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May 1, 2026

Where agritourism meets agriculture: Taking a look at the working ranch behind Sweet Valley Ranch

What began as the desire for a horse expanded into one of Fayetteville’s main hospitality and agro-tourism attractions thanks to the passion and love of animals from the Ranch’s founders Anita and Fred Surgeon. Photos provided by Sweet Valley Ranch.S ...

May 1, 2026

Sprouting new markets: Jackson Family Farms provides homegrown crops to Fayetteville and the surrounding areas

Jackson Family Farms is open seven days a week at 5818 Ramsey St. They sell homegrown produce, fresh-baked goods, home decor, seasonal plants and other responsibly sourced food products. Photos provided by Jackson Family Farms.—photosJackson Family F ...

Apr 16, 2026

41 years strong: Highstreet Warren Insurance Group adapts while staying true to its founder

Highstreet Warren Insurance Group has 15 in-office employees. Many staff members have been with the organization for a decade or more. Photos provided by Highstreet Warren Insurance Group A longstanding family business in Fayetteville is sharing ...

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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
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Mar 19, 2026

Historic pieces, new potential: Westdale Vintage blends memory, sustainability and one-of-a-kind style

 Michelle Clark and her husband, Jamil Rashad, opened Westdale Vintage at 1225 Fort Bragg Road in Historic Haymount in October 2024. Photo provided by Ian Tilghman.After moving back to her hometown of Fayetteville to take care of her aging fathe ...

Mar 18, 2026

Young entrepreneur turns pro bono social media work into Fayetteville-focused marketing venture

Images courtesy of Michael AazamFayetteville native Michael Aazam, a freshman at  UNC Chapel Hill studying business administration with a focus in marketing, is already leveraging real-world experience that many marketing majors don’t gain until ...

Mar 5, 2026

Faith, family and franchises: King and Latonia Parks drive community growth through diverse business ventures

King and Latonia Parks both had successful careers in the military before returning to civilian life and starting their real estate business. They eventually expanded their portfolio, opening a Cold Stone Creamery in Hope Mills and The UPS Store on C ...

Mar 4, 2026

Sowing change: How Carolina Foodscapes uses gardening to grow community and wellness

NaTasha Lax is an advocate for sustainable living and community gardening.She founded Carolina Foodscapes to promote food security, environmentalstewardship and community empowerment through innovative gardeningprojects. Photo by Mac Elliott Media.Ce ...

Feb 19, 2026

Lasting leadership: Cape Fear Valley Health CEO Michael Nagowski reflects on his career as he approaches retirement

 Mike Nagowski speaks to the nearly 300 guests who attended the medical school's groundbreaking ceremony in September 2024. Photo provided by Methodist University.It would be an understatement to say that Michael Nagowski has made an impact on t ...

Dec 22, 2025

Questions & Answers: Getting to know Mike Berk, Longleaf Pine Realtors® new CEO

Mike BerkMike Berk is still getting settled into his new office and home, but his enthusiasm for his new role as CEO of Longleaf Pine REALTORS® is already in full swing. Just a few weeks into the job, the association management veteran sat down with ...


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In The Current Issue

Celebrating 60 years of excellence: Healthkeeperz reflects on its legacy in home-based care

Founded by Howard Brooks, Tim Brooks’ father, Healthkeeperz began as a small community pharmacy in Pembroke in 1966. Photo provided by Healthkeeperz.Healthkeeperz, a company that provides home-based care to community members throughout the state of N


Publisher's note: Spring shopping

PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOMI JAISWAL/UNSPLASH Spring has sprung, and as we finally enter the warmer months, we will begin seeing local farmers markets come alive with fresh produce, plants, local rarities and more. North Carolina’s agriculture in


Where agritourism meets agriculture: Taking a look at the working ranch behind Sweet Valley Ranch

What began as the desire for a horse expanded into one of Fayetteville’s main hospitality and agro-tourism attractions thanks to the passion and love of animals from the Ranch’s founders Anita and Fred Surgeon. Photos provided by Sweet Valley Ranch.S