For more than 70 years, Smith's Red & White has been a familiar name throughout Eastern North Carolina. Known for its homemade sausage, fresh meats, and Southern favorites, this family-owned business in Dortches has become much more than a neighborhood grocery store. It's a local tradition that has been passed down through generations. In the Fall 2026 edition of Tar River Art + Culture Magazine, we're taking a look back at the history of Smith's Red & White and the family be

This weekend, Rocky Mount will host two events that highlight the importance of bringing people together, supporting one another, and recognizing those who make a difference in our community. On Saturday, November 7, Rocky Mount Mills will welcome families for the 4th Annual A Day at The Mills, a free, sensory-friendly event celebrating exceptional children and their families. Presented by Barnhill Contracting Company, the event creates an inclusive environment where children

Every community has a story to tell, and sometimes it takes a different perspective to appreciate what's right in front of us. For local photographer Tim Sia, photography is about more than capturing a beautiful image. It's about documenting the people, places, and everyday moments that make Rocky Mount home. In the Fall 2026 edition of Tar River Art + Culture Magazine, we sat down with Sia to learn more about his journey into photography, what inspires his work, and the stor