Entertainment

Discover Holiday Lights in the Garden

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Tuesday, 19 November 2024

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Get ready to be amazed as you step into a winter wonderland at Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s Holiday Lights in the Garden presented by Cape Fear Valley Health System. This year promises to be bigger, brighter, and more spectacular than ever. This delightful event will run from Dec. 6 to 22.
This immersive, walk-through experience features thousands of twinkling lights and dazzling displays that will transport you into the heart of the holiday season. From the moment you enter, you’ll be surrounded by festive decorations and sparkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for celebrating with family and friends.
Meet Santa and The Grinch
No holiday event would be complete without a visit from Santa, and at Holiday Lights in the Garden, you’ll also get the chance to meet The Grinch! Capture festive photos, enjoy some mischievous fun, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re on Santa’s nice list or The Grinch’s naughty list, this is the perfect opportunity to add some extra magic to your holiday season.
Interactive Displays and Animations
One of the highlights of Holiday Lights in the Garden is the array of interactive light displays and animations. These captivating features bring the garden to life, offering a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. As you stroll through the garden, you’ll encounter animated scenes and interactive elements that make this event truly special and unforgettable.
Soak in the delightful sounds of joyful holiday music that fills the air, creating a festive atmosphere as you leisurely stroll through the dazzling lights that illuminate the surroundings, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Capture Cherished Memories
Holiday Lights in the Garden offers numerous special photo spots designed to help you capture the perfect holiday memories. Whether you’re looking to snap a picture for your family holiday card or simply want a keepsake from your visit, these photo spots provide the ideal backdrop.
Don’t forget to bring your camera and take advantage of these picturesque locations to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Delicious Treats and Unique Gifts
As you explore the holiday lights, take a moment to indulge in some delicious seasonal treats and drinks. From hot cocoa to festive snacks, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Additionally, be sure to visit the Vendor Market, where you can shop for unique holiday gifts. With a variety of vendors offering one-of-a-kind items, you’re sure to find the perfect presents for everyone on your list.
Tickets and Pricing
Tickets run between $4.52 to $15.82. Tickets can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/4e9usczc. Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time that you choose for the event. You will be able to review all the available options before purchasing your tickets.
Your timed entry slot helps control the wait for parking and entry. Once you have entered the Garden you may stay as long as you like.
Note that tickets for this event often sell out. Walk-up tickets may not be available so pre-purchase tickets to guarantee your spot.
Start a new family tradition or celebrate the holiday spirit with friends by kicking off your holiday celebrations at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden at 536 N. Eastern Blvd. in Fayetteville.

Experience Fayetteville Holiday Lights at Segra Stadium

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Tuesday, 12 November 2024

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Get ready to be mesmerized by the spectacular display of over 2 million lights at the 4th Annual Fayetteville Holiday Lights event! This year, the event promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before, with a wide array of dazzling lights that create a festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.
From intricate light sculptures to beautiful light tunnels, every corner of Segra Stadium will be illuminated, providing plenty of photo opportunities and moments of wonder for visitors of all ages.
New Additions in 2024
This year, Fayetteville Holiday Lights is proud to introduce several exciting new additions, including the largest light-up Christmas tree in Fayetteville! Standing at an impressive 40 feet, this magnificent tree will be a central feature of the event, sure to captivate all who see it.
In addition to the giant tree, there will be light shows every 30 minutes throughout the ballpark, new themed displays, and for the first time ever, the clubhouses will be open for photo ops and other activities. These new features are sure to enhance the holiday experience and provide even more enjoyment for attendees. A map of the Holiday Lights set up can be found here: https://www.milb.com/fayetteville/events/holidaylights/map

Schedule & Promotions
Fayetteville Holiday Lights is packed with activities and entertainment for the whole family. From visits with Santa Claus to a variety of holiday vendors, there's something for everyone to enjoy. You can indulge in delicious food and holiday-themed drinks as you stroll through the event. Don’t forget to check out the numerous themed displays and lights shows, and enjoy making s’mores at designated areas.
Here is a rundown of the schedule and promotions planned for the duration of the event:
Friday, Nov. 29: Opening Night

Saturday, Nov. 30: Bomber Hat Giveaway/Pints & Lights: The first 500 guests arriving will receive a free bomber hat! Beer enthusiasts can join Pints & Lights, a small beer fest at Healy's Right Field Bar. For $35, visitors get entry to Holiday Lights, unlimited tasting of 12+ beers from 6-8 PM, an all-you-can-eat nacho bar, and a tasting glass! To buy a Pints & Lights ticket visit: https://tinyurl.com/mrxbudz8

Sunday, Dec. 1: Lights & Leashes: Bring your four-legged friends to enjoy the holiday fun. NOTE: Pups enter free. Owners must show current vaccination records & complete a liability form.

Monday, Dec. 2: Military Monday: All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

Tuesday, Dec. 3: Silver Bells Tuesday/Bingo at Healy’s: Older adults 55 and up get $8 entry with ID. Plus, guests can enjoy Bingo at Healy's Right Field Bar. Great prizes are up for grabs, including gift cards for restaurants, fun activities, and other exciting rewards!

Wednesday, Dec. 4: Healthcare Appreciation Night: Medical professionals such as physicians, nurses, dental experts, and vets get a complimentary entry with valid work identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each, with a maximum of 6 tickets per purchase.

Thursday, Dec. 5: Military Appreciation Night: All current & former service members can get a free ticket by showing their ID. They can also buy up to 6 extra tickets at $8 each. Military resources & vendors will be set up around the concourse for visitors to explore. Fans can also enjoy our 4 for $44 deal. This includes four tickets, four hot dogs, and four drinks for ONLY $44 (this offer can't be combined with other promotions). The 4 for $44 tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/m2xn3pnx

Friday, Dec. 6: Friday Fireworks: Stick around after Holiday Lights for a fireworks show.

Saturday, Dec. 7: Frozen Movie Night: Come out to Holiday Lights and watch Frozen. Meet Anna, Elsa, and Olaf as they interact with guests. Plus, grab their $50 movie package. Receive four tickets, four popcorns, and four hot chocolates or sodas for just $50! Movie package tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/27p2a6c9

Sunday, Dec. 8: Replica Jersey Giveaway/Lights & Leashes: The initial 500 attendees will receive a festive-style replica jersey! Plus, bring your furry companions to enjoy the light show! NOTE: Dogs enter free. Owners must show current vaccination records & sign a waiver for their pets.

Monday, Dec. 9: Military Monday: All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

Tuesday, Dec. 10: Holiday Lights: will be closed for a private event.

Wednesday, Dec. 11: Teacher Appreciation Night: Educators can get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Accompanying guests can buy up to 6 tickets at a reduced price of $8 each when accompanying the teacher or staff member.

Thursday, Dec. 12: Market Weekend/4 for $44: Come out to engage with numerous local sellers from your neighborhood. Visitors can also enjoy our special 4 for $44 package. Receive four tickets, four hot dogs, and four beverages for JUST $44 (this promotion cannot be combined with other offers). The 4 for $44 tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/m2xn3pnx

Friday, Dec. 13: Market Weekend/Friday Fireworks: Come out and interact with tons of local vendors from your community. Holiday lights are capped off with a fireworks show!
Saturday, Dec. 14: Market Weekend: Local vendors are back from more great shopping.

Sunday, Dec. 15: Movie Night/Lights & Leashes: Holiday Lights Movie Night will feature The Grinch. Plus, enjoy our $50 movie package. Receive four admissions, four popcorns, and four hot cocoas or fizzy drinks for just $50! Additionally, bring your furry companions to experience the twinkling displays! Note: Canines enter free. Pet parents must show current vaccination records & complete a liability form. Movie package tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/27p2a6c9

Monday, Dec. 16: Military Monday: All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

Tuesday, Dec. 17: Silver Bells Tuesday/Bingo at Healy’s: Older adults 55 and up get $8 entry with ID. Plus, guests can enjoy Bingo at Healy's Right Field Bar. Great prizes are up for grabs, including gift cards for restaurants, fun activities, and other exciting rewards!

Wednesday, Dec. 18: Ladies Night/Paint & Sip: Calling all ladies. Join in for an enchanting evening of dazzling Holiday Lights. Plus, don’t miss out on the fun paint and sip event.

Thursday, Dec. 19: First Responders Appreciation/4 for $44: First Responders receive a complimentary ticket with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum 6 per order). Visitors can also enjoy our 4 for $44 package. This includes four tickets, four hot dogs, and four beverages for ONLY $44 (not combinable with other promotions). The 4 for $44 tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/m2xn3pnx

Friday, Dec. 20: Friday Fireworks: Holiday lights are capped off with a fireworks show!

Saturday, Dec. 21: Movie Night/Elf Beanie Giveaway/$50 Flicks Deal: Join Holiday Lights for a screening of Elf. First 500 attendees receive a special Elf Beanie! Plus, grab their $50 movie package. Receive four tickets, four popcorns, and four hot chocolates or sodas for just $50! Movie package tickets can be purchased here: https://tinyurl.com/27p2a6c9

Sunday, December 22nd: Lights & Leashes: Bring your four-legged friends to enjoy the holiday fun. NOTE: Pups enter free. Owners must show current vaccination records & complete a liability form.

Monday, Dec. 23: Closing Night/Military Monday: Final night to enjoy all the holiday fun. All current & former service members get a complimentary entry with valid identification. Extra tickets are available at a reduced price of $8 each (maximum of 6 tickets per purchase).

The Fayetteville Holiday Lights will be held at Segra Stadium, 460 Hay Street, from Nov. 29 through Dec. 23. Tickets for all the scheduled nights and promotions can be purchased here: https://www.milb.com/fayetteville/events/holidaylights
All tickets are general admission, giving you full access to the entire event, including the breathtaking display of over 2 million lights, themed areas, light shows, vendors, and visits with Santa Claus.
While this is a walk-through event, there are several areas around the ballpark where guests can sit down, relax, and enjoy the show. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly and take advantage of the various amenities available to enhance your experience.

New Art Studio space in Fayetteville hosts Arte Exhibit.26

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Thursday, 14 November 2024

Written by Isaiah Jones

     District 26 Studios is a new multifaceted and creative space in Fayetteville, that will be presenting its first art exhibit titled Arte Exhibit.26. It will be taking place on Nov. 16 . from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. The exhibit will be a combination of music, art, and fashion intertwining under one roof, featuring different artists from Fayetteville and Raleigh. Exclusive clothing collaborations between local brands, live performances, and incredible art will also be on display from familiar and fresh faces to the community.

     The event is being spearheaded by Maria Tainatongo, owner of District 26, as well as James Gonzalez and Robert Foy, two local artists who have helped curate and create the studio space with Maria. These individuals have been solely responsible for keeping artist showcases alive in the city, by throwing quarterly events and creating platforms for artists to collaborate and share their artistry.

     The art scene in Fayetteville is no stranger to having local spaces that bridge the many mediums of art and self-expression together. Over the past few years, several incredible spaces that have built everlasting communities come and go. Spaces like Gallery 116 th , The Creative Space Station, and even the Drunk Horse pub have paved the way for many creative people to connect and express themselves with other like-minded individuals.

     “We built this space out of necessity for artists to have a place to call home. It is important for people to have a calming space to think and create freely,” says Tainatongo. Tainatongo has made a name for herself around the city through her brand Art and Sole, as well as TwoSix.26, a Showcase that was a collaboration between her and Gonzalez. Maria has also been working with Foy, also known as Milly Mcjaggurr (Westside Milly), with their local showcase called “The Villian’s Den.”

     District 26 studios is unique in many ways and they plan to prove that with the Arte Exhibit.26. Milly Mcjaggurr, the Artist and curator of the Villian’s Den, is urging the community to come out to this event to see all the hard work that’s been put into the studio. “I want see the people come in and enjoy what we’ve put all of our effort into, when people doubted us,” Mcjaggur said. While the doors officially open on Nov. 16, the space was acquired back in January and has already made itself a home for artists to make music, host album release parties, do photoshoots, and make merchandise. The studio is a hub for artists, and the collaborators of the space are bringing these different worlds together to create an interactive and exclusive exhibit that everyone who cares about art needs to experience.  

     To all of the art and music lovers who want to experience a new and eclectic creative space, please join in this Saturday, Nov. 16 at the Arte Exhibit.26 , from 8 p.m. to 11 pm. located at 991 Old Mcpherson Church Road.

Hoops & Dreams Showcase gives underprivileged players a shot

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Tuesday, 12 November 2024

Written by Erin C. Healy

When Marva Lucas-Moore, owner of LucasMoore Realty, started the Hoops & Dreams Showcase event in 2016, her sole objective was to provide a well-organized and professional basketball event close to home so she wouldn’t have to drive her kids to Charlotte or Raleigh to play before college recruiters.
Underprivileged classmates often couldn’t afford the expense of travel, lodging and food to attend an away event. Her efforts, combined with a partnership with scouting service Phenom Hoops, met with such success that this will be the 7th Hoops & Dreams Showcase. The event attracts basketball fans and college-level recruits from schools in a variety of divisions. Twenty-four 10-man high-school teams will play 14 games. The two-day event will be held Nov. 29 and 30 at the Crown Complex, 1960 Coliseum Drive. Doors open at 10 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. General admission is $25. The first game tips off at 11:30 a.m. and the last one at 8:30 p.m. Scheduling is the same both days.
The words “hoops” and “dreams” are frequently used together in the names of basketball organizations all over the country, but this event was brought to fruition in Fayetteville and remains focused on its home city. Phenom Hoops owner Rick Lewis refers to the area as a hotbed of basketball talent, along with much of North Carolina. The “dreams” part of the name was inspired by former basketball player and rapper Jermain Cole, or J. Cole, who was born on a military base in Germany but raised in Fayetteville.
The Lucas-Moore family decided to incorporate Cole’s positive attitude into the name of the event. Cole refers to Fayetteville as a city of dreams and the name of his record label is Dreamville. In addition to being the first artist signed to Jay Z’s Roc Nation entertainment company, Cole’s had numerous commercial successes through his own label. One that hits home for Darius Moore, Lucas-Moore’s eldest son, is “Love Yourz.” It’s about appreciating what you have and loving your people.
Lucas-Moore and her husband, Donald, a retired Army first sergeant, seem to live by that principle. They raised three highly successful children and handled multiple deployments while keeping their marriage intact and building a multi-sourced financial foundation. All three children excel at basketball. Darius played for Fayetteville State University, where Hoops & Dreams had been held for a number of years until this year’s scheduling conflict. It was a dream come true for Darius to help put on the event where he himself had played. Sister Kendal was a McDonald’s All-American nominee, a USA Olympic trial invitee and played for North Carolina State University and then for the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. In high school, both kids played for Northwood Temple Academy here in Fayetteville, which is where their younger brother Tyler now plays.
Phenom Hoops is an NCAA-compliant scouting service. The first year of Hoops & Dreams, Lucas-Moore was hosting the event herself. Lewis was hosting something similar in Fayetteville. After reminiscing about how Lucas-Moore used to drive Darius and Kendal over two and a half hours to North Mecklenburg High School in Huntersville for drills and skills sessions with Lewis, the two decided to combine efforts into one well-run and high-quality event. Phenom Hoops, with its deep knowledge of players and teams, takes care of the schedule, creating interesting matchups between teams and players, and providing multi-media evaluations on all the players.
Over 200 college coaches contract with Phenom for their services, and the company has built lasting relationships with schools at all levels, including Division I, II and III; National Collegiate Athletic Association; National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics; and National Junior College Athletic Association.
By the end of his college basketball career, Darius saw he’d outgrown his potential in basketball and looked forward to a business career. At first, he provided photography and videography on a freelance business to outlets like the Bleacher Report and SLAM Magazine. Lewis reached out to him to join Phenom Hoops to put together the multi-media presentations the company does of each prospective player. COVID put some of this work on hold, as some schools cancelled their basketball seasons. Darius was passionate about photography and videography, but the pandemic forced him to reassess. He turned to government contracting work as a means of providing steady employment.
The Moores display what it takes for a military family to not only remain intact but to flourish individually and as a unit. Marva at one time owned two hair salons. She’s down to one now, but only because she parlayed the two businesses into ownership of a building that generates rental income for the family. At one point she also had a jewelry business with her twin sister. Meanwhile, Donald deployed to Saudi Arabia, Bosnia and twice to Iraq.
He made it a priority to check in with the family regularly, and Marva kept the kids on track at school and got them to basketball practice. Her real estate business is the proprietary title sponsor of the Hoops & Dreams Showcase, though other sponsors are invited to participate as well. Through LucasMoore Realty, Marva also provides HOA and property management services. In other words, Marva helped build an income-generating livelihood for the family while her husband served the country.
Darius is looking to continue to grow his contracting job with the Army, and Marva is already helping him and his siblings learn to step into the role of stewarding the family’s financial legacy. Part of the family’s success also shows in how successful, polite and positive the children are both to each other and with others. It’s obvious that a strong foundation in faith was emphasized from an early age. Darius speaks highly of his siblings, his sister’s academic excellence—she was salutatorian of her class—and his brother being one of the youngest pilots in the country at age 17. By the time Darius and Kendal finished their junior year in high school, they had finished their graduation requirements. Their parents gave them the option of attending Pine Forest High School for their senior year. Of course, they’d continue to advance their education, but they’d also be able to socialize more with their friends in the public-school sphere.
Darius knows that one of the unintended ministries of Hoops & Dreams Showcase is that it provides a platform for underprivileged kids the opportunity at a college scholarship. In addition to the education offered, many players from North Carolina have played and continue to play at the professional level. Lewis is matter of fact when he talks to students, and his company makes it a point to not just look at player statistics on paper but to meet them and get a sense of their character. Yes, it takes a lot of work to make it to the college level.
There are camps and clinics, some offered by Phenom Hoops, that can help a player improve their skills. But it’s more than that. It's an opportunity, with players open to assessing themselves honestly and planning to improve, and learning how to conduct themselves on and off the court.
Now that colleges are able to swap players without penalty, if they need a certain type of player, they can skip the high-school-level players altogether. It’s a highly competitive game. If skills are comparable, it just might be demeanor that tips the scales in favor of a young Fayetteville player. Dedication might not be enough; character might be the determining factor of the next NBA star from the city of dreams.
For information on scheduling and tickets to the Hoops & Dreams Showcase, visit http://hoopsanddreamsfay.com/.