Volume 4 Issue 19: Mar 14, 2025

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Mar 20, 2025

Getting things done in Dunn: Nancy Blackman reflects on her career in supporting and funding small businesses in rural NC

Nancy Blackman. Photo provided by Blackman.In the landscape of regional rural economic development, Nancy J. Blackman stands out for providing financial opportunities to hundreds of small businesses and helping them to forge a path forward in uncerta ...

Mar 20, 2025

On a mission: Kaylynn Suarez is ready to engage with the community as the new executive director of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival in 2025

PHOTO BY RAYMIE DAY PHOTOGRAPHY Kaylynn Suarez became executive director of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival in December of 2024. Since then, she has outdone herself at every turn. But it’s not just all her experience, Suarez’s positive, go-get ...

Mar 20, 2025

Editor's note: "I'm Every Woman"

Happy Women’s History Month all! I hope you took some time to reflect on the important women in your life on International Women’s Day this past Saturday, March 8. I myself have had the unofficial theme song of the month “I’m Every Woman” by the irre ...

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cape-fear-valley-health mena-m-samaan-md-mba headshot

Mena M. Samaan, MD, MBA
Cape Fear Valley Health

Know the signs, save a life: Cape Fear Valley Health educates the community for National Stroke Awareness Month

Posted May 20, 2026
In honor of National Stroke Awareness Month, Cape Fear Valley Health is educating the community on what to do if someone exhibits signs of a stroke. Stroke awareness is crucial because recognizing the signs and acting quickly can mean the difference
  ...read entire article
Mar 20, 2025

A perfect pitch: WBC at CEED hosts fourth annual HERPitch competition to launch Women's History Month

Left to Right: WBC Director Danice Langdon, HERPitch finalists Karla Jackson, Shatara Het Heru Bey, Anedra Walls, Miss North Carolina High School America 2025 Abigail Dries, HERPitch finalists Lonyae McCune, Tia Whittlesey and Yeniz Parton. Photos by ...


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In The Current Issue

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


The story of Hubb’s Farm: From family heritage to local landmark

What started as a seasonal corn maze has evolved into a year-round operation. The spring, summer and autumn seasons all bring unique activities for families. Photos provided by Tammy Peterson.Hubb’s Farm is a premier agritourism destination located i