Arts

Manifest dreams in 2025 with vision board

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Tuesday, 24 December 2024

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Unlock your potential and turn your dreams into reality with a vision board tailored for 2025. Discover how you can create a vision board that not only inspires but also helps you manifest your goals.
Vision boards are not just a trendy pastime; they are powerful tools for realizing your dreams. By visualizing your goals and aspirations, you create a tangible reminder of what you aim to achieve. This constant visual cue can help keep you motivated and focused on your objectives.
Studies have shown that visualization can significantly impact your ability to achieve your goals. When you consistently see your dreams represented visually, it reinforces your commitment to making them a reality. The act of creating a vision board can also be an empowering and clarifying process, helping you to fine-tune your goals and prioritize what truly matters to you.
Before you dive into creating your vision board, it's important to gather all the necessary materials. Start with a solid foundation like a corkboard, poster board, or even a large piece of paper. You'll also need scissors, glue, markers, and a collection of magazines or printed images that resonate with your goals.
Other useful materials may include stickers, washi tape, and decorative elements that can make your board more personalized and visually appealing. Don't forget to have a clear space where you can spread out and work comfortably. Having all these materials at hand will make the creation process more enjoyable and efficient.
Start by setting a clear intention for your vision board. What do you want to achieve in 2025? It could be related to your career, personal life, health, or any other area. Once you have your goals in mind, begin collecting images, words, and phrases that represent these aspirations.
Next, arrange your selected items on the board. There's no right or wrong way to do this—let your creativity guide you. Once you're satisfied with the layout, start gluing everything in place. Take your time with this step; it's important that your vision board feels right to you. Finally, place your completed vision board somewhere you'll see it daily, as this will help keep your goals at the forefront of your mind.
To enhance the effectiveness of your vision board, incorporate mindfulness and visualization techniques into your daily routine. Spend a few minutes each day meditating on your vision board, visualizing yourself achieving the goals depicted on it. This practice can help deepen your connection to your aspirations and reinforce your commitment to them.
Another useful technique is to write down affirmations related to your goals and read them aloud while looking at your vision board. This can help reprogram your subconscious mind to align with your objectives, making it easier to stay motivated and take action toward your dreams.
As you progress towards your goals, it's essential to keep your vision board updated. Regularly review it to ensure that it still reflects your current aspirations. If your goals change or evolve, don't hesitate to make adjustments to your board. This will keep it relevant and aligned with your current objectives.
Consider setting aside time at the beginning of each month or quarter to review and update your vision board. This practice can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the year, ensuring that your vision board continues to serve as an effective tool for manifesting your dreams in 2025.

Favorite holiday classics: Part 3 – Great films set during Christmas (That we love as Christmas movies)

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Tuesday, 10 December 2024

Written by Adam Taylor

The holiday season has a magical way of transforming certain films into Christmas classics, even if they don’t exactly fit the traditional mold. Sure, we all know It’s a Wonderful Life or A Christmas Carol, but what about those films that simply take place during Christmas and have become beloved seasonal favorites over time? Let’s dive into some of the great, unexpected holiday classics that we can’t help but return to every December.

Die Hard (1988)
The eternal debate: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? According to legions of fans, the answer is a resounding yes! This action-packed thriller starring Bruce Willis as NYPD cop John McClane unfolds on Christmas Eve, with McClane battling terrorists in a Los Angeles high-rise. Sure, it’s not about the spirit of giving, but with its festive setting, Christmas music, and memorable quips ("Now I have a machine gun. Ho-ho-ho.”), Die Hard is a holiday staple for those who crave something edgier with their yuletide cheer.

Gremlins (1984)
If you want to add a little horror-comedy to your Christmas movie marathon, Gremlins is a perfect pick. Set in a small town during Christmas, this film tells the story of a young man who receives an adorable, mysterious creature called Gizmo as a pet. But when Gizmo’s mischievous offspring wreak havoc on the town, the holiday season takes a wild turn. With Christmas carols, lights, and a snowy setting, Gremlins is a quirky, sometimes dark holiday treat that blends laughs with scares.

Love Actually (2003)
One of the most beloved modern Christmas movies, Love Actually follows multiple intertwining stories of love, heartbreak, and connection, all set during the festive lead-up to Christmas. With an all-star cast including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, and Liam Neeson, the film captures both the joy and melancholy of the holiday season. Whether it’s Grant dancing to “Jump (For My Love)” or the bittersweet moments between Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman’s characters, Love Actually has earned its place as a go-to holiday romance.

Batman Returns (1992)
Tim Burton’s dark, gothic take on Gotham City makes an unexpected holiday backdrop in Batman Returns. Set during the Christmas season, with its snow-covered streets, giant trees, and festive decorations, this superhero film adds a moody twist to holiday films. The action, combined with standout performances by Michael Keaton, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Danny DeVito, makes it a unique alternative to the usual holiday fare. After all, nothing says Christmas quite like a superhero saving the day under the mistletoe.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Tim Burton’s whimsical fantasy Edward Scissorhands is set against a suburban Christmas backdrop, combining holiday cheer with themes of love and acceptance. The film tells the story of Edward, an artificial man with scissors for hands, who struggles to fit into society. With its enchanting visuals, a hauntingly beautiful score, and a memorable Christmas scene that captures both the magic and isolation of the season, Edward Scissorhands has become a favorite holiday film for many.

The Family Stone (2005)
A heartfelt dramedy, The Family Stone is a warm yet poignant look at the holiday season through the eyes of a close-knit but chaotic family. When Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney) brings his uptight girlfriend Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker) home to meet his family, tensions flare as she clashes with his free-spirited relatives. With a brilliant ensemble cast including Diane Keaton, Luke Wilson, and Rachel McAdams, the film mixes laughter with tears as the Stone family navigates their own joys and challenges over the holidays.

Black Christmas (1974)
For those who enjoy a good fright during the holiday season, the original Black Christmas delivers a chilling narrative that has become a cult classic. Set in a sorority house during Christmas break, a group of women finds themselves being stalked by a mysterious killer. While it’s a far cry from the feel-good holiday movies, its unsettling atmosphere and seasonal setting make it a unique addition to the Christmas movie lineup for fans of horror.

Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
This classic musical features a memorable Christmas segment that has enchanted audiences for generations. Set in the early 1900s, Meet Me in St. Louis follows the lives of the Smith family as they navigate love and family dynamics leading up to the 1904 World’s Fair. The iconic song "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," sung by Judy Garland, has cemented this film’s place in the holiday canon, making it a timeless reminder of family, nostalgia, and the magic of Christmas.

The Apartment (1960)
Billy Wilder’s classic romantic comedy-drama The Apartment is set during the holiday season and explores themes of loneliness, love, and moral dilemmas. Starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, it tells the story of an office worker who lets his bosses use his apartment for their extramarital affairs, only to fall for one of the mistresses. I The film’s melancholy tone, Christmas parties, and New Year’s Eve conclusion make it a poignant choice for the holiday season.

Lethal Weapon (1987)
The first Lethal Weapon introduces us to the now-iconic duo of Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Murtaugh (Danny Glover), who find themselves navigating a high-stakes case during Christmas. The film may be an action thriller, but with a backdrop of holiday decorations and a few choice Christmas tunes, Lethal Weapon has earned its status as an unconventional holiday favorite. The festive season plays nicely against the grit and intensity of the plot, making it an exciting addition to any December movie marathon.
As we dive into the heart of the holiday season, these films remind us that Christmas movies don’t always have to be about Santa Claus, reindeer, or even family gatherings. Sometimes, the backdrop of Christmas—whether it’s in the form of twinkling lights, festive chaos, or a few well-placed holiday tunes—can elevate a movie to seasonal classic status. So, if you’re looking for something a little offbeat this year, these films are worth revisiting, not just for their stories, but for the way they capture the magic of the season in unexpected ways.

Barber Extraordinaire and local artist: Hasani J makes waves in the two industries

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Tuesday, 24 December 2024

Written by Amber Little

Being multi-talented is a gift, and profiting from those talents is a blessing. There was a time when working a 9-to-5 job that may or may not be fulfilling was the norm and an accepted lifestyle. Over the decades, that has changed, with each generation inching out of the traditional work environment.
According to The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, entrepreneurship has been at an all-time high in the United States since 2022. Fayetteville is a hub for small businesses ranging from doctor's offices to restaurants, to hair and nail salons. The area supports small businesses.
One local woman is carving out her piece of the American pie and setting a new standard for what it means to be a black female entrepreneur in 2024 and beyond. If Hasani J is a name you are not familiar with, prepare to be acquainted. Barber, R&B recording artist, and podcast host, Hasani J is raking up the titles and has the education to back it up. She’s no stranger to the hair world, growing up the daughter of a master barber and shop owner.
“I grew up in the hair world. I learned in the barbershop. [I] started out sweeping the floor for my stepdad, Mac, who is the owner of Skibo Barbershop on George Owen Drive. Both of my brothers fix hair. My birth father cuts hair as well, but hairstylists and barbers are something that my family does,” Hasani explained.
During the week she holds a seat down as the only female barber at Barber Kings located off Hope Mills Road. During her time at the shop, she’s grown her skills and added some degrees to her walls.
“I am a Master Cosmetologist. I’m a Master Barber. I am getting my doctorate in the barber field. I’m certified and right now I’m also about to go take my instructor's class to get my instructor's license. We have a classroom here, so I’ll be doing some classes here,” she said.
In what has been a male-dominated field, Hasani J has made her mark and earned the respect of her counterparts without much pushback.
She said, “It’s actually easier when you are a woman because we know what WE like to look at. So I learned from looking. I’m a cosmetologist first, so I learned from my peers in the industry and I was taught well. Everybody wanted to help me. So then being female in the industry it’s a plus.” To book an appointment visit her booking site at https://hasanijcutzllc.as.me/schedule/cbbef6cd.
Hasani J’s talent doesn’t stop at her skills with the sheers and clippers, she’s also a talented R&B artist. Her music can be found on several streaming platforms including Apple Music. She’s performed her music live at several local events around the city, most recently the boxing match held at the Crown Complex.
Her smooth voice, spicy lyrical wordplay, and island-flavored sound are perfect additions to any playlist.
“I do R&B music, love music, grown music, for grown folks. Right now I’m working on my first EP, but I do have a nice catalog right now. They are out on all musical platforms so you can go check that out. And I do have my latest single which came out about a month ago. That’s for the ladies,” she said.
She also uses her voice to host her podcast, Ova Ya Head, where she discusses weekly topics ranging from marrying a narcissist to marketing your small business. To watch an episode or subscribe visit the YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@ovayaheadhasanij.
While her accolades and talents are many, she has never stopped giving back to the community that raised her. She is the secretary of Cut My City, a nonprofit founded by Barbadian natives and Barber Kings owners Dr. Sundiata Morris and Dr. Lumumba Quow.
Cut My City brings haircuts to the neighborhoods in need here in Cumberland County and surrounding areas. Their famous cut bus (equipped with a generator, barber chairs, and a small waiting area) can be found at community events and supporting nonprofits.
They also host an annual Christmas toy drive to support local nonprofits in their efforts and have a year-round partnership with the Cumberland County Health Department. Through these continuous efforts and her donations to a single mother once a year, Hasani J proves her love for the city that made her and supports her. With all her success in her many endeavors, Hasani admits that she couldn’t and cannot continue to do it without the people around her, saying, “All my family. All of my fans with my music from day one, who come to my shows, that stream my music. Shout out to my kids. My grandkids. I would like to shout out my Barber King fellas. My mother and my stepfather, my father, my brothers and sisters. Just family and friends and everybody that supports all of my businesses as far as music and as far as cutting hair.” To stay up to date on all things Hasani J, follow her on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028020619162.

(Photo courtesy of Hasani J)

Holiday classics Part 2: Cherished animated films

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Tuesday, 03 December 2024

Written by Adam Taylor

As the holiday season approaches, nothing stirs up nostalgia quite like gathering around to watch the timeless animated classics that have brought joy to generations. From stop-motion wonders to beautifully crafted hand-drawn and computer animation, these films capture the magic of Christmas with beloved characters and heartwarming stories. Here’s a look at some of the most cherished holiday animated films, guaranteed to fill your heart with festive spirit.
A Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Tim Burton’s visionary A Nightmare Before Christmas straddles the line between Halloween and Christmas in this gothic, stop-motion tale. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, grows weary of Halloween Town’s monotonous celebrations and stumbles upon Christmas Town, where he becomes enchanted by the cheerful holiday. Jack’s attempt to take over Christmas delivers a spooky yet whimsical journey, filled with memorable songs and stunning visuals that have made this film a holiday staple.
The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974)
This Rankin/Bass stop-motion special tells the story of a weary Santa Claus who decides to take a year off, believing the world no longer cares about Christmas. Enter two of his elves, Jingle and Jangle, who embark on a mission to prove the holiday spirit is still alive. Featuring iconic characters like Snow Miser and Heat Miser, The Year Without a Santa Claus is a nostalgic classic that reminds us of the power of hope and belief during the holiday season.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Few films have had the lasting impact of this Rankin/Bass stop-motion masterpiece. Rudolph, the misunderstood reindeer with a glowing red nose, finds himself shunned by his peers but ultimately saves Christmas with his unique gift. The story of acceptance and self-discovery, combined with the unforgettable voices of Burl Ives and Billie Mae Richards, ensures that Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer remains a beloved holiday favorite.
Frosty the Snowman (1969)
Based on the famous song, Frosty the Snowman tells the story of a magical snowman brought to life by a silk hat. As Frosty and his young friend Karen embark on an adventure to avoid melting, they must outwit an evil magician. This animated special has a charm that resonates with young and old alike, making it one of the most enduring symbols of Christmas magic.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is perhaps the most iconic holiday TV special of all time. The Grinch, voiced by Boris Karloff, is a curmudgeonly creature who plans to steal Christmas from the joyful Whos of Whoville. With its timeless message of kindness and the realization that Christmas is about more than just presents, this beautifully animated adaptation remains a holiday must-watch.
The Polar Express (2004)
In this groundbreaking computer-animated film directed by Robert Zemeckis, a young boy embarks on a magical journey to the North Pole aboard the Polar Express. With themes of belief and wonder, and featuring the voice of Tom Hanks in multiple roles, The Polar Express taps into the magic of Christmas through cutting-edge animation, creating an immersive holiday experience for families to enjoy.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Few holiday specials have captured the true essence of Christmas as poignantly as A Charlie Brown Christmas. As Charlie Brown seeks the meaning of Christmas amidst the commercialism of the season, his friends ultimately remind him of its true spirit. With its heartfelt message, iconic Vince Guaraldi score, and Linus’s famous speech, this simple yet profound animated classic has been a holiday favorite for nearly six decades.
A Christmas Carol (2009)
This modern adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is brought to life with dazzling animation and motion capture performances, led by Jim Carrey as the voice of Ebenezer Scrooge. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film stays true to the dark yet redemptive themes of Dickens’ tale while adding impressive visual flair, making it a captivating version of the classic Christmas story.
Klaus (2019)
A more recent addition to the holiday classics, Klaus is a beautifully animated film that reimagines the origin story of Santa Claus. Jesper, a selfish postman, is sent to a remote town where he meets Klaus, a reclusive toymaker. The film, which won numerous awards for its animation, delivers a touching story of kindness, generosity, and the power of one good deed to spark a wave of change.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas (1999)
Disney’s beloved characters take center stage in this anthology film, which features three heartwarming stories starring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy. Each tale conveys a message of love, family, and the magic of Christmas, making Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas a delightful option for Disney fans young and old.
Whether it’s the heartwarming lessons of A Charlie Brown Christmas or the stunning animation of Klaus, these animated films capture the spirit of the season in unique and memorable ways. They remind us of the joy, generosity, and magic that makes Christmas such a special time of year, and they hold a special place in our holiday traditions year after year. So, grab some hot cocoa, gather the family, and enjoy these timeless classics that will continue to enchant audiences for generations to come.
Stay tuned for Part 3 of this series, where we’ll dive into the world of films where we ask the question… is it a Christmas movie or does it just take place at Christmas?