Local News

Health & Wellness: Small steps, deep breaths: Heart attack leads to comprehensive care for patient—and her family

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Tuesday, 13 January 2026

Written by Lia Tremblaya

One morning last March, Jasie Landeros was in Wilmington for a work trip when her cell phone rang. It was her father, Cliff Lovick, whose first words when she picked up were, “Don’t panic.”
He went on to say that Landeros’ mother, Kay, had been experiencing some persistent dizziness that morning. She had been taken to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in an ambulance.
“But he didn’t want me to panic,” Landeros said. “He said, ‘Don't worry about rushing back home. We'll keep you updated on everything.’”
By the time she was able to get to Fayetteville, Landeros learned that tests showed Kay’s dizziness was caused by a heart attack. She would need a cardiac catheterization, a procedure in which a long, narrow tube is used to access the heart. This allows doctors to find the blocked arteries, and, in most cases, open them back up with the placement of stents.
After Kay was taken back for the procedure, Landeros and her sister, Rita, waited with their dad for an update. But after 30 minutes, they learned there had been a change of plans.
“It turned out she was about 90 percent blocked in three arteries,” said Landeros. “The right side of her heart was not functioning at all.”
Kay would need triple-bypass surgery. For her family, this was a lot to absorb.
“She held our hands, and she said, ‘Girls, I'm going to be okay,’” Landeros said. “‘Everything happens for a reason.’ That's what she's always told us: everything happens for a reason.”
Even while reassuring her daughters, Kay was still adjusting to the news herself.
“I could still hardly believe I’d had a heart attack,” said Kay. “And then to find out I need open-heart surgery?”
The next morning, Kay was wheeled off to surgery. Robert E. Maughan, MD, spent hours repairing the blocked arteries to restore blood flow to her heart. Landeros, Rita and Cliff passed the time with other family members in the waiting room, watching the clock and waiting for good news.
“Then Dr. Maughan walked in,” said Landeros. “He said she did great. And we just had tears of joy.”
Kay spent 15 days recovering in the hospital, a setting that had become quite familiar to her family. Both of her girls were born there, and in 2021, Kay spent two weeks being treated there for a severe case of COVID.
“They took fantastic care of her with the COVID,” Landeros said, “But because of the pandemic restrictions, we couldn’t all be with her. This was so much better, that we were all able to be there and see her and hold her hand.”
Being there was especially important to Cliff. He and Kay had just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
“They were high school sweethearts,” said Landeros. “They’re inseparable, those two.”
After her discharge from the hospital, Kay continued to recover but was careful to take it easy.
“I made a little trail through the house,” she said. “I kept telling myself, ‘Small steps and deep breaths.’”
She’s taking longer walks now, up and down her long driveway in Wade. It’s a community she deeply loves and credits with a great deal of her recovery.
“You just can't imagine the kindness that they have shown, and all the prayers,” she said. “It is unbelievable.”
Kay is keeping an eye on her heart health with regular visits to her cardiologist, Thor E. Klang, MD.
And she’s made it her mission to share with friends and family that a heart attack doesn’t always look like you think it will.
“I never had any chest pain,” she said. “I never had any trouble breathing. I just felt dizzy, that was it. I thought it might be vertigo, or even a stroke. But I never thought ‘heart attack.’”
From the emergency department to surgery and beyond, Landeros is grateful for the care her mother received. But she’s also grateful for how her father was cared for during the ordeal.
“Dad stayed there every single night at the hospital,” she said. “They brought him extra blankets, fresh pillows, something to drink. They checked on him when they were checking on her, and that just meant the world to me as their daughter.”
That care was more than just a kindness, according to Landeros. It kept the whole Lovick family energized and prepared to help Kay through her healing.
“The doctors and nurses took their time explaining to us what we needed to do,” she said. “We were just really grateful for the care that they gave her, and for the care that they gave to all of us.”

(Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Valley Health)

How to celebrate, commemorate America’s semiquincentennial

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Staff Report

Commemorations of America’s national history are part of annual celebrations of American independence that take place each year on July 4, which marks the anniversary of the nation’s birth. Those celebrations have a reputation for being particularly festive and tend to be capped off by awe-inspiring fireworks displays once the sun sets on the Fourth of July.
The liveliness of annual celebrations of American independence figures to be taken up a notch in 2026, when the United States will celebrate its semiquincentennial. Two hundred and fifty years of nationhood warrants a particularly jovial celebration, and there are many ways Americans can commemorate and celebrate the nation on this momentous occasion.
• Support a local historical society. Local historical societies have played a vital role in preserving United States history, and many of those who work in support of these organizations do so on a volunteer basis. Expressions of support for local historical societies can go a long way toward helping them continue to fulfill their missions. Financial donations, letters to state and local political officials urging increased funding for historical societies, visits to local historical sites, and even volunteering to help organizations fulfill their missions are a handful of ways to ensure these groups can continue to make invaluable contributions to their communities and the nation.
• Volunteer with local government. Pitching in to help local government organizations planning semiquincentennial celebrations is another great way to honor America’s two hundred and fiftieth anniversary. The days and weeks surrounding July 4 will likely be filled with anniversary-related events and celebrations, but many communities also plan to commemorate the semiquincentennial throughout 2026, providing plenty of opportunities for volunteers of all ages to lend a hand.
• Help digitize archival materials. The modern world is accustomed to digital files and instant access to information, but the vast majority of records pertaining to American history and accounts of Americans’ personal experiences remain preserved on paper. Photos and documents wear down over time, and American archivists face an uphill battle as they work to digitize records for the purpose of long-term preservation. Anyone who wants to lend a hand and help to preserve local and national history can speak with a local library or university librarian about what’s being done to digitize historical accounts and records and offer to lend a hand with such efforts. If no such efforts are currently being undertaken in your community, offer to spearhead a digitalization project and recruit others to participate.
• Explore the country. Travel presents another great way to celebrate the nation on its two hundred and fiftieth birthday. The United States is a vast nation with many unique subcultures and local customs, not to mention countless locales that have featured prominently in American history. When planning vacations in 2026, resolve to stay within U.S. borders and seek ways to learn about the nation’s history during your travels.
America’s semiquincentennial is a big deal, and there’s much residents of the United States can do to take an active role in the celebration and commemorations of the nation’s history.

Ease back in: Fun, local ways to restart your fitness routine

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Between indulgent meals, packed calendars, and a well-earned pause from routine, the holidays have a way of nudging fitness goals to the back burner. As the new year settles in, getting back into the groove doesn’t have to mean returning to the same old workouts or forcing yourself into a rigid routine. This season, local studios, gyms, and wellness spaces are offering fresh, creative ways to get moving—think unconventional classes, community-driven challenges, and experiences that make fitness feel exciting again. Whether you’re easing back in or looking for a whole new approach, these unique local options might be just the motivation you need to lace up, show up, and start strong.
Vertical Movement & Climbing
For a challenging full-body workout that tests both physical strength and mental problem-solving, the local climbing scene offers a standout alternative.
Experience state-of-the-art indoor climbing at The Triangle Rock Club Fayetteville, located at 5213 Raeford Rd. Perfect for all skill levels, the facility boasts expansive bouldering walls and top-rope climbing sections. They also offer specialized fitness equipment and yoga classes designed specifically for climbers. https://trianglerockclub.com/
As one of the oldest climbing gyms in the area, The Climbing Place is renowned for its extensive variety of climbing surfaces. Located at 436 Russell St. and spanning over 40,000 square feet, it features a 100-foot bouldering cave and a dedicated training room. https://www.theclimbingplace.com/
Aerial Arts & Movement
For a creative outlet that blends grace with intense core conditioning, explore aerial fitness and movement arts.
Air Born Aerial Fitness, located at 4910 Yadkin Rd., offers a unique approach to fitness through suspension, transforming your workout into an engaging performance art experience. They specialize in aerial silks, lyra (hoop), and pole fitness, with classes designed to enhance flexibility, build core strength, and boost confidence. https://www.airbornaerialfitness.com/
Elevo Dynamics reimagines martial arts for the 21st century, calling itself a "21st Century Dojo." It masterfully blends traditional martial arts with modern movement philosophies and mental wellness. Their Bujinkan Ninjutsu training emphasizes natural, efficient body mechanics, offering a distinct "Ninja Training" approach that sets it apart from conventional combat sports. They are located downtown at 110 Person St. https://elevodynamics.com/
Infrared Recovery & Conditioning
For a tech-driven fitness boost, infrared saunas enhance low-impact workouts and accelerate recovery.
Experience a unique workout at HOTWORX, where virtually instructed sessions combine the benefits of infrared heat with dynamic fitness programs. Choose from intense "HIIT" and "Isometrics" classes like Hot Yoga and Hot Pilates, all conducted in a heated environment. The infrared sauna's heat is designed to promote detoxification and enhance circulation as you sweat. They are located at 2775 Freedom Parkway Dr. https://www.hotworx.net/studio/fayetteville-freedom-town-center
Unique Sports and Combat Arts
Beyond the typical gym scene, Fayetteville offers specialized venues for niche sports such as fencing and dedicated kickboxing studios.
All-American Fencing Academy offers a unique opportunity to master the art of swordplay within a structured, community-oriented environment. They provide classes for all skill levels, from beginners to competitive fencers, focusing on the three Olympic weapons: foil, epee, and sabre. The academy fosters a social atmosphere where students hone their skills through friendly bouts and collaborative learning. The academy is located downtown at 207 Donaldson St. https://allamericanfencing.com/#welcome.
Experience a dynamic, non-traditional workout at 9Round Kickboxing Fitness, at 3010 Traemoor Village Dr., where combat sports techniques meet a flexible schedule. Their unique circuit-based training system features nine distinct stations, including heavy and speed bags, for a skill-building and engaging session. You'll always have a personal trainer at every station, ensuring proper form and keeping your energy levels high throughout your workout. https://www.9round.com/locations/nc/fayetteville/traemoor-village.
These are just a few examples of how you can revitalize your fitness routine by trying new exercises, setting fresh goals, and mixing up your workouts. It's an ideal way to kickstart healthy habits and renewed motivation after the holiday season!

Local stars shine at 2025 Hoops & Dreams Showcase

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Katie Herring

For most of us, the days after Thanksgiving are full of post-feast recovery, Black Friday bargain hunting, putting up Christmas decorations, and ringing in the Christmas season at the Dickens Holiday celebration downtown. But for an increasing number of local basketball players and fans, the weekend after Thanksgiving is for Hoops and Dreams.
The hardwood at Methodist University hummed with elite energy on the weekend after Thanksgiving as the eighth annual Hoops and Dreams Showcase took place on November 28–29. With a full gym, a record-breaking performance, and a gallery of future talent, the event lived up to its reputation as the premier Thanksgiving basketball tradition in North Carolina.
The atmosphere was electric from the opening tip-off on Friday morning. Tournament organizers reported a stellar turnout, with a steady flow of fans resulting in a gym that was mostly full for both days of competition. In total, the event drew approximately 1,200 patrons, with the total headcount reaching 1,600 when accounting for the elite roster of players, coaches, and scouts in attendance.
A Stage for New Talent and Epic Performances
This year’s showcase featured a diverse field of 18 teams from public and private schools around the Sandhills region, including several programs making their first-ever appearance in the tournament. The fresh competition provided a new look for scouting services and long-time fans alike.
Among the weekend’s most exciting performances came from Union Pines High School standout Kingsley Donaldson (#11, pictured here). In a performance that will be talked about for years to come, Donaldson shattered the tournament scoring record, dropping a massive 44 points to go along with 24 rebounds. His dominant presence in the paint and efficiency from the floor helped to cement his status as one of the region's most productive prospects.
Another notable performance was by local favorite Justin Caldwell of Fayetteville Academy. The senior, who has already committed to play at Georgetown University next year, delivered a signature performance with 34 points and 9 rebounds. Caldwell’s ability to anchor the interior while flashing refined offensive skills showed exactly why the Hoyas prioritized him in the 2026 class.
Scouting and Exposure
Exposure is the heartbeat of the Hoops and Dreams Showcase. While Phenom Hoops provided a global audience via their livestream, allowing college coaching staffs across the country to tune in, the gym was also crowded with excited fans, families, and friends.
At least four college coaches were present in person, primarily representing local colleges whose schedules allowed for a trip to Fayetteville. The early days of the basketball season make travel tricky for coaches, but the availability of streaming helps them catch the action happening throughout the tournament when they can’t attend in person. Additionally, at least two national scouting services were on hand to evaluate the talent. The feedback from these stakeholders was overwhelmingly positive, with coaches and scouts praising the organization and the high
level of play.
Community Support and Future Growth
The success of the showcase was made possible through the support of key community partners. Stop & Ride Automotive and Hutton Law Firm served as the event's primary sponsors, helping cover the extensive costs associated with the two-day tournament, including but not limited to gym rental, security, officiating, medical staff, and insurance. Their investment ensured a safe and professional environment for the athletes to compete.
As the final whistle blew on Saturday night, the impact of the weekend was clear. Not only did the event provide a platform for current stars like Donaldson and Caldwell, but it also sparked significant interest from other local programs. Tournament organizers noted that several area teams have already expressed interest in joining the field for future years, promising even more growth for Fayetteville’s premier event for rising basketball stars.

(Photo: Tyler Moore, a Senior at Northwood Temple Academy, is also a licensed pilot, and has a Presidential & Congressional nomination from U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis with aspirations of getting accepted in the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Photos by Joseph Amador, @Jowithdacam)