Rockingham Speedway Sold to IHRA, Plans Announced to Revitalize “The Rock” in 2026

ROCKINGHAM, N.C. — Rockingham Speedway, the historic track known worldwide as “The Rock,” has a new owner — and new plans aimed at bringing more racing and entertainment back to Richmond County. The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has purchased Rockingham Speedway after the property had been on the market since last summer. IHRA owner […]
Moore County Local News Update: Superintendent Search, Carthage Fire, and Lawsuit at Youth Psychiatric Facility
Updated: December 23, 2025 | Market: Moore County, NC • Sandhills Region | Station: Star 102.5 FM A quick snapshot of what’s happening across Moore County and the Sandhills: Moore County Schools begins a superintendent search, a fast response contains a Carthage multifamily fire, and a lawsuit alleges abuse at a West End youth psychiatric […]
Lumbee Tribe Achieves Federal Recognition, Sparking Celebration and Debate
NORTH CAROLINA — The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has officially received federal recognition, marking a historic milestone for one of the state’s largest Native American communities. The recognition was included in the National Defense Authorization Act signed into law on December 18. Federal recognition grants Lumbee citizens access to programs related to healthcare, housing, […]
Two-Year Narcotics Investigation Leads to Major Drug Arrest in Scotland County
LAURINBURG, N.C. — A lengthy narcotics investigation in Scotland County has resulted in the arrest of a Laurinburg man and the seizure of thousands of dollars’ worth of illegal drugs. The Scotland County Sheriff’s Office announced that deputies arrested Dablenski “Hog” McNair after executing a search warrant in the 200 block of East Covington Street […]
Three Arrested Following Southern Pines Apartment Shooting
SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. — Three individuals, including two adults and one juvenile, have been arrested in connection with a shooting at Brookside Park Apartments that left one person injured earlier this month. According to the Southern Pines Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire around 5 p.m. on December 10 at the apartment complex […]
Robbins Approves Ellie Jean Accessible Playground Project, Targeting 2026 Opening

Sandhills Daily | Community Robbins is moving forward with a new all-inclusive playground after town leaders unanimously approved funding and plans for the Ellie Jean ADA-compliant play park—powered by local donations, town investment, and visitor-backed grant support. Unanimous approval and funding package The Robbins Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to accept a $75,000 matching grant […]
Pinehurst Man Pleads Guilty in $6 Million Military Contract Bid-Rigging Case

Sandhills Daily | Crime A Pinehurst resident has pleaded guilty in a federal bid-rigging conspiracy involving U.S. military procurement contracts, with officials estimating the affected commerce at roughly $6 million. What happened Federal prosecutors say Brett Sanborn, identified as the president of a North Carolina construction company, conspired with other individuals and businesses to suppress […]
Moore County Schools Alum Named Interim Superintendent
Jenny Purvis to assume interim leadership role beginning March 1, 2026 The Moore County Board of Education has named longtime educator and district leader Jenny Purvis as Interim Superintendent of Moore County Schools, effective March 1, 2026. The decision was announced following a special called meeting held on December 17, 2025. Board Chair Dr. Robin […]
NC Food Banks Receive $500,000 Boost Amid Rising Need

Sandhills Daily | North Carolina A statewide donation will help expand access to fresh, nutritious food for families across North Carolina. Food banks across North Carolina are receiving a major boost after the State Employees Credit Union Foundation awarded $500,000 to Feeding The Carolinas, a statewide hunger relief network. The grant arrives at a critical […]
Southern Pines Finalizes Purchase of New Town Hall

Sandhills Daily | Local Government Contributed article/photo. A centralized facility aims to improve accessibility, efficiency, and customer service. The Town of Southern Pines has officially closed on the purchase of a new Town Hall at 300 SW Broad Street, marking a major milestone in the town’s long-term planning efforts. The new facility will bring several […]