Entertainment

Celebrate Elvis Presley's legacy at Dirtbag Ales

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Join the celebration of Elvis' 90th birthday at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom, featuring a spectacular three-hour performance by renowned Elvis impersonator David Chaney on Feb. 15.
Prepare to be transported back in time as David Chaney channels the spirit and energy of Elvis Presley. With a career that began on a cruise ship in 1998, David has honed his craft to perfection, capturing the essence of Elvis' voice and stage presence. His performance is more than just an impersonation; it’s a tribute that will make you feel as if the King himself is back on stage.
Elvis Aaron Presley was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi. He grew up in a modest household with his parents, Vernon and Gladys Presley. Despite their financial struggles, Elvis's parents were deeply dedicated to nurturing his talents. From a young age, Elvis exhibited a natural inclination towards music, often singing in church and at local events.
In 1948, the Presley family moved to Memphis, Tennessee, which played a crucial role in shaping Elvis's musical sensibilities. By his teenage years, Elvis had absorbed a wide range of musical influences, from gospel to blues to country. His big break came in 1954 when he recorded his first single, 'That's All Right,' at Sun Records. This marked the beginning of his meteoric rise to stardom.
Elvis Presley was a versatile artist who explored multiple musical genres throughout his career. He found commercial success in pop, rock, country, rhythm and blues, and gospel. His ability to blend these genres seamlessly made him a pioneering figure in rock 'n roll.
Some of his most iconic songs include 'Heartbreak Hotel,' 'Hound Dog,' 'Jailhouse Rock,' and 'Can't Help Falling in Love.' Beyond his hit singles, Elvis released numerous albums that showcased his range and depth as an artist. His contributions to gospel music also earned him three Grammy Awards, further cementing his reputation as a musical genius.
Elvis Presley was more than just a musician; he was a cultural phenomenon who left an indelible mark on society. Known as the King of Rock 'n Roll, Elvis's charisma and stage presence captivated audiences worldwide. His unique style, characterized by his distinctive voice and energetic performances, broke racial barriers and brought rock 'n’ roll into the mainstream.
Elvis's influence extended beyond music into fashion and film. His iconic looks, from the leather jackets to the pompadour hairstyle, became cultural symbols. He starred in over 30 films, further broadening his impact on popular culture. Elvis's ability to transcend musical boundaries and connect with diverse audiences continues to inspire artists and fans alike.
On March 24, 1958, Elvis Presley was drafted into the United States Army. Despite his fame, Elvis chose to serve as a regular soldier rather than seeking special treatment. He completed basic training at Fort Hood, Texas, and was later stationed in Friedberg, West Germany.
During his military service, Elvis earned the respect of his fellow soldiers and superiors. His time in the Army also influenced his personal life, as he met Priscilla Beaulieu, who would later become his wife. Elvis was honorably discharged on March 5, 1960, and returned to his music career with renewed vigor.
Elvis Presley's groundbreaking contributions to music and culture have made him an enduring icon. Decades after his passing, Elvis remains one of the best-selling music artists in history, with sales estimates ranging from 500 million records to over a billion worldwide.
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock 'n’ Roll, left an indelible mark on the music world. His unique style, charismatic performances, and groundbreaking music continue to influence artists across genres. Celebrating his 90th birthday is a testament to his enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of his music.
Elvis' impact goes beyond his music. He was a cultural icon who broke barriers and set new standards in the entertainment industry. This event is not just a tribute to his music, but also a celebration of his lasting influence on pop culture. Attendees can look forward to a night filled with classic Elvis hits, spanning his entire career.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. and head to Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom to join the celebration of Elvis' 90th birthday. Located at 5435 Corporation Dr in Hope Mills, this event promises to be a memorable night for all attendees.

Celebrate love locally: Galentine's, Valentine's Event Guide

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Looking for ways to make Galentine's Day and Valentine's Day extra special? We've curated an amazing selection of events perfect for every type of celebration. Whether you're planning a fun outing with your closest girlfriends or organizing a romantic date with your special someone, our list has the perfect options for everyone!
Galentine’s Day Events
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5
• Face & Cake: A Valentine's Day Celebration at Leina & Co., 402 Sante Fe Dr at 6 p.m.- A great hands-on workshop where you will be able to decorate a heart-shaped cake and also learn how to master a cute lip look. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/3a8nxsw3
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7
• Romance Book Party at Fulfillity Books & More, 5548 Trade St., Hope Mills at 4 p.m.- Gather up the girls and enjoy a meal, gift basket and activities with your book besties. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/yeyp99mn
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
• Etched Wine Glasses at North Regional Library, 855 McArthur Rd. at 3:30 p.m.- Learn how to add a personal touch to wine glasses with etching cream. Registration is required by calling 910-483-7727 ext. 1436.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8 & SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
• Galentine's Brunch at Anchor Allie's, 1204 Bragg Blvd at 9 a.m.- Enjoy a themed menu and cocktails. The dress code is red and pink and reservations are required. Call 910-229-3490 to book.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11
• Cookie Decorating Class at Gaston Brewing Taproom, 421 Chicago Dr at 5 p.m.-Gather up the girls for a cookie decorating class. Tickets are $65 and include 6 cookies, icing and step-by-step instructions. Be sure to grab a craft beer for sipping. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/yc2tk4ku
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13
• Galentine's Day Event at Stewart's Tavern, 116 N. Main St., Raeford at 7 p.m.-Enjoy a night of shopping and drink specials. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/yc5eckhy
• Galentine's Day Party at Dirtbag Ales, 5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills at 6 p.m.-Celebrate friendship with a fun-filled evening featuring local vendors, a book swap, specialty drinks and food from Chirba Chirba and Sweet Goose food trucks. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/yn627bhz
• Galentine's Day Celebration "Cupid is Stupid" at Shop Cursive, 223 Franklin St. at 10 a.m.-Celebrate your besties with wine, chocolates, a BFF lottery, matching gifts and the chance to win a Weekender Bag of goodies. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/2rkhn997
• Galentine’s Sip & Paint at Dirtbag Ales, 5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills at 6:30 p.m.-Paint your BFF with your BFF. $65 includes a ticket for 2, all the supplies needed, guidance with your painting and your first drink. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/bdfbuyj8
• Galentine’s Mixology Soiree at 226 The Warehouse, 226 Donaldson St. at 6 p.m.-Get ready to sip on delicious cocktails while you mingle with your best pals. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/2fhmcwcc
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
• Galentine’s Day Paint Party at Dirty Whiskey Craft Cocktail Bar, 5431 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills at 4 p.m.-Not only will you get to unleash your creativity, but you will also enjoy a live DJ, drink specials, games, giveaways and photo ops. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/2cjnbcuw
• Galentine's Soul Retreat: A Day of Self-Love and Connection at Prima Elements, 124 Anderson St. at 6 p.m.-Celebrate self-care with an immersive experience that blends a variety of rejuvenating activities including yoga, meditation, aromatherapy, sound bath healing and vision board making. Tickets range from $75-$135.23. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/533c7bh8
• Babes & Barbells Ladies Lift Night at Rogue Ranger Fitness, 3623 Sycamore Dairy Rd. at 6 p.m.-Strength and sisterhood unite in an event with Zumba, Dumbbell Blast Bootcamp, sponsor goodies, and a vendor mixer. Cost is $65 per person and childcare is available for $10 per child. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/bdhbacj3

Valentine’s Day Events
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
• Valentine's Pop-Up at 419 Cross Creek Mall at 10 a.m.-Join Gracie Mae's Bakery, LLC for some treats and special surprises. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/54zk7jfv
• Valentine's Dinner at VFW Post 670, 3928 Doc Bennett Rd. at 6 p.m.- Enjoy a dinner and a chance to win some great raffle prizes. Advance tickets are $40 per couple. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/4whf7zdd
• Cluch Valentine’s Dance at Freedom Biker Church, 455 Rock Hill Rd. at 5 p.m.-Couples are invited to attend and bring a covered dish to share. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/245p9zyn
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
• 13th Annual Sweetheart Tournament at B & B Bowling Lanes, 3003 Fort Bragg Rd. at 10 a.m.- Join the most popular tournament of the year where mixed double pair will bowl 2 baker games and 2 scotch double games. Special prizes for best-dressed pairs. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/942mkr2b
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13
• Valentine Paint Night at Hoke County Public Library, 334 N Main St., Raeford at 6 p.m.- Select from one of three painting options. Registration is required by calling 910-875-2502.
• Valentine's Day Murder Mystery Dinner at Segra Stadium, 460 Hay St. at 6 p.m.- Join in for an interactive show and dinner. Tickets are $60 and include an all-you-can-eat buffet and two drink tickets for beer or wine. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/5bzfeamz
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14
• Valentine's Day Gala at Intrigue Venue, 2724 A Bragg Blvd at 7 p.m.-Live is in the air at this formal/semi-formal dinner featuring comedy and music. Tickets are $50 per person. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/bd77fhx4
• Pours & Boards Candle & Charcuterie Board Event at Scented Wicks Candle Bar, 3109 N Main St., #102, Hope Mills at 6 p.m.-Indulge in a night of fun and creativity with the chance to craft a soy candle in a wine glass and assemble a personal size charcuterie board. Tickets are $80. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/4uafw7uw
• Emo Prom at Dirtbag Ales, 5435 Corporation Dr, Hope Mills at 7 p.m.- Dress up in your finest goth attire and join in the fun featuring a live emo band karaoke featuring Taking Back Sadder Days. Maybe you will be crowned Dirtbag Emo Queen or King. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/h2jv8zdn
• Hearts and Hops'-A Valentine's Day Evening at Gaston Brewing Company, 124 Hay Street at 6 p.m.-Indulge in a four-course dinner with some amazing food and desserts. Enjoy a complimentary wine, beer or champagne toast. Tickets are $60 for couples. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/bmscwcnj
• Shall We Dance: Valentine's Day Affair at 226 The Warehouse, 226 Donaldson at 7:30 p.m.- Get ready for an elegant Latin Social filled with dance lessons, dance, heavy hors d'oeuvres, a photo station and drink specials. Couples are $75. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/mt7kp8sd
• Valentine's in Paradise at Paradise Acres of Grays Creek, 1965 John McMillan Rd., Hope Mills at 4 p.m.- Celebrate Valentine's Day with great food, live music, special treats and a fun photo station. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/2p2e5acy
• Vegan Valentine’s Dinner-5 Course Meal at Prima Elements, 124 Anderson St. at 7 p.m.- Indulge in a delicious 5-course vegan meal. Book your seats now by calling 910-483-8406.
• 55+ Senior Valentine's Day Luncheon at the Hope Mills Recreation Center, 5766 Rockfish Rd., Hope Mills at 11 a.m.- Open to all seniors 55 and over, come out and enjoy a lovely Valentine's Day luncheon. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/3ycvewuu
• Casablanca on the Big Screen Valentine's Day Special at Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay St. at 8 p.m.- Celebrate with one of the most iconic love stories of all time. For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/2mf34x39

Matt Mathews "Boujee on a budget" comes to the crown

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025

Written by Jamie Bishop

Comedian and social media sensation Matt Mathews is back with a brand-new tour, Boujee On A Budget, bringing his unique humor and unforgettable stage presence to audiences nationwide. Produced by Live Nation, the 52-city tour includes a stop at Fayetteville’s Crown Theatre on Feb. 16, at 8 p.m.
Mathews, whose comedic style is a blend of sharp wit and heartfelt relatability, has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in comedy. His stand-up routines offer audiences a window into his eclectic life, including his experiences as a gay man raised in the South, the quirks of life on a farm, his work as a boudoir photographer, and his take on relationships.
A highlight of the show is the live version of his fan-favorite “Confessions with Matt” series. The interactive segment invites audience members to share their deepest secrets, which Mathews hilariously unpacks on the spot.
“It is one of my favorite parts of the show,” Mathews said. “Hearing these confessions and being able to respond in real-time brings a unique energy to the performance. You never know what someone is going to say!”
A Comedic Journey
This tour represents more than just comedy for Mathews—it is a testament to perseverance and self-belief.
“Growing up as a broke, gay kid from the South, performing felt like a far-off dream,” he shared. “But I decided to risk and bet on myself as a comedian. Embarking on my second headlining tour, backed by Live Nation, is beyond anything I could have imagined. I am humbled and grateful for the support of my fans.”
This tour follows the success of Mathews’ debut headlining tour, When That Thang Get Ta Thang’n, which sold out 100 shows and drew over 150,000 fans nationwide. The momentum from that tour has only propelled his career forward. In addition to his upcoming tour, Mathews recently taped his first stand-up special at the Alabama Theatre in Birmingham, Alabama, which is set to be announced soon.
Beyond the stage, Mathews has cultivated a massive following on social media, with more than 4.8 million TikTok followers and over 2 million Instagram fans. His raw and hilariously honest takes on life, paired with short-form video clips and stand-up moments, have catapulted him into viral stardom.
In September, Mathews will premiere a six-episode YouTube series, Doin’ the Most With Matt Mathews, which follows his adventures in tackling new challenges—from ballet classes to bartending. The series offers fans an intimate, behind-the-scenes glimpse into his life and personality.
A Rising Star
Mathews’ ability to mix humor with authenticity has made him a standout performer. Whether through his viral social media content or live shows, he connects with audiences in a personal and universal way.
As Boujee On A Budget kicks off, Mathews is poised to deliver another unforgettable experience for fans nationwide.
“This tour is going to be wild,” he promised. “I cannot wait to get back on stage and share it all with the people who make this dream possible.”
With his comedic talent and growing influence, Matt Mathews is proving that big dreams do come true—even for a “boujee” kid from the South.
For more information and to buy tickets, visit https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/events/detail/matt-mathews-boujee-on-a-budget

Health Fair to be held Feb. 15

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Tuesday, 04 February 2025

Written by Lena Simmons

The Fayetteville Area Section, National Council of Negro Women Inc (FAS NCNW) presents the Healthy Hearts and Healing Hands Community Health Fair on Feb. 15 at the North Regional Public Library on 855 McArthur Road. The Community Health Fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Healthy Hearts and Healing Hands Community Health Fair will feature comprehensive screening in the areas of dental, vision, body mass index, cholesterol, blood pressure, women’s health, sickle cell and medical weight loss. Line Dancing and Zumba will be featured to promote physical health.
Allied health services include health insurance, life insurance, women’s health resources, Cape Fear Valley Blood Donor Drive, and a vaccination clinic. General admission is free to the public. For more information and vendor participation opportunities contact Shamarria Foy-Morrison, Health Equity Chair, Fayetteville Area Section, National Council of Negro Women via email sjfoy88@gmail.com or call 910-644-4531.
The Fayetteville Area Section, National Council of Negro Women’s mission is “to advance opportunities and the quality of life for African American women, their families, and communities.”
The Fayetteville Area Section, National Council of Negro Women was chartered in 1996. Mary McLeod Bethune was the founder of the National Council of Negro Women in 1935. One of her founding principles was “the need for a united organization of women to open doors for young women."
Foy-Morrison shared her perspective on the Healthy Hearts and Healing Hands, Community Health Fair.
“The goal of the FAS, NCNW, is to lead, empower and advocate for African American women and their communities. Through the leadership of our Chapter President, Margie McLean, we coordinated the Community Health Fair to bring awareness to health disparities that affect our communities,” she said. “The inspiration for the Community Health Fair was to spread awareness of the importance of preventive care of illness through vaccinations. The Health Fair will also have other awareness topics to include women’s health, dental screening, blood pressure checks, life and health insurance, hands-on CPR, and Stop the Bleed (education on assisting with bleeding emergencies before medical help arrives). We will have a Blood Drive through the Cape Fear Valley Hospital system. This will be an impressive event.”
The community health fair will be held at the North Regional Public Library. The Cumberland County Public Library system has a larger community function than library cards and books.
“The mission of the Cumberland Public Library is to support, empower, and engage our diverse community. Promoting the health and wellness of our community is a central focus that aligns seamlessly with this mission,” said Gracey Gordon, Branch Manager, North Regional Library. “As vital hubs of information and resources, public libraries are uniquely positioned to serve the health needs of the community.”
CCPL also provides access to essential health resources, whether through educational events, specialized programs, free access to databases or offering a welcoming space for social connection and support.
“While book services remain a fundamental aspect of public libraries, our offering extends beyond that, continuously evolving to meet the diverse needs of the community. Our Digital Navigators offer Tech Time classes to assist individuals with navigating digital devices and applications. We provide free access to a wide range of databases, covering topics from product reviews and health to career development,” said Gordon.
CCPL also features a dedicated Local and State History Department, which houses an extensive collection of materials documenting the history of North Carolina and Cumberland County. Genealogy Research Assistance and services, and digitization services for media such as tapes, VHS, and photo negatives are available to the public. The Sensory Calming room at the Headquarters provides a multi-sensory experience for relaxation and well-being. CCPL has hosted over 2000 programs and events targeting the community population in the past year.