The Ringling Bros.® The Greatest Show On Earth® is bringing Barnum Bash to the Crown Coliseum March 8-11. Barnum Bash is a new show featuring international acts and a pre-show that offers all circus goers a backstage look at circus life.

An hour before the actual show, clown D.J. Dean Kelley hosts the rockin’ pre-show party. Guests are invited on to the arena floor to practice their juggling and balancing skills, experiment with circus style in glitzy costumes, as well as talk and take pictures with the stars of “the greatest show on earth.” Even the elephants come out and join the party. One elephant will make a piece of art — a footprint using canvas and paint — which will be raffled off to party-goers.

New for this show, audience members can step behind the curtains for an exclusive backstage look at the exotic animals featured in the show.“

Something we’ve never done before is open up the curtain and let guests take a back-stage tour,” Kelley said, explaining that the audience gets the opportunity to be part of the whole experience.

“The pre-show party is my chance to interact and get to know the audience. I’m there to make sure everyone is enjoying themselves and having a good time.”

Kelley wears a bright orange wig with a cowlick that stands straight up. His flamboyant personality is just as outrageous as his appearance; a sight to behold. The audience can’t help but enjoy Kelley and the rest of the stars as they share circus tricks and wow the audience.

“We have a saying ‘For kids of all ages…’ and it’s true — we have something for everyone, if you are 2 or a 102,” Kelley said. “It’s really cool when I can look into the audience and see a child and parent and grandparents all responding in the same way and all enjoying themselves.”

Barnum Bash brings together a number of international acts including the Mighty Dmytrio, Motorcycle Mania, Epic Asian Elephants, Wheel of Steel, and Hand Balancers. All are tricked-out for the circus party and ready to perform wild feats of wonder and strength to contemporary pop music in 21st century Barnum style.

Kelley is excited about some of the new acts that have joined the show.

“I really like the hand balancing act by Duo Fusion. You know people might say … ‘Oh it’s a balancing act, it’s boring,’ but it’s breathtaking every time I see it,” he said.

Duo Fusion is a married couple who trained as gymnasts before joining the show. The duo combines their Latin heritage with strength, agility and balance to create an incredible show.

“Also, there is a troupe of acrobats from Cuba that are outstanding and do some things you’ve never seen before. That’s why they’re in the ‘greatest show on Earth’,” Kelley said.

Troupe members execute swift spins; bar-to-bar jumps; and high-fl ying, trapeze-like maneuvers where they are caught and released by a catcher as they perform fl ips and twists in mid-air.

“Growing up knowing what a treasure Ringling Bros.® is to the world, and then being able to perform in the show, is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s something I have always dreamed of doing and I’m glad I have the opportunity to do so,” Kelley said.

For more information, visit www.Ringling.com or visit Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey on Facebook. All seats are reserved. Tickets are available at the Crown Coliseum Box Offi ce and through Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000.

Photo: Dean Kelley, the host of Barnum Bash is excited about the stop in Fayetteville.

Walk into the exhibit of photographs by Carlo Pieroni at Gallery 208 and you are walking into the world of a highly successful Italian photographer whose favorite subject is women — beautiful women. Visitors to the opening reception will immediately sense the joyfulness in Pieroni’s work; his passion for life and his art exudes when you talk to the artist.

Visitors will easily understand how Pieroni is currently the world’s leading photographer of pin-up art.

Pieroni’s portfolio includes various lifestyle genres, but this striking exhibit is all about the pin-up girl. Pieroni has taken a style with a long history and made it his own. Just think about where you may have seen the pin-up — old movies, popular magazines, calendars and even cartoons.

Remember the cartoon character Betty Boop, or the silent film star Theda Bara? Then there is the long list of modern pin-up gals: Carole Lombard, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Gable, Rita Haywood, Jane Russell and many, many more.

Pieroni has made the traditional pin-up girl a timeless modern beauty by changing the wardrobe and the environments the models are situated in. Somewhere between reality and fantasy Pieroni’s pin-up girls find themselves in just about any situation. They can be posed standing on a pier holding fishing gear, being lifted into the air by a group of blue helium balloons — even cooking on a grill!

If you think the pin-up girl is limited to the “male gaze” in magazines, think again. His work has been commissioned by many international magazines and plenty of commercial companies. Those companies include Liz Claiborne Cosmetics, M&M candy, Everlast and Playtex.

So how did this career start? Pieroni was born in Florence, Italy, and practiced photography while still a student in high school. After graduating, he started his own commercial studio as a self-taught artist, and later becoming an art director for an advertising agency. His connection to Fayetteville is a model he met while on a job in the Sahara Desert. The model, Carol Wilson, is from Fayetteville. She later became his wife and the couple has three children and split their time between Italy and North Carolina.

Pieroni is a man who truly enjoys his work. “(I) began creating photographic imagery in the 1980s and enjoy having an international career in fashion and beauty photography shooting for several international magazines and advertising agencies.”

Although Pieroni discovered the pin-up girl style for himself, the origin of the magazine pin-up is difficult to pin point. The pin-up style historically began as an attractive young woman used to illustrate stories or ads. The art emerged when magazines left the story behind and we are left with an illustration — an art form independent of a narrative story.

Visitors to Gallery 208 will enjoy the charm and beauty of Pieroni’s pin-up girls. They are tasteful; the images are full of joy, and are campy and vampy. No need to be concerned about offending anyone, Pieroni quoted the following in “Crazy Girls”, in Black + White Magazine, when interviewed by Nick Dent; “More women than men told me they liked the pictures when they were exhibited in London and Paris. They say they love the happiness, the elegance.

It won’t be difficult to identify the typical pin-up style. The women will all be beautiful. She will bewearing very high heels, clothes that hug her body to accentuate her shape, sometimes wearing lingerie; and often wearing a belt around her waist! Her hair will usually be long or pulled back to show her perfect makeup and smile. You will leave the exhibit knowing beauty is still a popular art form in our culture.

The opening reception for the exhibit is on Thursday, March 8 from 5:30-7 p.m. Gallery 208 is located in the corporate offices of Up & Coming Weekly at 208 Rowan St. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 484-6200.

Photo: Gallery 208 will highlight the works of Carlo Pieroni during a reception on Thursday, March 8. 

Enjoy a weekend of indigenous music, art and culture March 9-10, at the 2012 River People Music and Culture Fest hosted by Givens Performing Arts Center at UNC Pembroke. The festival kicks off Friday, with a morning performance at 10 a.m. At 6 p.m. on Friday, the River Roots Arts Guild hosts an Emerging Artist Showcase in the University Center Annex.

The showcase highlights artist works inspired by the Lumbee River. These works include paintings, sculpture, spoken work, poetry and musical performances. The showcase also features a juried art show by local artists.

On Saturday, the festival continues at GPAC at 6:30 p.m. General admission is $10; $5 for students and children; and $3 for UNCP students.

The event features Native American Music Award winners Pura Fé and the Trio and Dark Water Rising. Other performers include the Deer Clan Singers, The Henry Berry Band, Unheard Voices, flutist Jonathan Ward and blues guitarist Lakota John, Layla & Friends.

Pura Fé has been a performing artist for more than 25 years. She opened for Neil Young with one of her fi rst solo performances for Aboriginal Voices.

The name, Dark Water Rising, originates from the home of its members. Famed for being the birthplace of Lumbee culture, Robeson County is nourished by cypress-lined swamps and the black water of the Lumber River. These swamps are legendary for hiding Lumbee outlaws during and after the Civil War. Dark Water Rising has been called “One of the most original and charismatic bands to rise from the ‘middle of nowhere.’”

The Deer Clan Singers from Robeson County, are Tuscarora Indians, the Southernmost band of the Iroquois. As strong singers, harmonizers and extensive travelers, they keep the traditions of their ancestors alive through their performances.

Layla Rose Locklear, 19, is a well-known and talented performer and violinist.

Lakota John plays the bottle-neck slide guitar, harmonica and sings. He blends traditional styles of the Delta and Piedmont acoustic blues with bottle-neck slide guitar.

Jonathan C. Ward started playing the Native-American flute in July 2008 when he worked at a retail store that carried flutes. Ward found a strong love for the instrument. Within eight months, he recorded and released his debut album Native Flutin: A New Beginning.

Officially founded in the ‘70s as a group of spoken-word performers, Unheard Voices is now a sub-group of the Carolina Indian Circle.

Henry Berry is an ongoing studio project by two of the original members of The Henry Berry Band, the notorious outlaw Southern Rock group that terrorized Robeson and surrounding counties in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

The Chavis brothers — Danny, Earl, Frank, James and Ernie brought a national spotlight to Pembroke in the 1950s. The members will be honored for their achievements in music on Saturday, March 10.

Jackie Jacobs is the mistress of ceremonies. Jacobs is a motivational speaker and is known nationwide as the publicist for the Quileute Tribe from the Twilight Saga phenomenon and has worked closely with the native actors.

The River People Music and Culture Fest will spotlight American-Indian culture from across the nation. Many of the performers have connections to North Carolina and Robeson County. Organizers believe this event will showcase some of the most outstanding talent in the American-Indian community. The nations represented include the Eastern Band of Cherokee, Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, Tuscarora, Waccamaw Siouan Tribe and Haliwa Saponi.

For more information, please contact GPAC at (910) 521-6361 or email tasha.oxendine@uncp.edu.

Photos: Dark Water Rising and Jonathan Ward are among the performers at the festival.

Many children are faced with the challenge of loss of sight. This is a difficult condition for many human beings. All around you is darkness and heavy reliance on your four other senses is vital.

Mercifully, there is a foundation that focuses on providing help to blind children. The MIRA Foundation USA, is a national non-profit organiza-tion that offers guide dogs, free of charge, to blind children. The foundation’s mission is to provide targeted educational outreach to promote public awareness and services for support to the adult population and their families.

Beth Daniels, executive director of the MIRA Foundation USA, says the foundations is going into its third year and has placed eight guide dogs with blind children so far.

“Historically, guide dogs are not given to blind people until the age of 18,” Daniels explains. “We are the only foundation that provides guide dogs for blind children between the ages of 11 and 17,” Daniel explains.

Guide dogs produce a social bridge for the children. The dogs allow for more independence and freedom that they can’t achieve with the use of a cane. A cane may be useful in some ways, but in no circumstance can it be compared to the better usage and stability of a guide dog.

Of course, the Mira Foundation owes much of its success to the heroes that are changing these children’s lives one day at a time — the guide dogs of the MIRA Foundation. Careful breeding is important to the success of the foun-dation. The goal, when breeding the best dog, is to look for the best physical and behavioral features. The foundation wants to ensure compatibility with their necessary requirement for creating the best guide dogs for these children. Foundation staff has discovered the best breed is a mixture of Labrador and Mountain Bernese, which creates the Labernese.

Michael Moore, 18, is a resident in the Fayetteville community and attends the Governor Morehead School for the blind in Raleigh. Moore has one of the guide dog. Robbie, Moore’s dog, came from the MIRA Foundation. His mother, Michelle Moore, could not be more pleased to have this dog in their lives.

“The foundation has been awesome and the expe-rience has been wonderful for Michael,” Moore says. “Had he gotten this dog in middle school he would have stayed mainstream in Cumberland County.”

Moore explained that the bond between Robbie and Michael is strong.

“He is the sweetest dog,” she said. “A lot of places do not advocate guide dogs for children but the Mira Foundation does and we are so pleased.”

Currently, the Mira Foundation has plans to place two more dogs with blind children in Fayetteville.

MIRA Foundation USA has many events in the Fayetteville area. The third annual Sandhills Dining in the Dark Dinner on April 28, will be held at the elegant Pinehurst Member’s Club. The event will allow guests to eat their meal blindfolded to experience being blind.

The Mira Foundation has its only office in Aberdeen, N.C., on 112 N. Poplar St., but they are continuing to expand. The foundation is focused on making a better life for children who are blind.

For more information about the MIRA Foundation USA or to volunteer, visit www.mirausa.org or contact the main office at 944-7757.

Photo: The Mira Foundation has discovered the best breed for their guide dogs is a mixture of Labrador and Mountain Bernice, which creates the Labernese. 

Kari Jobe’s Musical Styling Finds a Home

The contemporary Christian music world is rapidly falling in love with the music of worship leader and artist, Kari Jobe. Though often compared to fellow artists, Christy Nockels and Sara Groves because of musical styling, Jobe has a sound all her own. Her passion to encourage people can be heard in every word she sings.

“I remember hearing a worship song that applied perfectly to a family that I knew and I knew that I wanted to write songs like that, for hurting people, songs that someone could speak to the Lord when they can’t find the words,” she said.

In the midst of singing on the very popular Winter Jam Tour and serving as worship pastor at her church in Southlake, Texas, Jobe has still found time to record and release her highly anticipated sophomore album, Where I Find You.

“After singing about the importance of making time for intimate worship on my first album, I wanted to take the next step on Where I Find You,” she explained. “These songs come from such an honest place of praising God for what he’s done — and what he’s continuing to do in our lives — because of his grace and goodness.”

Jobe’s songs warmly express God’s unwavering love. Her music is great to listen to anytime but especially when you need that extra encouragement to know you can make it through your struggles by relying on God.

“That’s the reason I’m doing what I’m doing at this specific moment — to see God’s name lifted high, to encourage the hurt and the broken and to remind everyone to draw close to him because he really, truly does care about each and every one of his children,” she concluded.

Jobe’s work has been recognized by her peers in the music industry as well. Recently she won two Dove Awards for Special Event Album of the Year and Spanish Language album and was nominated for New Artist of the Year.

Produced by Ed Cash and Matt Bronleewe Where I Find You, which includes the new hit radio single “We Are,” is a clarion call for listeners to experience God’s presence to the fullest.

The album reached number one on iTunes upon release and debuted at number 75 on the Canadian Albums Chart.

Where I Find You is on sale now at local Christian music stores. To learn more about Jobe’s and her music check out her website at www.karijobe. com. And, for more “Buzz” on the latest in Christian conte mporary music dial up Christian 107.3 on your radio or online at www.christian107.com.

Photo: Kari Jobe sang during the 2010 GMA Dove awards. She has won two Dove awards 

Maybe you’ve never met Carlo Pieroni, but chances are, you’ve seen his work. The self-taught, Italian-born photographer’s work has appeared in Vanity Fair, Cosmopolitan, GQ, Madame Figaro, Interview, Max, Uomo Vogue and Femme. He’s worked with companies including Motorola, Chupa Chups, Everlast, Renault, La Perla, Liz Claiborne Cosmetics, Lucky You, M&M/Mars, Playtex, Triumph, Camel, Flamingo Hotel and Casino and VH-1/MTV.

While Pieroni’s lifestyle and advertising work are impressive, he is also pas-sionate about pin-ups — think Betty Page and Jayne Mansfield. On March 8, Up & Coming Weekly’s Gallery 208 opens an ex-hibit featuring Pieroni’s pin-up work.

Lighthearted and whimsical, the pin-ups are a collaboration between the artist and the models he portrays. The idea of each photo is to find the inner bombshell of each woman and to use Pieroni’s creativity to produce a piece of art that complements the model and presents an entertaining and visually appealing piece of work.

Each image starts as a photograph, but the end result is a combination of photography, and some “painting,” done by Pieroni, that portrays the models in playful situations somewhere between reality and fantasy.

In December of 2010 the USO teamed up with VH1 to present VH1 Divas Salute the Troops. For this venture Pieroni transformed Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles, Nicki Minaj, and the Nocturnals’ Grace Potter, Keri Hilson, Katy Perry and Paramore’s Hayley Williams into 1940s-era pin-ups.

A family man and father of three, Pieroni grew up in Florence Italy. He started taking pictures when he was in high school and even did some com-mission work for friends. From there, he moved on to commercial photog-raphy and focused on still-life pictures for a time. It was a photo shoot in the Sahara Desert that turned him in the direction of photographing people. This particular model portrayed a desert rose. She stole his heart and became Pieroni’s muse — and later his wife, and he never looked back. He’s now a well-known and highly sought after fashion photographer.

“It is such an exciting experience to be a part of the universe of a woman,” said Pieroni. “Each woman is so unique, such an individual... and has her own set of strengths and her own sense of beauty and glamor and self. It really is a joy to be a part of this for a time and to translate that vision into a work of art.”

For his pin-up images, Pieroni prefers to keep things light and playful. Sure, his images are soft and dreamy and lighthearted — he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“A lot of my work is silly and is set up to show the comedy in a situation. It is meant to portray the inner joy and lightheartedness of the models,” said Pieroni.

The Gallery 208 opening reception is from 5:30-7 p.m. It is free and open to the public. Call 484-6200 for more information.

Photo: On March 8, Up & Coming Weekly’s Gallery 208 opens an exhibit featuring Pieroni’s pin-up work.

From elegant ballroom dancing to striking salsa moves, come out and support Fayetteville’s superstars as they dance and boogie the night away. The Center for Economic Empowerment and Development hosts Dancing with the Fayetteville Stars on Saturday, April 14, at the Crown Expo Center.

The event was voted best fundraiser in 2011 by Up & Coming Weekly readers. That honor is not a big surprise to those who have participated in or attended previous events. CEED put a lot of hard work and energy into the event, which helps make a difference in our community.

Originally called the Women’s Center of Fayetteville, The Center for Economic Empowerment and Development is a non-profi t organization that was established May 20, 1990, when a small group of women in the Fayetteville community came together and generated a facility focused on community service. The organization has an emphasis on bringing people and organizations together, without confl ict, to resolve important issues for relief in the community. CEED is dedicated to assisting women and men by helping them fi nd their own strength to succeed. The mission of CEED is to promote growth, productivity and well-being through counseling, education, information and advocacy programs.

The organization has attained success since its beginning, with the creation of three programs: Women’s Business Center, the New Choice Program and the Lease to Home Program. All of these amazing programs have a goal of success, which is an important key to life.

Dancing with the Fayetteville Stars is an important fundraiser for the organization because it focuses on raising money to support the Lease to Home Program. Lilliana Parker, marketing manager at CEED, explained that each year the organization has a goal of raising more money from the fundraiser than the previous year.

“Last year we raised $120,000 and we focus on increasing our budget each year,” Parker says. “We have a goal of making $160,000 at this year’s fundraiser.”

Parker discusses the importance of sponsorship and its signifi cance when raising money for the fundraiser.

“Usually we have 1,000 tables, and depending on the level of sponsorship, that determines the amount of tickets a person can receive,” Parker explains. “Sponsorship levels range from copper level which costs $300, to platinum level which is $10,000.”

Volunteers are a huge focal point in making the fundraiser a success. Because CEED’s mission is focused on helping the community, volunteering is a big part of the event.

“We have a good amount of volunteers for the fundraiser who help out for the event as well as volunteer dancers,” Parker adds. “Usually we have about 40 volunteers for the event.”

Parker said the fundraiser will be a night of fun and enjoyment for all who attend. But the most important part of the night is raising money to help those individuals with low income.

The Lease to Home program is CEED’s innovative program that focuses on assisting those transitioning from homelessness to becoming homeowners. Who doesn’t want to be able to have a safe place to live and call their own? The Lease to Home program offers affordable living and a safe place to live for all walks of life. To date, the program has successfully helped 46 families become homeowners. With the money raised from the fundraiser, CEED hopes to rehabilitate and provide safe, affordable housing for families in need.

“Every year, through our fundraiser, we are happy to present a new home for those low-income families,” Parker says. “It is very tangible and very fast.”

CEED’s one night of entertainment and dance brings optimism and bliss to families for a lifetime.

The fundraiser sweeps the dance fl oor at 5:30 p.m. at the Crown Expo Center. For more information about sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, visit www.ncceed.org or contact the offi ce at 323-3377.

Photo: Dancing with the Fayetteville Stars was voted best fundraiser in 2011 by Up & Coming Weekly readers.

Does the idea of fighting crowds at the airport or standing in line at theme parks leave you cold? If so, you are not alone. In the United States, nearly one in 12 U.S. vehicle-owning households (about 7 million) now owns a recreational vehicle. That number is expected to grow by about 15 percent in the coming years.

Why? Rowland Bostock, the promoter for the Eastern North Carolina RV Show doesn’t have all the answers to that question, but he does have some.

“The outdoor lifestyle is a very appealing lifestyle,” said Bostock. “When you go to campgrounds, you find other like-minded people who are looking for quiet and relaxation (for the most part.) They are open and friendly and willing to lend a hand or advice.”

Bostock said there is no better feeling than sitting quietly around a campfire at the end of a fun day and reflecting on the day and planning for the next.

“It’s just very relaxing, and then you lay down in the comfort of your own bed with the sounds of crickets or a river putting you to sleep,” he said. “It’s just a very unique and different lifestyle.”

Bostock said that the solitude isn’t for everyone. Some RV owners use their trailers for getting into the mix of things and tailgating at Nascar races or at football games.

“They enjoy the excitement and camaraderie that goes along with those events,” he said.

This is the seventh RV show in Fayetteville. Years ago there was another show, but they stopped coming and started concentrating on bigger venues. Two RV Sales owners came together with the idea of starting a local show. They enlisted Bostock, and other RV dealers from eastern North Carolina, and put the show together.

“All of these folks work really well together and have a little friendly competition,” said Bostock.

Just as the dealers come back year after year, so do the attendees at the show.

“We see a lot of the same faces year after year,” said Bostock.

Annually about 2,500 people come out for the show. That number dropped slightly over the past couple of years, because of the economy, but attendance has remained close to the 2,500 range.

“Our dealers all have had success at the show,” he said.

This year there are nine RV dealers participating in the show, including Fayetteville dealer, Hawley’s Camping Center. “We have a really good representa-tion from RV dealers, as well as RV parks,” said Bostock.

Throughout the three days of the event, dealers will offer special sales on RVs. Vendors associated with the RV industry will be on hand to showcase products and prizes will be given out throughout the event.

Bostock said some folks come out to the show simply out of curiosity, while oth-ers have been a part of the RV family for years.

“Some people come just because it is something to do, while others come to trade in older RVs and others come who want to try out the lifestyle for the first time,” explained Bostock.

He noted that the love of the outdoors beckons many people to the RV lifestyle.

“There are a lot of people who don’t want to take the fly/drive vacation to busy spots,” he said. “Many of them want to take quiet vacations and just enjoy being with their families in the great outdoors. So the idea of having an RV appeals to them.”

Bostock said pet owners are also very intrigued with the idea of camping.

“A lot of people really love their pets and want to take them on vacation. It’s really hard to find hotels that will allow you to do that, and some of the ones that do, well, you wouldn’t want to stay in them,” he said. “With the RV, the pet can come along with no problems.”

Bostock said that many of the first-time buyers will go for something simple like a pop-up camper. But over time, they may upgrade their RVs a num-ber of times. He noted that RVs have come a long way from their early days. These days, the RVs are spacious and have everything from full bathrooms to well-equipped kitchens and entertainment centers. With a number of slide-outs on a camper, the RV can be as spacious and roomy as some people’s homes.

“We have some people who come in and trade up every year, and others that come every three to five years,” said Bostock. “What we see a lot in our older RV’ers is them trading down so they have a simpler set up and something that is easier to pull.”

The Eastern North Carolina RV Show rolls into the Crown Agri-Expo Center on Friday, March 2 from noon-8:30 p.m. On Saturday, March 3, the show opens at 10 a.m. and runs through 8:30 p.m. The show closes on Sunday, March 4, with hours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Bostock said it’s a great event for people whether they are experienced campers or just thinking about getting into RVing. This year’s show will include new exhibitor’s from eastern North Carolina providing a wider selection of RVs. Speak with experi-enced sales professionals about features and benefits of owning an RV… then shop and compare for your best deal.

Tickets to the event are $7 for adults, $2 for children ages 7-12, with children under 7 admitted free. Friday is military appreciation night, with all military admitted at half price after 4 p.m. For more in-formation, visit www.encrv.com.

Photo: Many of the first-time RV buyers will go for something simple like a pop-up camper. But over time, they may upgrade their RVs a number of times.

As a society, we ask a lot of educators. In return it’s only right to provide teachers with the resources and support they need to get the job done well.

That is the job of the Cumberland County Education Foundation. The foundation seeks to promote and support community awareness of issues critical to the success of our public schools; to facilitate funding of innovative programs not typically funded that offer excellence; and to recognize teachers, administrators and volunteers of outstanding distinction.

On Saturday, March 3, the Cumberland County Education Foundation hosts its annual fundraiser School House Rock, a fun way to celebrate excellence in Cumberland County Schools and raise funds for theprograms sponsored by CCEF.

Get out the hairspray and leg warmers ladies; and gents it’s time to rummage through the closet for that Members Only jacket and slip on the wayfarers — the theme for this year’s School House Rock is the 1980s.

With entertainment by ‘80s tribute band, The Breakfast Club, the evening promises to be totally rad. Formed in 1993, The Breakfast Club is all about the music of the original MTV generation and has been hailed by the Wilmington Star News as “better than the original artists.”

“This is our signature fundraiser,” said Cindy Kowal, executive director of the Cumberland County Education Foundation. “I do have to give credit to (Cumberland County School System Superintendent) Dr. Till; When he came on board three years ago we met and talked about fundraising … and he said ‘I think people just like to have fun and go to a good party.’ He was right.”

The first School House Rock was a great success, and last year was even better. Kowal recalled that it was such a good time in part because people really got into dressing up and embracing the ‘70s theme. “Last year, if you were not in costume you really were the odd one out. Everybody was dressed in bright colors; there were afro wigs and things like that. There was really good music, starting with Woodstock and going into the disco generation. People had a lot of fun with the costumes — from Bob Marley to John Travolta. It was a big hit,” she said.

Kowal is excited about the ‘80s theme for this year’s party, and anticipates it will be just as successful.

“We are back this year bigger and better and expect everyone to have a totally awesome time. Parachute pants and big hair are strongly encouraged,” said Kowal. “Be Tom Cruise, be Michael Jackson, be Ronald Reagan, we don’t care — just come and have a great time with us,” she added.

Funds raised at School House Rock benefi t the CCEF, which sponsors programs that serve students, support teachers and engage the community.

Students benefit from programs like Communities In Schools, which is the nation’s leading drop-out prevention program. CIS serves more than 3,000 students locally with things like enrichment opportunities, mentoring, tutoring, community service and career exploration. Other supported programs include:

The Fuller Performance Learning Center, The Yanoff Music Initiative, a joint venture with the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra that introduces classical music to all Cumberland County Schools third graders; the Teacher-of-the-Year Program, educational mini-grants provided by CCEF.; and the CCEF Science, Math and Engineering Explorations Grant Heavy hors d‘oeuvres and cocktails are included in the $75 ticket price for School House Rocks.

“This event really does reach out to the community to support our mission,” said Kowal. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www. ccedfoundation.org.

Photo: Supporters of education gathered for a ‘70s flashback at the 2011 School House Rocks. 

The U.S. Army Forces Command’s Army Ground Forces Band performs at Methodist University on Saturday,March 3, in Reeves Auditorium. The group of 59 talented and dedicated soldiers hit the stage at 7 p.m. will and provide the audience with an hour and a half of entertainment — free of charge.

“This will be our first regular concert in the Fayetteville area,” says Maj. Treg Ancelet, commander and conductor of the Army Ground Forces Band, “The last concert we did in Fayetteville was our big holiday concert in Reeves Auditorium, but it was a joint concert.”

The band, which has been stationed at Fort Bragg for a year, has high expectations for their members.

“All of our musicians are highly trained and had to go through a band audition to become a member of the major-command band,” says Ancelet. “They have to score very high. Some of the band members have been to conservatories of music and are working on their doctorates.”

The origin of the band dates back to 1846 when the band members helped in winning the Battle of Monterey and became the only Army band to receive a combat distinction from the President of the United States. The band uniforms have a red stripe down the pants to display this victory from 1846.

“This concert band will mix it up with some transcriptions,” says Ancelet. “We’ll do standard band repertoire, like Grainger; we’ve got to do a few student marches and there will be a lot of vocal and patriotic bids.”

The concert also features videos that will accompany different songs, the service medley and some John Williams: Raiders of the Lost Ark. Also, at intermission the band will bring the Dixie Land Band out to play someDixie music.

“I’m really proud of this concert; I think it’s going to be really fun and stuff that people don’t normally see,” says Ancelet. “There will be a lot of different dimensions that most bands don’t bring to the public.”

The ultimate goal of the four-star general’s band (General Rodriguez) is to spread the Army’s message around the country.

“With a band of this size and caliber, one of our missions is not just to bring morale for the troops, but to bring the Army’s story to all of America,” says Ancelet.

While The Army Ground Forces Band has performed for audiences as large as 3,000, they are hoping to have a great turnout for the Methodist University concert.

“We have given concerts to a large crowd before, and were kind of curious because it is our first regular concert. I hope everyone comes out and has a good time,” says Ancelet. “It should be fun for all!”

This event is free and open to the public. Find out more about the Army Ground Forces Band, and the concert at www.forscom.army.mil/band.

Photo: Army Ground Forces Band will perform on March 3 at Reeves Auditorium.

 The Woman in Black(Rated PG-13)  Four Stars

The Woman in Black (95 minutes) wasn’t the best movie I’ve seen in the last year, but at least it was entertaining. As a film, it fit nicely into the grand Gothic tradition of classic English horror movies. Writer Jane Goldman did a nice job of updating the 1983 Susan Hill novel … not surprising from someone with writing credits on Stardust, Kick-Ass and X-Men: First Class. Too bad her big finale came off as unnecessarily sentimental. In fact, the notoriously hard-to-find 1989 UK telefilm really sounds like it had the more satisfying ending.

In Edwardian England a lawyer named Arthur Kipps (Daniel Radcliffe) prepares to leave his son Joseph (Misha Handley) with a nanny (Jessica Raine). Kipps is trying to get over a run of bad luck, and step one is catering to his employer by heading out to the middle of nowhere to handle the estate of the Drablow family. On the train to the village nearest Eel Marsh House, Kipps meets Sam Daily (Ciarán Hinds).

Arriving on a dark and stormy night, he finds out there’s no room at the inn, and is promptly put into the Attic-Room-of-People-Jumping-Out-of-Windows by the helpful proprietor. Once he gets to mingle with the villagers, everyone acts real shady, like they’re going to murder him and hide the body if he’s not on the next train out of town. The next day, despite ample evidence that he should get the heck out of Dodge, Kipps heads out to the spooky isolated mansion that is closed off to the outside world during high tides.

Though my first move would have been to light every candle in the house and start a roaring fire, he gets right to work sorting through a Hoarders-style stockpile of paperwork. I’m not really sure why a lawyer was needed for this, since there are apparently no surviving relatives, but at least we get a ton of thrilling scenes that revolve around paper. During a break from the excitement, he sees the titular Woman in Black (Liz White), and later reports the sighting to the village constable. After he finishes up telling the nice policemen things they don’t want to hear, he heads over to Sam’s for dinner. The dinner is rather awkward, what with Sam’s crazy wife Elizabeth (Janet McTeer) bringing her yap-yap dogs out to the table and making polite dinner conversation about dead children and communing with the afterlife.

Over the next day or so, the story of the Drablows is re-vealed in bits and pieces, though it seems like the backstory could have answered a few more questions than it does. For the one millionth time, the villagers try to get Kipps to leave. Despite lots of paranormal stuff going down every time he walks through the door, a ghosts-aren’t-real pep talk from Sam gets him back to work. This time, he takes a dog for company and decides it is a great idea to spend the night in the clearly haunted house in which he has already seen, heard and felt several ghosts.

He manages to get through the night without actually having a heart attack from fear, although judging from the reaction in the theater, the filmmakers did a great job of ratcheting up the tension for the average viewer. For some reason, Sam finally gets on board the I Do Believe in Spooks train, and helps Kipps carry out a brilliant idea. He has decided that the way to put the spirit to rest is to reunite her with her child, which apparently involves heading out to the marsh on a dark and stormy night to grope around in a mud pit the color and con-sistency of melted Hershey’s Chocolate.

For Radcliffe’s first post-Potter production that doesn’t involve being naked on a horse, he did all right. The pacing was pretty tight, and there was at least the effort to temper the too schmaltzy ending with an ominous final scene.

Now showing at Wynnsong 7, Carmike 12 and Carmike Market Fair 15.

 The Woman in Black(Rated PG-13)  Four Stars

The Woman in Black (95 minutes) wasn’t the best movie I’ve seen in the last year, but at least it was entertaining. As a film, it fit nicely into the grand Gothic tradition of classic English horror movies. Writer Jane Goldman did a nice job of updating the 1983 Susan Hill novel … not surprising from someone with writing credits on Stardust, Kick-Ass and X-Men: First Class. Too bad her big finale came off as unnecessarily sentimental. In fact, the notoriously hard-to-find 1989 UK telefilm really sounds like it had the more satisfying ending.

In Edwardian England a lawyer named Arthur Kipps (Daniel Radcliffe) prepares to leave his son Joseph (Misha Handley) with a nanny (Jessica Raine). Kipps is trying to get over a run of bad luck, and step one is catering to his employer by heading out to the middle of nowhere to handle the estate of the Drablow family. On the train to the village nearest Eel Marsh House, Kipps meets Sam Daily (Ciarán Hinds).

Arriving on a dark and stormy night, he finds out there’s no room at the inn, and is promptly put into the Attic-Room-of-People-Jumping-Out-of-Windows by the helpful proprietor. Once he gets to mingle with the villagers, everyone acts real shady, like they’re going to murder him and hide the body if he’s not on the next train out of town. The next day, despite ample evidence that he should get the heck out of Dodge, Kipps heads out to the spooky isolated mansion that is closed off to the outside world during high tides.

Though my first move would have been to light every candle in the house and start a roaring fire, he gets right to work sorting through a Hoarders-style stockpile of paperwork. I’m not really sure why a lawyer was needed for this, since there are apparently no surviving relatives, but at least we get a ton of thrilling scenes that revolve around paper. During a break from the excitement, he sees the titular Woman in Black (Liz White), and later reports the sighting to the village constable. After he finishes up telling the nice policemen things they don’t want to hear, he heads over to Sam’s for dinner. The dinner is rather awkward, what with Sam’s crazy wife Elizabeth (Janet McTeer) bringing her yap-yap dogs out to the table and making polite dinner conversation about dead children and communing with the afterlife.

Over the next day or so, the story of the Drablows is re-vealed in bits and pieces, though it seems like the backstory could have answered a few more questions than it does. For the one millionth time, the villagers try to get Kipps to leave. Despite lots of paranormal stuff going down every time he walks through the door, a ghosts-aren’t-real pep talk from Sam gets him back to work. This time, he takes a dog for company and decides it is a great idea to spend the night in the clearly haunted house in which he has already seen, heard and felt several ghosts.

He manages to get through the night without actually having a heart attack from fear, although judging from the reaction in the theater, the filmmakers did a great job of ratcheting up the tension for the average viewer. For some reason, Sam finally gets on board the I Do Believe in Spooks train, and helps Kipps carry out a brilliant idea. He has decided that the way to put the spirit to rest is to reunite her with her child, which apparently involves heading out to the marsh on a dark and stormy night to grope around in a mud pit the color and con-sistency of melted Hershey’s Chocolate.

For Radcliffe’s first post-Potter production that doesn’t involve being naked on a horse, he did all right. The pacing was pretty tight, and there was at least the effort to temper the too schmaltzy ending with an ominous final scene.

Now showing at Wynnsong 7, Carmike 12 and Carmike Market Fair 15.

Bikers and Bike Week fans have something new to look forward to — Friday, March 2 and Sunday, March 3, check out the Myrtle Beach Bike Week West Motorcycle Expo at the Florence Civic Center.

Myrtle Beach Bike Week West offers plenty to see and do, including vin-tage motorcycle displays, drag bike displays, chopper road shows, a ride-in bike show, live entertainment with legends of Bike Week, stunt riders, cus-tom builders, a vendors mall and more.

Friday night is Family Night. Kids 16 and under get in free with their parents. This expo is expected to be the largest family-friendly motorcycle event in the Florence, S.C., area.

Not only will there be bike-related activities, but look for good music, too. Friday night, Mojo Hammer performs with special guest Write Off 20. Both bands are local favorites. Nantucket performs at the event on Saturday along with All My Rowdy Friends — the ultimate Hank Williams Jr. Tribute Band and the original rocker and biker diva, Geneva.

Nick Hooker, marketing manager at the Florence Civic Center, noted that there is a lot going on at the Myrtle Beach Bike Week West Motorcycle Expo. “This is our area’s first motorcycle expo,” Hooker says.

Fayetteville’s large biker community won’t want to miss the chance to test the waters at this inaugural event. Hooker encourages the Fayetteville community to come and enjoy the expo. “Florence is not far from Fayetteville,” Hooker adds, “It is conveniently located on I-95 and I-20.”

Myrtle Beach Bike Week West Motorcycle Expo is open to the public. It gives fans of Nantucket a chance to come out, show support and enjoy a wide range of entertainment, and it gives bikers a chance to take a quick trip down the road to explore an event that will likely become a regular part of the area’s springtime motorcycle festivities.

In addition to the displays and vendors, check out the raffle. The Challenger Motorcycle Lift used by Orange County Choppers during the Custom Bike Build on August 5, 2011 at the Florence Civic Center will be raffled off. Proceeds support the Wounded Warrior Project and the South Carolina Motorcycle Rider Education Program. The lift has Paul Sr.’s signature and the signatures of all the crew who worked to build the custom bike. Raffle tickets are $10 and will be available at the O’Reilly Auto Parts Booth at the expo. The lift will be on display there as well.

The winning ticket will be drawn on the concert stage Saturday night, March 3, during intermission at Myrtle Beach Bike Week West Motorcycle Expo. You do not have to be present to win.

Admission to Myrtle Beach Bike Week West Motorcycle Expo is just $15 per day and $20 for the whole weekend. Tickets can be purchased the day of the Expo (no advance sales). To find out more, visit www.myrtlebeachbikeweekwest.com or www.florenceciviccenter.com.

Who doesn’t like to hear good music? Even better, who doesn’t like to hear great music from a band that got its start in North Carolina? You can do that when Nantucket performs live at the Florence Civic Center in Florence, S.C., on March 3, at the 2012 Myrtle Beach Bike West Expo. Nantucket has an incredible fan base and event organizers expect a good crowd will come and support the band.

Mike Uzzell, a founding member of Nantucket, says that the Florence Civic Center was one of the first venues the band ever played and he is thrilled to return back.

“We used to have lines of people standing out to see us perform,” Uzzell says. “A lot of people send emails wondering why we are not traveling anymore.”

The show gives Nantucket’s loyal and supportive fans a chance to “walk down memory lane” and relive all the excitement of the band’s early days.

Nantucket was created in North Carolina in the city of Jacksonville in 1969. The band originally consisted of six members: Tommy Redd, Larry Uzzell, Mike Uzzell, Eddie Blair, Kenny Soul and Mark Downing.

Beginning as a cover band where they drew lots of attention, Nantucket signed with Epic Records in 1977.

“It was a very lucrative record deal,” Uzzell adds.

Nantucket had much success with their hit song “Heartbreaker” which sold more than 200,000 copies and was featured on the Billboard charts in 1979. The band had the opportunity to open for many popular bands such as KISS, Styx, Boston, Mother’s Finest, Journey and the Doobie Brothers.

“If I told you how many bands we have played for, we would be on the phone for two more hours.” Uzzell says jokingly.

The band has experienced a great deal with their music and the group has established a very loyal and supportive fan base. Although the band was successful, they did not continue with Epic Records.

“During the MTV era and the production of new bands, we missed our opportunity,” Uzzell says.

Nantucket may have experienced some bumps along the way, but they are still a legend in the music industry.

“We were rated number six of bands that should have went big,” Uzzell said.

In 1992 the band released an album titled Still Live After All These Years. The new album featured earlier songs and some new material from the band as well.

Nantucket still plays reunion shows all around the Carolinas for those devoted fans to come out and enjoy, and the show at the Florence Civic Center is no exception. Fans can look forward to hearing the band’s latest single “You Need a Ride to Raleigh”.

“It is a very neat track and a happy song,” Uzzell adds,” a lot of people are responding — young and old — to the song.”

The band will have special guest All My Rowdy Friends which is the ultimate Hank Williams Jr. Tribute Band. Also the original rocker and biker diva Geneva will appear at the concert.

Nantucket will sign autographs for fans and T-shirts will be available from the band.

For more information or to purchase tickets for Nantucket concert or Myrtle Beach Bike Week West Expo visit www.florenceciviccenter. com or call the box office at 843-679-4525.

Photo: Nantucket, in the early years. 

What Men and Women Need to Know About Heart Disease

February is National Heart Month and we want you to be informed. Knowledge allows you to make choices about your health. This information is relevant for everyone!

The term heart disease encompasses a number of health conditions, including valve and rhythm problems, called atherosclerosis, or the tendency to form plaque in the arteries. Atherosclerosis is also sometimes called coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease can also cause angina — chest pressure or tightness associated with shortness of breath that occurs during exercise — and it is the leading cause of heart attacks.

Who Gets Heart Disease?

Heart disease affects men in their early 60s and 70s and women around 10 years later. The later onset in women is thought to be due to the protective effects of the hormone estrogen, which women have in abundance through their childbearing years and which gradually declines after menopause.

What Causes Heart Disease?

Heart disease is caused by an inflammatory process that is the result of a number of different factors. Some of the biggest culprits are cholesterol, nicotine from smoking cigarettes, LDL particles from cholesterol and high levels of glucose (blood sugar). All of these irritants can inflame the delicate lining of the arteries. In response to the inflammation, the arteries start to form plaque.

A heart attack occurs when plaque becomes so inflamed that it ruptures, breaking off and forming a clot that blocks the artery and cuts off the blood flow to the heart. About 50 percent of the heart attack victims do not survive, and the other 50 percent of the cases need to be rushed to the hospital for treatment. A drug to dissolve the clot, angioplasty to open up the artery, or surgery are the treatments available.

How Can Heart Disease Be Reversed or Prevented?

The best preventative treatment is a diet high in Omega-3 fish oils, low in trans fats and that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and fiber and no fried, greasy foods. Also, aiming for 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a week and maintaining an ideal weight are important preventative measures.

People who really get strict with their diet and exercise and live the right lifestyle can shrink plaque. They may not be able to completely erase it, but as long as you prevent the progression and stabilize the plaque so it’s no longer inflamed and not likely to rupture, then you’ve really accomplished a lot. Of course, there’s some genetic predisposition to heart disease.

How People with Heart Disease can be assisted?

A person with issues related to heart disease, whether a senior or not, could benefit from hiring a professional caregiver who could maintain the home, plan and prepare healthy meals, drive to appointments and keep the individual engaged in activities. This assistance could be for a few days or ongoing, depending upon the situation.

What to do now?

Now that you know more about heart disease consider your personal situation, consult your physician and make adjustments under his/ her care.

Photo: Heart disease is caused by an inflammatory process that is the result of a number of different factors. 

Does Music Education Improve Academic Performance?

The education a child receives will set the groundwork for future success. There is a strong connection between edu-cational achievement and music education. Data from the College Board, Profile of College-Bound Seniors National Report for 2001, revealed that for every year a student par-ticipated in music instruction, their SAT scores improved significantly. Students with four or more years of music study received an average score of about 544 as opposed to a score just above 482 for those with at least one semester of music instruction, thus showing a strong correlation between music lessons and academic success.

Grade-school music students also show increased learning in math and reading. The Public Schools of Albuquerque, N.M., conducted a study that found that instrumental-music students with two or more years of study scored significantly higher in the California Test of Basic Skills than did non-music students.

High school students also achieve greater academic excel-lence when exposed to music training. A study by Mission Veijo High School in Southern California (1981) shows that the overall grade point average of music students is consistently higher than the grade point average of their non-music peers. The music students achieved a 3.59 average while the non-music students achieved a lower 2.91 average.

Dr. Earnest Lamb is the chair of the Department of Performing and Fine Arts at Fayetteville State University. Prior to accepting the position at Fayetteville State, Dr. Lamb taught orchestra in the public schools of Little Rock, Ark. He later joined the faculty at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff before coming chair of its music department. Lamb found that music education encouraged students to stay in school because it improves their self-esteem, and those music educational activities give students a sense of belonging.

For example, the students in the marching band, the glee club, choir or any other performing ensembles have an enhanced feeling of satisfaction and pride in their school. Having pride gives the students a reason to stay in school. Lamb has found that, especially in public schools, the lead-ers and the academic achievers were almost always involved in performing-arts programs.

Lamb further noted that even the top-tier engineering and science universities have musical ensembles composed of students who had a background that included music lessons.

Just 15 minutes a week of private keyboard instruction, along with group singing at pre-school, dramatically im-proved a kind of intelligence needed for high-level math and science, suggests a new study.

Music lessons appear to strengthen the links between brain neurons and build new spatial reasoning, says Psychologist Frances Rauscher of University of California-Irvine. “Music instruction can improve a child’s spatial in-telligence for long periods of time — perhaps permanently,” Rauscher told the American Psychological Association meeting according to the study in 1997.

Her study compared 19 preschoolers who took the lessons and 14 classmates enrolled in no special music programs. After eight months, she found:

• A 46 percent boost in spatial IQs for the young musicians 

• A 6 percent improvement for children not taught music

“If parents can’t afford lessons, they should at least buy a musical keyboard... or sing regularly with their kids and involve them in mu-sical activities,” Rauscher said.

Photo: There is a strong connection between educational achievement and music education.

Want to earn money to pay for your education? Scholarships are defined as “money that does not have to be repaid or free money earned because of per-formance.” Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC), businesses, religious and civic organizations, employers, philanthropic associations, individuals, colleges and universities, community agencies and foundations offer free money in the forms of scholarships, stipends or grants to fund educational goals. Do you assume that scholarships are unavailable to you because you do not have a 4.0 grade-point average? This is not only a fallacy, but will stop you from researching and applying for scholarships.

What is required and when is the best time to apply for scholarships?

FTCC’s curriculum areas of study (business programs, college transfer, general-education programs, engineering, public service, applied technology programs and health programs) offer numerous scholarships. Many of these scholarships may require no more than maintaining a “C” (2.0 GPA) or enrolling in relative programs. Yet, all educational scholarships, stipends or grants require that you take the initiative to research scholarship availability, complete the application process and meet deadlines (often beginning as early as January for consideration during the fall semester). Imagine the feeling of success (master student equals mas-ter employee) when you inform a potential employer that you financed your educa-tion through scholarships, stipends or grants.

How do I find scholarships that pertain to me?

The Financial Aid Office, Career Center at FTCC, College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC.org), online scholarship search engines, individual consults with colleges and universities, Google searches and sundry websites have numerous scholarships for which you may qualify. Include information that is unique to you, such as gender, ethnic background, academic achievement, demographics and major. You will be surprised by the diversity of scholarships available. Scholarship categories are almost endless and are inclusive of allied-health professionals, left-handed people and dislocated workers. Scholarships are available for teaching, nursing, accounting, fashion designing as well as business majors, high school graduates and minority scholarships, first-generation college students, single parents, creative writers, wacky scholarships, working moms and/or women over 50 years of age, moms going back to college and for heads of households.

How progressive and motivated am I?

Because many students are not willing to research and expend the time and effort to apply for scholarships, there are hundreds of millions of dollars in scholarship mon-ies available in the United States, and many — if not most — of these scholarships are attainable by regular students with regular accomplishments. The processes of working diligently toward academic progression, willingly conducting research, following directions when completing scholarship forms/assignments and meeting required deadlines in the pursuit of excellence are all opportunities that master students embrace. Students who go beyond what is expected to experience successful educational goals are usually students who receive awards and/or free money (scholarships) to pursue higher-educational goals.

Will a scholarship enhance transferable skills and help secure employment in a global economy?

Earning scholarships and other educational awards demonstrates transfer-able skills for which Fortune 500 business enterprises willingly pay megabucks. Students who receive scholarships for outstanding academic performance are the individuals who usually get the most lucrative jobs and/or enroll into bachelor and graduate degree programs. Why don’t you cash in on the financial and employability re-wards of scholarships?

Photo: Scholarship categories are almost endless.

There is plenty to see and do this month at 4th Friday. The Arts Council celebrates local talent with the Fayetteville Technical Community College Education for Life Exhibit. This juried show celebrates the 50th anniversary of FTCC. Look for a variety of 2-D original art works including watercolor, oil, pastel, acrylic and mixed media.

The top three pieces of work will be recognized with $1,750 in prize money during the shows opening.

Down the block at Cape Fear Studios, Excursions — Drawings by Michael Voors features the work of the internationally known artist. Voors is a professor of art at the School of Art and Design at Eastern Carolina University. He’s been a visiting artist or artist-in-residence at schools throughout Europe and the United States. Voors’ work has been shown around the world, including Amsterdam, Taiwan, New York and Ireland; it is also housed in many public and private collections including the Library of Congress, the Fogg Museum at Harvard University, the Diozesanmuseum in Cologne, Germany and the University of Hawaii at Hilo.

Much of his work has been nourished by travel, in particular, locations that have an ancient or sacred character. The changing qualities of light and surfaces that reveal the passage of time and variations of architectural passages move the viewer toward larger associations and meanings. Voors is scheduled to teach a special workshop at Cape Fear Studios on March 17 and 18. Contact Cape Fear Studios at 433-2986 for more information.

The Downtown has some fun festivities planned this month, too. “February is going to be a blast for Fourth Friday! Between the Puppy Parade, the Mardi Gras-inspired pub-crawl and costume contest, no one will be in want of activities for the evening. In addition, Fayetteville’s own Greg Hathaway will be demonstrating the techniques that have made him a legend in this town at the Annual Bread and Bowls Event at Hay Street United Methodist Church. Even our fabulous downtown merchants are getting into the spirit with stores like So Chic Bebe offering mask making for the kids and Pierro’s offering a Mardi Gras themed martini! The event kicks off at 6 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m.,” said Kimberly Powers, event coordinator – 4th Friday Fayetteville.

Headquarters Library hosts and evening of drumming with Fayetteville’s drumming circle. This unique group has been drumming in the downtown area for 10 years. Founding members Ray King, Mithra Maraj, Neil Ray, Tom Hedgepeth, Corky Jones and others will fascinate listeners with many complex drumming sounds. Audience participation is welcome. Please bring your own percussion instruments. Refreshments are provided. This event runs from 7 to 9 p.m. and is going to be in the Pate Room. Contact the library at 483-7727 for more information.

Gallery One13, located at 113 Gillespie St., opens the Fayetteville Photography Club’s Just Photo’s exhibit, a juried photography competition. The opening reception is from 6-9 p.m. Awards will be announced at 8 p.m. Call Gallery One13 for more information at 223-2787.

Photo:  Ascend, charcoal image by Michael Voors, East Carolina University.

Each year the Home Builders Association of Fayetteville hosts the Carolina Home and Garden Show connecting area businesses in the housing industry with the community. The event runs Feb. 24-26 and promises to be full of exciting exhibits. Vendors representing every facet of the home and garden industry share the latest and greatest gizmos, gadgets, technologies and design trends to hit the market as well as tried and true products that have satisfied customers for years. You don’t have to be in the housing market to benefit from a trip to the Carolina Home and Garden Show. Throughout the weekend, guests speak on a variety of topics ranging from bees to lawn-care to gardening. Speakers include local experts as well and the Do It Yourself Network’s Jason Cameron.

Marshall Perry, director of marketing and sales at the Crown is looking forward to the event. “I’ve been in other markets and seen similar shows, but there is so much variety in this one and so many unique vendors, this will easily surpass other shows like this,” he said. “The speakers they have lined up are interesting and are speaking on relevant topics. This is going to be a great event, I encourage everyone to come out and join us at the Crown on that weekend.”

With more than 60 vendors registered to attend, the Carolina Home and Garden Show can answer all your home and garden questions in one visit and have you equipped for whatever project, renovation or upgrade you have in mind — indoors or out.

“We have some new vendors that we are really excited about,” said Natalie Fryer, Home BuildersAssociation of Fayetteville executive officer. “Two that come to mind are Backyard Etc. She has some really nice garden furniture that I think people will be drawn to. Green Biz is a local nursery. They’ve been with us for years and they opened a retail shop this year called Green Side Up Garden and Gifts. I expect people will be able to find some really unique and fun things for their gardens at their booth.”

If this season is more about ideas than projects, there is plenty of fresh perspective and inspiration to be had at this event. Not only do the vendors have products on display, many also have information and resources designed to assist the do-it-yourselfer.

“While the HBA doesn’t have any raffles for this event, I believe that some of the vendors have prizes, gifts and drawings going on,” said Fryer.

The guest speakers lined-up for the weekend have plenty of interesting topics to share with attendees. On Friday, Feb. 24, Kenny Bailey from the Cooperative Extension presents “Bees as Good Neighbors” at 1:30 p.m. At 3 p.m. Colby Lambert, also of the Cooperative Extension, speaks about “Trees in the Home Landscape.” Local gardening expert, Roger Mercer offers specifics on “The Best Perennials for Sun & Shade” at 4:30 p.m. Fryer noted that one of the strengths in having events like this is that it pulls the community together. “The Cumberland County Master Gardner Program is sponsoring some of our local speakers,” said Fryer. “PWC is sponsoring all of the events on Saturday, and we are really excited about that.”

On Saturday, Feb. 25, Jason Cameron of the DIY Network is scheduled to speak three times throughout the day. Cameron is a licensed home improvement contractor, finish carpenter, personal trainer, writer, actor, TV personality and fitness model. Cameron currently hosts Desperate Landscapes on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. and Man Caves on Fridays at 9 p.m. Both shows are on the DIY Network. He also worked as one of the carpenters on TLC’s While You Were Out for three years. Cameron is scheduled to speak at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

“We don’t know for certain what Jason is speaking about, but he is licensed home improvement contractor and when he was at the Home and Garden Show in Asheville he was very entertaining,” said Fryer. “We are really looking forward to having him here. We had Roy Underhill as a guest for the past several years and decided to change it up a bit, so this should be a little different from what we have been doing.”

Daylily fans are in for a treat on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. when Roger Mercer returns to the Carolina Home and Garden Show for “How to Grow Daylilies for Summer-long Color.” Jack Dewar rounds out Saturday with a presentation titled “Camellia Secrets” at 5:30 p.m.

Sunday’s three presenters follow an outdoor theme with topics ranging from lawn care to gardening. At 1 p.m. George Quigley speaks about low maintenance lawn care. At 2:30 p.m. Charles Allen of Green Biz Nursery follows with “Before Green was Cool.” George Quigley returns at 4 p.m. with gardening advice in “Eat What You Grow.”

With so much to see and do it’s easy to anticipate spending several hours at the event, so bring some money for a snack. The food court vendors are prepared to give customers plenty to munch on throughout the weekend.

The Carolina Home and Garden Show runs from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $6; children under ten are free. Find out more at www.carolinahomeandgardenshow.com.

Photo: Jason Cameron of DIY Networks Desperate Landscapes and Man Caves, is scheduled to speak on Saturday, Feb. 25, and the Carolina Home and Garden Show.

Caring for the Creatures Among Us

It was a wrenching moment, but hardly the first one I have had on this issue.

One of my morning newspapers carried a front page close-up last week of the face of a precious but sad-looking bulldog puppy with a black spot over one eye and a white one over the other. The image was captured during a raid of a Stokes County puppy mill from which about 160 puppies and dogs were rescued from crowded and filthy cages. A tour of other such photos on the newspaper’s website showed appalling conditions at this particular puppy mill, so if you are squeamish, you may want to skip over this part.

Animals who have had no veterinary care in their entire lives.

Animals who have been blinded by untreated eye infections.

Animals whose legs have become deformed from living in cages too small for their size.

Animals with mice in their cages.

Animals who cannot take a step without walking on their own urine and feces. Their coats are matted with their own waste.

Animals with wires sticking into their cages.

And the list goes on and on…

The newspaper quotes Phil Handy, Stokes County’s animal control director, as saying, “I’m relieved we were able to come to the aid of these dogs.”

In fairness, this particular puppy mill, Dan River Bullies, just north of Winston Salem, is hardly the only one in North Carolina, and is probably not the worst. Several hundred dogs at a time have been removed from other puppy mills in our state, and animal organizations say they have identified puppy mills in the rural areas of Cumberland County. Rural areas are attractive to such operations because they limit exposure from the public and from law enforcement authorities.

So what is a puppy mill?

It is a dog breeding facility where dogs are bred for profit and where overhead —food, cleanliness, living conditions and health care—are secondary to making money. Dogs bred — often in such facilities — are sold to an unsuspecting public over the Internet and sometimes in pet stores. The buyers have no clue they are getting dogs bred in such conditions. These dogs often have illnesses, serious medical and/or behavioral problems.

The bottom line for a puppy mill is that profit comes before the well-being of the animals.

The first time I ever heard of a puppy mill was in 2009 when I was serving in the North Carolina General Assembly. Legislation was being proposed that commercial dog breeders with more animals than could be pets would merely register with the state so that there would be a record of who and where they were. Breeders of dogs used in medical facilities and in pet stores already register. Most other small businesses register with the state by incorporating, so why should dog breeders be any different? It sounded like such a good idea to me that I signed on and became a sponsor of this legislation, which meant I advocated for it with my House and Senate colleagues.

Then came one of the most astounding and baffling political firestorms I have ever seen.

The simple notion that commercial dog breeders should register with the state like any other commercial enterprise brought down the wrath of our state’s powerful agricultural animal industry, primarily hog producers but some poultry producers as well. Their fear was that treating puppies humanely would somehow lead to more attention to the practices in their industries, including keeping pregnant sows in crates during the gestation process. Some even suggested that registering commercial dog breeders was the first step in making North Carolina a “vegetarian state.”

Really!

The bill passed the North Carolina Senate, but the House succumbed to industry pressure and the bill died. Puppy mills continue to operate, as the raid on Dan River Bullies graphically and sadly illustrates.

If you are looking for a pet dog, good for you! My dogs, and there have been many, continue to enrich my life.

A reputable and caring dog breeder will welcome you into his facility, so ask to see it. If someone offering to sell you a dog defers about an on-site visit with excuses like it is too “inconveniently located” or “I am in your neighborhood right now,” or asks to meet you in a parking lot, say “No!” and run for the hills. That soft and fluffy bundle of sheer puppy joy he is offering could come with heartache and major expenses.

Meanwhile, encourage our legislators — whoever may be elected this year — to develop some steel in their spines when the pork industry comes calling and to follow the lead of many other states in dealing with the very real and very damaging puppy mill industry.

How we treat animals bred for our pleasure, not our nourishment, tells us what kind of people we really are.

Photo: Animal organizations say they have identified puppy mills in the rural areas of Cumberland County. 

Chronical (Rated PG-13)   5 Stars

Generally speaking, I think found shaky-cam footage movies are not only irritat-ing, but migraine inducing. A movie needs to be pretty good for me to overlook the risk of a two day headache. Well, I know what I hate, and I didn’t hate Chronicle (84 minutes). For a relatively low-budget effort with the potential to be a bad CW super-powered melo-drama, it actually tells a relatively sophisticated story with eas-ily relatable themes. Yes, writing team Landis and Trank went a little heavy-handed on the Nietzschean Übermensch/Will-To-Power thing, but to be fair they probably thought they were being real subtle-like.

The film takes its time introducing its main characters. First up is Andrew Detmer (Dane DeHaan AKA Timbo from True Blood), a high school outsider who is “chronicling” his life with a video camera that’s at least 15-years-old. Andrew, who really should have found his niche in the AV club by now, is dealing with a few things. His mother is dying, his father (Michael Kelly) is a drunk and his personality is a bit hostile/defensive. As you can imagine, Andrew is quite the popular kid.

Andrew has a cousin, Matt (Alex Russell) who takes him to a party. Despite Matt’s excellent advice on how not to be a great big dork, Andrew decides to stay the course and naturally winds up crying into his camera outside. The BMOC, Steve (Michael B. Jordan), wanders over gig-gling and drags him into the woods to meet Matt, who has given up on the party. I guess? To go wander in the woods with Steve? Hmm. This part seems a bit clum-sy. It could either be a straight-up case of the writers just not thinking through this part very well, or the writers deciding too much explanation would be beside the point, or the mysterious force that eventually changes the newly formed triumvi-rate is somehow drawing them into the woods.

The mysterious force is apparently located deep in a hole in the ground, which means that if Andrew wants to get it on film, he needs to maneuver his giant an-tique camera down a vertical shaft. Possibly to his credit, or a credit to his naiveté, the possibility that the other two are planning to ditch him in the hole and stand over him laughing does not seem to cross his mind. While in the hole things get weird and the camera fizzes out. The next scene shows the boys playing with telekinesis in someone’s backyard as one boy off-handedly mentions that (a) they left the old camera in the hole and (b) Andrew has a cool new modern camera. Which begs the question: If the central conceit of the movie is that this is “found” footage, and the old camera got left in the hole, where did the first 20 minutes of the movie come from?

So at first, despite a few nosebleeds, the Super Best Friends Club has a ball, what with the sleepovers and scaring small children, and moving cars with their minds. Then Andrew has a whoopsie moment and they all agree that they need to voluntarily limit themselves and the way they use their powers.

After using the power of telekinetic flight to slip from the surly bonds of Earth, the boys decide that not even flying is more impor-tant than girls. Matt and Steve do their best to hook Andrew up, but Andrew has another whoopsie so that plan goes south. But it does set up the final act! See, as the movie goes on, Andrew has fewer and fewer reasons not to do exactly what he pleases, and more and more reasons to engage in a destructive rampage. Finally, in a super powered frenzy of narcis-sism and teenage angst, the boys work through the feelings by dropping cars and helicopters on each other.

Overall, it is nice to see a more focused take on the genre that actually manages to bring something new to the origin story. But, alas, no after credits scene.

Now showing at Wynnsong 7, Carmike 12 and Carmike Market Fair 15.

Attention all Country-music fans: Miranda Lambert, two-time Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year, is performing at the Crown Coliseum on Saturday, Feb. 25.

While Lambert has dominated the CMA’s in the past, she is once again, nominated for two CMA Awards this year, including Female Vocalist. Miranda Lambert: On Fire is taking the United States by storm, and is blow-ing into Fayetteville to grace the community with some of her material from her new album, Four the Record. This is Lambert’s second time as a headliner at the Crown Coliseum since her 2010 tour, and the audience can expect a top-notch performance from her.

Lambert has two opening acts before she hits the stage at 7:30 pm; Jerrod Neimann and Chris Young, “They are both two young men who are up-and-coming country singers,” says Marshall Perry, director of marketing and sales at the Crown Coliseum. “

They are getting some press and notoriety in their own right.”

Neimann, who has five nominations for the upcoming American Country Awards, will feature some hits from his major debut album Judge Jerrod and the Hung Jury.

Young, who is a CMA nominee for New Artist of the Year and has three American Country Award nominations including Breakthrough Artist of the Year, will play several hits from his number one album, Neon. The opening act will play from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., while Lambert prepares for her two hours in the spot light. The concert is expected to be a full three hours of nonstop excitement and entertainment.

The new album that Lambert is promoting Four the Record, has already had a lot of country air play and is in stores now. 

“She’ll be singing a lot of her new material but she’s got some fan favorites that I’m sure she’ll bring out and make it a great show for everybody,” says Perry. 

The concert is not yet sold out, but ticket sales are brisk, so get the tickets while you still can.

“We are set to be able to accommodate about 7,500 people for this show and we are at about 6,000seats sold right now,” says Perry. “We would rec-ommend that people that want to come tothis show hurry up and get their tickets because they’re going fast.”

Tickets are on sale at the Crown Center Box Office, or you can purchase them by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

“We’re very excited about having Miranda Lambert play at our venue she’s going to give a great, great show,” says Perry. Also, the Crown Coliseum suggests getting to the building early because of the large crowd.

Photo: Miranda Lambert is set to perfomr at the Crown on Feb. 25.

The 66th Annual Fayetteville Camellia Show will be held March 3-4, at the new $6.5 million visitor’s complex of the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Last year, more then 300 enthusiasts attended the camellia show comprised of more than 1,100 blooms.

“Having all these blooms in a centralized location will be a spectacular sight,” Jack Demar, of the Fayetteville Camellia Club.

The event is open and free for the public from noon to 5 p.m., during which time there will be blooms on display, educational seminars and camellias for sell.

“By having the event at the Botanical Garden, we are hoping to combine the audience of avid gardeners and interested newcomers,” explained Demar.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden will offer visitors activities to complement the camellia show. “Guided tours along the dappled shade paths of the Camellia Garden will showcase a colorful display of blooms,” Meg Suraci, assistant director of development and marketing, Cape Fear Botanical Garden, said. Children are invited to the Build-a-Camellia table to craft a flower to take home as a token of spring.

Prizes will be awarded in 25 different categories, including novice. Acclaimed members of the National Camellia Society will judge the blooms. The competition is open to everyone. To enter, bring blooms to the site between 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 3. Judging will take place from 10 a.m. to noon.

The show has a large draw, not just from people in the local area. Camellia growers from Virginia to Georgia travel to enter their blooms in the Fayetteville Camellia Show. Demar explains that he gets a thrill out of seeing local people displaying and winning awards for their blooms in such strong competition.

Camellias are known for adding color to the often-dreary, bleak winter scenery because of the blooming season from October to April. More than 12 varieties of top-quality camellia plants will be sold at the event along with a how-to care guide created by the Fayetteville Camellia Club.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden is part of the Camellia Trail, which celebrates the rich history of camellias. Forty-one different gardens from Massachusetts, down the east coast, to Texas and several on the West Coast highlight this blooming flower that is known for bringing joy as far back as almost 5,000 years ago in China.

Admission to the Cape Fear Botanical Garden is $8. Admission to the garden provides access to 77-acres of pine and hardwood forest and natural areas of the region’s indigenous plants, trees and wildlife. The cultivated garden areas showcase more than 2,000 varieties of ornamental plants, and include Daylily, Camellia and Hosta gardens. The Camellia Garden features more than 300 plants. If attending the Camellia Show a $2 discount on admission to the garden will be given.

“Beauty is precious and necessary, and does not need to be rare. Underlying our club’s mission is this simple fact: Anyone can grow a camellia, but most people don’t know it. We can help,” said Finely Bryan, Fayetteville Camellia Club president.

Photo: Camellias take centerstage at the 66th Annual Fayetteville Camellia Show.

The fashion world is one that many men and women love to embrace. From the catwalks to theamazing designers during fashion week who showcase their latest designs, I think it is safe to say that many young fashionistas might want to be a part of the high life discovered on the runway. Sada “Exclusive” Fashions will give many people the opportunity to embrace that very dream. The fashion line will have its first fashion show at the Holiday Inn Bordeaux on March 17 in support of the Arthritis Foundation.

Guest will get a chance to enjoy a great show with beautiful clothes while they help to support a good cause. Alexis Scott, the designer of Sada “Exclusive” Fashions, is very passionate about this fashion show because it hits close to home. At 23 years of age, the designer was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, which is a spinal disease caused by arthritis. This disease was something she felt she should never have had to face, especially at such a young age. The disease has made life that much more complex. Scott does not want people to take the situation lightly, because the disease can affect any age.

“So many people do not know a lot about arthritis and how serious it can be,” Scott says. “I want to open their eyes. That would make me very happy.”

What could be a better way to spread the message than to produce a fashion show? With the combination of runway and education, it gives the Fayetteville community the opportunity to become aware of a serious disease while enjoying the show.

“I have enjoyed every moment working with the foundation and the whole experience has really touched me,” Scott said during a recent interview.

The designer is no stranger to fashion shows. She showcased her designs at the Charlotte, North Carolina Fashion Week. However, this is Scott’s very first show that she has planned and created. This show allows Scott to express her support for this cause, while encouraging the entire community to become encompassed in an educational and moving experience. The show will include a wide variety of entertainment, from raffl e-ticket prizes, talented entertainers, models from all over the region and much, much more. Scott has been planning the show since last April and the process has been time consuming, but the work has brought her great joy.

“People that come to the show can expect fun, entertainment and glamour,” Scott said. “We still represent the brand with style and class.”

“I’ve been doing this since I was 5 and I would play with my Barbie and cut their clothes into different styles. My mom recognized my talent,” Scott explains. “She was my motivation.”

Sada “Exclusive” Fashions represents individuality in its design. There usage of bold colors and unique styles, adds a distinctive fl air that is truly one of a kind. By only creating 3,000 per style, Sada “Exclusive” Fashions provides their customers with limited and exclusive designs. The word Sada when translated in Japanese means “pure one.” The clothing line is targeted for teen girls and young adults. Scott wanted to create a line that sent the message that a woman can still look fabulous and glamorous without revealing too much skin. Elegance and sophistication is vital in Sada “Exclusive” Fashions.“

The name sada stands for sophisticated attractive diva with an attitude,” Scott explains. “That is what my clothing line stands for.”

Sada “Exclusive” Fashion carries a wide range of clothing items including business suits, casual wear, formal wear, lingerie, shoes, jewelry and denim.

The show begins at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for the show are $35 and can be purchased at www.brownpapertickets.com. For more information about future events, visit www.sadafashions.com or www.arthritis.org. You may also contact Scott at (910)992-1335.

Photo: SADA Fashions are geared toward teens and young adults.

Time and time again we hear about people talking about the smallest half helmet and we hear them asking where they can find one. The truth of the matter is that the smallest helmet isn’t always necessarily the best one.

There are a number of things that you should think about when you begin your search for the smallest helmet. One thing that you might want to ask yourself is will the smallest half helmet provide you with the necessary protection. Many times those who try to make a helmet that is really small will skim on the parts that matter the most.

One part of the helmet that manufacturers might take shortcuts on is the inner padding. In order to make the outer shell of the helmet small, you have to reduce the size of what is inside of the helmet right? This isn’t necessarily the best way to go because it reduces the effectiveness of the helmet all together. DOT helmets are made to meet certain standards that are set in place in order to provide safe helmets for riders. If your helmet does not meet these standards, then you should question whether or not it is right for you. Beware of those that claim to have the smallest helmet because it may not necessarily be the safest one for you.

Appearance often has a lot to do with how riders pick their gear. The helmet is certainly no exception, which is why many riders really don’t care what it looks like on the inside as long as it looks good on the outside. Unfortunately, this isn’t the right attitude to have when it comes to your helmet. Safety should always be your number one priority.

Finally, you might want to inspect the materials used to make the supposed smallest half helmet before you purchase it. There may be some instances where manufacturers will skim on the materials used in order to make the helmets smaller. This means that the outer shell might be thinner than normal. Again, this isn’t going to make the safest helmet for the rider. Instead, look for helmets that have thick polycarbonate shells that will hold strong against high impact pressure.

The next time you shop for a helmet, ask yourself whether or not you are willing to sacrifice your safety for the appearance. This might help you make your decision when considering which one to buy.