Entertainment

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.

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

The vibe is live at Airborne Cigar Emporium: Urban Jukebox to play Jan. 18

17aThe vibe is live at Airborne Cigar Emporium as Urban Jukebox takes the stage on Sat., Jan. 18 at 8 p.m. This one-night-only event promises to bring the essence of Myrtle Beach to Fayetteville, offering an electrifying experience that you won't want to miss.
Urban Jukebox is known for its dynamic performances that blend classic and new R&B, NeoSoul, Pop, and unforgettable hits. Their live shows are a sensory feast that captivates audiences and leaves them wanting more.
Urban Jukebox is a collective of talented musicians and singers from the Myrtle Beach area, officially coming together in February 2023. Despite their recent formation, each member has a rich history in music, contributing to the group's unique and polished sound.
The band features two lead singers, Silas Lane and Eva Fade, both local artists with strong followings in Myrtle Beach. On drums and bass are the young and gifted brothers, Jordan and Jayden Hewett. Rounding out the group are Willie Newman III on guitar and Dr. Taurean Hodges on keys. Together, they create a musical synergy that is both captivating and exhilarating.
Airborne Cigar Emporium, located at 5500 Yadkin Rd, offers a sophisticated atmosphere for cigar aficionados to relax, unwind, and indulge in the finest selection of premium cigars. The venue's luxurious and refined environment is designed to elevate any experience, making it the perfect backdrop for Urban Jukebox's live performance.
During a visit to the venue around Christmas, the band fell in love with the atmosphere and knew it was the ideal place for their music. The emporium's ambiance complements the band's sound, promising a night to remember.
For those looking to elevate their evening, Airborne Cigar Emporium offers exclusive VIP areas such as the Private Couch or Gentlemen's Chair area. These luxurious spaces provide an enhanced experience, allowing you to enjoy the show in utmost comfort and style.
To reserve your VIP area, visit Airborne Cigar Emporium's website at https://www.airbornecigar.com and secure your spot for an unforgettable night with Urban Jukebox.

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.

Kickstart New Year goals with local vendors

16The New Year, Better Me! event is designed with you and your aspirations in mind. Held at Dirty Whiskey Craft Cocktail Bar on Sat., Jan. 18 from noon to 5 p.m., this event aims to bring together a variety of local vendors who can help you kickstart your new year goals. Whether you are focusing on health, wellness, beauty, or personal growth, there will be something for everyone.
“We have several vendors planned! To name just a few: Fusion Salon, Vascular Institute of Pinehurst, Fit for Life, Drip Wellness & Aesthetics, First Citizens, and more. Our vendors will be ready to provide information and guidance for a range of goals that one may have. We hope to have demonstrations as well! In addition, Dirty Whiskey will feature a special drink menu for this event,” said Kat Ferrera, manager of Dirty Whiskey Craft Cocktail Bar.
Engaging with the community is an essential element for achieving success. The New Year, Better Me! event emphasizes the importance of connecting with local businesses and resources. By building relationships within the community, attendees can gain access to valuable support systems and networks that can aid in their personal and professional growth. This event provides an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and discover readily available resources in our backyard.
No community event is complete without delicious food and great entertainment. At the New Year, Better Me! event, attendees can enjoy a variety of local cuisines from the food truck Authentique and the on-site restaurant, Napkins. These local eateries will be serving up delectable dishes to satisfy taste buds while exploring the event.
As the day progresses, event-goers will also be treated to live music from a local favorite, The Guy Unger Band. Their performance will add a lively and festive atmosphere to the event, making it a fun and memorable experience for all attendees.
Dirty Whiskey Craft Cocktail Bar is committed to supporting and spotlighting local businesses. By hosting the New Year, Better Me! event, they provide a platform for local vendors and distillers to showcase their products and services. This dedication to the community is evident in their choice of vendors and the local distillers they patronize for their craft cocktails.
Their love for North Carolina and the local community shines through in every aspect of this event. Dirty Whiskey hopes to offer new ideas and support to friends old and new, helping them plan for a successful new chapter in life. By bringing together local resources and creating a lively, supportive environment, they are championing the success of local businesses and individuals alike.
Ferrera shares her hope for the New Year: “My hope for the new year is to continue to grow my staff’s and my own strengths and talents while increasing awareness of this cool little lounge I’m so pleased to help guide!”

Latest Articles

  • Publisher's Pen: Dr. Hank Parfitt asks "Why is it..."
  • Troy's Perspective: Cumberland County's status
  • The brave new world of NIL in college sports
  • FSO announces new executive director
  • Health & Wellness: Screen time: Schedule your important screens this summer
  • Celebrating 60 years of service: Fort Bragg ACS plans family-friendly birthday bash
Up & Coming Weekly Calendar
  

Login/Subscribe