Local News

Fayetteville is building workforce of tomorrow

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Tuesday, 07 April 2026

Written by Luis Velez, Waleed Mohamed

FTCC and FSU are partnering with the U.S. Department of Energy to train the energy efficiency professionals our region needs—starting now.
Fayetteville Technical Community College and Fayetteville State University have launched the Building Training and Assessment Center, a hands-on workforce training initiative funded by a $900,000 U.S. Department of Energy grant, covering tuition costs entirely for students, meaning qualified students can gain new certifications and skills at no cost to them.
The timing couldn't be better. Southeastern North Carolina is seeing over $400 million in state-funded construction and renovation coming to Cumberland County, including $160 million on the FSU campus. Fort Bragg, the largest military installation in the United States, has federal energy audit mandates covering millions of square feet of building space, and Cumberland County Schools is actively working to reduce energy costs across more than 90 buildings. Meanwhile, less than 1% of commercial buildings in the county are ENERGY STAR certified. For trained workers, that's not a statistic—it's a market. The demand for energy-efficient construction and energy assessment expertise has never been greater. And BTAC exists to train the workforce to meet it.
Training Details
Each BTAC course runs 120 hours (approximately 2–3 months) and leads to Department of Energy industry-recognized certifications. Four courses are available:
• HVAC/R: Heat pumps, EPA Universal certification, smart thermostat systems
• Electrical: LED lighting, sensors, smart controls, low-voltage applications
• Carpentry: Energy audits, insulation, window installation, energy-efficient construction
• Solar Energy: Photovoltaic technology, inverters, commercial solar systems
Construction and renovation firms across our region and throughout the North Carolina area are actively seeking workers who can identify and implement energy savings strategies. This training positions you directly for those roles. And with certifications in hand, you become a more competitive candidate the moment you complete the program.
The BTAC isn’t just a training program. It’s a community investment. FSU brings academic depth and workforce connections. FTCC brings hands-on facilities, continuing education expertise, and industry understanding. Fayetteville Public Works Commission adds utility-sector partnerships and the capacity to conduct real energy assessments for local businesses and institutions. Together, these three organizations are building a pipeline of skilled workers for a region that desperately needs them.
Spring & Summer 2026 Schedule
• HVAC/R | April 13 – May 8 | Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Electrical | May 11 – July 1 | Mon–Thu, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Carpentry | June 2 – July 23 | Mon–Thu, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
• Electrical | Aug 10 – Sept 30 | Mon–Thu, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Classes are scheduled evenings and weekdays to accommodate working adults. Pre-registration is required.
Who Should Apply
The BTAC welcomes construction, HVAC, electrical, and solar professionals looking to expand their skills; career changers entering the green economy; veterans and military-affiliated individuals seeking civilian career pathways; and anyone motivated to earn an industry certification in under three months.
DOE grant funding covers tuition. Space is limited—pre-register today. For more information, visit faytechcc.edu/btac-grant or call 910-678-8494.

Health & Wellness: Time is brain: Enhanced imaging, skilled neuro-intervention bring stroke healing closer to home

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Tuesday, 07 April 2026

Written by Lia Tremblay

The recent growth at Cape Fear Valley has been hard to miss, with the new School of Medicine rising over Village Drive and the Center for Medical Education and Neuroscience Institute on Melrose Avenue. Dozens of clinics across eight counties now boast the Cape Fear Valley name, along with schools of nursing and health at multiple local colleges and universities.
But the meaning behind this expansion goes way beyond brick and mortar. Each new development aims to bring high-quality healthcare closer to home for southeastern North Carolina patients and their families.
“When we have the technology and the people we need to treat patients right here, we don’t have to send them far away to Duke or UNC,” said Mena M. Samaan, MD, Director of Neurointerventional Services. “That can make a big difference in the outcome for those patients.”
A board-certified neurologist, Dr. Samaan has advanced fellowship training in vascular neurology and endovascular neurointerventional surgery. His arrival at Cape Fear Valley earlier this year represents a major upgrade to services for complex cerebrovascular conditions such as stroke, aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation and carotid artery disease.
“Basically, anything in the blood vessels from the neck up,” he said. “With minimally invasive procedures, we can use imaging to find the problem and address it.”
It’s a big step forward for local care. Like most hospitals, Cape Fear Valley has historically given emergent stroke patients a “clot-busting” medication to restore blood flow, and then quickly transferred them to larger hospitals like Duke for a thorough investigation and treatment of the cause.
“But as we say, ‘Time is brain,’” said Dr. Samaan. “Every minute, about two million neurons die. So time is of the essence, and it’s better not to spend that time going to another hospital.”
Of course, this important work can’t be done without the proper tools. Dr. Samaan is looking forward to the arrival of a million-dollar machine that will help him to clearly see the task before him. Using two rotating X-ray cameras, the biplane imaging system produces exquisitely detailed images of blood vessels and blood flow in real time. This helps doctors like Dr. Samaan to see precisely where a vessel is blocked or damaged and to quickly treat the problem.
“That will make a big difference in outcomes,” said Dr. Samaan. “We will see less disability coming from strokes, shorter hospital stays, less rehab time.”
Dr. Samaan’s work isn’t limited to strokes, of course, but they have been a major focus of his career. And because Fayetteville is nestled in the “Stroke Belt,” a portion of the United States where strokes are more prevalent, his efforts will be especially meaningful at Cape Fear Valley.
“We have a very susceptible community here,” he said, “with a lot of vascular, cardiac and neurovascular problems. So we have been very focused on bringing stroke care here to the next level.”
While settling in at Cape Fear Valley, Dr. Samaan has been impressed by the efforts to bring talented providers to the area and to upgrade care across all the health system’s services. He said the biplane imaging system is a perfect example of the investments being made in a higher level of care for the region.
“The quality team has been taking a great lead on improving the patient experience,” he said. “There has been so much effort to make significant improvements and invest in the things we need. I have seen great support from the administration, and it means a lot.”
Dr. Samaan said he was first drawn to his specialty by a desire to solve complex problems, and he’s grateful for the opportunity to do that in a supportive environment with a great team and the right tools.
“That’s really what brought me to the endovascular field,” he said. “I want to help these patients, to get them into a better position than when they came in and get them back to their family and their life."

(Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Valley Health)

The Courts at Glenville Lake unveiled ahead of grand opening

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Tuesday, 07 April 2026

Written by Sheila D. Barker

The Fayetteville community recently took an exciting step forward in recreational development with a special preview event for The Courts at Glenville Lake on April 1. Residents and community members were invited to explore the new tennis and pickleball complex ahead of its official grand opening, getting a firsthand look at a facility designed to elevate both local recreation and regional sports tourism.
Located at 730 Filter Plant Drive, The Courts at Glenville Lake is a 6,594-square-foot tennis center featuring 11 courts, including a championship-level court with spectator seating. The complex also includes four pickleball courts, locker rooms with showers, a lounge, a dedicated learning area, administrative offices, and a pro shop. The thoughtfully designed space accommodates players of all skill levels—from beginners picking up a racket for the first time to seasoned competitors seeking high-quality training and match play.
This ambitious project first broke ground on Oct. 21, 2022, with an original completion target set for Fall 2025. Now nearing full completion, the facility stands as a major addition to the recreational landscape of Mazarick Park, a sprawling 147-acre park already known for its fishing spots, disc golf course, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and scenic hiking trails. Positioned near the shores of Glenville Lake, the courts offer a picturesque backdrop that enhances the overall playing experience. Although the tennis center features its own dedicated entrance and parking area, it remains seamlessly connected to the broader park environment.
The development of The Courts at Glenville Lake is part of a larger city-wide initiative to upgrade recreational offerings, particularly within the Mazarick Park area. However, the vision extends far beyond local amenities. City leaders have strategically positioned the facility as a cornerstone for athletic tourism and long-term economic growth.
A key component of this strategy is the center’s ability to host large-scale competitive events. The inclusion of a championship court with ample spectator seating signals Fayetteville’s intention to attract high-level tournaments sanctioned by organizations such as the United States Tennis Association. This infrastructure allows the city to serve as a destination for regional championships, bringing in athletes, coaches, and spectators from across the state and beyond.
In addition to tennis, the facility embraces the rapidly growing popularity of pickleball. With four dedicated courts, the complex is well-positioned to host multi-sport racquet tournaments that appeal to a broader demographic. This diversification not only increases participation but also enhances the facility’s appeal as a year-round competition hub.
Lighting installed throughout the courts further supports this goal by extending play into the evening hours. This capability allows for larger tournament brackets and multi-day events, maximizing both participation and spectator attendance. As a result, Fayetteville can host more dynamic and comprehensive competitions, increasing its visibility within the regional sports community.
Beyond athletics, the economic implications of the project are significant. The $13.4 million investment aligns with Fayetteville’s broader strategy to boost local economic activity through sports tourism. City officials anticipate that tournaments and events will generate increased demand for hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses—a concept often referred to as “heads in beds.” By drawing visitors from outside the immediate area, the facility is expected to contribute to sustained economic growth.
The tennis center also plays a role in enhancing Fayetteville’s overall appeal as a place to live, work, and recreate, a central objective outlined in the city’s 2027 Strategic Plan. Modern, high-quality recreational amenities are increasingly important for attracting new residents and retaining current ones, particularly those seeking active, community-oriented lifestyles.
In addition to economic and recreational benefits, The Courts at Glenville Lake is designed to support professional development and community partnerships. The clubhouse and instructional spaces provide a foundation for elite training programs, clinics, and camps that can attract aspiring athletes from across North Carolina. Partnerships with organizations like the Cape Fear Regional Tennis Foundation will help ensure a consistent schedule of programming, from youth instruction to sanctioned competitive play.
Ultimately, the Courts at Glenville Lake represents more than just a new sports facility—it is a strategic investment in Fayetteville’s future. By combining community access, competitive infrastructure, and economic opportunity, the city has created a space that serves both residents and a wider regional audience. As the official grand opening approaches, the excitement generated by the preview event reflects a shared sense of pride and anticipation for what this new chapter in Fayetteville’s recreational development will bring.

(Photo courtesy of City of Fayetteville's Facebook page)

Fresh finds, local vibes: local farmers markets

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Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Written by Sheila D. Barker

There’s nothing quite like a local farmers market—fresh produce, handmade goods, and that unmistakable sense of community. Whether you’re planning a Saturday morning outing or just looking to shop more locally, the local area is full of hidden gems worth exploring. From bustling downtown markets to charming roadside stands, here’s your guide to the best farmers' markets in the area.

City Market at the Museum-325 Franklin St.
Open Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Fayetteville Farmers Market, located at 325 Franklin Street, in front of the Fayetteville History Museum, is a vibrant community hub. This open-air market connects local growers, artisans, and small-scale producers directly with residents, offering a fresh selection of handcrafted goods. By promoting sustainable, locally sourced shopping, the market enriches the downtown atmosphere and strengthens Fayetteville's economy. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/5s5sex4j.

Pate's Farm Market-6411 Raeford Rd.
Open Mon-Sat 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Pate's Farm Market is a beloved family-owned destination. More than just a produce stand, it offers a delightful blend of fresh seasonal foods, vibrant nursery plants, and hearty Southern-style hot-bar meals. Founded by Mike and Rochelle Pate, the market beautifully merges the charm of a traditional farmers' market with the convenience of a full-service specialty store, making it a go-to spot for locals craving quality produce and delicious homemade comfort food. For more information, visit https://patesfarmmarket.com/.

T & T Farmers Market-3755 Cumberland Rd.
T & T Farmers Market, a cornerstone of Fayetteville’s local scene since 1981, offers an exceptional selection of fresh, seasonal produce, vibrant plants, and handcrafted local goods. This long-established market proudly serves as both a vital wholesale supplier and a beloved community retail destination, dedicated to celebrating regional agriculture and delivering unparalleled freshness.
Jackson Family Farms-5818 Ramsey St.
Open Mon-Thurs Noon to 6 p.m., Fri & Sat 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Jackson Family Farms, a family-owned market and country store in Fayetteville, proudly carries on a century-long agricultural legacy from Newton Grove. This vibrant retail destination offers a curated selection of locally grown produce, handcrafted goods, and charming home décor, quickly establishing itself as a community favorite for its farm-fresh products and welcoming atmosphere.

Cedar Creek Market-1304 Cedar Creek Rd.
Open Tues-Sat 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cedar Creek Market, a vibrant community hub in Fayetteville, offers a delightful farm-to-table experience. Located at 1304 Cedar Creek Road, this local farm business serves as a direct retail outlet for fresh, homegrown produce and a welcoming gathering space for residents passionate about sustainable agriculture. Cedar Creek Market is dedicated to fostering education, encouraging family participation, and championing regional farming. For more information, visit https://cedarcreekfarmersmarket.com/.

Dirtbag Ales Farmers Market-5435 Corporation Dr., Hope Mills
Open Sun 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Connect with your community and discover the passions of local farmers and producers. Join in every Sunday for live music, over 50 local vendors, delicious food trucks, rejuvenating yoga, and of course, Dirtbag Ales' craft brews. All ages and backgrounds are welcome. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/dirtbagfarmersmarket.

Hoke County Farmer's Market-McLaughlin Park, Raeford
Open First & Third Sat 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Hoke County Farmer's Market, located at McLaughlin Park in downtown Raeford, is a vibrant community hub celebrating local agriculture and small-scale producers. Open on the first and third Saturdays from March through November, the market offers a diverse selection of seasonal produce, microgreens, local honey, meats, farm-fresh eggs, handcrafted goods, and nursery plants. It's the perfect place to connect with local farmers and discover the best of what Hoke County has to offer. For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/35txkh6m.

Farmers Market Sunday at James Creek-172 US Highway 1, N., Business, Cameron
Open First & Third Sun 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Experience the charm of the Cameron Farmers Market at James Creek Cider House, a delightful seasonal event nestled amidst picturesque orchards in Cameron. Running from March through November, this family-friendly market offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a weekend outing. Discover a bounty of local treasures, from farm-fresh seasonal produce like succulent peaches and heirloom apples to vibrant microgreens, golden honey, and blooming nursery plants. Talented local artisans also showcase their unique handmade crafts and artisanal creations. For more information, visit https://jamescreekciderhouse.com/.

North South Brewing Company Farmers Market-304 Williams St.
Open Saturdays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The North South Brewing Company Farmers Market is a vibrant community event held at North South Brewing in Fayetteville. This unique market seamlessly blends the lively atmosphere of a local craft brewery with the charm of a traditional open-air market. Visitors can explore a rotating selection of vendors offering fresh seasonal produce, handcrafted jewelry, custom apparel, and delicious local honey and jams. For more information, visit https://www.northsouthbrew.com/