Tag Archives: economic impact

Inside Dreamville Festival: A Global Celebration Returns to North Carolina

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By: Eddy “Precise” Lamarre

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Dreamville Festival, the brainchild of hip-hop icon J. Cole and his powerhouse label Dreamville, is gearing up for another epic year. Set to take over Raleigh’s scenic Dorothea Dix Park on April 5-6, 2025, the festival has become a defining moment in the music calendar, blending incredible performances with a celebration of culture and community.

After breaking records in 2024 with 100,000 attendees from across the United States and beyond, Dreamville Festival is primed to surpass expectations yet again. Presale tickets go live on December 11 at 9 a.m. EST, offering General Admission (GA), GA+, and VIP options. Early buyers can lock in the best rates, as prices are expected to climb closer to the event. If presales sell out, general ticket sales will follow.

This isn’t just another music festival; it’s an immersive experience. From live art installations and local food vendors to Dreamville’s iconic Ferris wheel—where attendees can take in breathtaking views of Raleigh’s skyline—every detail reflects a thoughtful curation of music, art, and community. The festival also shines a light on meaningful causes, with proceeds supporting the Dreamville Foundation and Dix Park Conservancy.

Dreamville Festival has become synonymous with economic and cultural impact. With an annual contribution of $145 million to Wake County’s economy, the event not only entertains but also bolsters local businesses and nonprofits. Vendors, artisans, and muralists transform the park into a vibrant hub of creativity, while Nonprofit Row provides a platform for community organizations to connect with festival-goers.

At its heart, the festival is a love letter to J. Cole’s home state of North Carolina and the global Dreamville family. It’s a chance to celebrate what makes the brand a cultural powerhouse while delivering two days of unforgettable music and camaraderie.

Whether you’re a loyal fan or new to the Dreamville universe, this event offers a unique blend of energy, connection, and creativity. Mark your calendars and set your alarms—this is a moment you won’t want to miss.

Trump’s Tariff Plan: Impact on Consumers, Jobs, and Global Trade

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By: Eddy “Precise” Lamarre

Donald Trump recently announced his intention to impose tariffs on China, Mexico and Canada. Trump has proposed a 10% increase on Chinese goods and a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico. He is leveraging border security and drug trafficking to legitimize this move.

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods. Generally, these costs are passed on to the consumer. Car purchases, electronics and everyday items can see price hikes as a result. According to the National Retail Federation, these tariffs could reduce Americans’ spending power by $46 billion to $78 billion annually.

The idea behind Trump’s tariffs is to increase stateside manufacturing. In theory, this would increase production in the U.S. and create more jobs. However, because many items produced in the U.S. require parts from overseas, this could cause shipping delays and higher prices that could actually create job losses. Companies may opt to leave the United States to curb many of these costs.

The countries affected by these tariffs will undoubtedly make it difficult for the United States to do business and could ultimately affect the employment landscape. This strategy is an attempt to flex the economic muscle of the United States and make “Made in the USA” a point of pride while the country works to be more sustainable and independent of foreign interests.

Interest rates could potentially rise and cause strain on U.S. markets and consumer spending. This could potentially slow the economy and lessen middle-class spending power. Analysts warn that middle-income families could see their annual expenses rise by as much as $2,600 if these tariffs are fully implemented.

Trump’s assertions are already causing havoc in the markets as the Canadian dollar and Mexican peso have taken a hit. Depending on who you are and where you fit in with regard to the U.S. economy, these tariffs can be beneficial or hurtful. This has yet to be seen.