attendees will craft a powerful vision board that not only embodies dreams but also serves as a daily visual reminder of goals and intentions.
Blissful Alchemists’ guided session provides the perfect space and supportive environment to help attendees tap into their inner wisdom and translate their aspirations into a beautiful, tangible representation that will inspire and motivate them on their journey toward making those dreams a reality.
Step up to the Glow Goals Wall and illuminate the aspirations that make the heart shine. Write down goals and seal them in the Wonderland-inspired envelopes. At the end of the year, Blissful Alchemists will mail them back to attendees for a moment of reflection and progress.
This unique feature allows guests to encapsulate dreams and revisit them, ensuring that the glowing goals stay at the forefront of the journey throughout the year.
Fuel creativity with the enchanting 'Drink Me' and 'Eat Me' treats. These carefully crafted refreshments are designed to keep the imagination soaring and energy flowing as attendees map out their dream year ahead.
These charming Wonderland-themed delights transform the vision board experience into a truly magical journey, adding an extra sprinkle of enchantment that makes the entire event even more memorable and extraordinary.
This event is more than just creating vision boards; it's a journey into a world of possibility. Like Alice, guests will leave the ordinary behind and embrace the glowing potential of your future.
Join a community of like-minded individuals who are “all mad here, just like you,” and make this magical experience one to remember. Glowing goals are worth the adventure!
"Glow Goals: Down the Rabbit Hole of Your Dreams" will take place at Blissful Alchemists at 414 Ray Ave on Friday, Jan. 24 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $64 and can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/2rd2atch.

Massey Hill’s oyster roast brings food, hope to community

9The Massey Hill Lions Club is holding its annual “Shucking for Sight” Oyster Roast on Jan. 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Massey Hill Lions Center at 1613 Camden Rd. The all-you-can-eat roast is one of the oldest one-day roasts on the East Coast, and this year marks its 52nd annual event. 
This year, the oysters will be selected from Chesapeake Bay, and they will be served alongside the usual oyster roast fare.
“Along with the ‘All You Can Eat’ oysters, Lions members provide freshly made hush puppies and will provide crackers and all the typical sauces such as Tabasco, horseradish, and butter that oyster aficionados enjoy,” said Mike McCaskill, President of the Massey Hill Lions Club. 
Tea and water will be provided at the event, and attendees are welcome to bring additional sauces and drinks. McCaskill encourages eventgoers to bring their own shucking knives and towels.
The Massey Hill Lions Oyster Roast started approximately in 1971. In 2020, the roast was postponed due to the high cost and availability of oysters, and in 2021, the event was again put on hold due to Covid restrictions. Since then, however, the event has continued to grow.
“Approximately 625 tickets were sold last year. We have printed 750 tickets for this year’s event, as demand for the event continues to soar,” McCaskill said. 
The roast isn’t just about oysters and yummy food, however. The “Shucking for Sight” Oyster Roast is a fundraiser to help the community. The Massey Hill Lions Club has been in operation for over 65 years, and during that time the service club has helped the community through projects and donations. The annual oyster roast is a way for them to raise funds to continue their mission: We serve.
“Last year, our Club made a $34,000 donation from Oyster Roast proceeds for the renovation of the Lions Cottage at the Boys and Girls Home in Lake that has just recently been completed. This was the first significant renovation of the home since it was built in 1960 for at-risk and distressed youth,” said McCaskill. “Funds raised go toward providing visual assistance for those in need to include eye examinations, eyeglass purchases, and eye surgeries for local residents. Funds are also used to provide support to the homeless, as well as Disaster Relief for Western North Carolina.”
Lions Clubs International is a service organization with over 46,000 local clubs and 1.4 million members worldwide. It is the world’s largest service club organization, and the Massey Hill Lions Club proudly showcases their commitment to service within the Fayetteville community.
“As with each event, we look forward to seeing the many supporters return for a great time and great oysters,” said McCaskill. “This is truly a community gathering where generations of friends and family gather. Whether they are first time attendees or they’re ‘professional’ oyster shuckers that have attended for decades, no one walks away on an empty stomach! The event requires a lot of effort and support from current and former Lions, as well as family and friends who volunteer their time, but to see the smiles on people’s faces, to hear the laughter and conversations inside the tent, and to know that the event keeps the spirit of the Massey Hill community alive, makes it all worthwhile!”
Tickets are on sale until Jan. 17 for $50 per person. No tickets will be sold at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Massey Hill Drugstore Pharmacy at 1072 Southern Ave., Classic Coiffures Hair and Nail Salon at 3710 Morganton Rd., or by emailing maseyhilllionsclub@gmail.com.

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