Stephen and Alley Fore, co-owners of Lighthouse at Little River in Carthage, have taken ownership of a downtown Pinehurst staple — Dugan’s Pub.
Longtime owner Alan Riley announced the sale on the pub’s Facebook page on Halloween.
“June 6, 1999 I drove from Fayetteville for a week to help Dugans Pub through the U.S. Open,” he wrote. “Fast forward, I became a partner in 2001 and its sole proprietor couple years later. Eighteen years ago we adopted the kids in Back Pack Pals and The food Bank of Central and Eastern N.C. Nine golf tournaments, tons of food drives and events later. We were able to feed hundreds. And now it’s 23 years years later, I’ve had to reach the decision to sell the pub.
“Love you all and thank you for 23 plus years of the greatest chapter of my life! Stephen … take care of my team, my community, our guests and our menu … I know you will!”
Husband-and-wife team Stephen and Alley Fore opened Lighthouse at Little River on Veteran’s Day 2021 after installing new decor, lakeside fire pits and a menu around homemade specialties. The purchase was a homecoming of sorts for Stephen, who was the executive chef at Little River in the early 2000s.
The team has become known for special events, like holiday brunches, as well as classic comfort food, all of which has earned rave reviews on social media. Lighthouse at Little River has also made news for its involvement in the community, such as feeding more than 200 Duke lineman who were working to install power during Hurricane Ian.
While Alan’s post said that Dugan’s staff would be staying on, we’re all excited to hear what Stephen and Alley’s longtime plans for the pub may be. Stay tuned.
