Found on Facebook, Sept. 30

• It’s Upward time again. Registration for basketball or cheerleading begins tomorrow and will continue through Nov. 1. Forms will come home from school but can also be picked up at First Baptist Church. Active military families are free; partial scholarships are available.

• Heads up, fitness fans -- Sanford Nautilus & Racquetball Club is offering a new Zumba class! Starting next week, you can get your Zumba on every Tuesday at 9:15am. (Triple yay for the childcare center!)

• We’re working on a roundup of Halloween/holiday parties and activities. We know of many, but not all. Leave a comment with information about what your group/church/org is planning and we’ll include it.

• There are multiple events happening in Sanford and the surrounding region this weekend. Make sure you don't miss out by checking our updated festival guide!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 29

• Have you entered our giveaway of a mini-session with Anna Fonke Photography at Gross Farms? Make sure you like her page and then leave a comment AT THIS LINK!

• Break out the insect repellent and gloves so you can go participate in this year's Big Sweep. Volunteers are needed at San Lee Park, Deep River Park, and Carbonton Dam Park at any time between 9am and 1pm on Saturday, Oct. 2. Call 718-4622 ext 5381 for details.

• Just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean you can’t get your basketball on. Parks & Rec are holding sign-ups for adult basketball on Oct. 25-29.

• Bad news bears: The Sanford Area Soccer League night at the Lee Senior soccer game has been canceled due to inclement weather.

Found on Facebook, Sept. 28

• have you entered our giveaway of a mini-session with Anna Fonke Photography at Gross Farms? Make sure you like her page and then leave a comment AT THIS LINK!

• Tomorrow is Sanford Area Soccer League night at the Lee Senior soccer game tomorrow. All SASL players will get in free simply by wearing their jerseys. The game starts at 6:30pm!

• Parks & Rec has something new for area children: wrestling! Children ages 9-15 can register to participate in the wrestling program through Oct. 22. The cost is $15. Call 775-2017 ext 205 for details.

• Looking for an academic experience your high-tech middle schooler will love? Try CCCC’s High Tech/High Touch Robotics workshop on Oct. 16 from 8:30am-noon. Registration is limited to 20 parent/student pairs and costs $10 per pair. Call 718-7347 to register.

• Animal lovers -- make sure you join Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption on Sunday at 3pm at Camelback Bridge in Gulf. Bring your animals (all kinds and sizes welcome) to be blessed! Refreshments will be served and volunteers are needed.

• Join the fight to against Alzheimer's disease this Saturday at the Alzheimer's Walk in Depot Park. Registration starts at 9am and the walk begins at 10am. Get more details at the link.

Anna Fonke Photography: Review & Giveaway

Several months ago, I was the lucky recipient of a free mini-session from Anna Fonke Photography. My youngest child had not yet had a professional portrait done and I decided that this was the perfect opportunity to get some great photographs of her. But at 18 months old, I worried that we'd have a hard time getting a good shot...she was constantly moving and no amount of cajoling could get her to sit still.

Luckily my fears were completely unfounded. Anna followed my little monkey around with the camera, snapping her living life, which is exactly how I'd like to remember her when I look back in 20 years. She really captured the essence of Violet's personality and I adore the portraits we got from the short session! I had a difficult time picking my favorites...I would have loved to have a copy of each to hang in my living room. Each one was a beautiful representation of my little girl's life at that moment in time.

As you can see, Anna's talent lies not only in the photography, but also in the editing. While a mini-session generally lasts only 15-20 minutes, she puts much, much more time into your photos when she gets home. Here's a great example of a before and after on her blog, and the amount of work that goes into custom photography. It's truly amazing to see!

And now for the fun stuff!

Giveaway: Anna has graciously offered to give away a holiday mini-session at Gross Farms for one lucky Socialite and his/her family! The session will last around 30 minutes and will result in 5-8 proofs in an online gallery, followed by one digital negative and your choice of a digital Christmas card plus 10 percent off any print items. This prize package is valued at $50.

How to win: All you have to do is like both SocialSanford and Anna Fonke Photography on Facebook. Leave us a comment AT THIS LINK. The winner will be drawn Saturday morning at 9am! Remember, if you enter, but don't "like" both pages, you cannot win.

Review written by Melissa Worley.

Found on Facebook, Sept. 27

• Have you voted for your favorite "girl" in the Sanford Drag Race? This year's event will help many breast cancer patients with the many financial burdens they face. Go show your support for the cause!

• This friday is Parents Night Out at Brickcity Childcare Center from 6pm to 10pm. The cost is $20 for the first child and each subsequent child is $5 off. Be sure to RSVP if you plan to use the service. Go ahead and register with Kidcheck to save some time.

• If you love the NC State Fair, this might be a wonderful opportunity to share your passion. You need to have a blog, but those are quite easy to come by. ;) The deadline for entry is Friday.

Found on Facebook, Sept. 25-26

• Don’t forget the pancake breakfast at Applebee’s to benefit local foster families. It’s going on until 10am and you can purchase your plate at the door.

• Protect your children from danger with Black Belt Leadership Academy's stranger danger workshop. It starts at 10:30 and the police will be out to do fingerprint kits. This event is free!

• Looking for family fun and entertainment? Check out our fall festival guide!

• After lunch, make sure you check out Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption's Rescues & Runways fashion show at Maurice’s in Riverbirch. The animals will strut their stuff at 1pm; the event is from noon-4pm.

• Here are three great reasons to check out Steele Street Cafe tonight: Shelby Marchant, Pocket Creek, and $5 martinis (for Facebook fans). Enjoy a great night out in Sanford!

• Caregivers -- get all the tools you need to care for your loved ones while also taking care of yourself at this free workshop series, which includes a caregiving handbook.

Found on Facebook, Sept. 24

• Support local foster families on Saturday morning by eating breakfast at Applebee’s. The fundraiser is 8am-10am and is $5 for pancakes, sausage, and a drink. You can purchase tickets at the door or contact a foster parent.

• If you don't have plans tomorrow and are up for a short day trip then check out the NC Muscadine Harvest Festival in Kenansville.

• Make plans for tonight -- Boomers Party & Play is hosting a Parents Night Out from 6pm-10pm. The cost is $20 per child (+ $10 for siblings) and children will be grouped by age (though you can request that siblings stay together).

• Are you hungry? Head over to Saint Luke's for a barbecue plate to benefit the Bread Basket. The sale will run 11am-2pm and 5pm-7pm and plates cost $8. Orders of 10 or more can be delivered.

• Parents -- be sure to stop by the Chrysler Dodge Jeep dealership on Hawkins Ave tomorrow between 10am-2pm for a carseat safety check. A properly installed seat could save your child’s life!

• Interested in fall planting? Check out Big Bloomers Flower Farm's free seminar "Container Gardening for Fall" tomorrow from 10am-noon. The session is free. I recommend you get there early to get a good spot!

• Check out Balloons Inc's warehouse sale tomorrow only starting at 7am!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 23

• Head over to Maurices in Riverbirch on Saturday to see Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption’s animals strut on the catwalk from noon-4pm. Low-cost pet vaccines and microchips will be available right at the store.

• The Willow Creek Animal Hospital photo contest is underway. The first person that enters their pet picture on the Willow Creek Facebook page with 'SocialSanford' in the caption will receive a free month of Frontline Plus for their dog or cat. Click here for details.

• Don’t miss tonight's State of the Schools address by Superintendent Moss in Bullock Elementary’s gymnasium. Refreshments will be served at 5pm and the program will begin at 5:30pm. RSVP at 774-6226 or via email.

• Want to know what’s happening in county government? Click this link to review action taken by the County Commissioners at the Sept. 20 board meeting.

• Donate your gently used books to the Lee County Partnership for Children and Coalition for Families’ book drive. Your old books will stock the shelves of a downtown bookstore! Click this link or call 774-8144 ext 201 or 774-9496 for details.

• Sample some great wine and appetizers while learning how to create an acrylic masterpiece on canvas to take home thanks to Designs by Arianne. The event will be from 6pm-8pm at the Steele Street Cafe on Sept. 29 and registration is $35/person. Advance registration is required. Call Nancy at the cafe or Arianne at 919-630-6888 for information.

CUOC Seeks Our Help

The Christians United Outreach Center of Lee County is one of the hardest working and most generous organizations in our area -- and it is in desperate need of our community's help.

The CUOC has been a tremendous asset to needy families in our area. For instance, since January of this year, CUOC has:

• Helped 243 clients with Financial Aid (utilities, rent, etc) totaling more than $25,000;
• Fed more than 25,000 people (6,657 boxes of food totaling 396,138 lbs of food); and
• Helped 570 families that have never needed assistance before.

Of the families the CUOC serves every day, 32.81 percent are black, 32.80 percent are white, and 33.53 percent are Hispanic. In five years, the organization has served a total of 5,625 families in our area.

Action plan: But they can't do all of this good work alone. Please consider donating any (or all) of the items listed below so that the CUOC can continue being our community's cornerstone for those in need:

• Jelly
• Pasta
• Canned vegetables
• Soups
• Soup crackers
• Cereal
• Oatmeal/grits packets
• Toilet paper
• Paper towels
• Personal hygiene items (soap, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant)
• Monetary donations

Now is the perfect time to make a difference. Ask your church, civic group, youth organization, or other club to join in the effort to keep CUOC stocked and ready for action.

Found on Facebook, Sept. 21-22

• Make sure you check out our Fall Festival Guide. Many of the celebrations start this weekend, so start making plans. And if there's a festival we forget, definitely let us know!

• Help raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s disease with Lee County Government's 2010 Alzheimer's Walk at Depot Park on October 2. Click here for registration and sponsor details.

• Teach your child about stranger danger -- and learn what you need to know to keep them safe -- at Black Belt Leadership Academy’s free stranger awareness workshop on Saturday at 10:30am. Space is limited, so call 777-6913 to reserve your spot.

• Interested in backyard chickens? The Lee County North Carolina Cooperative Extension is hosting a how-to session to help you learn what you’ll need, how to choose your breeds, and what the City of Sanford has to say about it. The cost is $5 per family and you must RSVP by Friday, Sept. 24.

• Break out the insect repellent and gloves so you can go participate in this year's Big Sweep. Volunteers are needed at San Lee Park, Deep River Park, and Carbonton Dam Park at any time between 9am and 1pm on Saturday, Oct. 2. Call 718-4622 ext 5381 for details.

Make Time For These Fall Festivals

This is the time of year to enjoy all that nature has to offer -- from harvest sales and fall bazaars to full out family festivals. We offer this guide to keep you from missing out on anything our area has to offer:

OCTOBER
In Sanford:

• Rocky Fork Christian Church Harvest Sale (Sanford, Oct. 2): Lunch plate sale of chicken stew and barbecue starts at 11am and annual auction begins at 1pm. Homemade items will be availabe in the "country store." A dinner plate sale of fish and barbecue starts at 5pm.

• Broadway UMC Harvest Sale (Oct. 2): Get barbecue and fixins at Broadway United Methodist Church (106 Church Street) at this annual sale, which runs from 11am-2pm. An auction will begin at 2pm.

• Deep River School Fall Bazaar (Deep River, Oct. 2): A yard and craft sale will start at 8am and family activities will begin at 10am. Local vendors will be on site. Proceeds will benefit the school.

• Family Fun Day at the Jet Port (Sanford, Oct. 9): Let your children experience free flights with the EAA Young Eagles and balloon rides at this annual aviation-themed festival. The day will also include a parachute team, helicopter flyovers, vintage aircrafts, military aircrafts, aviation groups, food, games, and more.

• ROSHAMBO Tournament (Sanford, Oct. 9): The 99 SASL Sabres and the 95 SASL Lightning are hosting this rock, paper, scissors tournament at the SASL Soccer Complex. The 1st and 2nd place winners will win a cash prize and trophy. There is a $10 entry fee. 

• Tramway Baptist Church Harvest Sale (Tramway, Oct. 16): This fundraiser will feature a bake and craft sale starting at 8am and a bbq and chicken dumpling plate sale ($6) starting at 11am for dine in or take out. There will be an auction at 2pm and a bounce house for children.

• Buffalo Presbyterian Church Fall Bazaar (Sanford, Oct. 16): This annual fall bazaar (1333 Carthage Street) starts at 8am and will include food, fellowship, arts, crafts, baked goods, fall plants, and more. You can also enter a raffle for a handmade quilt.

• Poplar Springs UMC Harvest Sale (Broadway, Oct. 16): The sale starts at 11am and an auction will be held at 2pm.

• Jubi-Lee Fall Festival (Sanford, Oct. 23): The fourth year of this local festival will be held in Depot Park from 10am-4pm and will feature arts and crafts vendors, children's activities, live performances on two stages, and food for the family. 

• Jonesboro Presbyterian UMC (Sanford, Oct. 30): Come out to the annual fall bazaar, which runs from 8am to 1pm on Main Street. They'll have ham and sausage biscuits for breakfast and soup and sandwiches for lunch. Also for sale are baked and canned goods and handcrafted items.

• Music at the Maze (Sanford, Oct. 23 and Oct. 30): Visitors to the Gross Farms' pumpkin patch and corn maze will get to hear the sounds of Tim Hair Entertainment with Chuck Garner on the 23rd and The Second Chance Band on the 30th. The music will play from 6pm-10pm on both nights.

• Greenwood Elementary (Lemon Springs, Oct. 30): Celebrate the school's 20th birthday with a fall festival that will run from 10am to 2pm.

Elsewhere in the region:

• Cameron Antiques Fair (Cameron, Oct. 1-2): All antique stores and more than 250 outside dealers will exhibit their wares. Food and refreshments will also be available. Some exhibitors will set up on Friday, Oct. 1. 

• AutumnFest (Southern Pines [map], Oct. 2): This annual festival runs from 9am-4pm and boasts a little something for everyone, including arts and crafts, live entertainment, food, rides, a run/walk, a 5K race, and more.

• Denim Days (Erwin, Oct. 2): This day-long festival will feature a car show, Precision Goldwing Drill Team, petting zoo, bungee jumping, a cornhole tournament, live music, down home food, crafts, and carnival games and rides.

• International Festival (Raleigh, Oct. 1-3): Spend the weekend exploring the world with cultural dancing on the main stage, a biergarten, a shopping bazaar, a kids' scavengar hunt, face painting, and many cooking and crafting demos as well as games and rides.

• Asheboro Fall Festival (Oct. 2-3): This festival is a combination of street fair, bazaar, harvest celebration and homecoming that includes arts and crafts booths, craft demonstrations, a flea market, live bluegrass, and more. It will kick off with a parade on Friday, Oct. 1 at 7pm.

• Pittsboro Pepper Festival (Pittsboro [map], Oct. 3): Taste and rank more than 40 different pepper varieties as local chefs show off their creativity with dishes that showcase local peppers. The festival will also feature local beer, local wine, music from the Holy Ghost Tent Revival, and some education on sustainable agriculture.

• Kyle Byrd Memorial Car Show (Apex, Oct. 3): Enjoy live music and entertainment while viewing unique cars from across the spectrum. Kids will enjoy a moon bounce and activities in the Kids Zone. More than 30 awards will be presented. 

• Heritage Festival (Fayetteville, Oct. 3): Help Cape Fear Botanical Garden celebrate life at the turn of the 19th Century by partaking in agricultural exhibits, old-fashioned food preparation demonstrations and live bluegrass music as well as traditional crafts like tatting, spinning, quilting and basketry. For the kids there will be hopscotch, marbles, egg races and more. The festival will run from 12pm-4pm.

• Pickin' on the Porch (Grays Creek, Oct. 7): Spend Thursday night at this backyard barbeque and acoustic music concert. The music will begin at 6pm and feature local favorites The Parsons. Expect the music to run from 6pm -8pm, and even later if the mood is right and the weather cooperates. Tickets are $35 ($15 for children under 12) and include concert, food, and beverages. Bring your own seating. (See details on Facebook)

• Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance (Silk Hope [map], Oct, 7-10): This annual festival will feature more than 50 bands and performers on two large outdoor stages, a large dance tent, and an intimate Cabaret Tent. You will also find local crafts, children's activities, environmental sustainability workshops, and more.

• Uwharrie Mountain Festival (King's Mountain Point [near Troy; map], Oct. 9): This festival runs 10am-5pm and features a cruise-in, shooting team demos, lumberjack demos, disc golf, wine tasting, a kids' zone, and more. Outdoor enthusiasts can also do a Trail Run/Walk, paddling challenge, mountain biking skills course, and orienteering challenge.

• Old Fashion Day (Goldston, Oct. 9): This day of family fun includes music, food, crafts, and games, including children's activities, homemade ice cream, and more. The festivities run from 8am-5pm.

• Energy & Community Resilience Fair (Carrboro, Oct. 10): Find out who local companies are using high- and low-tech ways to conserve energy or harness alternative energy, sample smoothies made in a bicycle-powered blender and goods baked in solar ovens, and learn how to reduce your home's energy bill. The event will be in Carrboro Town Commons from 1pm-5pm.

• Holly Arts & Crafts Festival (Pinehurst, Oct. 16): The all-day event combines the talents of hand crafters in a variety of genres -- from woodworking to glass, stitched art to lawn ornaments, hand-crafted jewelry to metal sculpture. Area restaurants and food vendors dot the gathering as downtown shops offer sales and specials. The festival begins at 10am.

• Downtown Street Fair (Pittsboro, Oct. 23) Enjoy local artists, crafters, food, live entertainment, and free children activities all dedicated the historic Pittsboro courthouse. The fun starts at 10am.

• BOO at the ZOO (Asheboro, Oct. 23-24): Take advantage of the NC Zoo's Halloween celebration, which includes games, music, face painting, costume contests and more.

• Fall Festival in the Pines (Pinehurst, Oct. 24): Olmstead Village is hosting its first fall festival to benefit the Ronald McDonald House from noon-6pm. The day will offer carnival rides, games, food and ice cream, an antique tractor show, antique and classic car show, hay rides, and live entertainment. Admission is free.

NOVEMBER

•  Stone Calvary UPC (Lemon Springs, 11am-2pm): Enjoy food, games, hayrides, puppet shows, and other activities under the big yellow and white tent at this Fall Family Fun Day. There will be an auction at 1pm with all proceeds benefiting the church's education center, a k-12 school.

• NC Cotton Festival (Dunn, Nov. 6): This festival will run from 10am-4pm and will feature live entertainment on two stages, rides for children, an exotic petting zoo, classic car show, and more than 140 food and craft vendors.

SEPTEMBER

• Liberty Antique Festival (Pike Family Farm [map], Sept. 24-25): Antiques dealers from across the U.S. will pack the farm with furniture, paintings, pottery, glass, collectibles, and everything else you can think. There will be no crafts or reproductions. The festival is from 8am-5pm and costs $7 for those over age 12. 

• Live It Up on Hillsborough St (Raleigh, Sept. 25): This one-day event will feature crafts, products, food, and beverages from local businesses and will include activities such as a kids' zone, international stage, eco zone, farmer's market, hot dog eating contest, and more.

• 2010 Pumpkin Festival at Hart's Farm (Bear Creek [map], Sept. 25-26): Experience down home food, traditional handicrafts, a corn hole tournament, tractor pull, demolition derby, live music, and a pageant as well as kids activities like a rock climbing wall, pumpkin sling shot, pumpkin painting, and carnival games.

• International Folk Festival (Fayetteville, Sept. 24-26): Kick off on Friday, the 24th, with an art show followed by the Parade of Nations on Saturday. The entire weekend will feature live entertainment, authentic cuisine, folk arts and crafts, a children’s area, Native American Cultural Showcase, and more. (See details on Facebook)

• Mule Days (Benson, Sept. 24-26): Get all the mule action you could ever need with mule judging, mule pulling, and a mule race as well as carnival rides, trolley rides, music and entertainment, and a rodeo. There's also an arts and crafts show, parade, bluegrass and more.

Found on Facebook, Sept. 20

• Every caregiver needs a break sometimes. Lee County Government's Senior Services gives our local family caregivers the break they need on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Click here for details!

• Heads up, parents -- the musical feature has been installed at Kiwanis Children's Park Place. Take the kids to try it out and let us know what you think!

• Have you heard of the Sanford Writer's Club? Every 4th Wednesday (that's this Wednesday) they get together at Steele Street Cafe for public readings. The fun starts at 6:30pm, so get there early to grab a good seat.

• Did you miss last week’s blood drive at Wal-Mart? You can look up more local blood donation drives on the Red Cross website. It's an easy way to give back to the community if your financial situation doesn't permit monetary donations. The Red Cross is always in need of blood, so if you're eligible, make an appointment today!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 16-19

Your weekend wrap-up also includes Thursday and Friday thanks to a super-busy last week. Make sure you check out all the great information and deals included below!

• Heads up, men over the age of 50! Central Carolina Hospital is offer free PSA screenings on Saturday, Sept 18 from 8am-noon at the Enrichment Center. Walk-ins are welcome, but you can pre-register by calling 800-483-6385.

• Is your child a “Delightful Darling”? Starting today, you can register your child for Lee County Partnership for Children’s contest. First place winner gets $125 and a trophy! Click here for details.

• Local parents -- Lee County Schools is considering a year-round middle school option! A survey will be heading home soon. Make sure you share your opinion and return it to the Schools so they have a clear picture of what Lee County parents want! For more information, pick up The Sanford Herald.

• Already looking forward to the holidays? DWA Photography is bringing Christmas to October. Book your session now so you have great photos of your family in real snow way before card-sending time! The sessions will be on Sun, Oct. 17.

• Speaking of Christmas, did you hear the news? The Central Carolina Jaycees are managing the Sanford Christmas Parade this year --- and they’ve moved it back to the first Monday night in December. Will your family be there?

• Dirty Dancing fans -- find time for the Dirty Dancing Festival in Lake Lure, NC this weekend! The festival sounds like a great way to spend your Saturday.

• Great news! You can buy discounted appliances while helping a great organization. Sanford Sears Hometown Store is knocking 5 percent off sale prices PLUS donating 3% of the day’s proceeds to the Christians United Outreach Center of Lee County!

• The Lee Regional Fair is open from noon to midnight today. Admission is $6 (free if you’re under 36” tall) and ride wristbands are $17 for all you can ride from 1pm to 5pm or 5pm to midnight. For a full schedule of today’s events, click here.

• Looking to do something different today? Check out Hi-Lites’ fall fashion show at Steele Street Cafe starting at 1 pm. After that, check out opening day at Gross Farms!

• Calling all actors! Star Community Theatre is holding auditions for their production of LETTERS on Sept. 29. Click here for details!

• Deep River School’s Fall Bazaar is slated for Sat, October 2 from 8am-2pm. Go enjoy a fun day with the family while supporting our local schools. And if you’re interested in reserving a booth, click here for all the info you’ll need!

• Want to win $15 to La Chic Boutique? Go NOW and leave a comment at this link. One lucky person will be shopping for free.

• The Central Carolina Jaycees' annual food drive starts this week. Be on the lookout for paper grocery bags on your door step. Your non-perishable food donation goes to many local shelters and food banks, including Lifeline Recovery Mission, The Bread Basket, and CUOC.

SocialSanford at the Fair, Day 2

The fair is so much fun on it's own, but being able to win some great prizes while you're there makes it even better, right? If you missed Kelly last night, you'll have the chance to win again tonight! Here's what we'll have:

• $10 gift card to NCPROCOM
• $10 gift card to NCPROCOM
• $10 gift card to Lowe's Foods (Courtesy of Donnie Worley from RE/MAX Real Estate Service)
• $10 gift card to Lowe's Foods (Courtesy of Donnie Worley from RE/MAX Real Estate Service)
• 1 free fair admission (Courtesy of Donnie Worley from RE/MAX Real Estate Service)

Melissa will be there tonight, and will post a picture of the lucky prize bag on Facebook this afternoon so you know what to look for. You'll have to answer one of these questions:

1. How did you hear about SocialSanford?
2. What is one thing you did because you heard about it from us?
3. What local business(es) would you like to see us feature?

We'll try to post clues as the evening goes on about where she can be found, so if you have a cellphone with web access make sure you know how to get to our Facebook page. Just like last night, we know not everyone can make it to the fair so there will be an at-home prize. Stay tuned to our Facebook page for that!

SocialSanford at the Fair, Day 1

Everyone loves the fair, and we're no exception. Because we love our Socialites (and giving away free stuff is lots of fun), we're turning the fair into a giveaway-palooza!

If you attend the fair tonight, you could win one of these fabulous prizes:
~ $25 to Added Accents
~ $10 to La Chic Boutique
~ $10 to Wal-Mart
~ $10 to Wal-Mart (thanks to Pegram-Prevatte Insurance for both Wal-Mart cards)

But just showing up isn't enough. First, you'll have to find the right member of the SocialSanford team (Kelly tonight). Then you'll be required to answer one of these fun (and perhaps too easy) questions about this year's fair:

• How many years old is the Lee Regional Fair?
• Who won Best in Show for photography (adult category)?
• How many food vendors (drink vendors only don't count) are at the fair?
• Who won Ms. Lee Regional Fair on Wednesday night? 

 That's not so bad, right?  And because we know not everyone can attend the fair, we'll be holding a special giveaway on our Facebook page ... so make sure you check in tonight!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 15

• Want to hear some live music tonight? Phil Durham will be playing at the Steele Street Cafe and Wine Bar starting at 7pm. Go and enjoy.

• Need something fun to do with your preschooler tomorrow? Parents as Teachers will be holding story time at the Lee County Fair at 9:30am and 10:30am. Rides are open for preschoolers from 10am to 11am also. Children attending story time will receive a free book!

• Nothing says fall like a visit to the pumpkin patch or an adventure through a corn maze. Gross Farms has both and they open for the season on Saturday (Sept 18). Who’s excited?!

• Interested in learning how to defend yourself? Sign up for Black Belt Leadership Academy’s workshop at the Lee County Enrichment Center on Thursday from 1pm-3pm. Call 776-0501 to reserve your spot!

• Need help networking? Check out the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce's lunch-and-learn hosted by Kelly Klug of Lighthouse Documentation and Training tomorrow at 11:30am. The cost is $10 and RSVP is required!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 14

• The Lee Regional Fair opens at 4 pm today! Admission is $6 (free if you’re under 36” tall, plus seniors and students get in free today only) and ride wristbands are $17 for all you can ride. Here's the full schedule!

• Do you “like” Anna Fonke Photography? Lots of free and seriously discounted photography sessions happening over there this week, including a free Facebook profile shoot and super-cheap family mini-sessions.

• In case you missed it, here’s our rundown of the local fairs. Are you ready for funnel cake?

• If you’re eligible to donate blood, it could be worth $1000 to you! Walmart in Sanford is hosting a blood drive Friday from 2:30pm to 7pm. Visit the Red Cross website or stop by the service desk to schedule a time to give. Donors will be automatically entered to win a $1000 gift card!

• Don't miss L2 Media Productions' neat "behind the scenes" look at the Lee Regional Fair, which opens today!

• Make sure you visit Spirits O'Sanford's booth at the fair! They’ll be able to tell you all about the next ghost walks (Oct. 8 and Oct. 23). Speaking as a previous walker and hometown Sanford girl, these walks are fascinating!

• Want the inside scoop on what's happening at the Lee Regional Fair? Check out The Sanford Herald's fair blog!

• Don’t forget to check out the local Boy Scouts meetings going on tonight. Here's the when and where for all the local scouting groups (boys & girls) plus something extra.

• Plan to attend the Lee Regional Fair on Thursday or Friday nights. We’ll be doing some fun giveaways LIVE from the event! Expect details on Thursday and Friday mornings.

• Don't forget to comment on our The Temple Theatre Company giveaway for 2 tickets to Chicago. We're drawing a winner in less than 24 hours! (CLICK ON THIS LINK AND LEAVE A COMMENT THERE!)

Scout these Meetings for Boys & Girls

Sanford and the Lee County area have a long tradition of strong, active scouting and other youth activities for both girls and boys. If you aren't sure when and how to get your children involved, here's a handy guide:

***

LEE COUNTY 4H -- official website; local contact information

Mondays: Rodeo Riders Horse Club meets at the Extension Center on the 1st Monday of each month at 6:30pm for ages 9 to 18. Rockin' Riders Horse Club meets at the Extension Center on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30pm for ages 7 to 12.

Tuesdays: Shamrocks Club meets at Mrs. Wenger's Restaurant on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 7pm for ages 9-15. Barn Busters meet at the Extension Center on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm for ages 8 to 16. Lemon Springs Horse Club meets at the Extension Center on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 6:00pm for ages 10 to 18. Adventure Kids Cloverbud Club meets at the Extension Center on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6:15pm for ages 5 to 8.

Thursdays: Homegrown Kids meets at the Extension Center on the 1st Thursday of each month at 11 am for ages 7 to 15. Your Future Kids meets at the Extension Center every other Thursday at 6:30pm for ages 9 to 16. The Avengers (general interest) meets at the Extension Center on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm for ages 8 to 12. Maters 'N Taters Club (ages 8 to 16) and Magetsi Club (ages 10 to 18) each meet at the Extension Center on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7pm.

Saturday: Crazy Quilters meet at the Extension Center on the 3rd Saturday of each month at 1pm for ages 9 to 18.

***

BOY SCOUTS -- official website; regional website; local contact information

Monday: Pack 942 meets at Saint Luke's Methodist Church on Wicker Street (7pm). Pack 953 meets at Shallow Well Baptist Church on Broadway Road (6:45pm).

Tuesday: Pack 919 meets at St Andrews Church on St Andrews Road (7pm). Pack 914 meets at First Baptist Church on Summit Drive (7pm).

Thursday: Pack 806 meets at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints on Keller Andrews Road (7pm).

***

GIRL SCOUTS -- official website; regional website

Monday: Troop 575 (Daisy) meets at Saint Luke’s Methodist Church on Wicker Street (6pm). Troop 737 (All levels) meets at Saint Luke’s Methodist Church on Wicker Street (6pm). Troop 1311 (Brownie/Juniors) meets at Pocket Presbyterian Church on Pocket Church Road (6pm).

Tuesday: Troop 816 (Brownie/Junior/Cadette) meets at Northview Baptist Church on Amos Bridges Road (6pm).

Wednesday: Troop 1276 (Cadette) meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday at Trinity Lutheran Church on Carthage Street (6:30pm).

Thursday: Troop 1278 (grades 2-3) meet biweekly at Jones Chapel Methodist Church on Jones Chapel Road (6pm). Troop 1401 (Senior/Ambassador) meets biweekly at Buffalo Presbyterian Church on Carthage Street (6pm). Troop 513 (All levels) meets at Saint Luke’s Methodist Church on Wicker Street (6:15pm).

Friday: Troop 1110 (Cadette/Senior) meets monthly at Emmanuel United Church of Christ on Wilkins Drive (6:30pm).

Saturday: Troop 324 (Ambassador) meets monthly at Jonesboro Presbyterian Church on Woodland Avenue (10am).

***

AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS -- official website; local website; calendar of events

Thursday: Troop NC1715 meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at Spring Lane Assembly of God on Spring Lane (6:30pm).

***

Did we miss a character-development group that you think other parents should know about? Let us know in the comments!

Tramway Track-Out Activities

I love the year-round calendar Tramway offers, but I admit that those intersessions can leave me frustrated and wondering how to entertain my child! Luckily, there are a lot of options for activities while the kids are out of school. There's something for every budget and every child, so read on for the low-down on track-out activities.

Dancer's Workshop presents Bop 'Til You Drop! Three fun hours of hip hop, jazz, tumbling and more.

Date & Time: For K-2, Spetember 29 from 9am-noon. For 3-5, September 30 from 9am-noon.

Cost: $7

For more info or to sign up: Call 919-774-6228 or email toridance@windstream.net. Include your child's name, a phone number, and date attending.

Other details: Please provide a snack for your child.

Lee County Parks and Rec is hosting a Mini Day Camp at San-Lee Park. Arts & crafts, nature hikes, games, and a field trip are planned.

Date & Time: September 20-24, September 27-October 1, and October 4-8; 8am to 5pm each day

Cost: $100 per week, one field trip is included

For more info or to sign up: Call San-Lee Park at 919-776-6221 and ask for Jaime or Carrie.

Other details:

Pre-registration required by September 15.

You will need to provide 2 snacks and a lunch for your child each day and there is a 12 child maximum.

Marsh Stables is having horseback riding sessions again this year. Your child will also learn how to groom horses and will be able to do a trail ride if they're confident enough.

Date & Time: Sessions are offered each week of the break, Monday through Thursday. You can choose an early morning session from 8:30am-10:30am or a late morning session from 10:30 am to 12:30pm.

Cost: $25 per session

For more info or to sign up: Contact Linda Pate at 919-478-1537 or 919-774-4747.

Other details: Limit of 10 students per session. Release forms will be signed on-site.

Boomers Party & Play is open special hours on Tuesdays during intersession.

Date & Time: Each Tuesday of intersession, Boomers will be open from 10am to 7pm. (They will also be open at 2:3opm Wednesday-Friday and 9am on Saturday.)

Cost: $8 to play all day.

For more info or to sign up: 919-775-3928

Other details:

Free snow cone with admission. Socks are required. Website link.

Found on Facebook, Sept. 13

• Chicago opens this week at The Temple Theatre Company .... and we're giving away 2 tickets to the show! Go like their FB page and then click here to enter!!!! Drawing will be Wednesday at 7 pm.

• The Lee County Fair opens tomorrow! Tuesday only, senior citizens and students get in free. The gates open at 4PM. For a full list of events, check out this link.

• Need a vehicle? The City of Sanford, NC Surplus Auction is scheduled for Monday, September 20th at 9 am. This year's auction items will be post here and a list of items is available here.

• If you know an artistic high school junior or senior or a college student, make sure you let them know about the No Scare Fair “design a door” contest. The prize is a $200 savings bond!

• Angela Jones, you are the winner! You have $100 to spend at the Sanford Antique Mall! Shoot us an email and we'll arrange a meeting. If you didn't win this one, remember that there is a giveaway going on for The Temple Theatre Company ... click here to enter!

Let's Go to the Fair!

I love autumn...cooler weather, football, and county fairs! There are several fairs coming up in our area. Here's a rundown:

Lee Regional Fair September 14-19

Hours: Gates open between 4pm and 5pm on the weeknights and at noon on Saturday and Sunday.

Prices: Admission is $6 (children under 36" tall admitted free), ride wristbands are $17

Location: 505 North 7th Street in Sanford

Cumberland County Fair September 16-26

Hours: Gates open at 5pm on weeknights, and noon on weekends.

Prices: Advance ticket packages available for $20 include admission and ride wristbands

Location: 1960 Coliseum Drive in Fayetteville

Chatham County Fair September 29-October 2

Hours: Varies each day, check website for details.

Prices: Admission for adults is $4, children 6-12 is $3 and children 5 and under are free. Ride tickets will also be available for purchase.

Location: 191 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Pittsboro

North Carolina State Fair October 14-24

Hours: Gates open at 8am except for October 14, when they open at 3pm

Prices: Admission is $6 in advance, $8 at the gate (children 6-12 are $2 in advance, $3 at gate and children under 6 and senior citizens are free) while ride tickets are currently $10 for a sheet of 18 (more details here)

Location: 1025 Blue Ridge Road in Raleigh

I'm looking forward to some funnel cake and rides, how about you? Tell us your favorite part of the fair!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 11-12

The weekend's over ... hope it was one full of remembrance, celebration, and a healthy dose of relaxation. On to the show:

• It's a great morning to live in Sanford! Check out either the festival at Greenwood school or SASL's kick-off at the fields -- or do both! Fun for the whole family right here in town.

• Looking for some all-American fun to commemorate the terrorist attacks of 9/11? Take your family out for the All American Cruise in Kendale! It starts at 7 and if you hit up Burgers & Dogs beforehand you can get shakes, burgers, dogs, and more for just $1!

• Here's a glimpse into the lives of the victims of 9-11. Please take a minute to remember everyone who died and made sacrifices to protect our country.

• Don’t forget about the Southern Lee Marching Cavaliers’ dinner and auction tonight. Dinner starts at 5:00, silent auction at 5:30 and live auction at 7:00. Details are in the Marching Band section at this link!

• Tuesday and Thursday are your days to check out the local Boy Scouts packs. Click the image below to find out when and where to go learn more about the pack that meets closest to you.

• Own a local business? We’re looking for small gift certificates and gifts ($5 or more value) to give away for upcoming events. Email us at if you want to donate something and get your name out there!

• Have you entered our Sanford Antique Mall giveaway? You could win $100 just for liking us and liking them! If you've already liked us both, then click on the link and leave a comment on the blog! The drawing is tomorrow.

• Thinking about Halloween already? You don't have to wait until October. A Few Brains More Extras is shooting one last time and anyone can go Zombie out!

• Check out Sanford’s own Noelle Marsh tonight on the MTV music awards (starts at 9pm). She is performing with Lady Gaga and playing a violin with Eminem!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 10

There's a lot to do tomorrow -- including a festival at Greenwood Elementary, the Sanford Area Soccer League's season kick off, and a honey celebration. Don't miss a minute of fun!

• Did you see the heartwarming story of Maggie and Mimi in today's The Sanford Herald? We have such invaluable resources in Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption and it's dedicated volunteers (like Abbey Lindauer, who's quoted in the article)!

• Congratulations to JR Ingram Elementary school on winning a $5,000 technology grant from Windstream thanks to Ms. Collazo’s 4th grade class’ video submission!

• It’s karaoke night at The Flame Steakhouse starting at 9 pm. What’s your favorite song to sing?

• Plan to hit Greenwood Elementary tomorrow starting at 9:30am for a family festival that will feature exhibits, crafts, games, live music and more. Read all about it in this The Sanford Herald article.

• Make time tomorrow morning for a silent auction to benefit Sanford Area Soccer League's new Grow. Build. Play. campaign. The party starts at 9am at the fairgrounds’ soccer fields. More details here.

• Making plans for the weekend? If you’ll be in Chapel Hill, check out the South Estes Farmer’s Market’s Honey Bee Celebration from 8am-noon. There will be an observational hive and lots of local raw honey!

• Start preparing now for “Litter Sweep” time in Lee County (Sept 18-Oct 2)! Organize a clean up for area roads, parks, and other common areas. Let’s keep our streets and neighborhoods looking good!

 Have a great weekend!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 9

The week's almost over, but there's still lots to do before Saturday!

• Interested in learning how best to use locally grown produce? Check out The Produce Lady's monthly newsletter! This month's focus is on apples.

• The kids are back in school but summer's not yet over. Head by Depot Park tonight at 7pm to hear classic rock and beach music by the Heart of Carolina (Jazz). This is the last night of the summer concert series.

• Santa is coming to Somethin' Blue! Message them if you are interested in scheduling a private Santa Portrait Session. These sessions are very, very limited!

• Already thinking about Friday? Go get your dance on with the Sanford Area Society of Shaggers! Their monthly social starts at 8pm at the VFW and costs $5, which includes beach music, shagging, line dancing, and snacks.

• Have you entered our Sanford Antique Mall giveaway? “Like” us and “like” them, then go leave a comment on the blog to be entered to win $100!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 3-8

This is a doozy of a wrap-up, so prepare yourself. Lots of goodies and opportunities included, though -- such as shagging, books, giveaways, festivals, music, food, and more! And after you read, make sure you go enter our $100 giveaway to the Sanford Antique Mall!

• Don't throw away your old or unneeded office supplies! Communities in Schools of Lee County can use them in the Teacher Resource Room, which supports and provides resources for teachers and schools across the county. The room is located on the East Lee campus and will take anything you're willing to share!

• If you have friends or family living in Carolina Trace, you must check out the Carolina Trace Lakefest today. Performances include the Temple Teens and Carolina Dock Dogs, but there will also be face painting, boating, wine tasting, and lots of demonstrations.

• Those with an arts & crafts themed business will want to go ahead and reserve your spot for Jubi-Lee - Downtown Sanford Fall Festival. It’s slated for Oct. 23 and will feature a children’s area, main stage, second stage, and more! Contact Downtown Sanford for vendor details!

• Have you entered our Tea Room Treasures giveaway yet? Remember -- you must like us and them, and enter a comment on our blog. Easy peasy!

• How are you celebrating your holiday weekend? If you have friends or family in Carolina Trace then don't forget to check out their Lakefest Celebration today!

• If you are consigning with Kids Kloset then get to taggin! Alicia is hosting a tagging contest this weekend, the winner gets $50 in Kids Kloset Dollars!!!

• If you are looking for a fun-filled day on the water check out Fantasy Lake. It's about an hour drive, fun for the whole family, you can bring in your own food and drinks, shaded picnic areas, and the best thing...it's not overly crowded!

• Here's a great way for your children to learn guitar, banjo, fiddle, and mandolin: Sharpe Store Music is holding a 12-week session to learn all these instruments as well as voice and dance! The classes will be on Thursdays from 4-6 pm at Goldston United Methodist Church. That's totally worth the drive!

• If you haven't donated your children's books to the Coalition for Families in Lee County yet, now's the time. If you do it at Added Accents, you'll get a 15% discount on any regular priced item. You can also donate directly to the Coalition.

• Will you be attending the Kids Kloset consignment sale? If so, make sure you register for a 10-minute photo session with Amy Smith right in the store on Sept. 23. You'll get 5 photos and digital images with the rights to print for $25. The details are over on the Kids Kloset Facebook page!

• Want to win a jelly watch? Head over to Southern Jewelers to find out how to enter their contest for a free jelly watch of your choice. The drawing is Sept. 8!

• Today and today only...20% off of any Crooked Pigtails purchase. So don't miss out on this awesome deal!!! Click here to place your custom order.

• Learn more about Central Carolina Community College’s newly launched Center for Creative Retirement at a special event on Wednesday, Sept. 8 from 10am-noon at the Civic Center. Also at the event will be a brief history of Lee County, information about an upcoming wine tour, and a presentation on financial literacy.

• Want to win a wristband for the Sanford Lions Club-Lee Regional Fair? Check out Pegram Prevatte Insurance of Sanford. They're kicking off a wristband promotion on Wednesday starting at 11am. Go eat a free hot dog and find out how you can win!

• If you have a loved one serving in Iraq or Afghanistan then head over to Operation Salsa Drop and register for them to receive free salsa from Flaming Amy’s. I highly recommend the "Shock 'N' Awesome" Pineapple Jalapeno Salsa, it was a staple of mine in college.

• Anyone living downtown in Rosemount-McIver is encouraged to join the new Community Watch group. Stay informed, and tell all your neighbors.

• The Southern Lee Marching Cavaliers are holding a dinner and auction on September 11. Dinner starts at 5:00, silent auction at 5:30 and live auction at 7:00. Check out the Marching Band section on www.Cavalierboosters.com for more information!

• Are you ready for The Temple Theatre Company's 2010-2011 season? It kicks off on Sept. 16 with everyone's favorite -- "Chicago." Read all about it in today's The Sanford Herald!

• The Carolina Farm Stewards program needs volunteers for the Eastern Triangle Farm Tour (Sept. 18-19). If you were planning to go or wouldn't mind helping out, give them a shout. Volunteers help out at a farm one afternoon and get a free carload pass for the other afternoon as well as a t-shirt. Get details at the link!

• The Sanford Lions Club - Lee Regional Fair kicks off next week. Get your ride armbands in advance for $3 cheaper ($14 instead of $17) at Piggly Wiggly. Remember to bring cash!

• La Dolce Vita Pizzeria is giving a $5 discount off your order until 9/11. Head over to their page to take advantage of this offer.

• Want to learn to shag? Head over the VFW tomorrow night at 6:30 pm for lessons from two of the Sanford Area Society of Shaggers' professional division dancers. Lessons are just $20/month!

Whew! We hope you take advantage of these great offers and events!

A New Giveaway: Sanford Antique Mall

When I stopped by Sanford Antique Mall to take pictures for this post a couple of weeks ago, it wasn't my first time in the store. I'd been there before, and Jenks Youngblood (one of the owners) recognized me right away. It's that kind of customer service that makes me want to return to a store again and again. Not only that, but they have an absolutely gigantic space filled with gorgeous antique furniture, books, jewelry, clothing, and other various items. As I walked around, I loved seeing little pieces of history...the brooch that must have been a woman's treasured possession, the stove that was used to make meals for a family and the dishes it was served upon, the camera that took photos of loved ones. It's a more personal history than that in textbooks, more real because it was lived by ordinary people like me.

If you enjoy antiques, stop by Sanford Antique Mall and browse their 18,000 square foot facility. I guarantee you'll find something you can't live without. Just one warning, though...if you see something you love, you'd better grab it! With 75 dealer spaces, inventory is constantly changing and there's no guarantee it will be there when you get back. I can't tell you how many times I've said I'll go back for something only to find it's been sold. I've learned my lesson...best not to wait if you find something you really want. Of course, that just gives me an excuse to go more often, much to my husband's chagrin!

Sanford Antique Mall is located in the middle of downtown Sanford, right across from Depot Park on Moore Street. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 5:30pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.

Now for the giveaway details! This is a big one that you will not want to pass up. Jenks gave me a $100 gift certificate to give away to a lucky "Socialite" who follows these directions:

1. Make sure you "like" SocialSanford on Facebook.
2. Head over to Sanford Antique Mall's Facebook page and "like" them, too.
3. Leave a comment on this blog post. We must have a way to contact you (a Facebook name or email address are best) and you must be able to pick up your prize in Sanford.

That's all you have to do to be entered! We'll draw the winner on Monday, September 13 at 10pm. Easy peasy, right? Good luck!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 2

Lots of info packed into this post, including a couple giveaways, some discounts, a video, and a talent contest. Make sure you read it all!

• Just because you didn't win our martial arts giveaway doesn't mean your family can't benefit from this local activity. If you join Black Belt Leadership Academy this month, you'll get the first month and your uniform for only $49 -- that's $85 off the normal price! Head over to their page for details.

• As we go into a holiday weekend, think about those less fortunate and what YOU can do to give back to our local community. Christians United Outreach Center of Lee County is a great place to start. This video shows why.

• Would you like to be part of the SocialSanford team? We’re looking for another team member who can help keep this page updated as well as post blog entries about all the fun and fabulous goings-on in our area. Shoot us an email if you’re interested!

• Looking for some fun entertainment this evening? Check out the finale of the “Hamerican Idol” contest at Ham’s starting at 8pm where the winner will get $400 in local gift cards. While you’re there, asking about the upcoming “Hamerica’s Got Talent” contest!

• Want to win a wristband for the Sanford Lions Club - Lee Regional Fair ($17 value)? Stop by Second Glance Boutique and register. While you're there, stock up on summer items for next year at 60% off!

• You only have a few more days to enter our Tea Room Treasures giveaway. Remember -- commenting on Facebook isn’t enough. You must click the link and comment on the blog to enter the contest! We’ll choose a winner on Monday.

Tomorrow's Friday. Let's celebrate!

Found on Facebook, Sept. 1

The first day of the month always feels like a fresh start, but can you believe it's September already? This year is flying by!

• Lee County Parks & Rec still has space in its Monday morning gymnastics class for preschoolers, as well as several other classes throughout the week. Give them a ring to sign your child up at 774-6445 or 776-0501 ext 201. These are the most affordable classes in town!

• Expect interruption in the water service for Fields Drive and Vance Street areas today and Thursday due to water construction. Your water may be discolored or have low pressure, but will return to normal on Friday, according to City of Sanford.

• Interested in estate planning? The Enrichment Center is holding an estate planning seminar on Tuesday, Sept. 7 at 10 am (no lunch provided). The seminar is free, but seating is limited. Call 888-239-9054 to reserve your spot before space fills up.

• Did you see the great giveaway for $10 to Tea Room Treasures? From back-to-school and teacher gifts to early Christmas shopping, there’s something for everyone. Make sure you enter to win!

Let's make it a good September!