Good morning, Fayetteville.

Readers voted today on the best coffee in Cumberland County and chose Oishi Bubble Tea with 424 votes over Vagabond Cafe's 413—making it the top local pick.

The locally owned shop opened on March 10 by husband and wife owners Andrew Dworkin and Edralyn Cole and marks the celebration of National Coffee Day.

Columnist Diane Parfitt lists six books that tell the story of the Marquis de Lafayette, the hero for whom Fayetteville is named, and ties the recommendations to the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence.

The books offer simple introductions for young readers and detailed histories for adults—helping locals learn more about Lafayette's lasting role in our nation's founding.

Fayetteville unveiled a monument at Mayor Beth Finch Park to honor Beth Dail Finch, the city’s first female mayor who served three terms from 1975 to 1981—city officials said the tribute reminds residents of her lasting impact in education, youth opportunity, and community unity.

Developers presented a preliminary site plan for 6315 Ramsey St.—a 43.9 acre property near Interstate 295 in north Fayetteville—at the Technical Review Committee meeting in September.

Whataburger has also submitted plans for a new restaurant on Ramsey Street as part of a broader push for commercial and retail growth near Methodist University.

Fayetteville high schools have sent over 90 student-athletes to college football rosters for the 2025-26 season—45 freshmen among them, with Seventy-First placing 10 of its freshmen on college teams.

Players from Cape Fear, South View and other local schools are set to join Division programs, including three in the ACC.

Nurse John Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Crown Theatre - The Crown Center — Tickets from $78 — Experience the unforgettable performance by Nurse John in Fayetteville.

Crowder & Passion Music Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Crown Complex — Ticket prices vary — Experience an uplifting evening with popular worship leaders and music from Passion City Church.

The Pink Walk: Walk It Out for Breast Cancer

8 AM – 1 PM — The Gathering Place — Vendor spots available — Celebrate breast cancer awareness with a day of walking, community, and empowerment.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Fayetteville

10 AM – 12 PM — Segra Stadium — Donations encouraged — Participate in the movement to combat Alzheimer’s with hope and action.