About Us
“It’s Your Life. Read All About It.”
The Pilot is Moore County’s only print newspaper, a publication that prides itself on high-quality, local news coverage. Founded more than 100 years ago in Vass, The Pilot maintains strong roots in the Moore County community with its current office in downtown Southern Pines. Today, The Pilot updates its website and social media daily and produces a physical and digital newspaper on Sundays and Wednesdays.
The Pilot provides a variety of newsletters covering all aspects of life in Moore County. These newsletters include The Daily Briefing, offering a daily rundown of top headlines in the county; The Sidelines, providing in-depth coverage of local sports; and The Sway, connecting you to the Moore County community by providing news and information about local businesses and events.
The Pilot also conducts the Best of the Pines competition — an eagerly awaited annual contest celebrating the best that Moore County has to offer, as determined by readers themselves. From favorite restaurants and shops to beloved healthcare providers and entertainment venues, Best of the Pines serves as a spotlight on the very best that this vibrant region has to offer. It's a growing tradition that fosters a sense of community pride and allows residents to honor and support their favorite establishments while discovering new hidden gems. The Best of the Pines truly embodies the essence of community spirit and celebrates the excellence that thrives within Moore County.
The Pilot and its staff have won hundreds of awards over the years, including:
- Best Community Newspaper in America from the National Newspaper Association: 2015, 2016 and 2017
- General Excellence from the North Carolina Press Association: 2010, 2017, 2019, 2020 and 2021
In the last 30 years of independent ownership, The Pilot has expanded its reach across North Carolina and beyond with magazines, radio, a full-service digital agency, and even a bookshop.
