Entertainment

Senior beauty pageant celebrates "Age of Elegance," Nov. 2

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Tuesday, 22 October 2024

Written by Amber Little

It’s 2024, and being a senior is not what it used to be. Long gone are the days of sitting in the house and watching Matlock and The Bold and the Beautiful reruns. The new generation of 60 and over is taking the world by storm and living their best lives way past retirement.
The new senior lifestyle can be attributed to an increased awareness of how diet and movement affect age, the world’s changing view of what age looks like, and the “silver fox” modeling movement that has highlighted the beauty and fierceness of aging. While senior centers used to be communal spaces for seniors in the area, more and more events and destinations are creating spaces for seniors to do more than chair yoga.
Southern Lux JeepHers, a local nonprofit run by Jeep Wrangler owners and enthusiasts, in partnership with Jacquelyn Washington-Brown, is hosting the Silver and Gold Sassy Senior Pageant on Nov. 2 at the John D Fuller Recreation Center, located at 6627 Old Bunce Rd, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The pageant will highlight women who have reached their “Age of Elegance” (60 years and older).
“It is an opportunity to showcase and celebrate the gracious lady who best exemplifies all senior Americans' dignity, maturity, and inner beauty,” according to their website.
Participants are from Cumberland and Hoke County and a portion of the proceeds will go to initiatives in these counties that look to “increase the quality of life for seniors.” Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at https://bit.ly/405jTv8.
“Dare to Dream, Dare to Dazzle, Blaze the Runway” is this year’s theme and the personification of what the pageant is looking to accomplish, to give “Age of Elegance” women an opportunity to show off their style and talent. Contestants will be judged in evening wear, fitness, and “sassy strut”. Pageant organizers are excited to show the community the beauty and sophistication of the seniors in the community while supporting participants.
“We intend to empower pageant participants through wellness education, enhanced community connections and networking, mentoring, and increased access to resources and partnerships,” they said.
First, second, and third place will be crowned and receive a cash prize. The fun doesn’t stop once the pageant ends. The after party is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. featuring door prizes and heavy hors d’oeuvres and is open for contestants and attendees. It will be an afternoon and evening of elegance and fun thanks to the amazing individuals and groups who have given their time to putting this event together.
Southern Lux JeepHers is a nonprofit started by Southern Lux JeepSistas, a local Jeep club. The organization “strives to foster a supportive environment for women in the Jeep Wrangler community through Jeep ownership education and training, off-roading events, and volunteer projects that strengthen the bond between Jeep owners and the broader community.” The organization’s board is comprised of US Armed Forces veterans, retirees, and women committed to their community. The organization was built on core values: compassion, diversity and inclusion, humility, integrity, impact, collaboration, and empowerment. For more information about this great organization, visit the website at https://southernluxjs.org/.

LaFayette Ford’s Fall Festival gives back to community

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Tuesday, 15 October 2024

Written by Lisa Stevens

Join LaFayette Ford for an unforgettable day at their 4th Annual Fall Festival happening on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 5202 Raeford Rd., Fayetteville. This free outdoor event promises fun for the whole family, rain or shine.
At LaFayette Ford, they believe in giving back to the community. Their Fall Festival is a celebration and an opportunity for local families to come together and enjoy a day filled with activities while supporting important causes. This year, they partnered with the Cape Fear Valley Blood Donor Center for a blood drive and a canned food drive benefiting the Armed Services YMCA at Ft. Liberty, so roll up your sleeves and support a great cause. As a special incentive, the first 250 guests who donate a canned food item will receive a complimentary lunch from one of the onsite food trucks—Allison’s Fast Food or Vicious Pig.
Allison’s Fast Food Truck has been operating since 2013, offering authentic Mexican foods. The owner, Maria, named the business after her daughter, Allison, and says it’s a family business using fresh herbs and spices on some of your favorite Mexican foods. Hope Mills native, Bobby Brinson, is the owner of Vicious Pig. After entering many barbeque competitions and winning many trophies, it’s safe to say that he has some of the best pork ribs in the area. He opened the truck in 2022 and people rave about his award-winning ribs, with his famous side dishes - collard greens and coleslaw.
In addition to these meaningful initiatives, they’ve invited numerous community organizations and vendors to showcase their offerings. Kids can look forward to games, prizes, and complimentary face painting. Plus, don’t miss out on their exciting “Truck or Treat” event where children are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes to celebrate the upcoming holiday, Halloween.
“Our Fall Festival is an event our team looks forward to every year,” says Rusty Hinton, General Manager of LaFayette Ford. “While there is a time and place for promotional sales events, we appreciate the opportunity to host an event centered on giving back to our community.”
Addison Fisher-Cummings is the Associate Marketing Director and shares that the idea for the fall festival was created in the wake of the pandemic.
“Recognizing a need for connection and celebration, we set out to create an event that would not only bring joy but also serve as a platform for the many organizations we partner with throughout the year. We firmly believe that our success as a business is interwoven with the community and its members, so giving back has always been at the forefront of our mission. Our Fall Festival has blossomed into an eagerly anticipated annual event,” Fisher-Cummings said. “One of my favorite highlights has been our ‘Truck or Treat’ competition, where departments go head-to-head to see who can decorate their trucks in the most creative ways. The excitement builds as we invite a local radio DJ to judge the entries. Our Sales Department proudly holds the title of two-time champion with their imaginative Alice in Wonderland and Barbie themes. It’s a fun event!”
The history of Lafayette Ford is a testament to the enduring values that have shaped its identity since its inception. In 1949, Bess Smith opened Lafayette Motor Sales in downtown Fayetteville, establishing an All-American dealership grounded in honesty, integrity, respect, and community involvement. These core principles continue to resonate deeply within Lafayette Ford today.
In 1955, George Purvis Sr. recognized the potential for growth as Fayetteville expanded and acquired Lafayette Motor Sales. His vision was instrumental in transforming the dealership into what it is now—an integral part of the community that adapts to changing times while staying true to its foundational values.
By 1982, Lafayette Ford found its permanent home on Raeford Road. Initially consisting of a modest new and used sales building along with a car wash, it soon evolved into a comprehensive service center as demand grew. The addition of a service and parts department solidified Lafayette Ford's reputation as the one-stop-shop for all automotive needs.
In 1995, Don Price took ownership of Lafayette Ford after years of dedicated service, beginning as a salesman in the mid-1960s. With his background in the Air Force and extensive experience at the dealership, Price brought a deep understanding of customer care to his leadership role. Alongside his son Tim and son-in-law Mark Fisher, they have continued over 70 years of success by fostering an environment where customers are treated like family.
As they celebrate their rich legacy during events like the Fall Festival, it's clear that Lafayette Ford remains committed to providing exceptional automotive services and nurturing strong relationships within the community—a commitment that will undoubtedly carry us into an even brighter future.
Mark your calendars and gather your loved ones for this kid-friendly, wonderful occasion that not only celebrates fall but also strengthens our Fayetteville community! For more information, visit their website at www.lafayetteford.com

(Photo: The Sales Department at Lafayette Ford show off their winning Barbie Truck for the Lafayette Ford Festival's Truck or Treat Competition in 2023)

Halloween revels at the Cape Fear BOOtanical Garden

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Tuesday, 15 October 2024

Written by Alyson Hansen

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is celebrating the spooky season with Halloween at the BOO-tanical Garden.
This event, presented by Cape Fear Valley Health, will be held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 24, and 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Oct. 25-27. Thursday, Oct. 24 is also Dog Night. Leashed dogs will be welcome into the garden. In addition to having furry friends join in the fun, garden goers will get the added benefit of additional candy stations courtesy of ERA Strother Real Estate.
This year's BOO-tanical theme is "Art Unearthed." The Botanical Garden "Boo Crew" will be wandering around the garden dressed as iconic sculptures and painters. These artists will share spooky stories and hands on activities.
The Botanical Garden will be full of candy stations, animations and photo opportunities. A costume contest, sponsored by Kids First Pediatrics, will be held nightly.
Light displays will be set up throughout the garden to create a spooky and magical atmosphere, and the garden will be decorated in hand carved jack-o-lanterns. Participants are encouraged to bring flashlights, as the garden paths may be dark.
Candy stations will be set up throughout the garden for some pre Halloween candy collecting. A limited supply of bags will be available for a fee at the garden, but it is encouraged to bring your own candy bag for goodies.
Tickets for non members ages 11 and up are $12 in advance, $25 for walk ups. Garden members ages 11 and up are $10 in advance, $20 for walk ups. Ages 3 to 10 are $7 in advance, $15 for walk ups. Kids under 3 are free.
Dogs do not need a ticket on dog night, and will be allowed in the garden for free. Remember, dogs are only allowed on Oct. 24.
This event does sell out, and walk ups aren't always available. Tickets can be pre purchased at https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/26840/cape-fear-botanical-garden
Tickets are non refundable.
For opportunities to sponsor a Candy Station, contact the garden at blewis@capefearbg.org.
The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is located near the Cape Fear River, two miles from Downtown Fayetteville. Built in 1989, the garden provides classes and events throughout the year in addition to year round blooming plants. Members of the garden have access to exclusive events.
The Botanical Garden helps to preserve the local floral and fauna by maintaining the Heritage Garden, featuring gardening structures from 1886.
For more information about the garden, how to join, and how to volunteer, visit https://www.capefearbg.org/about-us/.

(Graphic Courtesy of Cape Fear Botanical Garden's Facebook Page)

Dress up the family to Trick or Treat the 1897 Poe House

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Tuesday, 15 October 2024

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Gather your little ghouls and goblins for an exciting and spooktacular day filled with fun activities at the historic 1897 Poe House. Enjoy thrilling games, eerie stories, and delightful treats that will make this Halloween celebration unforgettable for everyone involved.
This fun-filled day at the historic 1897 Poe House will take place on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This community event is completely free and promises to be a memorable experience for kids and families alike.
“We are expecting over 600 kids to attend this year,” says Victoria Peck, 1897 Poe House Coordinator.
The event will feature a variety of activities and attractions designed to entertain children of all ages. These activities include a range of old-fashioned games that are sure to delight young trick-or-treaters. Kids can enjoy classics like ring toss, bean bag toss, and knock down the pin in the backyard of the Poe House.
Joy the Clown will give a magical performance. She'll offer balloon sculpting and face painting throughout the festivities. The enchanting show kicks off at 1 p.m., followed by the Costume showcase at 2 p.m. This isn't a competition, but rather an opportunity for children to line up on stage and share a few words about their outfits!
Trick or treating at the Poe House is an experience in itself. Upon entering through the main front entrance, children will have the chance to explore the historic home. After completing the tour, they can exit through the back door to pick up their pre-packaged goodie bags filled with candy.
In addition to games and trick or treating, the event will feature other great special attractions. Kids can take a hayride pulled by a tractor through scenic Arsenal Park, adding a touch of adventure to their day.
A DJ will keep the energy high by playing Halloween music throughout the event, and a costume show-and-tell will give children the chance to showcase their creative outfits on stage.
No reservations are needed to attend this free event, making it easy for families to join in the fun. Attendees are encouraged to enter through the main front entrance of the Poe House and explore the historic home before participating in the outdoor activities.
While the event itself is free, visitors can purchase food from onsite food trucks if they wish. Be sure to dress up in your favorite costume and prepare for a day full of Halloween excitement!

(Photo: Guests visit the 1897 Poe House for their Trick or Treating event. Photo courtesy of 1897 Poe House)