Local News

New to the Neighborhood

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Written by Staff Report

Fayetteville and its surrounding communities continue to see a wave of new energy as recently opened businesses bring fresh opportunities to shop, dine, and connect. Major retailers and incoming brands are investing in the region, signaling continued confidence in the local economy and offering residents even more reasons to explore what’s new around town.

QDOBA Mexican Eats
4401 Ramsey St.
910-912-1003
https://tinyurl.com/bde8nzt2
QDOBA announced the opening of its newest location in Fayetteville on March 11.
QDOBA Mexican Eats is a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in customizable Mexican-inspired dishes. Renowned for its modern atmosphere and efficient service, it has become a popular choice for both quick sit-down meals and takeout. Guests can create their own burritos, bowls, tacos, nachos, and quesadillas, selecting from a variety of proteins, salsas, and toppings. One of the standout features of QDOBA is that guacamole and the signature 3-cheese queso are typically included at no extra cost with most entrees.
In addition to dine-in options, this location will offer online ordering for pickup and provide catering services for larger groups or events.

Kandle Queens Candle Company
8164 Fayetteville Rd., Raeford
910-565-2040
https://kandlequeens.com/
Kandle Queens proudly celebrated its grand opening on April 18. Located in Raeford, Kandle Queens Candle Company is a boutique retailer specializing in handcrafted home fragrance products. The shop is designed to be a destination for high-quality, artisanal candles and related accessories.
Kandle Queens focuses on small-batch production, offering a diverse selection of scented candles and wax melts, each crafted with unique fragrance profiles. In addition to their charming storefront, customers can explore their full collection online.

Cleopatra Ink Tattoo & Piercing Studio
150 Francam Dr., #112
910-797-0185
https://tinyurl.com/ewphtcsc
Cleopatra Ink proudly celebrated its grand opening on March 24. The studio is committed to maintaining high hygiene standards and creating a professional, modern environment that offers a personalized art experience. Their talented artists specialize in a diverse array of techniques, including black and gray realism, fine line work, minimalist designs, and custom cover-ups. They offer customers free design consultations, where you can collaborate directly with their artists to develop unique concepts tailored to their vision.

Keep An Eye Open For…
• Dutch Bros is set to open at 3619 Ramsey St. While the building and signage are already in place, an official opening date has yet to be announced. The new location has taken over the former Clutch Coffee space and is designed for efficiency, featuring a drive-thru that prioritizes high-volume service rather than a sit-down coffee experience.
In addition to a wide variety of coffee options, the menu includes iced drinks, blended coffees, teas, lemonades, and their popular Rebel energy drinks, all of which can be highly customized to suit your taste. Stay tuned for more updates.
• The Back Nine is excited to announce its expansion into the Fayetteville market with a new location at the Westwood Shopping Center. This facility operates as a 24/7 indoor golf center dedicated to its members. It boasts state-of-the-art Full Swing simulators, renowned for their exceptional realism and utilized by professional golfers such as Tiger Woods and Jon Rahm.
These simulators offer detailed insights into ball flight and swing mechanics, making them ideal for both serious practice and casual play. Unlike typical "entertainment-first" venues, The Back Nine emphasizes a focused, private club atmosphere where golfers can enjoy iconic courses or engage in virtual leagues.
• A new Publix is going up in the new Rockfish Village at the intersection of Rockfish Road and King Road. This store will be unlike other Publix in the area, because it will have a second story. Scheduled to open in Fall 2026. In addition to Publix, the Rockfish Village will have nearly 28,500 square feet of space for other smaller retail shops and restaurants.

Dining Guide: Food Trucks

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Written by Staff Report

Our city boasts a diverse array of food trucks, each serving up mouthwatering dishes that cater to every palate. Additionally, there are fantastic food truck depots where you can sample offerings from multiple trucks all in one place! Join us in celebrating the creativity, passion, and unique flavors these mobile kitchens bring to our community, turning every meal into an unforgettable adventure!

CAROLINA HIBACHI
Carolina Hibachi brings the authentic hibachi experience directly to you through their mobile food truck. With 25 years of culinary expertise, they serve fresh, customized Japanese-style grilled dishes made right before your eyes. Catering services are available.
https://tinyurl.com/5avprxwk

VEE’S SEOUL KITCHEN FOOD TRUCK
Vee's serves up authentic Korean cuisine, featuring their signature beef bulgogi bowls with tender marinated meat, crispy homemade egg rolls, and indulgent loaded fries topped with savory ingredients.
https://tinyurl.com/bdzn8vdw

GR FIL-AM GRILL
GR Fil-Am Grill offers a unique dining experience, blending traditional Filipino flavors with classic American cuisine. Their carefully curated rotating menu features approximately five signature dishes at any given time, allowing them to focus on perfecting each fusion creation while keeping the offerings fresh and exciting.
https://tinyurl.com/2mbuky9f

BIG ERV BBQ & 910 SWEETS-THE NEIGHBORHOOD PIT STOP, LLC
This beloved family-owned food truck has earned multiple accolades for its mouthwatering BBQ specialties. Their perfectly smoked wings, tender brisket chili, and slow-cooked meats draw crowds daily. For those with a sweet tooth, their homemade dessert selection features creamy banana pudding and freshly baked cupcakes.
https://tinyurl.com/5abw8v4x

LATIN FLAVOURS STREET CUISINE
Latin Flavours Street Cuisine delights customers with authentic Puerto Rican comfort food favorites. Their menu features traditional hand-crafted empanadas filled with savory meats and crispy alcapurrias made from root vegetables.
https://tinyurl.com/p8bdmen2

TY'S UPTOWN GRILL
Ty's Uptown Grill stands out as the premier New York/New Jersey-style food truck in the south. Their commitment to quality is evident in their strict use of fresh, never-frozen ingredients that are carefully sourced daily. Each mouthwatering dish is made to order with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that customers receive their meals at the peak of freshness and flavor.
https://tysuptowngrill.com/about-us

HARMON'S DEUTSCHE KUCHE
This mobile eatery showcases authentic Bavarian fare, featuring robust tastes and tangy elements from genuine German condiments and seasonings. They partner with nearby farms for fresh ingredients, and their signature offerings, including the breaded pork cutlet sandwich, come from traditional family cooking methods handed down through generations.
https://harmonsdeutschekuche.com

BELLA NONNA
Bella Nona serves up a delightful array of Italian cuisine, from traditional Italian American favorites to authentic regional specialties and innovative fusion creations. Diners can savor house-made pasta crafted daily, generously stuffed calzones, and an extensive menu of carefully prepared Italian delicacies
https://tinyurl.com/58ejnmhk

CORNBREAD KITCHEN & SMOKEHOUSE
Cornbread Kitchen & Smokehouse stands as a beacon of authentic Southern cuisine, delighting guests with their masterfully smoked BBQ and traditional comfort dishes. Their perfectly seasoned meats and homestyle sides capture the essence of Southern cooking. Living up to their motto, "It's always a good day for cornbread," they serve warm, golden cornbread that keeps customers coming back.
https://tinyurl.com/yswdj6u8

CALIFORNIA TACO
California Taco, a vibrant food truck destination, delights customers with its authentic Mexican culinary offerings. From traditional tacos to flavorful salsas, they serve genuine south-of-the-border tastes and experiences.
https://www.facebook.com/californiataconc

R BURGER
R Burger stands out as one of Fayetteville's most beloved and highly regarded food trucks, earning a reputation for serving up the best burgers in town. Known for their juicy, perfectly cooked patties and creative flavor combinations, R Burger takes the classic burger experience to a whole new level.
https://www.facebook.com/Rburgertruck/

Food Truck Depots
Haymount Truck Stop
100 Broadfoot Ave
472-210-3250
https://www.haymounttruckstop.com
The Haymount Truck Stop features a dynamic lineup of food, beverage, and dessert trucks, serving lunch and dinner daily. Stay up-to-date on the latest truck schedule by following them on social media. Find them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/haymounttruckstop.
In addition to the food trucks, the Truck Stop offers multiple dining and gathering spaces where you can enjoy a selection of draft beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. This family-friendly establishment welcomes guests of all ages to experience the vibrant food truck court and bar.
For those who wish to bring their furry friends, a pet-friendly outdoor seating area is available. Beyond dining, the venue also hosts a range of community and private events, including live music, themed food festivals, yoga sessions, and exclusive celebrations.

The Hive of Hope Mills
3414 Bullard St, Hope Mills
833-573-3705
https://thehiveofhopemills.com

The Hive of Hope Mills is a vibrant new community hub and food truck park located next to the Hope Mills Municipal Park. Officially opened in April 2026, it was designed to be a year-round destination that fosters local opportunities while providing a safe, family-friendly gathering space.
The park boasts seven dedicated food truck spaces, featuring a rotating lineup of over 80 participating vendors. It is also home to Big T's, a beloved local eatery that now serves its grilled specialties, snoballs, and ice cream year-round.
Spanning 3,500 square feet, the facility includes a spacious event center, a commissary kitchen to support local food entrepreneurs, and a bar offering a selection of beer and wine. On Sundays, visitors can explore the Mercantile Market, which showcases local artisans and farmers.
Guests can relax by two outdoor fire pits equipped with Adirondack chairs, enjoy live performances on a covered stage, and watch media presentations in the dining areas. The Hive of Hope Mills is committed to inclusivity, partnering with local nonprofits to host events for the special needs community.

City Council votes on data center, looks to long term investments

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Written by Jami McLaughlin

The Fayetteville City Council has centered its activity on a controversial data center moratorium, major recreation investments and updates to the City's long-term infrastructure planning.
On Apr. 13, Fayetteville City Council board members voted narrowly (5-4) to pause work on a proposed data center ordinance. Instead, they directed staff to present options for a temporary moratorium on data center development. This decision came during a debate over a proposed $6.4 billion data center on 50 acres along Dunn Rd. and the current lack of specific zoning regulations for such facilities.
City Manager Douglas Hewett also presented the 2027 Capital Improvement Program, a six-year roadmap featuring nearly $700 million in planned investments for roads, public safety and stormwater drainage.
Parks and recreation projects also include the $13.6 million McArthur Road Sports Field Complex, which will feature 12 baseball fields, a multi-use building with restrooms, concessions, office space, and an open-air pavilion, as well as a maintenance building to support ongoing operations and is designed to become a regional sports destination. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for April 30.
Construction began on April 21 at Tokay Park to replace aging tennis courts with three tennis and 10 pickleball courts.

Cumberland County
The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners has held two key meetings focusing on potential department mergers, land use moratoriums and significant capital projects.
On Apr. 16, during their regularly scheduled agenda session, the board reviewed a proposal to merge the Health and Social Services departments. This move has faced strong pushback from both departmental boards and one commissioner, who cited a lack of transparency and potential service disruption.
The board has also discussed an ordinance to impose a moratorium on new data center development permits. The pause is intended to allow for updated zoning regulations that address high power and water usage.
On Apr. 20, commissioners discussed progress on several high-profile projects, including the Crown Arena modernization, an unhoused support center and a new aquatic center. Commissioner Henry Tyson requested a public dashboard to better communicate project statuses to residents.
The board also unanimously approved a resolution supporting the FY27 State Legislative Agenda and awarded a contract to LS3P to conduct a feasibility study for the Cumberland County Aquatic Center.

NC Department of Labor Safety Awards
The Greater Fayetteville Chamber will host the NC Department of Labor Safety Awards on Tuesday, May 19 at the Crown Complex.
The program recognizes private firms and public agencies throughout the state that achieve and maintain outstanding safety records and is designed to stimulate interest in accident prevention and to promote safety in the workplace by providing an incentive to employers and employees to maintain a safe and healthful workplace.

The Legacy Project of Leadership Fayetteville Class of 2026
Each Leadership Fayetteville class leaves a lasting impact on our community through a unique legacy project. This year, the Leadership Fayetteville Class of 2026 will be doing Buddy Benches for their graduation project. The Buddy Bench idea was brought to the class with the idea of our youth never feeling alone and has been sponsored by Ben Stout Construction and the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation.
The leadership group wants to share that EVERY child deserves a buddy! The concept is if a child is sitting alone on the bench, other children will know to sit with them and become a kind new friend. Buddy benches foster leadership and encourage friendship by providing a safe space for students to connect during recess. Each Buddy Bench will proudly display a commemorative plaque.
The Leadership Fayetteville Class of 2026 Buddy Benches will be installed at the following Cumberland County Schools:
• Sunnyside Elementary School, 3876 Sunnyside School Road, Fayetteville on May 6 at 9:30 a.m.
• Ed V. Baldwin Elementary School, 4441 Legion Road, Hope Mills on May 6 at 1 p.m.
• Bill Hefner Elementary School, 7059 Calamar Drive, Fayetteville on May 11 at 1 p.m.
For more information on Leadership Fayetteville, including how to apply for the Class of 2027, visit www.faybiz.com/leadership-fayetteville.

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.

Celebration of life to be held for former POW First Sgt. Lawrence “Bud” Roy Wilson, Jr., US Army, Ret.

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Tuesday, 21 April 2026

Written by Sheila Barker

March 23, 1929 – April 6, 2026 First Sergeant Wilson, a resilient patriot, devoted father, and honored veteran, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026, at the age of 97. Born in Hamtramck, Michigan, in March of 1929, he lived a life defined by extraordinary service, sacrifice, and an unbreakable spirit.
A man of early conviction, he became a Merchant Seaman in 1944, serving two seasons for the Army Transportation Corps during the waning years of World War II. In January of 1947, he officially enlisted in the Army Air Corps, beginning a distinguished military career that would span two decades.
In August of 1950, he deployed to South Korea, assigned to the 3rd Battalion Aid Station, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. It was there, on May 18, 1951, that then-Sergeant Wilson was captured by the Chinese Army. For two harrowing years, he was classified as "Missing in Action."
From May of 1951 until September 5, 1953, he was held as a "Prisoner of War" before finally gaining his freedom during "Operation Big Switch." His endurance during this time remained a testament to his character for the rest of his life. Following his return, he continued his dedicated service until his retirement on November 1, 1967, holding the distinguished rank of First Sergeant.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty-six years, Bertha Louise Anderson. Their long and devoted marriage was the foundation of a proud military family. Together, they raised two sons who followed in their father’s footsteps, both retiring from the United States Army.
An avid fisherman and a tireless advocate, First Sergeant Wilson dedicated his retirement to raising awareness for his fellow POWs and the Americans who remain MIA. He was a pillar of the veteran community, maintaining active memberships in the Department of North Carolina American Ex-Prisoners of War, the Fayetteville Chapter of the American Ex-Prisoners of War, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 670, American Legion Post 32, Disabled American Veterans, and Rolling Thunder NC Chapter 1.
He is survived by his two sons, Larry Wilson and his wife Eunji, and Richard Wilson and his wife Lucinda Sue.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his four grandchildren: Jonathan Wilson (Lori Sheers) of Leadville, CO; Mr. and Mrs. Lance & Kristi Wilson of Shawnee, OK; Mr. and Mrs. Loren Sherry Wilson of Cuba, MO; and Jennifer Wilson of Shawnee, OK; as well as nine great-grandchildren.
A service with full military honors will be held at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery on Friday, May 1. First Sergeant Wilson will be laid to rest alongside his wife, Louise, reunited at last.
In his memory, may we never forget those who served, those who were captured, and those who have yet to come home.
The family will have a Celebration of Life on Thursday, April 30, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at VFW 670, 3928 Doc Bennett Road, and the funeral will be on Friday, May 1, at 2 p.m. at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, 8220 Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rolling Thunder North Carolina Chapter 1, P.O. Box 65325, Fayetteville, NC 28306.

(Photo: First Sgt. Lawrence "Bud" Roy Wilson at 22, right before he was captured. Photo courtesy of Ann Provencher)