On Wednesday, March 25, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein will hold the second in a series of Rural Listening Sessions at 10 a.m. at the Sampson County Exposition Center located at 414 Warsaw Road in Clinton.
North Carolina has the second-largest rural population in the country. According to the Governor’s office, North Carolina’s rural communities are strong contributors to the state’s economy and culture, driving the state’s growth through agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and more. With more than 3.5 million people in 78 of 100 counties who call rural North Carolina home, these communities offer innovation and opportunity.
In the coming weeks, cabinet secretaries will also travel across the state to hear from rural North Carolinians about what their communities need to be safer, stronger and more prosperous.
Other listening sessions are planned for Robeson, and Moore counties, with dates yet to be announced.
Learn more about to upcoming scheduled Listening Sessions and access the Rural NC Comment Portal here.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
