EDITOR'S PICKS

Apr 8, 2026

UNCP receives $4.86 million from Golden LEAF for optometry program

Rendering of the new clinical sciences building, provided by UNCP.Golden LEAF has awarded $4,864,368 to support the UNCP College of Optometric Medicine, funding critical clinical and training lab equipment to enable hands-on learning and advanced tec ...

Apr 8, 2026

The Coffee Scene announces abrupt closure of all Fayetteville locations

The Coffee Scene at the Prince Charles (pictured) is one of three locations closing as of today, April 8. Photo by GFBJ. The Coffee Scene, a longtime staple in Fayetteville serving customers for almost three decades, has just announced it has pe ...

Apr 8, 2026

UNC Pembroke earns State Building Commission Merit Award

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke has been awarded the State Building Commission Merit Award for Excellence in Project Implementation for its innovative Village Apartments demolition project. ...

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT

Advances in Bariatric Surgery: Robotics, Revisions and What’s Ahead

Posted Apr 1, 2026
Bariatric surgery has evolved significantly in recent years, offering patients safer procedures, faster recoveries and better long-term outcomes. Bariatric surgeons at the Metabolic & Weight Management Center in Pinehurst say new technologies, pa
  ...read entire article
Apr 8, 2026

New director named at Sandhills Community College to oversee Access to Achievement program

Emily Waldrop has been named director of the Access to Achievement (A2A) program, where she will lead efforts to connect students with disabilities to meaningful education and career pathways. ...

Apr 8, 2026

Cape Fear Valley Health celebrates outstanding providers during 2026 Doctors’ Day event

Each year, the Provider of the Year awards honor a physician, resident and advanced practice provider who go above and beyond in caring for patients, supporting colleagues and living out Cape Fear Valley Health’s values. ...

Apr 8, 2026

Lumbee Guaranty Bank announces appointment of Mark D. Locklear to Board of Directors

Lumbee Guaranty Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark D. Locklear to its Board of Directors. His appointment was unanimously approved by the Board at its most recent meeting. ...

Apr 7, 2026

Bladen Community College to host Small Business Expo on April 29

Graphic courtesy of Bladen CountyBladen Community College will host the Bladen County Small Business Expo on Wednesday, April 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the college auditorium. This dynamic, business-to-business event is designed to bring to ...

Apr 7, 2026

Weld Wars at Miller-Motte College Fayetteville

Graphic courtesy of Miller-Motte CollegeMiller-Motte College Fayetteville invites you to attend Weld Wars 2026 on April 17, a hands-on career exploration event for students and community members interested in welding and skilled trades careers. This ...

Apr 7, 2026

No Joke: Restaurants confirm they’re here to stay after community support on April 1

Local restaurants leaned into the spirit of April Fools’ Day this past week, taking to social media with playful pranks that quickly caught the attention of their communities—only to be met with an overwhelming show of support from loyal customers.We ...


In The Current Issue

Camden Commons: A new era of retail and commercial growth in Hope Mills

Nearly 80 acres of commercial development are now underway in Hope Mills. With Target serving as the anchor tenant, Camden Commons will bring a dynamic mix of retail and commercial opportunities. Land clearing and grading are underway at the site dev


Publisher's note: Pick up the torch

GRAPHIC PROVIDED BY BETTER BUSINESS BUREAUIn the fall of 2025, I was approached to be a judge for the Better Business Bureau’s 2026 award series. Like many of you in the community, I didn’t realize that the BBB had its own awards, and I was excited t


Excellence as a standard: Inside Dr. Tamara Colvin's path to becoming director of the FSU HUB

As the director of the FSU HUB, Dr. Tamara Colvin is responsible for strategic and operational leadership to provide impactful support to emerging entrepreneurs and existing small businesses. Photo provided by Colvin.Fayetteville Cumberland Regional