[9/28/04)

It's hard not to notice all of the construction on Highway 70.  Rush hour provides us all with ample time to view construction sites marked with that good 'ol North Carolina red clay.  Between stop and go, drivers might not have time to examine these new business arrivals closely.  Therefore, due to Clayton's continuous growth over the past few months, it seems appropriate to update the community with the status of the newly erected buildings. 

McCall's Bar-B-Que & Seafood

Although it might be new to Clayton, McCall's Bar-B-Que and Seafood has been around for quite a while.  McCall's has operated from its other location, in Goldsboro, for around 15 years.  Their new store, located at 10365 US Hwy 70 West, showcases a waiting area that pays homage to Johnston County and seems to be a great restaurant for a sit down, family meal. 

With its two large private rooms, McCall's also proves to be an ideal location for group meetings.  "Normally, we like to host meetings in the mornings, from 8am-11am and then offer lunch around 11 or 11:30," says Larry Burnette, one of McCall's four owners.  "But, we are flexible and like to accommodate our customers." 

McCall's offers a wide variety of food.  Obviously, Bab-B-Que and seafood are their specialties, but they also wow the community with their chicken, vegetables, and deserts.  In addition, McCall's offers catering services.  Normal business hours are from 11am-9pm seven days a week. 

Dunkin' Donuts

ATTENTION CLAYTON COMMUNITY:  Get your sweet tooth ready for some serious action because as of September 28, 2004, Highway 70 will be host to Clayton's very own Dunkin' Donuts and Baskin Robins.  Dunkin Donuts owner, Parth Patel, is more than ready to begin operations. 

"We are hoping the weather will permit us to continue construction," says Parth Patel, owner of Dunkin' Donuts.  This season's many hurricanes have continuously delayed construction throughout Clayton. 

Dunkin' Donuts is located at 770 on Hwy. 70, between Biscuitville and Bojangles.  For those who have a late night sweet tooth, the drive through will remain open 24 hours.  Regular store hours will be from 6am-11pm. 

Dairy Queen

It is a well-known fact that many people in the Clayton area are looking forward to the Dairy Queen arrival.  Good news!  It should be opening sometime in October. 

Again, due to rain delays and building guidelines, construction has proved to be a pain.  However, it will be well worth the wait.  Dairy Queen should open approximately two weeks after construction is complete due to a two week employee training period.  Dairy Queen will offer a variety of ice creams as well as a hot menu. 

"We have a hamburger better than any in Johnston County," says Wayne Crocker.  Crocker is a part owner of the new Clayton Dairy Queen.  "It has a taste of its own.  But, our specialty is ice cream cakes."  Dairy Queen makes ice cream cakes of various flavors.  The new store can be found just in front of Lowes Foods.

Southern Regional Village

Located near the Bayer Pharmaceutical facilities, lies a newly built center called Southern Regional Village.  These contemporary buildings are set up as business condominium which allows companies to lease or purchase their property.  The uniqueness of the rent or buy idea has attracted many businesses already.  Southern Regional Village offers a variety of merchants.

A Helpful Guide to Southern Regional:

Clayton Appliance will be occupying two condominium spaces and specializing in appliances, cabinets, shower enclosures and more for your home.

Allium, a local restaurant, will occupy one space.  Allium will serve the Clayton community with indoor and outdoor seating.

Southern Regional Village is also host to those in the medical field.  Dr. Pratt, who owns a dental facility, and Dr. Roccos, a chiropractor, occupy two separate offices.  Both offices are now fully operational.

Fastenal and Nextel can also be found at Southern Regional.  Opening soon is Panache, a new salon concept, and there is talk of an Irish pub. 

Grand Plaza

Grand Plaza is, for now, known as the large mound of soil directly across from the Wal-Mart shopping center.  Here you'll find a Waffle House which is nearing completion.  Soon to be added will be a Hardee's restaurant.  In over 20,000 square feet of the strip center businesses, residents will eventually find Wild Birds Unlimited, a hair salon, a nail salon and many more businesses. 

As new businesses pop up around the community, stay logged on to 4042.com to receive the latest information on construction sites, grand openings and other news.  Stop by these newest businesses and remember to tell them you read about it on 4042.com!  Keep watching…more to come!

--4042.com Reporter, Stephanie Lee

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