Local News

New To the Neighborhood March 2026

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Tuesday, 24 March 2026

Written by Staff Report

Fayetteville's local scene is buzzing with new energy! Several exciting businesses have recently opened their doors, offering residents a wealth of new places to dine, shop, and discover. These diverse additions, including innovative restaurants, specialty food shops, and expanding retail stores, highlight the region's robust growth and its thriving entrepreneurial spirit. If you're looking to experience a new culinary delight, champion a local business, or browse the latest retail offerings, these newcomers are rapidly becoming beloved additions to our evolving community.

Viva Tropicana
6415 Camden Rd. 109
910-916-6061
https://tinyurl.com/38y8f9zw
Viva Tropicana Fayetteville, which opened earlier this year, is a vibrant Mexican snack shop and ice cream parlor in Fayetteville. Offering authentic treats like homemade ice cream, fresh fruit, and specialized snacks, the shop is a unique destination for "tropical flair." Don't miss signature items like the "Tres Marias" waffle bowl sundae.

The Flying Bear Ramen & Sports Bar
4743 Ramsey St.
910-339-9887
https://flyingbearramen.com/
At the former Rockin' Crab location, The Flying Bear Ramen & Sports Bar offers a new concept by combining ramen and sports bar in one venue. Enjoy hand-pulled noodle bowls with bold Asian flavors in a great sports bar atmosphere with multiple TVs and a full bar setup, great for game nights.

Crunch Fitness
1240 Ireland Dr.
472-248-7648
https://www.crunch.com/locations/irelanddrive
Crunch Fitness has opened a location on Ireland Drive. They celebrated their grand opening in February. Crunch has top-of-the-line equipment, expert personal trainers, group classes, and a fun, no-judgment atmosphere to work out in.

Sephora
419 Cross Creek Mall, Suite 300
910-868-7668
https://www.sephora.com/happening/services
Sephora boasts a vast selection of nearly 340 brands, featuring popular names like Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez, and Tatcha. In addition to these, Sephora offers its own high-quality, affordable line of cosmetics, skincare, and beauty tools. Founded in France in 1969 and now owned by the luxury conglomerate LVMH, Sephora has cultivated a massive community of beauty enthusiasts across thousands of stores globally.

Planet Fitness
3333 N. Main St., Hope Mills
910-221-3224
https://tinyurl.com/yrbjxvkb
Planet Fitness, a globally recognized fitness franchise, opened its doors in Hope Mills this February. Renowned for its "Judgement Free Zone" philosophy, the gym caters to casual exercisers and beginners, distinguishing itself from traditional "hardcore" bodybuilding facilities. This expansive 42,315-square-foot location boasts an impressive array of amenities, including 61 state-of-the-art cardio machines, a functional training area, a dedicated HIIT space, and a luxurious Black Card Spa.

Burn Boot Camp
3071 Legion Rd.
910-302-6444
https://tinyurl.com/5e2xrzmk
Burn Boot Camp offers a dynamic 45-minute group fitness experience that masterfully combines strength and conditioning. Since its founding in 2012, Burn Boot Camp has cultivated a thriving "Burn Nation" community, primarily empowering women and families through a holistic approach to physical and mental transformation. The program's signature "Protocol" ensures a constantly evolving weekly schedule, preventing workout plateaus and maintaining participant engagement. Positioned as a premium boutique fitness offering, Burn Boot Camp distinguishes itself with unique, family-friendly amenities.

Keep an eye out for....

Bahama Breeze
570 Cross Creek Mall
Bahama Breeze is getting a rebrand. Darden Restaurants, Inc will be permanently closing all of its Bahama Breeze restaurants and will convert them all into another Darden brand. The restaurants are expected to close now through April 2026, and it has not been announced yet which restaurant the Bahama Breeze at Cross Creek Mall will be converted to.

Cook Out
1909 Skibo Rd.
Skibo is getting a Cook Out. The fast-food restaurant is moving into the former Boston Market. There is no official grand opening date.

Target
Camden Rd.
There is a new Target coming to Fayetteville in the Camden Commons. Target will be an anchor store for the future Camden Commons project in the Jack Britt/Hope Mills Area between Camden and Rockfish Roads.

US Open Sports Complex
Fayetteville, along 1-95
The US Open Sports Complex is a new 75-acre development that broke ground in February. It is to be the largest cricket stadium with a residential area and training facilities.
It is designed to serve athletes of all levels and, in the future, host major national and international events.

Dining Guide: Women's History Month

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Tuesday, 24 March 2026

Written by Staff Report

During Women's History Month each March, communities across the country celebrate the achievements, creativity, and leadership of women—and one of the most delicious ways to show support is by dining at women-owned restaurants.
Here in Fayetteville and the surrounding area, a growing number of eateries led by talented female chefs, bakers, and entrepreneurs are shaping the local food scene. From cozy cafés and bakeries to vibrant restaurants serving everything from comfort food to global flavors, these businesses reflect the passion, resilience, and vision of the women behind them.
Whether you’re planning brunch with friends, a family dinner, or a quick coffee stop, choosing a women-owned spot this month is a meaningful—and tasty—way to celebrate.

VAGABOND CAFE
108 Hay St., Suite 1B
Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sat 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
910-500-3009
https://www.vagabondcafe910.com/
A welcoming cafe offering freshly brewed coffee, specialty teas, delectable baked goods, and a warm, inviting environment.

ANTONELLA'S ITALIAN RISTORANTE
300 Hay St.
Wed-Sat 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Sun 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
910-486-0046
https://www.antonellasitalianristorante.com/
Elegant dining establishment offering classic Italian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood specialties, thoughtful vegan options, and expertly crafted signature cocktails.

CIRCA 1800
108 Person St.
Wed & Thurs 11 a.m. to 2  p.m.; 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fri 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sat 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sun 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
910-568-4725
https://www.thecirca1800.com/
A welcoming restaurant offering juicy steaks, classic American dishes, and an extensive drink selection in a casual atmosphere.

GASTON BREWING RESTAURANT
124 Hay St.
Tues & Wed 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Thurs-Sat 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Sun 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
910-748-0580
https://gastonbrewing.com/
A welcoming establishment serving hearty comfort dishes alongside house-brewed beers and mixed drinks, perfect for families and groups.

RUDE AWAKENING COFFEE HOUSE
227 Hay St.
Mon-Thurs 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fri & Sat 7:30 a.m. to Midnight
Sun 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
910-223-7833
https://www.rudeawakening.net/
This charming historic cafe offers artisanal coffee beverages, freshly baked pastries, and a diverse menu, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.

TASTE OF WEST AFRICA
116 Person St.
910-779-2375
Wed-Sat 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sun 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
https://www.tasteofwestafrica.net/
A cozy African restaurant serving authentic cuisine in a bright, welcoming space featuring comfortable booth seating and a stylish bar area.

THE SIP ROOM
106 Hay St.
Wed & Thurs 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fri & Sat 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Sun Noon to 6 p.m.
910-920-3442
https://www.thesiproomnc.com/
Upscale wine and champagne lounge featuring gourmet charcuterie boards, exotic hookah flavors, and nightly live music performances.

HENLEY'S VINTAGE KITCHEN
1911-A Murchison Rd.
910-745-9816
https://henleysvintagekitchen.com
Welcoming family restaurant specializing in authentic Southern comfort food, featuring perfectly seasoned fried catfish, creamy mac 'n' cheese, sweet candied yams, and other homestyle favorites in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

BEES & BOARDS RESTAURANT + PROVISION COMPANY
225 Green St.
Mon-Fri 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sat 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
910-263-8754
https://beesandboardsrestaurant.com/
A modern, laid-back restaurant serving traditional Southern comfort dishes in a welcoming atmosphere with contemporary design elements.

MELVIN'S AT RIVERSIDE
1130 Person St.
Tues-Thurs 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Fri 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sat 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sun 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
910-339-3059
https://melvins-atriverside.com/
In a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, diners can savor traditional Southern comfort dishes, including crispy fried chicken, slow-cooked collard greens, and homemade golden cornbread.

ANCHOR ALLIE'S
1204 Bragg Blvd.
Mon 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Tues-Sat 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sun 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
910-229-3490
https://anchorallies.com/
A laid-back eatery serving hearty comfort dishes like juicy burgers and flavorful tacos, alongside a diverse drink menu featuring craft cocktails, beer, and signature espresso martinis.

Health & Wellness: Maintaining the Mane: Cold capping system helps cancer patient keep her hair

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Tuesday, 24 March 2026

Written by Lia Tremblay

When Sabrina DiGirolamo was diagnosed with breast cancer last spring, she learned there was a long road ahead of her: nine rounds of chemotherapy, in 18 sessions that would take at least six hours each.
But chemotherapy can sometimes take more than time while doing its lifesaving work. Hair loss is a known side effect, and DiGirolamo dreaded potentially losing her thick, brown waves.
“I’ve always loved my hair,” she said. “And my husband loves it. Maintaining that was pretty important to me.”
DiGirolamo had a friend who’d been through chemo before and had some success with cold capping therapy, a system that can greatly reduce hair loss during cancer treatment. It keeps the scalp cold during chemotherapy sessions, reducing blood flow, which diminishes the drug’s access to hair follicles.
“I was curious and interested when she was going through it,” DiGirolamo said, “but I never thought it would apply to me. So, when I was diagnosed, one of my first calls was to her.”
After consulting with her friend and researching the options, DiGirolamo was pleased to learn that Cape Fear Valley offered one of the less labor-intensive, more comfortable systems she’d found: the Amma, by Cooler Heads. She requested it right away.
“I just knew that maintaining that piece of me would help me day to day,” she said. “Just feeling like myself, looking in the mirror and seeing somebody that I recognized.”
Brittany Dickerhoff, Gifts Officer, with Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation, said that’s not unusual for patients facing a lengthy cancer treatment.
“When people feel good, and feel like they look good, they have more courage to face the day,” she said. “And I think hair loss is a particularly difficult thing for some to accept.”
The Foundation provided the funding to bring the Amma system to Cape Fear Valley, as part of a decades-long mission to improve the patient experience. It was inspired by a team of nurses, social workers and other professionals who discovered through direct patient care what needs the Foundation can meet.
“Patients have better experiences overall when they’re supported in a number of ways,” said Dickerhoff, “and this was a great thing to offer. We want to do what we can to care for the patient as a whole person, during probably the most difficult thing they'll ever face.”
DiGirolamo was eager to see if the Amma system could keep her spirits up and her hair in place, but she had another important reason to give it a shot: her 5-year-old daughter, Leona.
“She’s very curious, and I love that about her,” she said. “So, we always try to explain things at an appropriate level, but explain them with honesty and make sure she understands what’s happening. But cancer can be scary, so I wanted to maintain any normalcy I could. I didn’t want to look different to her.”
To get started, DiGirolamo was measured for a custom-fit cap. On each chemo day, she started with a wet head and put her cap on, then connected it to the cooling machine when she settled in for her session.
“It’s very, very cold,” she said. “So, I had a heating pad, and hand warmers and a cozy blanket because it just chills your whole body. In the summertime, it was actually kind of nice.”
By the end of her last chemo session, DiGirolamo could see all the hours spent in the cap had paid off.
“I’ve been able to maintain about 75% of my hair,” she said. “I’ve had some shedding, but to the point that nobody would know except me.”
With chemotherapy behind her, DiGirolamo’s next hurdle will be surgery. She said she feels energized by the success of her cold capping and grateful for the support of her husband and mother through this next phase.
She also has high praise for Erin Champion, a Breast Cancer Patient Navigator[AC1.1] who has guided her through the complicated journey from diagnosis through treatment.
“She has been the most wonderful resource for everything I've gone through,” DiGirolamo said. “Connecting me with the doctors for every step of the way, giving me resources, answering questions, or getting back to me when she didn't know the answer. She’s my champion, for sure.”
With her wavy tresses still in place, DiGirolamo hopes to see cold capping made more widely available to others going through chemotherapy across the nation.
“It’s just not accessible for everyone,” she said, “and that’s a shame because it really has been such a life-changing thing. Just seeing myself in the mirror as the same person, it helped me carry on and stay strong mentally throughout this whole thing.”

(Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Valley Health)

Kirk deViere unveils ambitious "Vision 2030" for county

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Tuesday, 24 March 2026

Written by Paul Woolverton, CityView Today

Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chair Kirk deViere on March 17 announced Vision 2030—his plan to transform the community for the better.
“Tonight, we’re putting a stake in the ground, and by 2030, Cumberland County will be recognized as a national model for military-connected community development,” deViere said during his second annual State of the County Address.
Cumberland County will be a place where education, workforce development, and economic development “are seamlessly connected,” he said. “Where every home has clean water. Where mental health is treated with the same urgency as physical safety. Where our military families choose to stay and build. And where innovation and opportunity grow side by side.
“That is Vision 2030. And that is not a dream. That is a plan,” he said.
DeViere spoke before about 100 members of the public plus county staff and other commissioners in the 1926 Historic Courthouse on Gillespie Street downtown. DeViere was interrupted with applause several times. In addition to interested residents, the crowd included elected officials from Fayetteville, Spring Lake, Hope Mills, Falcon, the Cumberland County Board of Education, and Fort Bragg garrison commander Col. Chad Mixon.
Although deViere put a name to his initiatives on March 17, in many ways Vision 2030 has been underway since he took office 15 months ago and snatched the board chair position from its old guard in a 4-3 vote. For example, he quickly pursued efforts to expand public water and boost support for the county’s public schools.
Some of the goals and objectives that deViere highlighted:
A New Children’s Museum
Downtown Fayetteville has a small children’s museum called Fascinate-U in the old City Hall on Green Street. The community should have something much more, deViere said.
“We’re talking with Fascinate-U, our local children’s museum, to explore what it would take to build a facility worthy of the children in this community—the best in the southeast—because our kids deserve nothing less,” he said.
In fall 2023 The Fayetteville Observer reported that Fascinate-U’s executive director said the museum planned to expand within its existing building, where it occupies the first floor and part of the second floor. There was no mention of building a new facility. The media outlet reported that Fascinate-U opened in 1995 in a community center off Ramsey Street and moved into the former City Hall in 1998.
Aquatic Center and Crown Entertainment Campus
The county is advancing on several fronts with quality-of-life amenities, deViere said.
“We’re building a community where people want to be—not just where they work, but where they choose to spend their time,” he said.
These include construction of a regional aquatic center, which is still in the planning phase.
“We are moving forward with a regional aquatic center unlike anything in the region,” deViere said. “A state of the art facility designed for collegiate and high school competitions, community recreation and advanced human performance training.”
He also addressed plans to revitalize the late 1960s-era Crown Theatre and Crown Arena next to the 1990s-built Crown Coliseum on U.S. 301.
“At the Crown Complex, we’re investing in a world-class entertainment campus,” deViere said. “We’re upgrading the theater for concerts and performing arts, and we’re modernizing our arena for sports and events. These improvements will help make our complex a year round regional destination.”
DeViere led the county commissioners’ controversial decision in June 2025 to cancel construction of the Crown Event Center in downtown Fayetteville. The center had been years in the making, and it was intended to replace the Crown Theatre and Crown Arena. Construction got underway in October 2024 before being abruptly paused in March 2025 and canceled in June.
Resources are instead being directed to the theater and arena.
Clean Drinking Water
The county is aggressively seeking to bring public water to the whole county, deViere said. “This county will not rest until every one of our families has clean, safe drinking water,” he said.
In this board’s first 100 days, he said, the commissioners directed the installation of water filters in two elementary schools in Gray’s Creek whose well water had been contaminated by industrial chemicals called PFAS and GenX, from a nearby Chemours Co. chemical plant. Since 2017, the schools had used bottled water.
In addition to providing filters to the schools, “we accelerated the construction of a water system in the most contaminated neighborhoods in Gray’s Creek. We committed more than $260 million to clean, safe, state-regulated drinking water and secured the largest water infrastructure allocation of any county in this state,” he said.
Further, deViere said, Cumberland County residents rallied to protest an effort by the Town of Fuquay-Varina in Wake County to extract more than 6 million gallons of water a day from the Cape Fear River, which serves as Cumberland County’s primary water source.
Economic Development, 911 Center, and Homelessness
Other points from deViere’s speech:
“We will develop economic corridors around the Fayetteville Regional Airport and the Crown Complex to attract private investment, create jobs and transform some of our strongest assets into engines for growth.”
The community has a metaphorical “innovation corridor. It brings Fort Bragg, our educational institutions, and our private sector partners together in one regional network for defense technology, cyber security, artificial intelligence and next generation workforce development.”
The county continues to work with the City of Fayetteville on an effort to combine their separate 911 call centers into one 911 center. Previous efforts failed amid disputes over control of a jointly operated center. “We will break that cycle,” deViere said.
While the county has more to do to help homeless people, it worked with nonprofit organizations to provide more than 100 beds for cold weather shelter, and more than 70 beds for people in emergency situations. “No one should sleep in their car in Cumberland County. And while we still have more work to do, we are no longer just talking about homelessness, we’re doing something about it.”
Mental health services have been expanded, and the county plans to integrate mental health professionals into its 911 response “so that when somebody calls in crisis, that a trained professional will be there. Help, not handcuffs.”
For the Next Generation
In announcing his plans, deViere recalled a similar initiative from 25 years ago, called the Greater Fayetteville Futures Project, and cited Tony Chavonne, who was one of that effort’s organizers. Chavonne at the time was the general manager of The Fayetteville Observer. He later served four terms as mayor, and after that was the publisher of CityView until 2024. Chavonne now serves on the board of the News Foundation of Greater Fayetteville, which is a nonprofit that financially supports CityView.
The Greater Fayetteville Chamber last year published a plan named Vision 2030 on its website. Its goals are similar to what deViere outlined, but there are differences. The chamber’s version was developed by a working group to set goals for 2030 and 2050, Nat Robertson, the chamber’s president, told CityView. A conversation in May 2025 between deViere, Robertson, and Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin led to the development of the chamber’s plan, Robertson said.
As deViere outlined his ambitions for Cumberland County on Tuesday, he pointed out his 9-year-old son, Grey, who was in the audience with deViere’s family.
“Every decision I make as your chairman, I think about the county that he’s gonna grow up in,” deViere said.
“Will the water be clean? Will the schools be strong? Will there be opportunities for him and his friends when they’re ready to build their lives?” deViere said. “I want Grey to grow up in a community that never stops fighting for its future. And I know every parent and grandparent in this room feels the exact same way about their child or grandchild.”

(Photo: Kirk deViere, far right, speaks with a member of the community during the State of the County Address, March 17. deViere announced his "Vision 2030" plan for Cumberland County. Photo courtesy of Cumberland County, NC Government)