Author: Themoyouknow

The Hoke County High School Culinary Arts Department is proud to announce the 10th Anniversary of A Taste of Hoke, a signature event that has grown into one of the region’s premier culinary showcases. This year’s celebration will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Hoke County High School McDonald Gymnasium, with doors opening at 2:30 p.m. and the event starting at 3:00 p.m.

What began as a local initiative to highlight student talent has evolved into an annual tradition that unites professional chefs, culinary enthusiasts, community leaders, and families for an afternoon of food, competition, and inspiration. A Taste of Hoke underscores a decade of success in preparing students for futures in the Culinary Arts, a profession that continues to thrive as part of North Carolina’s hospitality and tourism economy.

Culinary Excellence Meets Community Celebration

The highlight of the anniversary celebration will be The Ultimate Chef Battle, a high-energy cooking competition featuring four renowned chefs: Chef Judy, Chef Jerome Brown, Ricky the Chef, and Chef Sondra’ Rhodes. Guests can expect a dynamic blend of creativity, flavor, and skill as these chefs go head-to-head to impress both judges and attendees.

Adding to the excitement, the event will be hosted by ShaDonna “Mo” McPhaul, widely known as The Mo You Know, whose passion for community and storytelling has made her a celebrated voice in the region.

Supporting Culinary Arts Education

For the Culinary Arts students of Hoke County High School, A Taste of Hoke is more than a community event—it is a living classroom. Over the past ten years, the Culinary Arts Department has provided students with hands-on training, industry-standard certifications, and real-world experience. The program prepares graduates for opportunities in restaurants, catering, hospitality management, and higher education.

“The 10th anniversary is a milestone that reflects both the dedication of our students and the support of our community,” said Lanice McLean, event coordinator and faculty member. “Through Culinary Arts, we have seen students discover their passion, build valuable skills, and envision careers that impact their future and our local economy.”

Event Details

• Event: A Taste of Hoke – 10th Anniversary Celebration
• Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
• Time: Doors open at 2:30 p.m. | Event begins at 3:00 p.m.
• Location: Hoke County High School McDonald Gymnasium
• Tickets: $25 General Admission
• Contact: Lanice McLean | (910) 875-2156 Ext. 5036

The event will also showcase the **school colors—red, black, and white—**symbolizing pride, tradition, and the unity of the Hoke County High School community.

Why It Matters

Culinary Arts continues to emerge as a vital profession that blends creativity with entrepreneurship. For many Hoke County students, the program is their introduction to a world of opportunities, from mastering kitchen fundamentals to developing leadership skills that translate beyond the classroom.

Over the past decade, alumni of the program have gone on to pursue careers in restaurants, hotels, catering businesses, and culinary schools across the state. By spotlighting the achievements of students and inviting the community to participate, A Taste of Hoke reinforces the importance of investing in vocational and technical education.

Tickets and Participation

Community members, culinary professionals, and food enthusiasts are encouraged to attend and support the next generation of chefs. Tickets are available for $25 general admission and can be purchased by contacting Lanice McLean at (910) 875-2156 Ext. 5036. Seating is limited, and advance reservations are recommended.

Looking Ahead

As A Taste of Hoke marks its 10th year, the Hoke County High School Culinary Arts Department looks forward to continuing its mission of cultivating passion, skill, and opportunity. With strong community partnerships, professional mentorship, and the drive of its students, the program is positioned for even greater impact in the years to come.

The HEEAT Research Lab has announced an innovative partnership with Marcus Doss Salon, marking a significant step in advancing life-saving treatment research and bridging the gap between beauty professionals and scientific discovery. This collaboration highlights the important role salons can play in supporting medical advancements while continuing to serve as trusted community spaces.

The HEEAT Research Lab (Health, Education, Evaluation, and Treatment) is dedicated to conducting critical studies that bring new insights and innovative solutions to the health field. By partnering with salons across North Carolina, the Lab is building a network that integrates everyday environments with meaningful research. This initiative underscores the organization’s mission to transform community spaces into hubs for awareness, education, and participation in life-saving studies.

For the Marcus Doss Salon, this collaboration is not only an honor but also an opportunity to make a broader impact beyond the world of beauty. Known for delivering premium services and a client-centered experience, the salon is now proud to contribute to a project that has the potential to save lives and change the future of treatment research.

“We are extremely honored and excited to be a part of this life-saving research project,” said representatives from Marcus Doss Salon. “Our team has always been dedicated to helping people look and feel their best. Now, by partnering with The HEEAT Research Lab, we can support something even greater—bringing hope and healing through treatment research.”

Expanding the Role of Salons in Research

The HEEAT Research Lab recognizes that salons are more than just beauty destinations—they are trusted spaces where people share their stories, build relationships, and feel safe. By involving salons in research partnerships, the Lab is creating pathways for community members to learn about studies, engage in dialogue about health, and take part in initiatives that can shape the future of medicine.

The collaboration with Marcus Doss Salon sets a strong example for other beauty professionals across North Carolina. As part of this partnership, the salon will help raise awareness of ongoing research, share educational resources with clients, and serve as a community ally in promoting wellness and treatment innovations.

An Invitation to Salons Across North Carolina

The HEEAT Research Lab is actively seeking additional salon partners to expand the reach of this groundbreaking initiative. Salons that join the effort will have the opportunity to be directly connected to health research that addresses critical needs, while also demonstrating leadership in their communities.

By becoming a partner, salons can:

• Support treatment research that aims to improve and save lives.
• Offer clients access to trusted information about ongoing studies.
• Enhance their brand reputation by aligning with a mission-driven cause.
• Strengthen community ties by contributing to both beauty and health.

A Shared Vision for Community Impact

The partnership between Marcus Doss Salon and The HEEAT Research Lab highlights a shared commitment to making a difference where it matters most: in people’s lives. It represents a fusion of creativity, care, and science—an innovative model that other salons and communities can emulate.

“Partnerships like this illustrate the power of combining everyday spaces with research goals,” said leaders at The HEEAT Research Lab. “When salons engage with us, they help bridge the gap between science and the community. We are thrilled to welcome Marcus Doss Salon into this important initiative and look forward to continuing to grow our network.”

About The HEEAT Research Lab

The HEEAT Research Lab (Health, Education, Evaluation, and Treatment) is committed to advancing innovative research that improves health outcomes and supports communities. Through partnerships with local organizations and businesses, the Lab brings life-saving studies closer to the people who need them most. Learn more at www.theheeatlab.org.

About Marcus Doss Salon

Marcus Doss Salon is a premier beauty destination in North Carolina, known for excellence in hairstyling, personalized client care, and community involvement. The salon prides itself on creating exceptional beauty experiences while supporting initiatives that bring hope and change to the wider community.

MoneyBox Academy has announced that Jerome Scott, widely known as “The Insurance Guy,” will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award during the upcoming MoneyBox Academy Gala. The honor will recognize Scott’s enduring career and his significant role in advancing financial literacy.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the highest distinctions presented at the gala. It is reserved for individuals whose work has created a lasting impact in the field of financial education and empowerment. MoneyBox Academy selected Scott in recognition of his decades of service in the insurance and financial services industry, where his guidance and leadership have helped countless individuals and families understand the importance of sound financial decision-making.

Honoring a Career of Service

Jerome Scott has long been known in the community as “The Insurance Guy,” a title that reflects both his professional expertise and his reputation as a trusted resource. Over the years, he has worked to ensure that individuals and organizations understand how financial literacy contributes to long-term stability and success. His selection for the Lifetime Achievement Award reflects not only his longevity in the profession but also the respect he has earned from peers and clients alike.

Impact Sponsor for the Gala

In addition to being honored, Scott will serve as an Impact Sponsor for the MoneyBox Academy Gala. This sponsorship underscores his ongoing support of the academy’s mission to expand access to financial education. By stepping into this dual role—both honoree and sponsor—Scott is highlighting the importance of reinvesting in initiatives that make financial literacy more accessible to wider audiences.

The Impact Sponsorship is a key element of the gala, as it ensures that the event is able to reach finance professionals, community leaders, and organizations seeking to strengthen financial knowledge. Scott’s participation reinforces the purpose of the event: to celebrate achievements in financial education while generating new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

A Gathering of Financial Leaders

The MoneyBox Academy Gala serves as a unique platform for investors, bankers, and finance professionals to come together in recognition of progress in the field of financial literacy. The event is designed to not only celebrate individual achievements but also to highlight collective efforts that address economic challenges and promote stronger financial foundations.

This year’s gala will place special emphasis on acknowledging those whose careers exemplify dedication, persistence, and leadership. Scott’s recognition with the Lifetime Achievement Award will stand as one of the evening’s highlights, offering attendees the chance to celebrate a career that reflects the values MoneyBox Academy seeks to advance.

Commitment to Financial Literacy

Financial literacy remains at the core of MoneyBox Academy’s mission. Through resources, programs, and events such as the annual gala, the academy strives to ensure that financial knowledge is available to all who seek it. Recognizing leaders like Scott helps demonstrate the difference that education and guidance can make in strengthening communities and providing opportunities for long-term financial health.

About the Gala

The MoneyBox Academy Gala will feature award presentations, networking opportunities, and recognition of individuals and organizations that continue to make strides in the area of financial education. The event brings together leaders from across the financial sector who share a commitment to improving access to financial knowledge.

Scott’s dual role as award recipient and Impact Sponsor positions him as a central figure in this year’s program. His recognition underscores the belief that lasting achievements are built not only on professional success but also on contributions that uplift others and expand opportunities for learning.

About MoneyBox Academy

MoneyBox Academy is dedicated to advancing financial literacy by providing tools, programs, and events designed to empower individuals, families, and communities. By fostering education and awareness, the academy seeks to build stronger financial foundations and reduce barriers to financial success.