EDITOR'S PICKS

Jun 24, 2026

Carolina Eye Associates acquires Southeastern Eye Care in Lumberton; Welcomes Dr. Scott Mouser to its expanding network

Carolina Eye Associates, P.A. is pleased to announce the acquisition of Southeastern Eye Care, the long-standing ophthalmology practice of Dr. Scott Mouser in Lumberton, N.C. The practice will now operate as the newest Carolina Eye Associates Lumbert ...

Jun 24, 2026

Fayetteville City Council adopts FY 2027 Budget; No tax increases

The Fayetteville City Council adopted the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget on Monday, June 22, approving a $327.3 million operating budget and $117 million Capital Improvement Plan while maintaining the current property tax rate of $0.4495 per $100 of ...

Jun 24, 2026

Fayetteville State University earns national recognition for preparing future elementary teachers in the science of reading

The undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program at Fayetteville State University has earned an A+ from the National Council on Teacher Quality for its preparation of future teachers to teach reading to elementary students. ...

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Why Skilled Trades Matter: Addressing the Decline and Urgent Need in Plumbing and HVAC

Posted Apr 1, 2026
Amidst the technological revolution and evolving workforce, skilled trades remain a  lynchpin of society. The roles of plumbers and HVAC technicians are critical—not only for daily  comfort and safety, but for broader economic stability. Ho
  ...read entire article
Jun 24, 2026

Lumberton earns Main Street America™ Accreditation for 2026

The City of Lumberton is proud to celebrate Main Street Lumberton earning Main Street America™ Accreditation for 2026. ...

Jun 24, 2026

Arts Council announces new leadership structure to support community impact, artist services and cultural tourism

The Arts Council’s updated leadership structure reflects its commitment to expanding opportunities for artists, supporting cultural organizations and increasing the impact of the arts on Cumberland County’s economy and quality of life. ...

Jun 24, 2026

WAMC welcomes new Army physician assistants to the force

A group of medical professionals celebrated a major milestone, graduating from the Interservice Physician Assistant Program (IPAP) with master’s degrees in physician assistant studies during a ceremony on June 12 at Womack Army Medical Center. ...

Jun 23, 2026

New School of Medicine to hold open house for entire community

Photo provided by Methodist UniversityAll community members, prospective students, healthcare professionals, educators and local leaders are invited to experience North Carolina’s newest medical school during the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley ...

Jun 23, 2026

Fayetteville native and Army Veteran expands ICAN Clothes into Navy Exchanges worldwide

Kelsey BattleArmy Veteran, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and Fayetteville native Kelsey Battle is celebrating a major milestone as his inspirational apparel brand, ICAN Clothes, launches in 23 participating Navy Exchange (NEXCOM) locations world ...

Jun 23, 2026

From Haymount to Hoke: Haymount Truck Stop announces second location coming to Hoke County in 2027

The new spot will be located outside of the Bedford neighborhood in Hoke County. Though not in Haymount, the new location will retain the name Haymount Truck Stop. ...


In The Current Issue

Community questions: Discussions begin within the Lumbee Tribe of N.C. about potential casino project

On Monday, June 1, 2026, Tribe members from District 2 and District 15, the districts surrounding the area currently planned for the casino, met for a community meeting.Amidst the glitz and glamour of the idea of a new casino coming to the Lumbee Tri


Unlocking innovations: Emerging Technology Institute hosts USSOCOM Technical Experimentation

This is the fourth year that ETI has hosted the event, and in years past Freeman has seen a host of innovative technology, including various drone types and programming, robotic dogs, 3D printed houses, and airspace scanners. Photo provided by USSOCO


Barrier-free financial education: Money Box Academy expands its reach through support from local government and nonprofit organizations

Crystal McLean (left) with Scott Embry (right). Money Box Academy received a $10,000 grant from United Way of Cumberland County’s Youth Growth Stock Trust. Photos provided by Crystal McLean.The Youth Growth Stock Trust Committee, administered by the