Found on Facebook, Feb. 26-28

Thanks again to Black Belt Leadership Academy for donating a $15 gift certificate to a local restaurant for our giveaway winner -- Lesley Edwards! Our one-year anniversary is right around the corner, so stay tuned for another round of great prizes!

Posted today:

• Don't forget about tonight's "Education After Hours" at the McSwain Center. School board members will discuss state budget cuts and their effect on local education decisions. Refreshments will be served at 5pm and the program begins at 5:30pm.

• Wondering what's for dinner? Head over to Sanford Academy for a chili fundraiser for conditioning equipment. Taste testing is $3 and taste testing plus a bowl of your choice is $5 ($3 for children). Yum!

• Clear your schedule for tomorrow so you can stop by Steele Street Cafe to learn more about Sanford's first Walk With Me event to benefit Easter Seals UCP. There will be food, prizes, and the chance to learn more about the local Easter Seals program. The fun starts at 5:30pm!

Posted on Sunday:

• Great work, Socialites! We've hit 1,700 likes ... and our suggester-extraordinaire is LESLEY EDWARDS! You'll get a $15 gift certificate to a local restaurant courtesy of Black Belt Leadership Academy!

• Looking for a cool activity for your artistic teen? Try Sociable Art's teen painting classes on Wednesday nights (7:30-8:30pm). The cost is $15/class and they'll complete a painting every 2 classes.

Posted on Saturday:

• Get out and hear some great music in Sanford tonight! Joe Michaels & Co will be at The Flame Steakhouse and Rob Matthews will be at Steele Street Cafe tonight starting around 9pm. What a great way to cap off a great day!

• Head over to Page Law Office (4-6pm, 315 W. Courtland Dr) for a Thirty-One Spring/Summer First Glance Open House! You'll get food, music, and door prizes while checking out some great products, including a kids line. This is a "come and see event," so you don't have to buy anything -- it's always fun to look!

• Help the Southern Brotherhood MC raise money for Brandon Noble by participating in a benefit ride (11:30am, Gunter Lakes Rd). The cost is $10/bike or car ($5/passenger). Don't want to ride? Go back at 2pm to buy a chicken plate! (Update: The SBMC surpassed their $500 goal!)

Found on Facebook, Feb 25

We're only a few likes away from 1,700! The person who suggests the most friends will win a prize -- but only if those new Socialites leave a comment saying who sent them. Remind them to post your name so you'll be in the running!

• Craving pancakes? There will be two breakfast fundraisers at Applebee's this weekend from 7-10am. Tickets for Saturday are $7 and benefit CCCC's Phi Beta Lamda. Sunday is $5 and benefits the American Red Cross' disaster services.

• Check out a FREE African-American film series this weekend from 1-6pm each day (Jordan-Matthews High School in Siler City on Saturday, Fearrington Barn in Pittsboro on Sunday). There will be a keynote discussion as well as Q-and-As for each film.

• Registration for Deep River/Northview Optimist's spring baseball/softball season has started. You can register at 3401 Hawkins Ave tomorrow (9am-1pm) or sign up online at the link below (deadline is early March).

• Looking for gymnastics, tumbling, and trampoline classes? There are still spaces left in Sanford A Gym's 4pm classes for the Spring session (3 months). Classes cost $60 for 1 class/week and they begin on Monday. Call 776-1496 for details or to sign up!

• Want a free "Twist of Lime" Margarita bucket? Go like Tastefully Simple with Shannon Holder. When she hits 100 fans, someone gets a tasty prize!

Found on Facebook, Feb 24

We're only a few likes away from 1,700! The person who suggests the most friends will win a prize -- but only if those new Socialites leave a comment saying who sent them. Remind them to post your name so you'll be in the running!

• Heads up, ladies -- G-Force Kenpo Karate is holding a FREE self defense seminar for women tomorrow (6-7pm). You'll learn simple, effective techniques that anyone can perform. Call 776-2448 for more information.

• ‎Communities In Schools of Lee County is looking for a few volunteers to help with BackPack Pals on the 4th Thursday of March and May (9:45-11:45am). If you're interested let them know via email at cisleedirector@windstream.net.

• Hey, birdwatchers and green thumbs -- You'll want to attend Big Bloomers Flower Farm's "Gardening for Our Feathered Friends" seminar this Saturday starting at 11am. While you're there you can pick up all the supplies you'll need to get started!

• The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sanford/Lee County is offering a Family Fun Night tomorrow from 6-9pm. There will be free food, door prizes, and 3-on-3 basketball for the kids, and an information session about mental health and the club's programs for parents.

• The March 23rd Sociable Art "Wine, Art & Appetizers" painting class at the Steele Street Cafe is already half full. Be sure you register fast so you don't miss out on a great night out. The Marching painting will be sailboats.

Found on Facebook, Feb 23

We're only 13 likes away from 1,700! How about a fun giveaway? Suggest this page to your friends. After they "like" SocialSanford, have them comment on THIS status with YOUR name. The suggester whose name appears most often will win a prize! (If you don't see a "Suggest to Friends" link in the sidebar, simply message your friends and direct them to find us at http://www.facebook.com/sanfordsocial!)

• Need some non-kid time? Boomers Party & Play is hosting a Parents Night Out on Friday from 6-10pm. Click the link for details!

• Another beekeeping opportunity! The Harnett County Beekeepers Association is sponsoring a beginners course on March 16, 23, and 30. Registration is limited to 25 students and costs $15. Contact Don at (910) 797-4561 or dferrara@charter.net to get signed up before the spots are taken!

• Get $20 worth of reusable bags for just $10 -- and support a local school -- with this cool Mamapedia deal. (If you don’t have a loyalty to any school, how about using code 3VU4 to support Edwards?)

• Use Facebook for good! Go like Crossroads Ford Wake Forest to help out the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. For every new like they get this month, they'll donate $1 to the foundation!

Found on Facebook, Feb 22

We're only 13 likes away from 1,700! How about a fun giveaway? Suggest this page to your friends. After they "like" SocialSanford, have them comment on THIS status with YOUR name. The suggester whose name appears most often will win a prize! (If you don't see a "Suggest to Friends" link in the sidebar, simply message your friends and direct them to find us at http://www.facebook.com/sanfordsocial!)

• Do you have little (or big) superheroes at home? You have to take them to see the "Illustrators" exhibit featuring Batman, Superman, and other superheroes that will be on display at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County's building this Friday from 7-9pm.

• Learn time management skills and strategies at a Small Business Center lunch & learn this Thursday at the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce. The workshop runs 11:30am-1:30pm and costs $10. Register at 919-774-6442 or e-mail sbc@cccc.edu.

• ‎The Temple Theatre Company's ambassadors get a sneak preview of the upcoming show Proof tonight. Want to be a member of this group? Contact Jordan at 774-4512 x221.

Found on Facebook, Feb 21

• Did you notice our round up of Zumba classes? You'll find all the Zumba classes happening in our area -- perfect for taking advantage of the Spring Fever this weather has surely incited.

• Heads up, parents -- The second Lee County Schools forum is tomorrow night at Southern Lee. The forum is to discuss funding cuts and how the schools will absorb them. The last forum is Thursday night at Broadway Elementary. Both start at 6:30pm.

• If you're looking for a different kind of workout, now's the time to try Phalanx Sanford. They have 2 spots left to take advantage of $15 off your registration fee. Click over to their page to see what it's all about!

• Make sure you support local high school student American Red Cross - Queen of Hearts 2011 - Anna Johns' Quidditch fundraiser tonight at the Armory (5pm, McIver Street). Tickets are $5/adult, $3/child. Sounds like a good time (especially for Harry Potter fans)!

• If you've been wanting to try Umami Sanford, here's a great deal! You'll get $40 worth of food for just $20 via Groupon. Yum!
  

• Teachers -- take advantage of your day off to do some shopping in Communities In Schools of Lee County's Resource Room. It's open from 9am-5pm today!

Get Fit with Zumba

Sanford's love of Zumba has come a long way since we first profiled First Baptist Church's classes back in August of 2010. While our tips for enjoying the work out remain the same, your options for taking classes have expanded. Take a look:

Carolina Women's Fitness, 999 Center Church Road, Sanford NC
Class times: Wednesdays (5:30pm) and Saturdays (9am)
Price: Free with membership.
Specials: Law enforcement, city or state employee, student, and senior discounts available.
Contact: 919-775-5811 or email Beth.

Curves of Sanford, 2505 Jefferson Davis Hwy (US1S), Sanford NC
Price: Free with membership.
Specials: n/a
Contact: 919-776-1155

First Baptist Church, 202 Summit Drive, Sanford NC
Class times: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (5pm) and Saturdays (9:30am)
Price: $1 per class.
Specials: n/a
Contact: 919-776-6137

Jonesboro UMC, 407 W. Main Street, Sanford NC
Class times: Tuesdays (5:30-6:30pm)
Price: $1 per person per class
Specials: n/a
Contact: 919-775-7023

Olympic Fitness, 1701 Broadway Road, Sanford NC
Price: View membership rates here.
Specials: Law enforcement, city or state employee, student, and senior discounts available.
Contact: (919) 258-5188

Party Fitness with Nel at First Presbyterian Church, Hawkins Avenue, Sanford NC
Class times: Tuesdays and Thursdays (6-7pm)
Price: $1 per class
Specials: Free childcare provided.
Contact: 919-721-4436

Party Fitness with Nel at St Luke UMC, 2916 Wicker Street, Sanford NC
Class times: Mondays and Wednesdays (6:30-7:30pm)
Price: $1 per class
Specials: n/a
Contact: 919-721-4436

Sanford Nautilus and Racquetball Club, 1907 K.M. Wicker Drive, Sanford NC
Price: $5 per class drop-in, click here for all membership options.
Specials: n/a
Contact: 919-774-4532

Studio C Fitness, 1809 Hawkins Avenue, Sanford NC
Price: See pricing breakdown here.
Specials: Your first class is free.
Contact: 919-770-8079 or email Cayce or Jennifer for details.

YMCA-Lee County, 860 Spring Lane, Sanford NC
Price: Free with membership.
Specials: Military discounts available.
Contact: 919-777-9622

Found on Facebook, Feb 17

• Okay, singers -- Now's the time to sign up for the Broadway Idol Contest that will be held during the Broadway Our Way Street Fair on April 16. The entry fee is $20 and only the first 10 entrants will be accepted.

• Love teaching dance? A new family-oriented dance studio is looking for instructors for 2011-2012 sessions. Send your resume and head shot to dancefitnc@gmail.com to apply!

• If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or you suspect s/he might have the disorder, you should attend Growing Child Pediatrics' free workshop tonight (5-7pm) on their ADHD/Fast Braiin program. Check the link for topics that will be covered.

• Want to win something from Amy's CandyGirl Crafts? Go "like" her page -- at 600 fans she'll choose a lucky winner! Note: The giveaway has started -- go enter!

Found on Facebook, Feb 16

• Looking for a free youth group for children ages 8-12? The newest general interest 4H club -- The Avengers -- will meet tomorrow at 6:30pm at the McSwain Center. Any boy or girl in that age range is welcome to attend!

• Women -- learn how to keep your heart healthy at a Central Carolina Hospital community class tonight from 6-7pm. Lukas Jantac, MD, Cardiologist will be the guest speaker for this free class. Register by calling (800) 483-6385.

• If you’re proud of your chili, enter it in the Southern Brotherhood MC's chili cook off this Saturday. You can register at the door (though a heads up would be appreciated) and there will be prizes for People’s Choice and Judges Choice.

Found on Facebook, Feb 15

Don't forget about our Story & Play guide. It includes all kinds of fun and affordable (or free) activities, including tomorrow's toddler story time at the Lee County library!

• If this gorgeous weather makes you want to dance, you won't want to miss the Sanford Area Society of Shaggers' social this Friday at the VFW on Hawkins. The fun starts at 7:30pm with line dancing!

• What's your favorite local venue for a child's birthday party? A Socialite is looking for new ideas -- and we know you have 'em!

• Love truffles (the fungus variety)? You can own your own truffle tree for just $5 from Mellow Marsh Farm in Siler City. They have summer and winter varieties that are ready to be planted now. Call Sharon Day (919-742-1200 or 919-623-3504) to order!

• Don’t forget about the dance and music performance by the Student Art Group from Xiamen University this Sunday at 3pm at the Civic Center. Reserve your ticket ($5; 718-7268) to ensure you’re able to see the show.

Found on Facebook, Feb 12-14

• There are lots of fun activities happening for toddlers and preschoolers in Sanford. Check out our guide to ensure you don't miss any of the fun.

• We've also created a round-up of local blogs. Let us know if you have a blog, or know of a local blog, that isn't on our list!

• Have you signed up for the 7th Annual President's Day Freedom Run? It happens this weekend, so be sure you register today!

• Local crafters -- If you want to sell your wares at Pittsboro's new Saturday Farmers' Market, the deadline to submit your application is tomorrow. The market will run 8am-noon starting April 16.

• Lost dog alert: Keep your eyes open for this pup. The number to call if you find him is listed on the photo.

• Loving this beautiful day? Make it a little better with an early dinner at El Molcajete Authentic Mexican Cuisine -- not only is the food out of this world, Mariachi Amanecer Tapatio will play from 2-6pm.

• Go check out the Overhills High School's (2485 Ray Road in Spring Lake) "WinterFest Step Show" from 5-8pm tonight. Teams from all over, including Sanford, will showcase their talents. Tickets are $7 at the door.

• Girl scout cookie alert! Be on the lookout for a booth in front of Gamestop, outside of Walmart, and in front of other store fronts the next few weekends. Stock up before they're gone!

Plan On These Story & Play Times

Sanford and Lee County offer several wonderful free or low-cost programs that boost fine and gross motor skill development through creative learning and play time. They are:

Skip ahead: Lee County, Chatham County, Harnett County, or Moore County

LEE COUNTY PROGRAMS

Conservation Cubs at San Lee Park
What: Nature themed program that meets twice per month. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. A healthy snack is included.
Where: 572 Pumping Station Road, Sanford NC
When: First and third Wednesday of each month at 10am. Call 919-776-6221 to pre-register.
Who: Preschoolers ages 3 to 5
Cost: $6 per child for one day each month or $10/child for both days.

Kindermusik with Lauren Winkens
What: Music and play for parents and children.
When: Classes are available throughout the week.
Cost: Varies.

Mommy and Me Playgroup at the Y
What: Parents and children meet once a week to play games, sing songs, dance to music, read stories and participate in activities.
Where: Lee County YMCA, 860 Spring Lane, Sanford NC
When: Tuesdays at 10:30am
Who: Children ages 6 months through 5 years
Cost: Free for members, $5 for nonmembers.

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Playgroup
What: Parents participate in educational and/or informative meetings/outings while children play together, participate in crafts, and other activities geared toward them.
Where: St. Luke UMC, 2916 Wicker Street, Sanford NC
When: 2nd Tuesday of each month from 9:30-11:30am from September through April
Who: Preschoolers and their parents
Cost: $2 for the first child and $1 each additional child.

Preschool Story Time
What: Programs last between 20 and 30 minutes and may include stories, finger plays, flannel board stories, crafts, movement, and music.
Where: Lee County Library main branch, 107 Hawkins Avenue, Sanford NC
When: Thursdays at 11am from September through April
Who: Children ages 3 through 6
Cost: Free.

Toddler Story Time
What: Programs last between 20 and 30 minutes and may include stories, finger plays, flannel board stories, crafts, movement, and music.
Where: Lee County Library main branch auditorium, 107 Hawkins Avenue, Sanford NC
When: Wednesdays at 10am from September through April
Who: Children up to age 3
Cost: Free.

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CHATHAM COUNTY PROGRAMS

What: Stories, rhymes, and songs for infants and toddlers.
Where: Chatham Community Library, 197 Highway 87 North, Pittsboro NC
When: Tuesdays at 9:30am
Who: Children under 2 years old
Cost: Free

What: Parents participate in educational and/or informative meetings/outings while children play together, participate in crafts, and other activities geared toward them.
Where: Chatham Community Library, 197 Highway 87 North, Pittsboro NC
When: Tuesdays at 10:30am, Fridays at 10:30am
Who: Preschoolers and their parents
Cost: Free

What: Parents participate in educational and/or informative meetings/outings while children play together, participate in crafts, and other activities geared toward them.
Where: Wren Memorial Library, Siler City NC
When: Tuesdays at 10:30am
Who: Preschoolers and their parents
Cost: Free

What: Parents participate in educational and/or informative meetings/outings while children play together, participate in crafts, and other activities geared toward them.
Where: Goldston Library, Goldston NC
When: Thursdays at 10:30am
Who: Preschoolers and their parents
Cost: Free

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HARNETT COUNTY PROGRAMS

Toddler Story Time
What: Programs last between 20 and 30 minutes and may include stories, finger plays, flannel board stories, crafts, movement, and music.
Where: Harnett County Public Library, 601 S. Main Street, Lillington NC
When: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10am
Who: Children up to age 3
Cost: Free

Preschool Story Time in Coats
What: Programs last between 20 and 30 minutes and may include stories, finger plays, flannel board stories, crafts, movement, and music.
Where: Coats Public Library,243 S. McKinley Street, Coats NC
When: Tuesdays at 11am
Who: Children ages 3 through 6
Cost: Free

Preschool Story Time in Lillington
What: Programs last between 20 and 30 minutes and may include stories, finger plays, flannel board stories, crafts, movement, and music.
Where: Harnett County Public Library, 601 S. Main Street, Lillington NC
When: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11am
Who: Children ages 3 through 6
Cost: Free

Family Story Time
What: Stories and activities geared to appeal to older preschool, primary, and elementary aged children, though all are welcome to attend.
Where: Harnett County Public Library, 601 S. Main Street, Lillington NC
When: Saturdays at 11am
Who: All children and their parents
Cost: Free

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MOORE COUNTY PROGRAMS

Story Time in Carthage
What: Stories and activities
Where: Carthage Library, 101 Saunders Street, Carthage NC
When: Mondays at 10am
Who: All children and their parents/caretakers
Cost: Free

Story Time in Robbins
What: Stories and activities
Where: Robbins Area Library, 161 East Magnolia Drive, Robbins NC
When: Thursdays at 10am
Who: All children and their parents/caretakers
Cost: Free

Story Time in Vass
What: Stories and activities
Where: Vass Area Library, 128 Seaboard Street, Vass NC
When: Every third Thursday at 10am
Who: All children and their parents/caretakers
Cost: Free

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Did we miss your story or playtime for kids? Let us know about it via email or using our submission form!

Sanford Blogs

Sanford is home to many things, but you might not realize how many bloggers have their roots in our "small town."

Here's a comprehensive list of local writers who take the time to share their thoughts, photos, and lives online:

Regularly Updated

• I Am The Mama

• Kim's Thoughts

• Fresh Brewed Conservatism

• Tastefully Simply with Shannon Holder

• The Miller Mix

Infrequently Updated

• Billy Liggett

• Designated Hitter

• Art for the Heart

• Emily Page

• Marquee Marquis Movie Reviews

• Terica's Flower Impressions with Pressed Flowers and Plants

• The Fishing Pipe

Rarely Updated

• Ain't Life Grand

• Anyone Hungry?

Want to be on this list? Email us your site link and we'll make it happen. Also let us know if you don't want to be on this list.

Found on Facebook, Feb. 11

You may have noticed that our Facebook page looks a bit different. You can now find the link for discussions, information, and link in the left column rather than tabs across the top. And SocialSanford.com has gotten an update, as well. Let us know what you think of the changes!

Important: "Most Recent" view is no longer an option for sorting Facebook page updates. Updates now show in order of "importance" -- which means the more an update is liked or commented on, the higher up it will appear. We're looking around for a fix, but in the meantime, scroll around on the page so you don't miss anything!

• Want to try your hand at shooting clays? Deep River Sporting Clays & Shooting School will have targets and food ready for a Fun Shoot tomorrow morning starting at 9am (warm ups) and the course will open at 10am.

• Don't miss out on the chance to win a raffle basket that contains more than $1,000 in merchandise. Contact American Red Cross - Queen of Hearts 2011 - Anna Johns at annajohns94@gmail.com or at the Red Cross (Steele St).

• If you’re interested in exhibiting your products at the Broadway Our Way Street Fair, you’d better schedule your reservation first thing Monday morning. Spaces are filling up fast!

Found on Facebook, Feb. 10

• Wondering what to do for Valentine's Day? Check out our guide!

• Plan to attend the official ribbon cutting ceremony for Books at a Steal today at 4pm. Not only will you be able to browse their selection of books (perfect V-Day gift for a lit buff), you’ll also get food and door prizes!

• Heads up, parents -- You need to attend one of the three community forums Lee County Schools is holding this month to discuss extending the school day and funding cuts. The first forum is tonight at West Lee (6:30pm). The others will be at Southern Lee (Feb. 22) and Broadway Elementary (Feb. 24).

• If you’re thinking about attending the Sandhills Bike Fest this spring, you need to send the organizers a Facebook message with your name to be entered into a contest for a free ticket. They’ll be drawing the winner on Saturday!

• Have you RSVPed for Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption's Holly Fund benefit at the steele pig? For $65 you’ll get a four course meal with wine, live entertainment, and CARA’s own signature cocktail. Email Angie at angie.raley@cara-nc.org before space runs out!

Found on Facebook, Feb. 9

Congratulations to the Black Belt Leadership Academy prize pack winner Pippa Nelson! We are thankful to her for being a loyal Socialite and to BBLA for sponsoring such a great prize.

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, we've posted a round up of events you should take advantage of. Let us know if your business, group, or organization is doing a Valentine's-themed night and we'll add it to the list!

The rest of today's posts were:

• Youth baseball and softball registration is happening now through Feb. 18 at Parks & Rec for players ages 7-18. The cost is only $25. Registration details here!

• Get your tickets now for the upcoming performance of Chinese dances and music by the Student Art Group of Xiamen University. The show is Feb. 20 from 3-4:30pm and costs $5. Seating is limited, so call 718-7268 to reserve your spot!

• To celebrate heart-health month, Central Carolina Hospital is offering FREE screenings, including EKG, lipid panel, blood pressure, BMI, and a health risk assessment. Call 800-483-6385 for dates and times before they fill up!

Sweet in Sanford: A Valentine's Day Round-Up

Looking for fun or romantic ideas to celebrate Valentine's Day this year? Here's our round up of what's happening in Sanford, NC in the next few days:

Thursday, Feb. 10

• Want to brighten an elderly person’s day? Take your child to San-Lee Park’s Nature Center on Thursday (Feb. 10) from 6:30-7:30pm to decorate cookies and make homemade Valentine’s cards for donation to Ashwood Estates. The event is for children ages 3+ and costs $3.Call Jaime Osborne or Carrie Council at 776-6221 to RSVP.

All Weekend

• Here’s an interesting Valentine’s date idea: Take your sweetie to the Open Barn event at Celebrity Dairy in Siler City this weekend. You’ll get to have delicious, local, comfort food and see baby goats! 160 kids will be born in the months leading to Spring.

• Enjoy Valentine's specials at Davison's Steaks. All weekend long (and on Valentine's Day itself), they'll be offering entree specials that lots of tasty food and a complimentary slice of Red Velvet cake -- all served in an intimate setting decorated especially for the holiday.

Saturday, Feb. 12

• Get fancy for Valentine's day at the Broadway Optimist club’s Sweet Heart Ball this Saturday at the Sanford Moose Lodge. Tickets are $25 per person and profits will benefit the group’s youth sports program.

• Support the Temple Theatre Company at Valentine’s Delight, an evening of cocktails and hors d’oeurves at Cafe 121's CHI Thyme Cafe. Get your tickets before they sell out!

• Head over to the Stevens Center for a Valentine Prime Rib Dinner and Silent Auction from 5-7pm. The Karen Huey String Ensemble and the Temple Teens will perform. Order your tickets ($25) at 776-4048 or click here.

• Show Valentine's Day who's boss by attending the Southern Brotherhood MC's Anti-Valentines Party starting at 7pm at their clubhouse on Gunter Lakes Road. There will be dancing and karaoke as well as food and drinks.

• Head downtown to the Steele Street Cafe for a special Valentine's dinner for two ($30) with live music by Sayer and McShane. There will also be drink specials, including a special blueberry martini.

Monday, February 14

• Enjoy Valentine's specials at Davison's Steaks. All weekend long (and on Valentine's Day itself), they'll be offering entree specials that lots of tasty food and a complimentary slice of Red Velvet cake -- all served in an intimate setting decorated especially for the holiday.

• Take your sweetheart out for sushi and wine at Umami Sanford. You'll get an appetizer, entree, and dessert for $25 and all Chatham Wines will be $15 per bottle.

Did we miss a great Valentine's Day opportunity or event? Share it with us via email and we'll get it posted.

Found on Facebook, Feb. 8

Our Black Belt Leadership Academy giveaway is drawing to a close. Make sure you enter before we random select a winner tomorrow night at 10pm. And remember to take advantage of the opportunities to earn extra entries into the drawing by posting about our giveaway on your Facebook age or encouraging your friends to enter!

• Lost dog alert! This pup was found on Hawkins Avenue near the library yesterday. Let us know if he looks familiar. We want to get him home!

• Want to get fancy for Valentine’s day? Consider the Broadway Optimist club’s Sweet Heart Ball this Saturday at the Sanford Moose Lodge. Tickets are $25 per person and profits will benefit the group’s youth sports program.

• Heads up -- effective immediately, the Sheriff’s Department (775-5531) is now your go-to resource for animal cruelty reports, ordinance issues, or enforcement. Animal Control (776-7446) will still handle lost and found pets.

• Looking for a great deal on winter items? Check out Second Glance Boutique where all winter fashions are 50 percent off. It’s not too late to purchase (and maybe donate?) a great winter coat!

Found on Facebook, Feb. 7

Want extra entries for our Black Belt Leadership Academy giveaway? Post on your Facebook page about the giveaway and/or suggest the giveaway to friends. Then leave an additional comment for each one you do to earn more chances to win! There are only 5 entries, so the chances of winning are great!

• Want to support the Red Cross in its efforts to provide safe shelter to local victims of house fires? Check out this local Queen of Hearts candidate, who is working hard to raise both funds and awareness this month!

• Learn how to take your own professional images for websites, brochures, presentations, and more at "Photography for Small Business," a FREE hands-on workshop being held this Thursday at the Civic Center (6:30-9pm). Call 774-6442 to register!

• Here’s an interesting Valentine’s date idea: Take your sweetie to the Open Barn event at Celebrity Dairy in Siler City this weekend. You’ll get to have delicious, local, comfort food and see baby goats! 160 kids will be born in the months leading to Spring. More details here!

Found on Facebook, Feb. 5-6

Want extra entries for our Black Belt Leadership Academy giveaway? Post on your Facebook page about the giveaway and/or suggest the giveaway to friends. Then leave an additional comment for each one you do to earn more chances to win! There are only 5 entries, so the chances of winning are great!

• Have you RSVPed for Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption's Holly Fund benefit at the steele pig? For $65 you’ll get a four course meal with wine, live entertainment, and CARA’s own signature cocktail. Email Angie at angie.raley@cara-nc.org before space runs out!

• Looking for something to do? Go watch the Matilda Jane Clothing Fashion Show at DWA Photography (3pm)! Both childrens and adult sizes will be on display, Added Accents is providing accessories, and refreshments will be served.

• Moncure poet and freelancer Judy Hogan is offering a workshop called “Lifestyle Support for Writers and Artists” (9am-4pm) to help those hoping to make a living off their talents on Feb. 12. Call her at (919) 545-9932 or e-mail judyhogan@mindspring.com for details.

• Heads up, parents -- Want your child to attend a year-round school? Tramway Elementary is holding open enrollment from Feb. 7-18. You must submit an enrollment from to be in the drawing for attendance. Click here for more details!

• Pick up a bag of Purina Puppy Chow for Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption while you're out today. They have many puppies and food is quickly running out. Drop off your donation at Sanford Antique Mall or take it out to them on Tuesday.

• Before you dive into your Superbowl snacks, check out Portion Size Me: 31 Days to Better Health, a project spearheaded by local 10-year-old Marshall Reid. And be sure to “like” the page to be in the running for a free pedometer! Learn more about Marshall’s message here.

Found on Facebook, Feb. 4

Want extra entries for our Black Belt Leadership Academy giveaway? Post on your Facebook page about the giveaway and/or suggest the giveaway to friends. Then leave an additional comment for each one you do to earn more chances to win!

And here's what you missed today:

• Get some retail therapy later today at La Chic Boutique of Sanford. There’ll be refreshments, storewide clearance, giveaways, door prizes, and a new line of jewelry. Plus one lucky person will win a $35 shopping spree! The fun starts at 4pm.

• Head over to a Chicken Plate & Huge Rummage Sale at the Tramway Fire Department tomorrow starting at 11am. Listen to some great bluegrass while you shop and eat. All proceeds benefit Brandon Noble!

• Want to hear great music and support a local cancer patient? Check out the Chris Grogg Benefit at Schooly’s Bar tomorrow from 1-6pm. There will be a full slate of musicians, including Pocket Creek, as well as food and a 50/50 raffle.

• Did you or someone you know attend Lee County Kaleidoscope? They’re looking for memories, pictures, and other “blasts from years past.” Head over and share!

Found on Facebook, Feb. 3

• Want to brighten an elderly person’s day? Take your child to San-Lee Park’s Nature Center on Thursday (Feb. 10) from 6:30-7:30pm to decorate cookies and make homemade Valentine’s cards for donation to Ashwood Estates. The event is for children ages 3+ and costs $3. Click here for RSVP details!

• Support the Temple Theatre Company on Saturday, Feb. 12 at Valentine’s Delight, an evening of cocktails and hors d’oeurves at Cafe 121's CHI Thyme Cafe. Get your tickets before they sell out!

• Make sure you get your Groupon on ... $10 tickets to see Crowns or Proof at the Temple Theatre Company. Look in the sidebar at this link.

• Craving a taste of summer? The Maters and Taters 4H group is selling blueberry bushes for $6 each. The deadline to order is Feb. 15 and the bushes will arrive in late March. Email teribclark@gmail.com for more info or click here!

• Clear your schedule for tomorrow so you can attend “Stories for Grown Ups,” the 2nd of a 3-part series happening at Bynum General Store (7-9pm). The stories are appropriate for teens, too.

• Support the Stevens Center at a Valentine Prime Rib Dinner and Silent Auction on Feb. 12 (5-7pm). The Karen Huey String Ensemble and the Temple Teens will perform. Order your tickets ($25) at 776-4048 or click the link!

Found on Facebook, Feb. 2

• We have a new sponsor: Black Belt Leadership Academy! Know what’s even better? The giveaway worth $500 we’re hosting for them -- check it out!

• Support the children of Ethiopia tomorrow by attending "Jewelry Show with a Purpose" at Cafe 121. Host Deanna Bridges will donate all profits from the show, Premier Designs will match a portion of sales, and Chef Hamm will donate a portion of each bill to The Forsaken Children.

• This month's Sociable Art class at Steele Street Cafe is filling up. Register now to paint your own 16x20 canvas in just two hours on Feb. 23. The cost $35 and includes all supplies, instruction, and an appetizer.

• Want to eat out tonight? Check out the steele pig. They’re offering a "beat the workweek blues" special every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 1 appetizer, 2 entrees, and 1 dessert for only $30. Sounds like a great day-after-Valentine’s-day option, too!

• Wondering whether you should enter our giveaway of a Black Belt Leadership Academy prize pack worth $500? Take a look at what their students are learning (and how much they enjoy it)!

• If your little one is selling Girl Scout cookies, head over to Willow Creek Animal Hospital. They’ll order 2 boxes from every Sanford scout who goes to the hospital with a parent. You can’t beat that deal!

Don't have much time to spend on Facebook? Click here to see our daily round up of status updates.

Black Belt Leadership Academy: A Giveaway

If your kiddos are like mine and self-control or self-discipline is the top struggle in your home, then you'll be excited by today's giveaway by our brand new sponsor, Black Belt Leadership Academy.

Master Jeremy Jackson is giving one lucky Socialite a prize pack worth $500! You already know how much a child benefits from participating in martial arts. With this giveaway, you'll be able to see those benefits first-hand -- completely risk (and cost) free!

The giveaway includes:

• 1 uniform,
• 3 months of martial arts training,
• 2 buddy passes,
• 1 VIP family pass,
• 1 private lesson, and
• a pizza party!!!

HOW TO ENTER: To be considered for this giveaway worth $500, you must:

• Go "like" the Black Belt Leadership Academy’s Facebook page.

• Go "like" the SocialSanford Facebook page.

• Leave a comment on this post telling us how your child or family would benefit from martial arts.

If you don't complete all three steps, you will not be eligible to win.

Deadline: We will draw a winner at random on Wednesday, Feb. 9 at 10pm.

Thank you to Black Belt Leadership Academy for offering this giveaway and for sponsoring SocialSanford. Contact us if you'd like to be a sponsor!

Update: Want extra entries? Post on your Facebook page about the giveaway and/or suggest the giveaway to friends. Then leave an additional comment for each one you do to earn more chances to win! Remember to complete the first three required steps first!

Update #2: Congratulations to our winner - #7 Pippa Nelson! This giveaway has officially ended.

Found on Facebook, Jan. 31-Feb. 1

• Heads up, parents -- Books at a Steal's very first "Preschool Reading Time" will be tomorrow at 11am. This will be a weekly activity that's free and open to everyone!

• There’s a new resource for military personnel and their families (including veterans). The American Red Cross is offering you FREE certification in CPR/First Aid, babysitting, and pet CPR/First Aid through March 15. Register now at 774-6857.

• Sweeten a soldier's life this Valentine's day by sending cake truffles! For $6 each, Cake-A-Doodle-Do will send a dozen cake truffles to soldiers in Iraq and other areas. The cost will cover ingredients, packaging, and shipping. The last day to order is Feb. 4!

• Heads up, history buffs -- Local author Suzy Barile will be reading from her new non-fiction book Undaunted Heart: The True Story of a Southern Belle & A Yankee General tonight (6:30pm) at the Cary Public Library.

• Tonight is “Developing the Whole Child” at Tramway Elementary (5-7pm). Go learn about all the community resources available to help enhance your child’s academic, physical, social, and emotional growth. There will also be a Valentine’s day craft, a book fair, and performance by the Temple Teens.

• It’s American Heart Month! Head over to Walgreens for a free blood pressure test any day this month. Better yet -- take a friend or two with you!

Don't have much time to spend on Facebook? Click here to see our daily round up of status updates.