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Articles by Lee Moritz
Cumberland Community Foundation leader stepping down after 30 years
Mary M. Holmes, President & CEO since 1997 After almost 30 years of leading Cumberland Community Foundation, President & CEO Mary Holmes will step down in March 2027. Holmes began her work at the helm of Cumberland Community Foundation in March 1997, becoming CCF’s second president & CEO since the foundation’s founding in 1980.
NSF renews nearly $2 million for UNCP's COMPASS STEM program
Photo provided by UNCP UNC Pembroke's COMPASS program has received nearly $2 million in renewed funding from the National Science Foundation to support future generations of scientists, researchers and healthcare professionals. The grant will support low-income students majoring in biology, chemistry, environmental science and geoscience who enter UNCP in fall 2026, 2027 and 2028.
Savoring tradition: How Yinzers is bringing Pittsburgh's iconic flavors to Fayetteville
Josh Buracchio and his wife Gina had a vision two years ago: to bring the best of their beloved Pittsburgh’s culinary scene to Fayetteville. They created Yinzers, an in-demand food truck known for its take on the traditional Pittsburgh sandwiches. Photo provided by Yinzers. Josh Buracchio and his wife Gina had a vision two years ago: to bring the best of their beloved Pittsburgh’s culinary scene to Fayetteville.
Fayetteville City Council adopts FY 2027 Budget; No tax increases
The Fayetteville City Council adopted the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget on Monday, June 22, approving a $327.3 million operating budget and $117 million Capital Improvement Plan while maintaining the current property tax rate of $0.4495 per $100 of assessed valuation.
WAMC welcomes new Army physician assistants to the force
Photo by Keisha Frith | Five graduates of the Interservice Physician Assistant Program Class 24-1, along with Maj. Jamie Mueller, the Phase II program director, pose for a group photo following their graduation and commissioning ceremony at Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg.
Fayetteville State University earns national recognition for preparing future elementary teachers in the science of reading
Photo provided by FSU The undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program at Fayetteville State University has earned an A+ from the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) for how well it prepares future teachers to teach reading to elementary students.
Arts Council announces new leadership structure to support community impact, artist services and cultural tourism
The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County has announced a series of leadership and staffing transitions effective July 1, 2026, designed to strengthen the organization’s service to artists, nonprofit partners, residents and visitors while positioning the agency for future growth. The changes coincide with the previously announced appointment of Kennon Jackson, Jr. as president/CEO, succeeding Bob Pinson following his retirement after 15 years of service to the organization.
Fort Bragg Red White Boom Fest set for June 27
Photo courtesy of Ft. Bragg The Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host Fort Bragg’s Independence Day celebration Saturday, June 27, on the Main Post Parade Field. Entrance to the Red, White and Boom Fest is free and open to the public. There will be a variety of food vendors, Kiddieland with bounce houses, a parachute demonstration by the All Veterans Parachute Team, the traditional Flag Ceremony and the 82nd Airborne Division Rock Band.
Fayetteville Fire hosts women in fire service recruitment event
The Fayetteville Fire Department will host its sixth Annual Women in Fire Service Day recruiting event on Saturday, June 27, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is for women interested in joining the fire service or learning more about becoming a firefighter.
Community invited to celebrate groundbreaking of SCC’s new Health Sciences Building
Designed by JFK Architecture, the new Health Sciences building design concept. Sampson Community College (SCC) proudly invites the community to the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Health Sciences building on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at 10 a.m. The ceremony will be hosted on west campus, where the new building will be constructed. Purposefully designed for healthcare education, this state-of-the-art facility will serve future SCC students for years to come.
Road closure upcoming for Hoke County widening project
Contractors for the N.C. Department of Transportation are set close a section of Calloway Road in Hoke County for two months as part of the ongoing widening of N.C. 211 (Aberdeen Road). Starting on June 22 at 7 a.m., Calloway Road will close between Turkey Trot Lane and N.C. 211 to construct the new eastbound lane of the N.C. 211 and Calloway Road intersection to the new plan grade. The road is scheduled to reopen by Aug. 21 at 5 p.m., weather permitting.
Cape Fear Regional Theatre announces final million dollar match for Act 2: Expand and Elevate
Cape Fear Regional Theatre is proud to announce THE FINAL MILLION DOLLAR MATCH – a $1,000,000 fund created by The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, The Junior League of Fayetteville, Larry & Julianne Bass, Betsy Hubbard, and Mary Flagg & Jim Haugh that will DOUBLE the impact of any new gifts of $10,000+ (payable over five years) made to the campaign before Sept. 1, 2026.
Josh Ellis recognized with BEE Award at Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst
Photo provided by FirstHealth FirstHealth of the Carolinas is proud to recognize Josh Ellis, a medical laboratory technician at the Moore Regional Hospital-Pinehurst blood bank, as the most recent winner of FirstHealth’s BEE Award. The BEE Award recognizes employees who go above and beyond to show compassion and extraordinary service, fulfilling the system’s core purpose – To Care for People.
Cumberland County Board of Education approves two new principals
Estella Johnson The Cumberland County Board of Education approved the appointments of Estella Johnson as principal of Cumberland Academy K-5 Virtual School and Emily Richards as principal of Long Hill Elementary School. Johnson brings more than 15 years of experience in education to her new role. She currently serves as a founding assistant principal at Cumberland Academy 6-12, where she has helped establish instructional and operational systems since the school's opening in 2020.
Bladen County awarded $2.5M in Neighborhood Revitalization Grants
On Friday, June 12, the North Carolina Department of Commerce and NC Governor Josh Stein announced grant awards to 13 local governments to support housing, infrastructure and community improvement projects that benefit low- and moderate-income North Carolinians. The grants, totaling more than $13.7 million, were awarded through the department’s Community Development Block Grant – Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) program.
Cumberland County Schools remembers the life and legacy of Board Chairwoman Judy Musgrave
Board Chairwoman Judy Musgrave. Photo provided by: CCS Cumberland County Schools (CCS) joins the greater Cumberland County community in remembering the life and legacy of Chairwoman Judy Musgrave, an at-large member of the Cumberland County Board of Education, a lifelong educator and a devoted public servant who passed away yesterday, June 14, 2026. “Chairwoman Judy Musgrave was a respected leader, a passionate advocate for students and a woman whose life was rooted in service.
Greater Fayetteville Chamber receives dual-fuel cargo van donation from Piedmont Natural Gas
The “passing of the keys” was held on site at Piedmont Natural Gas’s campus (4740 Corporation Drive) on Wednesday, May 27. Photo provided by: The Greater Fayetteville Chamber The Greater Fayetteville Chamber is proud to recognize and thank Piedmont Natural Gas for its generous contribution of a dual-fuel cargo van that will support the Chamber’s growing outreach, event, and member engagement efforts throughout Cumberland County.
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 United Way of Cumberland County, has approved Money Box Academy’s grant request for the Money In Motion: Youth Financial Empowerment and Economic Mobility Initiative Program for the 2026 to 2027 funding cycle.
Golden Leaf President & CEO Scott T. Hamilton to retire at the end of 2026
Golden LEAF Foundation have announced President & Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton Photo provided by: The Golden Leaf Foundation The Board of Directors of Golden LEAF Foundation have announced President & Chief Executive Officer Scott T. Hamilton will retire at the end of this year following a distinguished career of leadership and service to North Carolina. Hamilton has served as President and Chief Executive Officer since 2019.
Fayetteville nonprofit announces Inasmuch Village, a permanent housing community for homeless Veterans
Map provided by Operation Inasmuch Fayetteville Area Operation Inasmuch (Inasmuch) announced today the development of Inasmuch Village, a new 16-cottage community that will provide permanent housing for homeless veterans in Fayetteville. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 19, 2026, with the first residents expected to move in in 2027.
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 USSOCOM. Emerging Technology Institute (ETI), a private tech company with a 165,000-square-foot facility, will be hosting the US Special Operations Command’s (USSOCOM) Technical Experimentation event 26-4 from Sept. 14-18, 2026.
Feed solutions company selects Cumberland County for First Facility; Investing $6.5M and creating 25 direct jobs
Photo provided by FCEDC The Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC) is excited to announce that Upcycle Feed Commodities has selected Cumberland County for its first manufacturing facility. The project will create 25 direct jobs and invest over $6 million in real estate and equipment. Upcycle Feed Commodities specializes in the manufacturing of animal feed blends by breaking down food waste and agricultural by-products.
Dr. Karen Ashley joins Carolina Eye Associates
Dr. Karen Ashley Carolina Eye Associates is excited to announce the addition of Karen B. Ashley, MD, to their medical staff. Dr. Ashley is a specialist in oculoplastic and orbital surgery. She will be treating patients in the Dunn, Fayetteville and Southern Pines clinics. Dr. Ashley attended the University of Virginia, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in French and Art History.
Callahan & Rice Insurance Group named a top employer in NC
Callahan & Rice Insurance Group was recognized as a 2026 NC Best Employer, ranking #2 among Small Businesses and #4 Overall in North Carolina by Business North Carolina. “While I'm honored by the recognition, what I'm most thankful for is the team that made it possible. Awards don't create culture. People do,” shared Landon Bentham in a post to LinkedIn. “Our employees have built a workplace centered on learning, accountability, service, and genuine care for one another.
Meet the muffin man: Miller’s Brew Coffee Shop launches Muffins by Michael on Monday
Michael Brown, long time Miller's Brew Crew Member and FTCC graduate is ready to bake. His muffins include blueberry, chocolate chocolate chip and banana bread. Photo provided by: Miller's Brew Coffee Shop The team behind local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Miller’s Crew is leaning into the talents of one of their most tenured Crew Members to meet a sudden need in the Miller’s Brew Coffee Shop.
City of Fayetteville program offers hands-on technology literacy for seniors
Photo provided by Pexels/Kampus Production Seniors, 55+ will soon have new opportunities to strengthen their technology skills through the Senior Technology Literacy Series, a Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation program designed to help participants navigate today's digital world, stay connected with loved ones and protect themselves online.
New art installation “Smile, Bro.” opens June 5 in downtown Fayetteville
On Friday, June 5, 2026, Smile, Bro., a new group exhibition curated by Al Bowman in partnership with Black Artist Forward, will open at Region Six Project in downtown Fayetteville. The evening will begin with a private preview tour at 6:00 p.m. for participating artists, Black Artist Forward members and invited guests, before opening free to the public at 7:00 p.m.. The exhibition will remain on view through July 5, 2026.
Metcon, Inc. elevates safety standards with Type 2 hard hats
Photo provided by: Metcon, Inc Operating with a “People First” mindset, Metcon, Inc. puts the safety, growth, and well-being of their teammates and partners first – every decision, every day. Their commitment to People First drives safety innovation in their project environments. Metcon, Inc. has transitioned to Type 2 hard hats to offer unparalleled protection, ensuring that every worker is shielded from impacts originating from above, the sides, front, and rear.
NCDOT’s traveler information website gets major overhaul
The N.C. Department of Transportation is preparing to launch an improved version of its traveler information website that long has been a public mainstay for getting critical road updates. The web address forDriveNC.govwon’t change, but the software platform behind it has been replaced, ushering in new features for the public and other enhancements for the NCDOT employees operating it.
City of Fayetteville hosts ribbon cutting for new tennis center
Photos by GFBJ The City of Fayetteville gathered with the community to celebrate the ribbon cutting and grand opening of The Courts at Glenville Lake today, June 3, at 730 Filter Plant Drive. The Courts at Glenville Lake marks a major addition to the growing recreational opportunities in the City. “Here's what I know about Fayetteville. I know we are a city on the move, and we're a city on the rise. I know we're growing, we're energetic, we are building our infrastructure to match our ambition.
All American Freeway and bridge project requires detour
A portion of the All American Freeway and its Fort Bragg gate will close starting this summer for up to two years for a major restoration project. The closure is needed for an N.C. Department of Transportation contractor to replace the 50-year-old Gruber Road bridge over the All American Freeway and repair highway settling on Fort Bragg.
FEDTEX Strengthens Collaboration Across the Federal and Defense Textile Industry
The 2026 Federal and Defense Textile and Tactical Equipment (FEDTEX) Summit brought together leaders from government, industry, academia and the textile supply chain for two days of collaboration, innovation and strategic discussion focused on the future of the federal and defense textile marketplace.
Lumbee Guaranty Bank announces appointment of Mark D. Locklear to Board of Directors
Mark D. Locklear 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. “I am pleased to have Mr. Locklear join our Board of Directors. His understanding of our history and purpose, as well as his knowledge of our community, will allow him to be a valuable addition to our Board”, said Sybil Bullard, Lumbee Guaranty Bank Board chair, in a press release.
Weld Wars at Miller-Motte College Fayetteville
Graphic courtesy of Miller-Motte College Miller-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 interactive event is designed to showcase the training, equipment and real-world skills students learn through Miller-Motte College’s hands-on programs.
Cape Fear Valley Health holds ribbon cutting for new Orthopedic Spine Specialists practice
Cape Fear Valley Health held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Cape Fear Valley Orthopedic Spine Specialists practice on Monday, April 6, at noon. Photo by GFBJ. Cape Fear Valley Health held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Cape Fear Valley Orthopedic Spine Specialists practice on Monday, April 6, at noon. The new office is located at 4140 Ferncreek Drive in Fayetteville.
All-New Wizard of Oz on Ice coming to GPAC April 30
Experience the enchantment of a classic tale brought to life like you’ve never seen it before with stunning choreography, vibrant costumes and state-of-the-art special effects. Your favorite characters are coming to the Givens Performing Arts Center (GPAC) at UNC Pembroke on April 30 for The Wizard of Oz on Ice. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $36 to $45 for adults and $20 for children.
Fay.Church launches free church directory for Fayetteville, NC and surrounding communities
A new online resource is making it easier for Fayetteville residents to find a church home. Fay.Church, launched in march 2026 by Bosworth Media Group LLC, is a free directory of 414 churches in Fayetteville — the most complete listing of local congregations available in a single location. The site, available at fay.church, allows visitors to search for churches by name, denomination, pastor or neighborhood.
Taylor Warren, Highstreet Warren Insurance Group
President, Highstreet Warren Insurance Group BIO Taylor Warren is a Fayetteville, North Carolina native, born and raised by his parents, Mike and Donna Warren, alongside his sister, Lindsay Sarff. He graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Taylor Warren is a Fayetteville, North Carolina native, born and raised by his parents, Mike and Donna Warren, alongside his sister, Lindsay Sarff.
STARward STEM Design Challenge empowers students to aim high and reach the stars
The First-Place Judges' Choice Category winners, the "Microgravity Muscle Makers: Theraputty in Space" team from Warrenwood Elementary School (WES), take a photo with N.C. Senator Val Applewhite, CCS Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy, WES Principal Kanisha Jones and Capt. Tony Antonelli. Photo provided by CCS.
Advances in Bariatric Surgery: Robotics, Revisions and What’s Ahead
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, particularly robotic-assisted surgery, are transforming how weight-loss procedures are performed and how patients recover.
UNC Pembroke names Scott Byrd director of athletics
Scott Byrd UNC Pembroke has named Scott Byrd director of athletics. Byrd is a seasoned Division I leader with a track record of building programs, driving revenue growth and elevating the student-athlete experience. Byrd becomes the university’s 11th director of athletics, arriving at a time of unprecedented and continued momentum for BraveNation. He officially assumes the role on June 15.
How to turn business risk into resilience: Four proactive steps every business needs to take
Running a small or midsize business means balancing challenges with opportunity. But according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, one in four small businesses are just one disruption away from shutting down.1 When a single storm, system outage or supply disruption can interrupt operations, you need to prepare with the right partners, so your business can bounce back without major setbacks. Resilience isn’t about avoiding every risk. It’s about being ready to recover.
Sampson County Tourism welcomes Kate Randleman as director
Kate Randleman Sampson County Tourism has announced that Kate Randleman will join the organization as director beginning April 13, 2026. In this role, Randleman will lead efforts to promote tourism across the county and highlight the community’s attractions, events and local businesses. A native of Salemburg, North Carolina, Randleman brings a strong connection to the community and a passion for local engagement.
NCDCDT recognizes Miller’s Brew Coffee Shop as Employer of the Year
Photo courtesy of Miller's Brew The NC Division of Career Development and Transition recently recognized Miller’s Crew and Miller’s Brew Coffee Shop as the 2026 Employer of the Year. Kim and Karl Molnar opened Miller’s Brew Coffee Shop, a shop that doubles as a training center for adults with special needs, in the first quarter of 2023. The coffee shop is an extension of the couple’s nonprofit organization, Miller’s Crew, started in 2016.
FTCC Trustee Dr. Vikki Andrews receives Order of the Long Leaf Pine
FTCC Trustee Dr. Vikki Andrews received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award from NC Rep. Mike Colvin. Photo provided by FTCC. Fayetteville Technical Community College Board of Trustees member Dr. Vikki Andrews received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, recognizing a decades-long career in statewide civic service. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is the highest award for state service granted by the Office of the Governor.
Kia McMillan introduces Ace 19 Cafe and Lounge at Stryker Golf Course
Photo provided by Kia McMillan Fayetteville native Kia McMillan has revamped the Stryker Golf Course clubhouse event venue and dining facility by opening Ace 19 Cafe and Lounge. Ace 19 Cafe is located at 7105 Bragg Blvd. Fort Bragg, N.C. 28307. The cafe provides fresh food and refreshing drink options to Stryker Golf Course visitors and operates as an event venue available for rent for Fayetteville and Fort Bragg locals.
NC History Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction hosts topping-off ceremony
Mary Lynn Bryan, vice chair of the board of the NC History Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction, signs the beam before it is hoisted into place. Photos by GFBJ. Today, Tuesday, March 31, the final steel beam was hoisted into place atop the NC History Center on the Civil War, Emancipation & Reconstruction building by Balfour Beatty LLC, the construction company that is building the 60,000-square-foot building, which will house the Center.
Community invited to first look at Fayetteville’s newest Tennis Center
Graphic provided by: City of Fayetteville The City of Fayetteville is excited to invite residents and community members to the First Look event for The Courts at Glenville Lake, 730 Filter Plant Drive, on Wednesday, April 1 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Attendees will have the chance to explore the tennis center before the official grand opening and connect with the Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks and Recreation team to learn about the programming opportunities.
City of Fayetteville joined by state officials to announce expansion of LEAD program
Photo provided by: City of Fayetteville On Tuesday, March 24, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), and the North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition (NCHRC) announced at Fayetteville's City Hall the expansion of Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) programs across seven counties in North Carolina.
First Citizens Bank Contributes $500,000 to New Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine
Photo provided by MU Senior Vice President and Manager of Commercial Banking at First Citizens Bank, Tim Richardson, recently presented a symbolic check representing a monumental contribution of $500,000 from First Citizens to the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine (SOM).
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