Moore County Connect Newsletter Issue #080 12/19/23

Moore News More Often

In Today’s Issue…

🌤 Moore County NC Weather

❔ Carolina Curiosity Trivia

👉 Would You Like Your Business Spotlighted here?

📰 UNC Basketball Mourns the Loss of Eric Montross

📰 The Ultimate Guide to Last-Minute Local Christmas Shopping

📰 Teenager and Juvenile Charged in May Armed Home Invasion in Pinehurst

📰 Another Head-On Collision on U.S. Highway 15-501 

📰 Fields Rd Closure (Pinehurst)

📰 Town Anouncements & Notifications

🤝 Local business Partners

🏀 Local Sports - Schedules and Live Feed Links

📅 Local Events

🎉 Celebrate! Today is…

Question: What was the original name of Winston-Salem?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

UNC Basketball Mourns the Loss of Eric Montross

Eric Montross, a cherished former UNC basketball big man and key member of their 1993 national championship team, has died at 52 after a battle with cancer. Montross, known for his contributions on and off the court, was a beloved figure at UNC, remembered as much for his character and community impact as for his athletic prowess. After a successful college career, he played nine seasons in the NBA and was a long-time commentator for UNC's radio network. Montross passed away on Sunday, December 17 at his home in Chapel Hill. See full details on ESPN.com

The Ultimate Guide to Last-Minute Local Christmas Shopping

It's that time of year again! The streets are aglow with festive lights, the air is filled with the scent of pine and gingerbread, and the holiday tunes are in full swing. But wait, there's a tiny Grinch lurking in the corner of your holiday cheer – those last few gifts you need to purchase and there’s hardly any time left to shop. Fear not! Our guide is here to rescue you from the clutches of gift-giving despair with last-minute, locally sourced ideas that are sure to bring joy and surprise.

A Taste of Local Flavor: Gourmet Goodies Galore! Why not dive into the delicious world of local artisan foods? Visit a nearby farmers' market or a local gourmet shop and assemble a basket of local delicacies. Think along the lines of handcrafted chocolates, artisan cheeses, homemade jams, or a selection of local craft beers or wines. Each bite or sip will remind them of the unique flavors of your community.

Experience the Magic: Gift an Adventure! Experiences can be far more memorable than physical gifts. How about a gift certificate for a local escape room adventure, a pottery-making class, or a wine-tasting tour at a nearby vineyard? These experiences not only support local businesses but also create unforgettable memories.

Pamper with Local Luxury: Spa and Wellness Treats Everyone loves a bit of pampering, especially during the hectic holiday season. A gift certificate to a local spa, massage therapist, or a yoga studio offers a slice of relaxation and is a thoughtful way to encourage your loved one to take some time for themselves.

Artisan Crafts: A Touch of Local Artistry Local craft fairs and art galleries are treasure troves of unique gifts. From hand-painted ornaments to bespoke jewelry, these one-of-a-kind pieces not only support local artists but also provide a gift that truly stands out.

Bookworm’s Delight: A Journey through Local Bookstores For the avid reader, nothing beats a good book. Swing by your local independent bookstore and pick up the latest bestseller, a beloved classic, or a book about local history or landmarks. Pair it with a cozy, hand-knit scarf from a local artisan for the perfect winter reading session.

Green Thumbs Up: Plant a Little Love Visit a local nursery and pick out a beautiful houseplant or a set of unique, locally made planters. Plants are a wonderful way to bring a bit of nature indoors and can brighten up any space.

The Gift of Time: Customized Local Services Consider gifting services that offer convenience and personalization. How about a voucher for a local cleaning service, meal delivery from a favorite local restaurant, or a personalized styling session at a local boutique? These thoughtful gifts provide not just a service but also the luxury of time.

Music to Their Ears: Local Concert Tickets Check out local music venues or community theaters for upcoming concerts or plays. Tickets to a live performance offer an exciting night out and support the local arts scene.

Fitness Frenzy: Local Gym or Class Passes For the fitness enthusiast, a pass to a local gym or a set of classes at a nearby studio can be the perfect motivator for the New Year. From yoga to kickboxing, there’s something for everyone.

The Gift of Giving: Donate in Their Name Finally, for the person who has everything, consider making a donation to a local charity in their name. This gift of giving not only warms the heart but also benefits the community.

Remember, the best gifts are not always the biggest or the most expensive. They are thoughtful, unique, and show that you care. So, this Christmas, skip the online shopping frenzy and take a stroll through your local community. You’ll be surprised at the hidden gems you’ll find, and you’ll be spreading the holiday spirit right where it’s needed most. Happy local shopping! 🎄🎁🛍️

Teenager and Juvenile Charged in May Armed Home Invasion in Pinehurst

In May of 2023, a juvenile at a Pinehurst residence on Murdocksville Rd. faced a horrifying home invasion by three masked individuals carrying handguns. On December 14, the Southern Pines Police Department apprehended Cameron McNeil, a 19-year-old from Southern Pines. A 14-year-old juvenile has also been charged with multiple crimes related to this case. Following his arrest, the Pinehurst Police Department formally charged McNeil with multiple felonies. McNeil is currently detained on a $500,000 bond.

Police are asking anyone with additional information about this crime please call an anonymous tip line: 910-420-1654 Source: Village of Pinehurst Government

Another Head-On Collision on U.S. Highway 15-501

A second head-on collision within a week partially closed U.S. Highway 15-501 in Carthage Thursday evening. The crash between a Chevrolet Colorado and a Jeep occurred near the site of a recent fatal accident. Emergency services rescued the Chevrolet's driver, who sustained minor injuries, while the Jeep's driver was unharmed. See full details Sandhills Sentinel.

Fields Rd Closure (Pinehurst)

Duke Energy is working and has closed Fields Rd in Pinehurst between Dundee Rd. and Cherokee Rd. The work has extended to today, Dec. 18 from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please avoid the area if possible. Source: Village of Pinehurst Government

Holiday Anouncements & Notifications

Town of Aberdeen: Administrative Offices will be closed Monday, Dec 25 - Wednesday, Dec 27 in observance of Christmas. No garbage collection on the days the Town offices are closed. The makeup schedule for each day will be:

 Dec 25 garbage will be picked up on Wednesday, January 3.
Dec 26 garbage will be picked up on the next regularly scheduled day.
Dec 27 garbage will be picked up on the next regularly scheduled day.

Vass: No garbage pickup Dec. 25. Garbage will be picked up Tues Dec. 26.

Southern Pines Public Library: Closed Dec 23-26 and Dec 31-Jan 1

Moore County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services: Closed Dec 23-27. For animal emergencies call 910-937-2931

Click the logos to learn more about our Business Partners.

Would you like to have your Moore County business featured here in our Local Business Spotlight? We would love to share your business with the rest of Moore County. You can apply for your own business or nominate a business!

👇 Select an Option:

 ✅ Own a local Business? Apply to be featured.

  ❤ Love a local business? Nominate them.

Sandhills Community College Men’s Basketball

Watch home games live on the Stretch Internet Portal.

• Jan. 3 at Davidson-Davie CC 7pm

Watch Local High School Sports via Live Stream

You should be able to find live stream links to some of our local high school games and matches on the National Federation of High School Associations website 👉 https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/

North Moore Mustangs - Upcoming

• Men’s Varsity Basketball

• Women’s Varsity Basketball

• Wrestling

Union Pines High School Vikings - Upcoming

• Men’s Basketball

• Women’s Basketball

• Men’s Wrestling

   

• Indoor Track

  • Dec 29 Polar Bear Meet at Pinecrest 9am

• Swimming

Pinecrest High School Patriots - Upcoming

• Men’s Basketball

• Women’s Basketball

• Men’s & Women’s Wrestling

  • Dec 21-22 Tiger Holiday Classic at Chapel Hill High 8am

• Indoor Track

  • Dec 29 Polar Bear #3 at Pinecrest

• Swimming

Father Vincent Capodanno High School Grunts - Upcoming

• Men’s Basketball

• Women’s Basketball

• December 19

  • North Carolina Symphony Holiday Pops 7:30pm Robert E. Lee Auditorium at Pinecrest High School Get Tickets Here.

• December 20

  • Santa Paws in Martin Park for Furry Friends 10am-12noon Picture, Treats, & More 350 Commerce Ave. So. Pines

• December 23

  • Vintage Popup Market 9am at High Octane, Aberdeen

  • Holiday FarmHer’s Market Popup 1-3pm 5814 Glendon Carthage Rd, Carthage

• Nightly through December 31 

  • Holly Jolly Lights 5-10pm 135 Fox Run Rd , Pinehurst (Christmas Light Show and Display)

• December 31

  • First Eve Annual Pine Cone Drop 6-8pm Downtown Southern Pines

• January 6

  • Moore Area Shag Society Monthly Social 7-10pm at Down Memory Lane, Aberdeen

  • Kid’s Saturday at Given Memorial Library (Monthly Themed Craft Event)

ONGOING…

Monday Nights

• Southern Soul Line Dancing; Beginner 6pm; Intermediate 7:15pm; $10pp at The Roast Office (95 Cherokee Rd. Pinehurst

First Saturday of the month 

• Moore Area Shag Society Monthly Social 7-10pm at Down Memory Lane, Aberdeen ($10 Members, $15 Guests)

• Kid’s Saturday at Given Memorial Library (Monthly Themed Craft Event)

Answer: The Twin City