Local News

FTCC: Serving Military Spouses & Dependents

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Tuesday, 24 March 2026

Written by Scott McCosh

"Just as service members and their families have served us, we must serve them," said Governor Josh Stein at Fayetteville Technical Community College on Aug. 6, 2025. "Supporting military families and ensuring they can focus on their core mission to keep us safe is critical to our nation's security and the right thing to do. I am grateful that North Carolina is a Do Your Part State, and I am proud to reaffirm our state's commitment to being a top state for military families."
Fayetteville Technical Community College shares the Governor's commitment. We proudly serve more than 1,200 military dependents who are currently receiving federal benefits designed to support them on their journey to become "Future Ready" for their next educational or career endeavor. Our faculty, staff and administration include many military-connected individuals who are here to guide military-connected students every step of the way.
You may have already met an FTCC alum in your community; perhaps a nurse at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a cybersecurity analyst protecting your sensitive data, or a caregiver at your child's preschool. Chances are, some of your local police officers and firefighters were trained here at FTCC. We would love for you to join our family and explore the career you have always wanted, a remote opportunity that fits your lifestyle, or a pursuit that gives you purpose while supporting your warfighter.
Financial Assistance Available
FTCC's costs are already among the most affordable in the region, and military-connected students may qualify for additional financial assistance tailored
specifically to them.
• MyCAA Scholarship: As the spouse of an active-duty service member in grades E-1 through E-9, W-1 through W-3, or O-1 through O-3, you may qualify for the My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) scholarship. This benefit provides up to $4,000 per fiscal year toward a license, certification or associate degree, or up to $2,000 for continuing education courses needed to maintain employment-related credentials.
• VA Chapter 35 Benefits: Available to the spouses and children of veterans with a 100% VA disability rating, as well as survivors of those killed in the line of duty, listed as missing in action, or who died from a service-connected disability.
Our Military and Veterans Programs team is ready to help you determine which benefits apply to you and walk you through the process.
Ready to Get Started?
Visit our website at faytechcc.edu or stop by the All-American Veterans Center, located above the bookstore on the FTCC Fayetteville campus. If you live or work on Fort Bragg, our team at the Bragg Education and Training Center, located at Building 1-3571, Wing F, 4520 Knox Street, is there to serve you as well.
Governor Stein said it best — North Carolina is committed to being a top state for military families, and FTCC is proud to lead that effort locally. We hope to be your first choice on your educational and career journey. We look forward to welcoming you to campus, online and in the community alongside our more than 1,200 military dependent students and thousands of military-connected alumni.

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)