Good morning, Fayetteville.

Fayetteville State University now has an NCInnovation hub that will help researchers turn defense and technology research into market-ready products.

FSU Chancellor Darrell Allison announced the hub at the city council meeting and Alison Beatty said the center will offer grants and clear guidance to help researchers move ideas forward — a boost for local innovation.

Waste Energy Corp. dropped its plans for a Fayetteville site for its plastic-to-fuel system on March 27 — it now seeks a new location as infrastructure advances and community members push for stronger environmental safeguards.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced Wednesday that it would cut 80 jobs and lose $100 million in federal funding, leaving local services uncertain.

Interim State Health Director Dr. Kelly Kimple warned that state officials fear further cuts could threaten Medicaid for over 640,000 people — a move that may force the state to reconsider its funding plans.

The Mid-Carolina Regional Council will sponsor 15 local residents to train as certified peer support specialists who help people in mental health and substance abuse recovery.

Applicants must be 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED and a sponsoring agency, and if selected, they will complete a 50-hour state-approved training with added Narcan and caregiving instruction from May 12 to 17 at the Fayetteville office—scholarship notifications will be sent on May 1.

Rylan Miller, a Freedom Christian softball player, hit her 20th career home run in a 7—0 win over Faith Christian on Tuesday night to break the school record previously set by Haley Nelson in 2020.

The Marshall commit who both pitches and bats said it felt amazing to reach her goal and help her team win.

Hills & Thrills ATV Express Tour

12 p.m. — Sweet Valley Ranch — Price includes equipment rental — Experience a thrilling guided ATV tour through diverse terrains.

All American Tattoo Convention - Friday

12-4 p.m. — Crown Complex — Affordable tickets available — Discover the vibrant world of tattoo artistry at this exciting convention.

Grudge Race Car and Bike Show

12-8 p.m. — Fayetteville Motor Speedway — Resale marketplace tickets available — Experience thrilling races and an impressive bike show at this exciting event.

Digital Marketing Certificate Program

Apr 14 — Image Graphics Inc. — Tuition details available — Gain essential digital marketing skills with personalized mentoring in a small class setting.

Goat Yoga at Ithíka Acres

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Ithíka Acres Creamery — $20 — Enjoy a morning of laughter and yoga amid friendly goats.

Easter at Manna

Experience Easter at Manna as we journey from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ life-changing sacrifice and resurrection that continues to transform lives.

AAC Meet #5

4:00 p.m. — Pine Forest High School — Free entry — Experience the excitement of track and field as local athletes compete in various events.

Art in the Allie

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Anchor Allie’s Fayetteville — Experience local artistry — Enjoy an intimate evening of live jazz and community vibes.

RedCup HoDown Southern Soul Jam

12 PM – 12 AM — Thaggards pick N go — Kids 12 and under free, Ages 13-20 $10 — Experience a lively Southern Soul Jam with multiple DJs and local artists showcasing their talents.

Come Sunday Jazz Series: John Brown

2-4 p.m. — Weymouth Center For The Arts & Humanities — Cost info not provided — Experience the talent of Grammy and Emmy nominee John Brown in an afternoon of soulful jazz.