Local News

Strengthen body, spirit: Therapy helps seniors stay independent

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Tuesday, 28 October 2025

Written by John Riggio

As people age, it’s common to face challenges like joint pain, reduced muscle strength, and limited stamina. Chronic conditions or past injuries can make movement more difficult, and many older adults lose confidence in what their bodies can do. Access to exercise equipment or safe spaces to stay active can also be a challenge. That’s why rehabilitative therapies, both physical and occupational, play such an important role in helping older adults rebuild strength and independence.
Participant Alice Toman knows this firsthand. After a car accident and surgery on her neck and spine, she faced a long recovery.
“I’m taking things one day at a time,” she says, noting that the regular check-ins and compassionate care from the staff have made a noticeable difference.
At LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines, licensed therapists work closely with participants like Alice to help them reach personal goals, whether it’s walking with confidence, improving balance, or simply feeling stronger. The program combines medical and social support to help older adults stay active and connected while living at home.
LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines is a PACE program --Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly-- designed to help seniors receive the care they need while continuing to live at home. By combining medical and social services, the program empowers seniors to stay independent and engaged in their communities.
For Alice, the social side of recovery has been just as important.
“Being able to socialize and just being with other people,” she says, “that’s my favorite part.”
She now visits the center five days a week, enjoying puzzles, crafts, and helping others with their projects.
“I am happiest when I feel like I am helpful to others,” she shares. “I don’t like to be inside, so being able to get out makes a huge difference.”
Her health and outlook have improved.
“I enjoy being here because everybody is so nice and kind here. They treat me well and it feels good to be treated good!”
When asked if she’d recommend the program, Alice doesn’t hesitate: “I think it would be good for anybody to join. It has helped me out a lot, and I would love to see them get the help they need. All the people who come here like it!”
She sums it up best: “My health is important to me, and I want to make sure I am doing what I need to be doing for myself. And when I’m around the other people at the center here, I feel like that’s what helps me be myself. I like coming here and getting the help to do what I need to do to make my life better with everybody’s help. I always have help.”
To learn more about LIFE St. Joseph of the Pines, call 910-429-7223 or visit lifestjosephofthepines.org.

Up & Coming Weekly Dining Guide: Coffee Shops

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Tuesday, 28 October 2025

Written by Staff Report

There’s something special about finding that perfect local coffee spot — the aroma of fresh brews, the cozy corners, and the friendly faces that make every visit feel like home. Whether you’re a caffeine connoisseur or just love a good place to unwind, our list of local coffee shops will help you discover your next favorite cup (and maybe your new favorite hangout).

RUDE AWAKENING COFFEE HOUSE
227 Hay St.
910-223-7833
https://www.rudeawakening.net/
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Fayetteville on Hay Street, Rude Awakening Coffee House is a beloved local gem. Known for its cozy and vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to relax and soak in the downtown buzz, especially with its charming outdoor seating.
Rude Awakening prides itself on a dynamic menu, offering a delightful array of drinks and freshly baked goods that change daily and seasonally. Their commitment to quality shines through in their coffee, featuring highly-rated Jade Espresso from Charlotte's Magnolia Coffee Company (94/100 by coffeereview.com). Sip on everything from classic drip and espresso to creative hot, cold, and blended concoctions, including Nitro and Cuban coffee.
Indulge in their exquisite, daily-baked pastries, featuring decadent cakes like New York Cheesecake and carrot cake, alongside tempting treats such as chocolate-covered espresso beans, truffles, biscotti, eclairs, and fresh cookies.
Don't miss their legendary Brown Bag Special Sandwich Lunch! Choose from roast beef, ham, turkey, or salami with your favorite cheese and fresh toppings on a soft French roll, all served with chips and a freshly baked cookie.

THE COFFEE SCENE
450 Hay St.
910-568-3758
https://the-coffee-scene-prince-charles.bartgrocerybbq.com/
Located in the historic Prince Charles Hotel, the Prince Charles Coffee Scene is more than just a coffee shop – it's a vibrant hub that seamlessly blends a cozy atmosphere with a trendy, welcoming vibe. Its unique setting within the iconic hotel imbues the space with a distinctive aesthetic, making it an ideal spot for catching up with friends, diving into a good book, or powering through some work.
The ambiance is a delightful mix of cozy, casual, and chic, complemented by beautiful decor. With comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and ample space for small groups (including outdoor seating), it caters to every need. The coffee shop also occasionally enriches the experience with live entertainment, featuring jazz music and captivating art displays.
The menu at Prince Charles Coffee Scene centers on high-quality coffee and delicious light fare. Indulge in a full spectrum of expertly crafted coffee and espresso beverages, from classic lattes and cappuccinos to rich Americanos, smooth cold brew, and enticing seasonal specials. A true highlight, their gelato is a must-try. Often handcrafted by the owner's brother, this artisanal treat is celebrated for its exquisite flavor and perfect texture, a delightful complement to any coffee. Beyond coffee, explore a curated selection of teas (including authentic Chai), invigorating smoothies, and other chilled delights. Complement your drink with a tempting array of pastries, savory quiches (with vegetarian options), muffins, and bagels. The team is actively expanding the downtown menu to offer more made-to-order lunch items like sandwiches and soups.

THE COFFEE SCENE
3818 Morganton Rd.
910-864-0555
https://coffee-scene.res-menu.com/
The Coffee Scene's original flagship store on Morganton Road offers a distinct experience from its more intimate downtown counterpart. This spacious and popular coffee shop boasts a striking two-level, open-concept design. A signature winding staircase serves as a captivating architectural centerpiece on the lower level. The inviting atmosphere, complete with comfortable seating and ample space, encourages lingering, making it an ideal spot for students, remote workers, and group gatherings.
For added convenience, the Morganton Road location features a drive-through, perfect for quick grab-and-go orders, and ample on-site parking. It's also the long-standing home of Java Expressions, a beloved open mic night that fosters the local creative community. Notably, this store houses the full kitchen responsible for preparing the majority of food for all The Coffee Scene locations, including catering. Guests can enjoy the same diverse menu of coffee and espresso drinks, cold beverages, and their famous homemade gelato.

BLANC COFFEE ROASTERS
103 Person St.
910-302-1296
https://www.personalbestcoffee.com/
Blanc Coffee Roasters, a distinguished specialty coffee shop in Downtown Fayetteville, is dedicated to the art of coffee. What sets them apart is the owner's personal commitment to roasting beans, ensuring exceptional flavor and quality in every cup. Their friendly and expert baristas craft each beverage, from classic espressos to intricate pour-overs, to the highest standard. Blanc Coffee Roasters offers an "extraordinary café experience" with a cozy, inviting ambiance, featuring soft lighting and soothing music for a truly calm environment. It's an ideal spot for students and professionals seeking Wi-Fi, ample power outlets, and a comfortable workspace, as well as for families looking for a kid-friendly atmosphere. Explore their wide selection of meticulously roasted beans for purchase, alongside a diverse menu of unique and classic drinks. They also cater to various dietary needs with dairy alternatives and gluten-free snacks.

VAGABOND CAFE
108 Hay St., Suite 1B
910-500-3009
https://vagabondcafe910.com/
Found in the heart of downtown Fayetteville, Vagabond Café is a beloved destination celebrated for its distinctive atmosphere, exceptional specialty coffee, and vibrant sense of community. This unique establishment artfully weaves Mexican-American cultural influences into its offerings, creating an experience that is both familiar and exciting.
Step inside Vagabond Café and you'll discover a thoughtfully designed, visually appealing interior. The space effortlessly blends a bohemian, minimalist aesthetic with a palette of natural colors, fostering a cozy, comfortable, and inviting "homey" vibe. It's the perfect setting for both lively social gatherings and focused productivity.
The café thoughtfully provides a dedicated lounge area and a back room, complete with complimentary water, plush seating, and ample tables. These amenities make Vagabond an ideal spot for working, studying, or catching up with friends. For those who prefer to soak in the Fayetteville atmosphere, outdoor seating is also available.
Beyond its inviting ambiance, Vagabond Café is deeply committed to fostering community. They frequently host local artists and musicians, transforming the café into a dynamic cultural hub. This dedication to the arts, combined with their passion for exceptional coffee, makes a visit to Vagabond a truly enriching experience.
At the core of Vagabond's appeal is its dedication to specialty coffee and expertly hand-crafted beverages. Customers consistently rave about the superior taste and quality, a testament to the owner's passion. As a military spouse and Chicana-owned business, the owner views coffee as a canvas to express her rich cultural background.
This creativity shines through in their unique, rotating creations and seasonal menus, which often feature delightful flavors inspired by Mexican culture. Must-try beverages include Flan Latte, Ube Latte, Mexican Mochas & Horchata Lattes, and keep an eye out for rotating delights like the decadent Banana Foster Latte. To perfectly complement their exquisite drinks, Vagabond Café also offers a tempting selection of delicious pastries and muffins, many of which are sourced from local vendors. For those with dietary considerations, they are pleased to provide several gluten-free options.

JUST LOVE COFFEE CAFE
2737 Freedom Pkwy. Dr.
910-491-0309
https://justlovecoffeecafe.com/nc-fayetteville/
Just Love Coffee Cafe offers more than just a caffeine fix; it's a vibrant and cozy community hub designed to feel like an extension of home. With its hand-roasted coffee and an innovative menu featuring unique "waffle-ironed" creations, this cafe is a welcoming destination for everyone.
Just Love Coffee Cafe cultivates a family-friendly environment with a comfortable, homey seating layout and whimsical wall art that sparks conversation. It's the perfect spot for casual meet-ups, productive work sessions, or simply a quiet escape. The cafe actively fosters community spirit by hosting engaging events like trivia and music bingo nights. Their commitment to social responsibility shines through their "Pay-it-Forward" program, allowing customers to purchase meal vouchers for those in need. Families will appreciate the dedicated chalk wall and board games, ensuring entertainment for younger guests. Plus, with outdoor seating and a pet-friendly policy (leashed dogs welcome at outdoor tables), everyone can enjoy the experience. The friendly, professional, and attentive staff consistently contribute to the cafe's warm and inviting ambiance.
The menu at Just Love Coffee Cafe is a delightful fusion of classic coffee shop favorites and inventive breakfast-inspired dishes, with a unique twist: a waffle iron is used to create a variety of both savory and sweet items.
Just Love Coffee takes immense pride in its meticulously hand-roasted coffee beans, offering a diverse selection of beverages. Beyond traditional espresso drinks, explore their unique signature lattes: Cha Cha Latte, Toffee Coffee, and White Chocolate Tiramisu. For those who prefer classic flavors, they also serve Lattes, Frappes, Caramel Macchiatos, and Cold Brew. With non-dairy milk substitutes like coconut milk and vegan options available, Just Love Coffee Cafe ensures there's a perfect drink for every palate.

DOLCE AROMA COFFEE BAR
1800 Skibo Rd.
910-487-0588
https://www.elizabethpizzaskibo.com/
Dolce Aroma Coffee Bar, a delightful Italian-inspired cafe on Skibo Road in Fayetteville, offers a perfect blend of quality and comfort. Conveniently located adjacent to Elizabeth's Pizza & Italian Restaurant, it's your go-to destination for exceptional coffee and tempting desserts. This cozy and casual spot boasts plentiful seating, including a spacious back dining room, making it an excellent choice for productivity or relaxation. Enjoy seamless remote work or study sessions with readily available power outlets and complimentary Wi-Fi. Dolce Aroma is committed to accessibility, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, seating, and restrooms. The cafe cultivates a trendy yet relaxing ambiance, enhanced by a menu of Italian-inspired beverages and sweet treats. What truly sets Dolce Aroma apart are its "amazingly friendly" and "knowledgeable baristas," who consistently deliver outstanding customer service.

MILLER'S BREW
1401 Morganton Rd.
910-500-3098
https://millerscrew.com/millers-brew-coffee-shop
Discover Miller's Brew Coffee Shop, a cherished Fayetteville gem that delights patrons not only with its exceptional drinks and treats but also with its profoundly inspiring mission. This vibrant establishment functions as the essential hands-on training center for Miller's Crew, a dedicated non-profit organization focused on providing vocational training and creating meaningful employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.
This defining characteristic sets Miller's Brew apart. Visitors frequently share their heartwarming experiences, expressing their joy in supporting a business that fosters purposeful work for adults with special needs. The shop radiates a friendly and uplifting environment, where its employees are consistently lauded for their happiness, courtesy, and kindness. One customer perfectly captured the sentiment: "The world needs more businesses like this... you cannot leave there without having a full heart."
The inviting atmosphere extends to its cozy ambiance and charming decor, highlighted by cheerful floral murals. A particularly unique and delightful feature is the outdoor seating area, where tables are adorned with swing seats, creating a sweet spot for leisurely enjoyment. Miller's Brew proudly offers an extensive beverage menu, thoughtfully curated with delicious food options from local collaborators.
Explore a diverse coffee menu featuring expertly crafted espressos, lattes, mochas, and their signature brew, often made with premium beans from Cactus Creek Coffee. Beat the heat with a tempting selection of smoothies, milkshakes, and frappes. Indulge in a tempting array of pastries and baked goods, including cookies, croissants, and doughnuts, all lovingly prepared by local partner, Superior Bakery.
Don’t forget to also visit their newly opened second location at the West Regional Library, 7469 Century Cir.

Government Watch: National Civics Bee to be hosted in Fayetteville

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Tuesday, 28 October 2025

Written by Jami McLaughlin

If your child is in 6th, 7th or 8th grades, you need to read this! The National Civics Bee®, a nationwide initiative led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, will allow middle school students to participate for the first time in North Carolina this year and Fayetteville through the Greater Fayetteville Chamber was chosen as a regional site (that’s a big deal!).
The Civics Bee invites middle school students to demonstrate their understanding of civics through a competitive, engaging format that begins with a written essay and culminates in a live regional bee.
Finalists will advance to a live, game-show style event hosted by the Greater Fayetteville Chamber in Spring 2026, where they will compete for prizes and the chance to represent Fayetteville at the state and national levels. Winners of each regional competition will receive $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $125 for third place. Winners will also advance to compete in the North Carolina State Civics Bee.
Applications for students officially are open and students have until Feb. 3, 2026. For more information about the program including educator resources and how to participate in the 2026 competition, visit www.faybiz.com/civicsbee.
Cumberland County
At their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners voted to adopt the Northeast Cumberland Land Use Plan, which encompasses 33,000 acres and includes the Towns of Wade, Godwin and Falcon. The land use plan is a strategy guide for managing growth and development in those areas and directs decision-making for zoning and land use, through set policies.
The board also appointed county residents to various committees such as local emergency planning, human relations, the Farm Advisory Board and parks and recreations.
In an emergency effort to respond to the government lapse of appropriations, the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners coordinated a meeting on Friday, Oct. 22 with county officials and community partners to address potential disruptions to critical services such as food assistance, mental health support, transportation and shelter resources. Residents are encouraged to visit cumberlandcountync.gov/resources for up-to-date information and a list of resources.
In other news, your visits to the Judge E. Maurice Braswell Cumberland County Courthouse whether it be to pay a tax bill, make a court date or attend a board meeting are now a bit easier to navigate when it comes to free parking downtown.
The Board of Commissioners approved three free parking options, outside of paid on-street options, including:
• First Presbyterian Church parking lot, accessible via the 200 block of Person St.
• Designated ADA accessible spaces in the rear courthouse lot facing Cool Spring St., with close proximity to the rear entrance of the courthouse
• Gravel lots at 334 Person St. and 125 S. Kennedy St.
The City of Fayetteville
The official primary election is on Tuesday, Nov. 4.
Running for mayor will be current Mayor Mitch Colvin, who is seeking a fifth term, and Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Keefe Jensen, who has served on the council since 2015.
Candidates for the nine districts are as follows: District 1 - Stephon Ferguson and James L. Thomas III, District 2 - Malik Davis and Gail Morfesis, District 3 - Antonio Jones and Jeremy Wright, District 4 - DJ Haire and Stuart A. Collick, District 6 - Derrick Thompson and Kenneth E. Odegard II, District 7 - Brenda McNair and Kathy A. Greggs, District 8 - Rodney E. Garvin and Shaun McMillan and District 9 - Deno Hondros and Joe McGee.
Current Councilwoman Lynne Bissette Greene is running unopposed for District 5.
For more information about candidates running for office this year, visit https://sites.google.com/faybiz.com/gfccandidatesforum2025/home.
At their regularly scheduled meeting on Oct. 13, the City Council approved a first quarter performance update for their strategic priorities including public safety, economic growth, revitalization and housing needs, transportation and parks and recreation. An ordinance was adopted to comply with a new state law requiring criminal history checks for applicants working with children. The council also authorized agreements with Methodist University and the Fayetteville Soccer Club and approved the sale of surplus property on Wright Street.
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.

The Liberty basketball team coming to Crown, March 2026

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Tuesday, 28 October 2025

Written by Staff Report

The Crown Complex is excited to announce the launch of the inaugural season of Fayetteville Liberty Professional Basketball at the Crown Arena in 2026. A new chapter in Fayetteville’s sports history is about to be written. The Fayetteville Liberty, Fayetteville’s first professional basketball franchise since the Fayetteville Patriots (NBA D-League), is preparing to launch its inaugural season as part of The Basketball League.
The Liberty will mark a milestone with their official press conference on Dec. 12, at the Alpha Academy at 2 p.m. The event will introduce the team to the city, highlight corporate partners, and share the broader vision for the inaugural season.
The following day, Dec. 13, the Liberty will host their final player combine and flagship tryout, where athletes from across the region will compete for a spot on the inaugural roster. This event is expected to draw scouts, media, and fans alike, setting the stage for the Liberty’s first season.
The finalized roster will be unveiled in early 2026, with training camp and community activations leading up to the March 2026 season opener.
Tickets will be available at the Crown Box Office, Fort Bragg Leisure Travel Office, and online at Ticketmaster.com, starting Oct. 31.
About Fayetteville Liberty
With the guiding vision of “Building Hope in the Community One Possession at a Time,” the Liberty are establishing themselves not only as a competitive professional basketball team but as a cornerstone of community engagement, youth empowerment, and regional pride.
At the helm is Team Market Owner Robert L. Edwards Jr., a lifelong Fayetteville resident and entrepreneur who has worked tirelessly with his leadership team to ensure the Liberty is more than just another sports franchise.
“Our mission is bigger than basketball,” Edwards explained. “The Liberty represent the spirit of Fayetteville—the resilience, the culture, and the vision for what this city can be. We are here to win games, yes, but more importantly, to create opportunities, to inspire the next generation, and to unite this community under one banner.”
The Liberty will play home games at the Crown Complex Arena, one of the region’s premier sports and entertainment venues. This marks a significant step for both the Crown Complex and the City of Fayetteville, expanding their portfolio of professional sports tenants alongside the Fayetteville Woodpeckers and Fayetteville Marksmen.
The addition of professional basketball helps further position Fayetteville as a regional hub for sports tourism and entertainment, creating new opportunities for local businesses, job growth, and cultural visibility.