Local News

Government Watch: Early voting continues, SteelFab looks for expansion

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Tuesday, 30 September 2025

Written by Jami McLaughlin

City of Fayetteville
Early voting for the City of Fayetteville primary runs through Oct. 4 for the ten mayoral candidates and the nine city districts. The official primary election is on Tuesday, Oct. 7.
On Sept. 22, the Fayetteville City Council heard from the Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation who presented a $22 million expansion for SteelFab, a steel fabrication plant, which would bring 42 more jobs with an average annual salary of $66,700 to the community. The current factory is on Shaw Mill Road and has 58 employees. The council approved giving SteelFab $327,487 to build its expansion here. Robert Van Geons, president and CEO of the FCEDC, said a similar grant request is pending for the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 6.
Here are a few more City announcements:
• The citywide fall cleanup event, Fayetteville Beautiful is scheduled to take place on Oct. 4 with supply pickup starting at 8 a.m. at 121 Lamon Street. Anyone interested should register at fayettevillebeautiful.com and select a location on the interactive map to reserve the space.
• The Historic Market House is getting a new facelift with new LED lighting, which will allow for different colors for special occasions and community recognitions. This project not only includes installing decorative LED lighting, but also includes structure restoration, improving ADA access and pedestrian safety and installing informational kiosks, displaying the history of the Market House and other historic content according to City officials.
• Another new change was the honoring of a former mayor on Wednesday, Sept. 24 by naming Cross Creek Park to Mayor Beth Finch Park and unveiling a monument in her honor. Finch served as the Fayetteville City Council from 1971 to 1975 and became mayor in 1975.
• A new inclusive play space will be installed at the Dorothy D. Gilmore Adaptive Recreation Center at 1600 Purdue Drive in Fayetteville. The new playground equipment being installed is an inclusive design “to provide enjoyable and meaningful play experiences for children of all abilities. The play space features sensory exploration, physical challenges and opportunities for social connection,” according to City officials. The project should be completed in November.

Cumberland County
On Sept. 15, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners approved a transfer of governance of the Fayetteville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (FACVB operating as “DistiNCtly Fayetteville”) to the Cumberland County Tourism Development Authority. The FACVB Board of Directors moved to dissolved their board in June.
The FACVB serves to position Cumberland County as a destination for conventions, tournaments and individual travel, while the TDA promotes increased travel, tourism and use of lodging, meeting and convention facilities in Cumberland County. The consolidated board of directors works to streamline operations according to Devin Heath, president and CEO of DistiNCtly Fayetteville. A large portion of the Arts Council funding also comes from the TDA.
The board also approved a meeting attendance policy for boards and commissions. The new policy states that an appointed member shall attend at least 75% of meetings and appointees who miss two consecutive meetings can be removed.

Joint City of Fayetteville - Cumberland County Liaison Committee
On Sept. 15, committee members received updates for the proposed 911 operations call center, which would consolidate efforts between the City and the County to “enhance public safety, improve efficiency and position the community for a safer future.” The proposal to consolidate the 911 call center efforts was approved in April and a new Communications Advisory Board will be formed to oversee policies and procedures. Both City Council and the Board of Commissioners will hear more at their meetings in October on how to further unite the efforts.
The committee also heard from Sean Schreiber of Alliance Health, who provided updates for a new reentry program beginning in December and a partnership with Cape Fear Valley Health. Alliance Health will also be partnering with the Joint 911 Call Center to improve a behavioral health response.

About the Greater Fayetteville Chamber
Advocacy is a cornerstone of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. Every week, the Chamber dedicates staff to attend City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County meetings as well as monitoring updates on the state and federal levels. We monitor legislation locally, statewide and federally to protect our community’s business interests. With 91% of U.S. adults recognizing a Chamber of Commerce’s impact on growth, membership ensures a strong voice shaping policies, driving economic success and building a thriving business community—together. To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com or email jmclaughlin@faybiz.com.

Up & Coming Weekly Dining Guide: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

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Wednesday, 24 September 2025

Written by Staff Report

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15) by exploring the vibrant flavors of Hispanic culture! We've compiled a list of fantastic places where you can savor delicious food and experience the rich traditions of Hispanic heritage.

FAYETTEVILLE
Latin Flavours Street Cuisine
3448B Cumberland Rd.
910-584-0293
https://tinyurl.com/y3acvjzn
Latin Flavours offers a vibrant menu showcasing the exciting world of Puerto Rican street food. A refreshing alternative to traditional Mexican cuisine, this spot delivers an authentic and flavorful casual dining experience. Dive into savory dishes like carne frita (crispy fried pork chunks) and succulent pernil (slow-roasted pulled pork), or explore a variety of mouthwatering empanadas. Don't miss their signature Empanada Beef Taco, and the irresistible Surullo – crispy fried cornmeal sticks filled with melted cheese. If you're seeking a unique culinary experience, Latin Flavours offers a taste of Puerto Rico that's hard to find elsewhere.

Mi Casita
3837 Ramsey St.
910-822-8396
https://micasitarestaurants.com/
Mi Casita Mexican Restaurants has been enriching Fayetteville's dining scene for 34 years, offering an extensive selection of genuine Mexican cuisine. Visitors to Mi Casita experience exceptional hospitality in a welcoming environment that radiates liveliness and charm. The restaurant's menu caters to all palates, featuring an impressive selection of distinctively flavored Margaritas alongside its food offerings.

El Cazador Mexican Restaurant
1904 Skibo Rd.
910-864-0700
https://elcazadormex.com/
For over 50 years, El Cazador, a family-owned cantina, has welcomed guests with its warm, inviting atmosphere and vibrant decor. A perfect spot for family gatherings, group celebrations, or a casual night out, El Cazador even features live mariachi music. Their extensive menu offers a delicious blend of traditional Mexican cuisine, Tex-Mex favorites, and innovative modern creations. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, each dish is made from scratch, resulting in authentic flavors that keep customers coming back for more. Favorites include their savory tacos, sizzling fajitas, chicken enchiladas, steak nachos, and flavorful tortas. Beyond the delicious food, El Cazador is renowned for its exceptionally friendly and attentive staff, which ensures a memorable dining experience for everyone.

Taqueria El Refugio
5307 Bragg Blvd.
Mon-Sun 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
910-745-2105
Craving authentic Mexican food in a casual, family-friendly setting? Look no further than Taqueria El Refugio. This no-frills eatery offers a hip, vibrant atmosphere perfect for groups and families with children. Whether you prefer to dine in or grab takeout, you're in for a treat. Taqueria El Refugio is renowned for its fresh, authentic dishes, consistently earning rave reviews for quality and flavor. Must-try items include the mouthwatering birria tacos, savory gorditas, and satisfying tortas. Wash it all down with a refreshing glass of traditional horchata – you won't regret it! Beyond the delicious food, customers also appreciate the exceptionally friendly service. So, if you're looking for a delicious and authentic Mexican experience, be sure to check out Taqueria El Refugio.

Rancho D Leon
5505 Raeford Rd.
910-500-3223
Mon-Sun 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Experience authentic Michoacán flavors at Rancho D. Leon, a highly-rated, family-operated restaurant known for its cozy, casual atmosphere and exceptional service. Whether you're joining us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you'll enjoy generous portions of traditional Mexican cuisine made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Customer favorites include the flavorful birria tacos, sizzling fajitas, and satisfying burritos. Don't miss our spicy pumpkin salsa! And for a sweet finish, indulge in our churros with ice cream.

Azul Tequilas Mexican Bar & Grill
2309 Gillespie St.
Azul Tequilas Mexican Bar & Grill is set to take over the former Great Grandsons location. If the Goldsboro spot is any indication, food lovers can expect a mouthwatering menu featuring steak and shrimp burritos, authentic street-style tacos, bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapeños, and so much more! While we don’t have an official opening date just yet, the “Coming Soon” banners are up, and the community is buzzing with anticipation. Stay tuned for more updates!

Dank Burrito
5508 Raeford Rd.
Mon-Sun: 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
910-229-2951
https://www.dankburrito.com/
This popular spot is known for its unique and, as the name suggests, dank burritos. Think creative flavor combinations, fresh ingredients, and generous portions. Beyond burritos, they often offer a variety of other tasty options, such as bowls, tacos, and quesadillas. The atmosphere is generally casual and laid-back, making it a great place to grab a quick and satisfying meal.

HOPE MILLS
La Cocina Mexican Restaurant
3310 Footbridge Ln., Fayetteville
910-779-0453
www.lacocinanc.com
La Cocina, a local Mexican chain, offers a casual and inviting atmosphere perfect for a family meal. Known for its vibrant ambiance and friendly, attentive staff, it's a popular choice for groups with children. One reviewer raved, "The service is top-notch—the staff makes us feel like family and always goes above and beyond." A dedicated kids' menu further enhances its family-friendly appeal. Beyond the welcoming atmosphere, La Cocina is celebrated for its authentic and flavorful Mexican cuisine. Generous portions and consistent quality are frequently praised by patrons. Popular favorites include the sizzling fajitas, flavorful tacos, and savory enchiladas. Don't forget to complement your meal with one of their delicious margaritas! Vegetarian options are also available to cater to diverse dietary preferences.

RAEFORD
The Kitchen Puertorican
Restaurant
705 Laurinburg Rd., Raeford
910-495-3264
https://www.thekitchenpuertoricanrestaurant.com/
This restaurant offers a unique taste of Puerto Rican street food in a casual, unexpected setting. While the atmosphere is laid-back, the focus shines brightly on the delicious food and exceptionally friendly service. Reviewers rave about the amazing food and the super-friendly staff, making it the go-to spot for authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. Don't miss out on customer favorites like mofongo, empanadas, and baked potatoes piled high with savory pernil. Every dish is made with love and a touch of island flair. If you're looking for a delicious alternative to the usual fare in Raeford, this restaurant provides a rare and delightful opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of Puerto Rico.

Las Palmas Mexican Grill
783 Harris Ave., Raeford
910-479-1061
Las Palmas Mexican Grill is renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine, warm hospitality, and inviting atmosphere. With a 4.2-star rating, it's a local favorite, frequently praised by families for its vibrant decor, lively music, and genuine Mexican ambiance. Diners consistently commend the attentive and courteous staff, as well as the owner's hands-on approach and exceptional customer service. The extensive menu features classic Mexican dishes alongside regional specialties, all served in generous portions, known for their consistent quality. Must-try items include the Fajitas Texanas, Carne Asada Fries, Birria Quesadillas, and Chile Relleno. And don't forget to complement your meal with one of their delicious margaritas!

El Encantador Taqueria
685 Rockfish Rd., Raeford
910-248-6354
https://elencantadortaquerianc.com/
Don't let the occasional gas station location fool you—El Encantador Taqueria offers a surprisingly vibrant and welcoming dining experience. Inside, you'll find a comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff who treat every guest like family. Excellent customer service is a hallmark of El Encantador, with the team consistently praised for their responsiveness and attentiveness. The real star, however, is the authentic Mexican cuisine, featuring fresh, handmade tortillas that elevate every dish. From their popular tacos and quesabirria to the California burrito and craveable cheese dip, the flavors and quality consistently earn rave reviews. A kids' menu is also available, making it a perfect spot for the whole family.

SPRING LAKE
Guacaholic Mexican Grill & Bar
231 Skyland Shopping Center, Spring Lake
910-779-0879
https://www.guacaholicgrill.com/
This vibrant hotspot is renowned for its delicious food, festive atmosphere, and unique decor that transports you straight to Mexico. Savor customer favorites like the Guacaholic Fajitas, Sizzling Enchiladas, and Texas Fajitas. Vegetarian options and a children's menu ensure everyone finds something to enjoy. The bar is a major attraction, boasting an impressive selection of margaritas. Cool off with the incredibly tasty Grinch Margarita, or share the towering Guac Tower Margarita with friends.

Abby's Empanadas
8018 Elliot Bridge Rd., Spring Lake
910-835-4004
https://abbysempanadas.com/
Abby's Empanadas is a family-owned restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, with the motto "bake you happy!" Their authentic, artisan-baked empanadas are made fresh daily with premium ingredients. Both savory and sweet options are available. Savor classic fillings like chicken, cheesy beef, or spicy chipotle chicken. Start your day—any time of day—with their breakfast empanada featuring bacon, egg, and cheese. For a sweet treat, indulge in our guava and cheese, rich dulce de leche, or seasonal caramel apple empanadas.

Los Primos
316 Lillington HWY, Spring Lake
910-436-0306
Los Primos is a beloved Mexican restaurant specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine. Their menu features classic dishes like handmade tacos, burritos stuffed with fresh ingredients, and traditional tamales wrapped in corn husks. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its flavorful house specialties, including richly sauced enchiladas, tender steak tacos, savory birria tacos, and hearty Mole de Olla soup.

Armored Tacos & Grill Restaurant
110 S. Bragg Blvd #28390, Spring Lake
910-920-1060
https://www.armoredtacosandgrill.com
Savor the authentic flavors of Mexico at Armored Tacos & Grill, a casual and cozy restaurant where every dish is made fresh to order. They specialize in both traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, offering a menu packed with vibrant flavors and generous portions. Sink your teeth into their signature tacos, filled with your choice of savory carne asada, al pastor, chorizo, carnitas, or barbacoa. Be sure to explore the hefty burritos, sizzling fajitas, cheesy quesadillas, crispy chimichangas, and their famous "bomber fries," piled high with your favorite toppings and meats.

CAMERON
El Cazador
1544 NC-24, Cameron
919-343-2900
https://elcazadormex.com/
El Cazador prioritizes using the most recently harvested vegetables from their local market. They take pride in serving dishes made with ingredients grown in their region, capturing the genuine essence of their heritage. Customers consistently praise the vibrant flavors of their authentic Mexican dishes.

Hope Mills Food Pantry calls for community support

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Wednesday, 24 September 2025

Written by Jamie Bishop

The shelves at Hope Mills Methodist Church’s food pantry don’t stay full for long. On distribution days, families from across Cumberland County walk the aisles, filling bags with canned vegetables, dry goods, and meat. For many, the food they carry home will provide two or three crucial meals in a week when other options are scarce.
At the heart of the program is director Walt Thomson, who has watched demand steadily climb.
“We do not ask them where they come from,” Thomson said. “All we need is for them to come in and say, ‘I don’t have any food, I’m hungry,’ and we’ll take care of them.”
The pantry, housed on Legion Road, is designed to be simple and direct. Families arrive, walk through shelves lined with donated goods, and select what they need. Frozen meats and fresh produce are provided when available. Hygiene products, including soap, toothpaste, and feminine supplies, are also stocked. While the setup is straightforward, the demand is overwhelming. On a typical day, Thomson said, around 95 families visit. By the end of distribution, shelves are often stripped bare.
“The hardest logistical challenge is getting enough food,” he explained. “We never have enough.”
That shortfall reflects broader trends. Food stamp reductions have left many families struggling to cover both rent and groceries. Inflation has made staples like eggs, bread, and milk harder to afford. The pantry has become a lifeline, yet resources remain stretched thin. The solution, Thomson insists, lies in community support. Donations of canned and dry goods remain the backbone of the pantry. Churches, civic groups, and businesses are encouraged to run can drives on their behalf.
“Donations, financial donations, or cans, start a can drive at their church. Any way to get food to us,” Thomson urged.
Beyond food, the pantry welcomes financial contributions, which allow the church to purchase in-demand items in bulk. Those funds also help fill gaps when donations don’t cover essentials like bread, eggs, or soap. Local businesses are invited to sponsor food drives, contribute funding, or provide in-kind support like storage solutions and transportation. Thomson said the pantry also depends on volunteers. From stocking shelves to helping families navigate the pantry floor, every set of hands makes a difference.
“We will put them to work helping people,” he said.
Though all contributions are valued, Thomson has identified certain items that families request most often, but the pantry rarely has in stock. These include:
• Bread, eggs, and fresh meat — often missing due to storage challenges.
• Hygiene products — such as toothpaste, toilet paper, and feminine items, which are rarely donated but vital for families.
• Shelf-stable goods — like canned vegetables with pop-top lids, boxed milk, rice, and pasta.
• Spices and condiments — small items that make otherwise plain meals more enjoyable.
• Fresh produce is especially prized. Local farmers and grocery stores occasionally deliver fruits and vegetables, and Thomson says the response is always enthusiastic. Clients are grateful for healthy food that isn’t always in their budget, and volunteers see firsthand how a bag of apples or bundle of tomatoes can brighten someone’s day.
Hope Mills Methodist Church frames the pantry as a direct expression of its faith. Thomson often refers to Matthew 25:35: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat.” For him, this scripture is not symbolic but literal.
“We are a Christian-based organization because we’re part of the Methodist Church,” Thomson said. “Jesus told us that when you feed someone who is hungry, it’s the same as feeding Him. So we try to live by that, we’ll feed anybody that comes.” That philosophy shapes the pantry’s open-door policy. No proof of residency is required. No questions are asked about background, employment, or faith. The only qualification is hunger.
Families enter a room lined with shelves of canned and boxed goods, move to freezers stocked with meats, and then select fresh produce when available. Hygiene items are distributed separately. The church secretary coordinates drop-off donations during those hours, and Thomson encourages anyone interested in helping to visit in person.
“We’re calling for all donations,” he emphasized. “The biggest challenge is not having enough.”
The message Thomson wants the community to hear is clear: the need is urgent, and the pantry cannot meet it alone. Every bag of rice, every case of canned goods, every dollar given helps ensure families do not leave empty-handed. Faith groups are encouraged to organize can drives. Schools can mobilize students to collect hygiene products. Businesses can partner as sponsors, matching employee donations or underwriting the cost of staples. Individuals can volunteer time, whether once a week or once a month, to help with distribution.
“By the time the last person comes through the door, our shelves are bare,” Thomson said. “But with more help, more food, more donations, more volunteers—we can make sure no family has to walk away without enough to eat.”
How to donate or volunteer
• Food Donations: Drop off nonperishables, bread, fresh produce, or hygiene products Monday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Hope Mills Methodist Church, 4955 Legion Road, Hope Mills.
• Financial Support: Contributions can be given directly to the church office during those hours. Financial gifts allow for bulk purchases of high-demand items.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Call or visit the church office to sign up. Volunteers are immediately put to work assisting families, stocking shelves, and keeping the pantry running smoothly.
• Community Drives: Civic groups, schools, and churches are encouraged to organize can drives or hygiene product collections to benefit the pantry.
Thomson is realistic about the challenges. With nearly 100 families arriving on a single day, the pantry will always face high demand. But he is equally firm about the mission.
“We’ll feed anybody that comes,” he said. It is a commitment grounded in faith, sustained by volunteers, and dependent on community generosity. And for Thomson, it is as much about dignity as it is about food.
“When someone tells us they’re hungry, we respond,” he said. “That’s what we’re here for. And we need everyone’s help to keep it going.”
For more information, visit https://www.hopemillsmc.org/food-pantry.

(Photo: The Meals of Hope Food Pantry at the Hope Mills Methodist Church helps to feed families in need within the community. Photo courtesy of Hope Mills Methodist Church Facebook page)

Mystery solved: With cause revealed, years of chest pain finally end

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Wednesday, 24 September 2025

Written by Lia Tremblaya

Dan DeBruler isn’t one to make a fuss about his health. He tends to power through the occasional illness or injury without complaint. But for years, he had recurrent symptoms that were often worrisome enough to send him to the emergency department.
“I’d say it was at least eight times, over the past 12 or 15 years,” he said. “Multiple medical facilities, both military and civilian. I’d get these terrible chest pains, which I know you shouldn’t ignore. And it was always handled with care, because a man over 40 with chest pain usually means a heart attack.”
But his heart would always check out fine, and by then DeBruler’s intense, burning chest pain had usually subsided anyway. Acid reflux seemed like a likely culprit, so sometimes he would leave with a new prescription or new advice: don’t drink coffee, sleep with your head elevated, keep your stress under control.
Then he’d be fine for weeks or months. And just when he thought he’d solved the problem, the same agony would return.
At one point last year, it was the worst it had ever been. He was at a party with family and friends when his chest was again seized with a fiery discomfort, so he went outside to walk it off. When he hadn’t returned, his fellow guests – including a paramedic and a nursing student – went to investigate.
“They found me reclining in a van, sweating profusely,” he said. “And they thought, ‘Oh wow, he’s having a heart attack.’”
He left that party in an ambulance, but ended up with the same result: no apparent heart trouble, and no real explanation for why this kept happening.
Finally, earlier this year, he found relief. The episodes had become so frequent that he visited the emergency department at Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital three times in a single week.
“Those three visits were the first times I’d ever been there,” he said.
The first two times, he had the same familiar outcome. But on the third visit, emergency physician Jody Lakey, DO, had a new hunch and ordered an ultrasound.
“And we had a new answer,” DeBruler said. “It was actually a very faulty gallbladder.”
While gallbladder pain is typically felt on the right side, just under the ribs, it can sometimes present in the chest – feeling very much like a heart attack. It’s often precipitated by a meal with oily foods, such as french fries or creamy sauces.
“I was able to retrace the days between those two visits this time around,” he said, “and what I had consumed in those days. It seemed to have no rhyme or reason before, but now it made perfect sense.”
Days later, general surgeon Ovie Appresai, MD, removed the gallbladder that had tormented DeBruler for so long.
“I feel great now,” said DeBruler. “I’ve learned a lot about what the gallbladder does, so I’m just careful not to eat things the gallbladder was used to handling for me. My wife and I eat pretty healthy to begin with, so it’s just been this small adjustment.”
With the mystery solved and the chest pains behind him, DeBruler is looking forward to enjoying life without that unpredictable misery. And he’s grateful for the people who worked so hard to figure things out.
“The nurses, PAs, attendants and technicians all took their roles to heart,” he said. “And I finally got it resolved. I felt like they really raised the bar on what healthcare should look like.”

(Photo: Dan DeBruler thought his chest pain was a heart attack, but was diagnosed with a faulty gallbladder instead. Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Valley Health)