Our Fire Marshal Hal Lowder reminds the public that pine straw used as ground cover around the base of a structure is a serious fire hazard. Recently, discarded smoking materials ignited pine straw and quickly spread flames to the open stairwell between two buildings, engulfing the primary way out of those apartments. To reduce the spread of fire, Fire Marshal, Hal Lowder encourages owners and managers of commercial and multi-family structures to use alternative materials for landscaping within 10 feet of the building. Pine straw is extremely combustible and has a very rapid rate of fire spread (often over 90 feet per minute). Placing it directly against a building foundation—especially near entryways, stairwells, or windows with combustible framing—poses a serious fire risk from discarded cigarettes, grills, or electrical faults. Combustible siding materials increase the risk of vertical fire spread into the attics of structures.

In celebration of America's 250th Anniversary, the North Carolina N.C. Pecan Music Festival invites you to an evening of fellowship, music, and dining at the historic Vineland Station Depot. The Pecan Prelude will serve as the official kickoff to the North Carolina Pecan Music Festival and will feature a specially prepared dinner by Cook & Company, along with a live bluegrass performance by Massive Grass. 📍 Vineland Station Depot 📅 Friday, November 6 🕕 6:00 PM Tickets are $40 per person and seating is limited. For ticket information, please contact mward@ci.whiteville.nc.us or ecross@ci.whiteville.nc.us