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Articles by John Bigger
Greater Fayetteville Chamber’s Military Affairs Council hosts Operation Patriot Pantry throughout the month of November
The greater Fayetteville community is invited to contribute non-perishable food items to support those who serve our nation. Recognizing the current financial pressures faced by military families and the need for immediate, tangible support within the Fort Bragg community, the Greater Fayetteville Chamber Military Affairs Council (MAC) is hosting Operation Patriot Pantry, an installation food drive to support Fort Bragg soldiers and their families.
Traffic to shift to new lanes on N.C. 211 in Hoke County
A contractor for the N.C. Department of Transportation will shift traffic along a portion of N.C. 211 in Hoke County onto newly constructed lanes starting next week. Beginning at 8 a.m. on Nov. 10, weather permitting, crews will begin shifting traffic in both directions on N.C. 211 from approximately 1 mile east of Ashemont Road to Ivey Street onto the newly constructed lanes.
Cumberland County to host Community Funding Program information session Dec. 1
Community Funding Program Go Live Session from Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. Photo provided by Cumberland County Government. Cumberland County will host a second Community Funding Program Go Live Session to provide nonprofit organizations with additional opportunities to learn about the funding application process, receive hands-on assistance and ask questions before submitting applications.
Cape Fear Botanical Garden launches public phase of $4.75 million “Always Growing” capital campaign
Cape Fear Botanical Garden is celebrating an exciting milestone with the public launch of Always Growing, a $4.75 million capital campaign that will transform opportunities for environmental education, enhance the visitor experience, preserve iconic Garden features and strengthen the organization's future. One of the campaign’s most important projects is the replacement of the original 1970s-era picnic shelter in Pope Park with a modern Environmental Education Pavilion and accessible restrooms.
Fayetteville PWC earns four 2026 Public Power Awards of Excellence
Photo provided by PWC The Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC) has been recognized with four 2026 Public Power Awards of Excellence from ElectriCities of North Carolina, continuing a tradition of recognition dating back to 2015. PWC received awards in four categories: Strengthen Public Power, Provide Superior Power, Customer-Centered Innovation and People.
FSU’s Rodney McCrowre among 56 leaders selected for statewide leadership program
Rodney L. McCrowre, DBA, assistant chair and assistant professor of management at FSU's Broadwell College of Business and Economics. (Photo by FSU) Rodney L. McCrowre, DBA, assistant chair and assistant professor of management at Fayetteville State University's Broadwell College of Business and Economics, was selected for Leadership North Carolina's Class 34 for the 2026-27 program year, the organization announced Oct. 13.
Fayetteville City Council adopts revised UDO amendment for data centers
The Fayetteville City Council adopted a revised Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) amendment on Oct. 26, establishing a conditional rezoning requirement for warehouse storage uses proposed as data centers. The revised amendment also clarifies how the UDO addresses unlisted uses, development density, permitted uses and nonconformities. Council found the amendment consistent with the City’s adopted comprehensive plan.
Veterans Month Reflects FTCC's Daily Commitment to Those Who Serve
In Cumberland County and throughout our region, military service is woven into the fabric of our community. At Fayetteville Technical Community College, we are privileged to serve the men and women who wear our nation's uniform, the veterans who have honorably served, and the military spouses and dependents who make sacrifices alongside them.
Cool Spring Downtown District announces 6th annual District NYE Spectacular
Graphic courtesy of CSDD The City of Fayetteville and Cool Spring Downtown District are pleased to announce the return of the District New Year’s Eve Spectacular for its sixth year, held in Festival Park (335 Ray Ave) on Thursday, Dec. 31 from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. This year, organizers are excited to bring two touring acts to the District’s New Year’s celebration - opener Oceanic and headliner gymclassheroes.
Maddie Kellogg, Cumberland Community Foundation
Director of Donor Services, Cumberland Community Foundation BIO Maddie Kellogg is the Director of Donor Services at Cumberland Community Foundation. Maddie is a native of Fayetteville and a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and Fayetteville State University. At the community foundation, she helps do Maddie Kellogg is the Director of Donor Services at Cumberland Community Foundation. Maddie is a native of Fayetteville and a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and Fayetteville State University.
The Pentagon Wants Millions of Autonomous Systems. Is North Carolina Ready for the Opportunity?
According to the North Carolina Military Business Center’s (NCMBC) Technology Transition Office, the next major opportunity in national security may not be determined by who builds the most sophisticated technology. It may be determined by who can produce useful technology at scale, get it into the hands of military operators, and do it fast enough to matter.
Eutaw Landing celebrates grand opening, expands affordable housing for seniors
Government leaders, partners and supporters all came together with the SEML Development and Duggins family on Friday, Oct. 30 to celebrate the grand opening of a new affordable housing facility for seniors. Eutaw Landing Apartments, a 54-unit apartment building featuring both one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, is now a fully occupied home to individuals aged 55 and older. The property features amenities such as a community room, business center, picnic area and more.
Lumbee Tribe unveils Red Springs site for 75–80 future homes
Photo by GFBJ The Lumbee Tribe is excited to announce a new homeownership opportunity made possible through a land acquisition in the Red Springs community of District 4. The project spans 40 acres adjoining 301 Mount Tabor Road in Red Springs. Between 75 and 80 homes will be constructed in the coming years. “It always means a lot when you can come back, and you can do something positive for your community. And to be honest with you, I'm very proud. I'm very proud of this moment.
Second "Home" Public Art Installation unveiling scheduled for Oct. 29; TDA commissions five public art displays across Moore County
The Moore County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) will reveal the second of five “HOME” public art installations at Sandhills Community College in Pinehurst on Thursday, Oct. 29, at 10:30 a.m. Created by Luke Huling, a ceramic figure sculptor and associate professor and coordinator at Sandhills Community College, the artwork spells the word “home” and will be mounted on the rear façade of the Bell Garden Visitor Center at Sandhills Horticultural Gardens.
Cumberland County Emergency Services maintains Emergency Medical Dispatch Center of Excellence accreditation
The Board of Commissioners recognized Cumberland County Emergency Services for maintaining the Emergency Medical Dispatch Center of Excellence accreditation through the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) on Monday, Oct. 5, 2026. Emergency Services was also recognized for the elite designation of a Tri-ACE, which requires continued accreditation in Emergency Police Dispatch and Emergency Fire Dispatch.
Fayetteville PWC celebrates 50 years of the Butler-Warner Generation Plant
The Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC) is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Butler-Warner Generation Plant (BWGP), recognizing five decades of reliable electric generation, innovation and service to Fayetteville and Cumberland County. The Butler-Warner Generation Plant represents an important part of PWC's history and its commitment to long-term planning and reliable electric service.
Atlantic Capital Partners arranges sale of Hope Mills Crossing for $7M+
Photo courtesy of Atlantic Capital Partners Atlantic Capital Partners has facilitated the sale of Hope Mills Crossing, a 53,204-square-foot shopping center located in Hope Mills, North Carolina, within the Fayetteville MSA. Atlantic Capital Partners exclusively represented the seller in the transaction.
Fueling families: USAA AND Robert Irvine Foundation launch Fuel to Serve to strengthen military family well-being and readiness
Fuel to Serve will go “beyond the dining hall,” using food and shared meals as trusted entry points to link families with a broader network of resources. Photo courtesy of USAA. USAA and the Robert Irvine Foundation recently announced Fuel to Serve. This new five-year partnership will use food as an everyday entry point to strengthen military family well-being and readiness.
DRACOE holds grand opening for new manufacturing facility in Hoke County
A new defense technology and manufacturing company has been officially welcomed into Hoke County. Leadership and staff of DRACOE hosted a grand opening ceremony for their new facility located off of Highway 15/50 close to Aberdeen, N.C. on Wednesday, Oct. 21. The Veteran-owned company specializes in the design, manufacturing and integration of unmanned systems and critical components.
CCS honors Edith Ball and Roy Young for service to students and schools
CCS Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy and Edith Ball Cumberland County Schools (CCS) recognized Edith Ball and Roy Young for their dedication to supporting students and strengthening school communities during the Cumberland County Board of Education meeting on Oct. 12, 2026. Ball received the Extra Mile Award for creating a peer reading program on her school bus.
$43.1 million Special Operations Forces barracks project continues to progress
A construction worker uses an angle grinder while working inside a new Special Operations Forces barracks at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Oct. 15, 2026. The $43.1 million military construction project, overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District, will provide modern living quarters for 146 Soldiers. (U.S. Army photo by Ernest B.
Free webinar to explore accessibility and fair housing trends
The Fayetteville-Cumberland Human Relations Department invites the community to join Part 1 of the Freedom Begins With Us: Civil Rights & Fair Housing Summit Webinar on Thursday, Oct. 29, from 9 to 11 a.m. This free virtual session will feature presentations on accessibility and current fair housing trends. Darren Gladstone, U.S. Operations Director for RightHear, will discuss innovative accessibility solutions and ways to create more inclusive environments.
Council appoints 26 residents to City boards and commissions
City Council appointed 26 residents to serve on City boards and commissions during the Sept. 14 meeting. Boards and commissions are made up of volunteers who serve as advisors and help shape the policies and programs of Fayetteville.
First Bank welcomes Carmen Serbio to the team
Image courtesy of First Bank Carmen Serbio has joined First Bank as senior vice president, business development officer. Serbio brings 30 years of banking experience, all within the Fayetteville market, where he has helped businesses and communities grow. He earned degrees in accounting and business administration from Methodist University and furthered his banking expertise through the Graduate School of Banking at LSU and the North Carolina School of Banking at UNC Chapel Hill.
Fayetteville City Manager to step down
Fayetteville City Manager Doug Hewett has announced plans to step down before the end of 2026. Hewett has served as Fayetteville City Manager since April 2016 and has worked in local government for more than 25 years. “It has been an honor to serve alongside the Mayor and City Council and to work with so many committed employees, community partners, and residents over the years,” said Hewett in a press release.
NCDOT seeks public input on improving Ramsey Street; Workshops will be held Oct. 14-15 in Fayetteville
State transportation planners are interested in learning the public’s ideas for improving the Ramsey Street corridor. The N.C. Department of Transportation is currently studying plans to reconstruct a 7-mile section of Ramsey Street from the Martin Luther King Jr. Freeway to Bethune Drive north of Interstate 295 into six lanes with a raised median. Ramsey Street near Post Avenue looking north.
Funding opportunities now available for small businesses
The City of Fayetteville is now accepting applications from local small businesses and commercial property owners looking to improve their storefront, invest in commercial property or take the next step toward growing their business. Grant and loan funding is available through the Can Do Economic Development Programs, with applications open through Oct. 30. Three funding opportunities are available based on the needs of the business or property owner: Can-Do CORE, Can-Do EDGE and Can-Do BOOST.
TRP Sumner PLLC named one of Accounting Today’s 2026 Best Firms to Work For
TRP Sumner PLLC has been named one of Accounting Today’s 2026 Best Firms to Work For, earning national recognition for a commitment the firm considers just as important as the work it delivers: creating a workplace where talented professionals can grow, thrive and build meaningful careers. The annual recognition celebrates accounting firms across the country that excel in employee satisfaction, engagement, workplace culture and their commitment to creating an exceptional employee experience.
Sondra Martin, Fayetteville State University
See the brilliance: Dunn artist creates and sells glass artwork that shines brightly Cindy Akers-Gilford creates stained glass, fused glass, mosaics, handmade glass jewelry, pendants, suncatchers and other original glass artwork in her studio in Dunn, N.C. Photos provided by Cimply Broken.Self-made Artist and Founder of Cimply Broken Brushstrokes of hope: Art therapy for cancer patients and their caregivers FirstHealth’s art therapy for cancer patients and caregivers helps attendees reduce...
Bringing Color Back into Her Life After Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Nelka Robles Hair stylist and educator Nelka Robles always considered herself a “colorful” person who enjoys life. Ten years ago, when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer at the age of 31, some of her joy was halted. A year earlier, she had been diagnosed with three strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common viral infection including many harmless strains and some that have a higher risk of progressing to cancer.
Cumberland Choral Arts receives Arts Council grant to support its 35th season of concerts and expanded Fayetteville Youth Chorus
Cumberland Choral Arts (CCA), the area’s premier community choir, is pleased to announce support of its 35th season titled “It’s About Time” with the help of a $27,000 grant from the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County. “We are energized by the growth CCA has experienced in the past few years, and we are truly grateful for this grant from the Arts Council.
Cumberland Community Foundation presents annual report; $500,000 announced for arts & enrichment for youth
Cumberland Community Foundation celebrated its 46th year and presented its annual report on Thursday, Sept. 24 at its Founders & Friends event at Cape Fear Botanical Garden. The foundation also announced a $500,000 initiative to support cultural programs for local youth. The event is the annual gathering of individuals who have created endowment funds (“founders”) and current volunteers (“friends”) at the community foundation.
UNCP lands nearly $5 million to advance AI, transform student success
Photo provided by UNCP UNC Pembroke has received nearly $5 million from the U.S. Department of Education to transform the student experience through human-centered artificial intelligence, creating new ways for students to learn, access academic support and navigate their path to graduation.
Emily Cribb, MBA, MSN, RN, CEN
Corporate Service Line Director of Emergency Services, Cape Fear Valley Health BIO Emily Cribb, MBA, MSN, RN, CEN, serves as the Corporate Service Line Director of Emergency Services at Cape Fear Valley Health, where she oversees nursing operations and provides leadership across the health system’s Emergency Dep Emily Cribb, MBA, MSN, RN, CEN, serves as the Corporate Service Line Director of Emergency Services at Cape Fear Valley Health, where she oversees nursing operations and provides...
Sandhills Community College Small Business Center expands to Moore and Hoke Counties
Small Business Center Director, Laura Kinsman. Photo provided by: SCC Sandhills Community College (SCC) is launching a redesigned Small Business Center model that expands no-cost entrepreneurial support across Moore and Hoke Counties. Rooted in the College’s commitment to strengthening small businesses and entrepreneurship as drivers of economic growth, the enhanced model is led by recently appointed Small Business Center Director, Laura Kinsman.
Robeson Community College names dental program in honor of Dr. Michael J. Knowles; legacy highlighted with $250,000 gift.
Robeson Community College celebrated a transformational investment in dental education Friday, Sept. 25 as the individual partners of Village Family Dental presented at $250,000 gift in honor of the late Dr. Michael John Knowles, officially naming the college’s program the Michael J. Knowles Dental Training Program.
XVIII Airborne Corps to celebrate grand opening of Rally Point Bistro
Graphic courtesy of XVIII Airborne Corps The XVIII Airborne Corps is hosting a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the "Rally Point Bistro," Fort Bragg's first Campus-Style Dining Venue (CSDV), today, Sept. 29, 2026. The Rally Point Bistro represents a major milestone in the Army Food Program's modernization strategy.
City of Fayetteville to host listening sessions on proposed UDO amendments for Telecommunications/Data Storage Facilities
The City of Fayetteville will host three community listening sessions on Wednesday, Sept. 30, to hear feedback from residents on theproposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) amendments for telecommunications and data storage facilities. Residents can share their comments on topics including water, electricity, emissions, setbacks, appearance and noise. City staff will be on-site to listen and record the comments shared.
Downtown Fayetteville street closures announced for International Folk Festival
Multiple streets in Downtown Fayetteville will be closed as the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County’s48th Annual International Folk Festival takes place Sept. 25 and 26. Friday, Sept. 25: The intersection of Hay Street and Ray Avenue and additional downtown streets will close at 3 p.m. Streets will remain closed overnight through Saturday’s Parade of Nations. The Festival Park Plaza parking lot will close to the public at noon Friday. Saturday, Sept.
August 2026 Housing Market Update: Inventory expands as closed sales decline
Longleaf Pine REALTORS® today released its August 2026 housing market statistics, providing a current look at residential real estate activity across southeastern North Carolina. The latest data reflects expanding inventory and modest price growth, while pending sales and completed transactions declined from a year ago.
First in entrepreneurial excellence: FSU celebrates local businesses at inaugural Impact Awards Gala
The Entrepreneurial Impact Awards Gala provided a formal night out for Fayetteville’s business community. The event took place at the Rudolph Jones Student Center on Thursday, Sept. 10. Photo by GFBJ. Fayetteville State University (FSU) and the Fayetteville-Cumberland Regional Entrepreneur and Business HUB (FSU HUB) came together to celebrate Fayetteville’s business community.
Employment Source announces promotion of LaTesha Bright
Latesha Bright LaTesha Bright has been promoted to senior director of Employment Services. As she celebrates 10 years with the organization, Bright will now provide leadership and support to all affiliates participating in the AbilityOne Program. Throughout her career, Bright has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful employment opportunities, fostering independence and advancing the organization’s mission.
Fayetteville Next Commission hosts 910 Future Fest celebrating opportunity, culture and community
Fayetteville is looking toward the future with 910 Future Festival Week, a three-day celebration bringing together workforce development, entrepreneurship, youth engagement, arts, culture, live entertainment and community pride Sept. 24–26.
A smart next step: Why adult learners are choosing Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville State University caters to a variety of nontraditional students, including adult learners, transfer and military students. Recently, the university has seen a surge in adult learners, or students over the age of 25. Many adults are realizing that a four-year degree or additional schooling is necessary for them to excel in their career. Some adults return to college years later after initially receiving a two-year degree, while others are attending for the first time.
Fayetteville Fire Department opens applications until Sept. 25
Applications are now open for both entry-level and fully certified firefighter positions with the Fayetteville Fire Department (FFD). Applicants can apply online atFayettevilleNC.gov/Jobs. Applications are open until Sept. 25. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will take part in several assessments to proceed through the selection process. Assessments include a written exam (no fire experience required), a physical ability test and panel interviews.
United Bank hires Phil Poliquin to lead government contracting business
Phil Poliquin United Bank, a subsidiary of United Bankshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: UBSI), has announced that Phil Poliquin has joined the Bank as senior vice president and managing director of Government Contracting (GovCon), leading the next phase of growth for United’s GovCon business across the Bank’s footprint. United has a longstanding history of serving government contractors and meeting the dynamic banking needs of companies supporting federal, state and commercial markets.
33rd Regional REALTOR® Rally scheduled for Sept. 22
Photo provided by LPR The 33rd Regional REALTOR® Rally brings real estate professionals from across the region together for practical education, valuable business connections, trusted industry resources and conversations designed to move your business forward. Spend the day exploring new ideas, connecting with exhibitors, meeting professionals from across the region and learning strategies you can actually take back to your business.
Cumberland County Schools Business Operations earns Meritorious Budget Award for third consecutive year
Cumberland County Schools continues to demonstrate strong fiscal leadership as the district’s Business Operations Department has earned the 2026–2027 Meritorious Budget Award from the Association of School Business Officials International for the third consecutive year. The national recognition honors excellence in budget preparation and presentation, highlighting the department’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sound financial practices.
Popular Tex-Mex restaurant to open in Fayetteville
Photo provided by Chuy's Chuy’s, an authentic Tex-Mex restaurant known for its fresh, made-from-scratch dishes, signature margaritas and eclectic design, is introducing its fourth location in North Carolina with the opening of Chuy's Fayetteville on Sept. 30 at 570 Cross Creek Mall. Known for its bold, distinct flavors, Chuy’s serves fresh Tex-Mex made with high-quality ingredients.
FTCC offers Electrical Contractor’s License Prep Course
Fayetteville Technical Community College is offering an Electrical Contractor’s License Prep Course designed to help technicians take charge of their careers and advance toward becoming licensed independent electrical contractors in North Carolina. The course provides targeted exam preparation training with comprehensive coverage of the National Electrical Code (NEC), load calculations, motor circuits, grounding and bonding and blueprints.
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