ARRAY Media Magazine May 2024

ARRAY ARRAY

ROOTS. DIVERSITY. GROWTH. COMMUNITY. ROOTS. DIVERSITY. GROWTH. COMMUNITY.

Nurturers

ARRAY

THISMONTH’SLOCALHIGHLIGHT:

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Wearecurrentlylookingfortalentedwriterslikeyou Ifyou’relocaltotheFayettevilleareaand haveagreatstorytoshare,sendanemailto:ebony@arraync.com

AMessage FromOur CEO&Senior Publisher

As Mother's Day approaches, I'm mindful that this day can evokearangeofemotions-especiallyforthosemissingtheir lovedonesdearly Forme,myheartmissesmybeautifulangel - my daughter, Angela. She was a devoted mother, daughter, andfriend.

During this season, know that it's okay to feel a mixture of emotions – from nostalgia to sadness, from gratitude to longing. Each sentiment is a testament to the deep bond you share with those you love. And while we may not be able to change our circumstances, we can cherish the memories we holddearandfindsolaceinthelovethatcontinuestoresonate withinus

As we honor mothers around the world, let's also extend our compassion to those who may find this day and season bittersweet.Yourfeelingsarevalid,andyouaresurroundedby acommunitythatunderstandsandempathizeswithyou.

Peace, love, and blessings to you all. Take care of yourself and eachother.

CELEBRATING OUR HEROES: INTERNATIONAL FIREFIGHTER'S DAY

This month, we don our hats, raise our banners, and light up the skies with gratitude as we celebrate the fearless heroes who rush into the flames while we're hustling out of them. May 4th is “International Firefighter's Day,” a day to honor those who defy the infernotokeepussafe.

Let'stakeamomenttoappreciatethesereal-lifesuperheroeswhodon'tneedcapestofly into action. With their bravery, dedication, and a whole lot of water, they extinguish our fearsandblazeatrailofsafetywherevertheygo.

In the spirit of this day, here are three ways to show our gratitude and admiration for theseremarkableindividuals:

1.BakeaBatchofHeroicCookies:Whatbetterwaytosay"thankyou"thanwithafreshly baked batch of cookies? Firefighters are known for their hearty appetites, so whip up some treats to show them some sugary love. Bonus points if you shape them like fire hydrants or little fire trucks. Just make sure they're not too spicy – save the heat for the chilicook-off.

2. Write a Heartfelt Thank-You Letter: In this digital age, a handwritten letter stands out like a beacon in the night. Take a moment to pour your appreciation onto paper. Tell them how their bravery inspires you, how their selflessness touches your heart, and how their mustaches are the envy of all mankind. A heartfelt letter can brighteneventhetoughestfirefighter'sday.

3. Organize a Firefighter Appreciation Parade: Firefighters are used to parading down streets in their big red trucks, but how about we flip the script and parade our appreciation for them? Get your community together, grab some banners, balloons, and confetti, and march down the streets with pride.Letthemknowthattheirheroicsdon't go unnoticed – and hey, who doesn't love a goodparade?

To all the firefighters out there: thank you. Thank you for your courage in the face of danger, your unwavering commitment to our safety, and your willingness to run towards danger when everyone else is running away. You are the backbone of our communities, the guardians of our homes, andthetrueembodimentofheroism.Today andeveryday,wesaluteyou.

To learn more about the Fayetteville Fire Department, visit: www fayettevillenc gov/city-services/fire

BEINGHONESTABOUTTHE STATEOFYOURMIND

Inaworldwherebusynessisglorifiedandproductivityisprizedaboveallelse,it'seasytooverlookthe mostimportantaspectofourbeing–ourmentalhealth.Yet,nowmorethanever,it'scrucialthatwe pause,takeadeepbreath,andhaveanhonestconversationwithourselvesaboutthestateofourminds

MentalHealthAwarenessMonthservesasapoignantreminderoftheimportanceofprioritizingour mentalwell-being It'satimetoshinealightontherealitiesofmentalhealth,tobreakthesilence,andto embracethepowerofhonestyinourjourneytowardshealingandself-care

Beinghonestaboutthestateofyourmindstartswithacknowledgingthatit'sokaynottobeokay. Contrarytowhatsocietalpressuresmaysuggest,wearenotexpectedtohaveitalltogetherallthetime Wearehuman,withvulnerabilitiesandcomplexitiesthatmakeusbeautifullyimperfect.So,let's

EMBRACING MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH (CONTINUED)

MOTHERS: NURTURERS OF POSITIVE MINDSETS

Mothers lead by example, demonstrating the importance of maintaining a positive outlook even in the face of challenges. Whether it's navigating through difficult times, overcoming obstacles, simply embracing the joys of everyday mothersshowusthatapositivemindsetisnot beneficialbutessentialforourwell-being.

In a world where negativity often pervades, mothers serve as beacons of hope, reminding to focus on the good, to count our blessings, to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. unwavering optimism and unwavering belief potential inspire us to strive for greatness and neverlosesightofourdreams.

This Mother's Day, let us honor and celebrate incredible women who have nurtured our minds with positivity and taught us the invaluable lesson of embracing life with an open heart and a positive mindset.

Mothers, the unsung heroes of our lives, playapivotalrolenotonlyinshapingour characters but also in nurturing our minds with positivity. From the moment we are born, they instill in us the power ofoptimism,resilience,andgratitude.

mother's love is a constant source of encouragement and support, serving as beacon of light even in the darkest of times. Through her words of wisdom and gentle guidance, she teaches us to see thesilverliningsineverysituation,tofind strength in adversity, and to approach life with a mindset of abundance rather thanscarcity.

FUTURE RICH AUNTIES

DOES IT AGAIN!

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sylvia Glanton and her team for orchestrating the extraordinary 2024 Future Rich Aunties Business Conference, held April 11-13, 2024. This unforgettable event featured powerful seminar speakers, stimulating conversations, and culinary delights, leaving attendees inspired and ready to elevate their endeavors. The conference sparked numerous partnerships and collaborative efforts, with ARRAY proudly serving as a media sponsor Kudos to all individuals and businesses who contributed to the success of this powerful encounter Scan the QR code above to join this captivatingcommunitytodayanddon'tmissFRA2025

SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE: NAVIGATING MENTAL STRESS WITH EASE

As the sun stretches its golden rays across the sky and the air fills with the scent of bloomingflowers, summeroftenbringswithit the promise of relaxation and rejuvenation. However, for many, the warmer months can also bring added stressors, disrupting the idyllic image of carefree days. Whether it's the pressure to make the most of the season or the challenges of juggling work and personal life during vacations, navigating mental stress in the summer requires a proactive approach Here's a comprehensive guide to surviving mental stress and embracingthebeautyofsummer:

Embrace Mindfulness: Amidst the whirlwind of summer activities, it's crucial to carve out moments for mindfulness. Take time each day to engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply immersing yourself in the present moment By grounding yourself in the here and now, you can alleviate anxiety and cultivateasenseofinnerpeace.

Set Boundaries: With longer daylight hours and a plethora of social invitations, it's easy to overcommit during the summer Learn to set boundaries and prioritize your well-being It's okay to decline invitations or delegate tasks if it means safeguarding your mental health. Remember, quality time spent with loved ones is more valuable than a packed schedule

Stay Active: Physical activity is not only beneficial for your physical health but also plays a vital role in managing stress. Take advantage of the warmer weather by engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or even a leisurely stroll in the park Regular exercise releases endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters, helping to combat stress andboostyouroverallsenseofwell-being.

SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE: NAVIGATING MENTAL STRESS WITH EASE...

Practice Self-Care: Make self-care a priority this summer by indulging in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it's indulging in a spa day, reading a book under a shady tree, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, find what brings you joy and make time for it regularly. Remember, self-care isn't selfish—it's essential for maintaining balance and resilience.

Connect with Nature: Nature has a profound ability to soothe the soul and ease mental stress. Take advantage of the summer weather by spending time outdoors, whether it's camping in the wilderness, picnicking in the park, or simply basking in the warmth of the sun. Connecting with nature can help alleviate anxiety, improve mood, and fosterasenseofaweandgratitude.

Seek Support: If you find yourself struggling with overwhelming stress or anxiety, don't hesitate to reach out for support.Whetherit'stalkingtoatrusted friend, family member, or seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor, you don't have to navigate mental stress alone. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a mindset of gratitude by focusing on the blessings in your life, no matter how small. Keep a gratitude journal where you can jot down three things you're grateful for each day. Shifting your perspective towards gratitude can help reduce stress, increase resilience, and foster a greater sense of happiness and contentment.

By incorporating these strategies into your summer routine, you can navigate mental stress with greater ease and fully embrace the beauty and joy of the season. Remember, self-careisn'taluxury—it'sanecessityformaintainingyourwell-beingandthrivingamidst life's challenges. So, take a deep breath, soak in the warmth of the sun, and let this summerbeatimeofrenewal,growth,andinnerpeace.

CUMBERLANDCOUNTYSCHOOLS GRADUATIONSEASONISHERE

Itseemslikeyesterdaywhenweweredeclaring“HappyNewYear”tothetopofourlungs Well,now we’reabouttobeyelling“Congratulations”totheClassof2024.

Whatanamazingaccomplishmentforourgraduates!Ittakeshardwork,dedication,andresilienceto finishwhatyou’vestarted And,well,wehaveseveralhighschoolswithinthecityandcountytoshow loveto.ToeverysinglememberoftheClassof2024,wesaluteyouandweareextremelyproudof you Forthosewhoneedtoknowmoreinformationaboutgraddatesandtimes,pleasescantheQR codebelow.

DEAR COLLEGE GRADS...

Amidst the sea of academic robes and the resounding cheers of loved ones, there lies a profound testament to human tenacity and resilience - the college graduate.

DearCollegeGraduates,

As you stand on the threshold of a new chapter in your lives, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude and admiration for your remarkable journey. You have navigated the twists and turns of academia with unwavering determination. Today, you stand as a testamenttothepowerofperseveranceandresilience.

The path to this moment hasundoubtedly beenfilled with challenges, obstacles, andmoments of doubt. Yet, through it all, you have demonstrated an unparalleled tenacity and strength of spirit. You have shown that no challenge is insurmountable, no dream too grand, and no goal beyond reach.

As you embark on this next phase of your journey, continue to approach life with the same courage,determination,andresiliencethathavebroughtyoutothismomentousday.Remember, the road ahead may not always be smooth, but you will overcome any obstacle that comes your way.

Know that your accomplishments are a source of pride not only for yourselves but for your families,yourcommunities,andallthosewhohavehadtheprivilegeofwitnessingyourjourney.

So, here's to you, college graduates - for your hard work, your dedication, and your unwavering commitment to excellence. May your future be filled with success, fulfillment, and endless opportunitiesforgrowthandhappiness.

Summer is not just a time for relaxation and vacations; it's also a prime season for networking opportunities that can propel your business or personal brand to new heights Whether you're attending industry mixers, conferences, or casual meet-ups, networking events provide valuable opportunities to forge connections, exchange ideas, and expand your professional circle. To make the most out of your summer networking endeavors, here are five essential tips that every business owner and influencer should know:

Set Clear Objectives: Before you step foot into any networking event, take some time to clarify your objectives Are you looking to generate

leads, establish partnerships, or simply expand your network? Having clear goals will not only help you focus your efforts but also enable you to better assess the success of the event afterward Consider setting specific targets, such as the number of meaningful connections you aim to make or the type of industry professionals you hope to meet.

Perfect Your Elevator Pitch: Your elevator pitch is your opportunity to make a memorable first impression and succinctly convey who you are and what you do. Craft a compelling elevator pitch that highlights your unique value proposition, expertise, and what sets you apart from the competition. Keep it concise, engaging, and tailored to your audience Practice delivering your pitch with confidence and authenticity to leave a lasting impression on fellow attendees

Be Genuine and Authentic: Authenticity is key when it comes to building meaningful connections at networking events. Avoid coming across as overly salesy or transactional; instead, focus on fostering genuine relationships based on trust and mutual respect Take the time to listen attentively to others, ask thoughtful questions, and share your own experiences and insights. Authenticity breeds authenticity, and genuine connections are more likely to lead to fruitful collaborations in the long run

FollowUpandNurtureRelationships

: Networkingdoesn'tendwhentheeventis over;it'sjustthebeginningofapotential partnershiporcollaboration.Take proactivestepstofollowupwiththe contactsyou'vemade,whetherit'ssending apersonalizedemail,connectingon LinkedIn,orschedulingafollow-up meeting.Expressyourgratitudefortheir timeandexpressgenuineinterestin continuingtheconversation.Rememberto nurturetheserelationshipsovertimeby stayingintouch,providingvalue,and seekingopportunitiesforcollaboration.

DressAppropriatelyandProfessional

: Yourappearancespeaksvolumesabout yourprofessionalismandattentionto detail.Dressingappropriatelyforthe occasionshowsthatyourespecttheevent andthepeopleyou'remeeting.Consider thedresscodeandatmosphereofthe networkingevent,andchooseattirethat reflectsyourpersonalstylewhilestillbeing polishedandprofessional.Payattentionto groomingandaccessories,andaimto makeapositiveimpressionwithyour overallappearance.

Byfollowingthesefiveessentialtips,business ownersandinfluencerscanmakethemostout oftheirsummernetworkingexperiencesand forgevaluableconnectionsthatdrivesuccess andgrowth.Remember,networkingisnotjust aboutexchangingbusinesscards;it'sabout buildingauthenticrelationshipsthatcanopen doorsandcreateopportunitiesfor collaborationandinnovation.So,stepoutof yourcomfortzone,seizeeverynetworking opportunity,andwatchyourprofessional networkflourishthissummer.

FAMILY VACATION DESTINATIONS

If you ’ re looking for family vacation spots this summer, here are a few within 2-3 hours of Fayetteville, NC.

1. Raleigh, NC (1 hour) - Explore North Carolina's capital city, known for its museums, parks, and family-friendly attractions such as Pullen Park and the North Carolina MuseumofNaturalSciences.

2 Wilmington, NC (1 hour and 45 minutes) - Discover the historic charm of Wilmington, where families can explore attractions like the Battleship North Carolina, the Wilmington Riverwalk, and nearby beaches such as WrightsvilleBeachandKureBeach.

3. Myrtle Beach, SC (2 hours) - Head south to Myrtle Beach, a popular vacation destination known for its wide sandy beaches, amusement parks, water parks, and family-friendly entertainment venues such as Broadway at theBeach.

4 Charlotte, NC (2 hours) - Experience the vibrant city of Charlotte, home to attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place Science Museum, Carowinds amusement park, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

5. Lake Norman, NC (2 hours) - Relax and unwind at Lake Norman, the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and lakeside picnicking at public parks and recreationareas.

6 Asheboro, NC (2 hours) - Plan a day trip to Asheboro, home to the North Carolina Zoo, one of the largest natural habitat zoos in the world, where families can see a diverse array of animals and enjoy educational exhibits and interactiveexperiences.

7 Virginia Beach, VA (3 hours) - Venture to Virginia Beach for a coastal getaway featuring miles of sandy beaches, a bustling boardwalk with shops and restaurants, family-friendly attractions like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and outdoor recreational activities suchasdolphinwatchingtoursandwatersports.

STREE-FREE ACTIVITY

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, enjoy this coloring page. Take a few moments for yourself.