Good morning, Fayetteville.

Downtown Fayetteville residents shared their views on common misconceptions about the city and explained that outsiders often overlook its deep history and lively community spirit.

The responses highlight a gap between the city's true character and public image.

Jesse Mitchell (38), CEO of Illusions Consulting and host of the Strait No Chase podcast, is honored as a member of Fayetteville’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 for his work helping veterans obtain VA benefits, teaching financial literacy and mentoring community members.

LaVerra Cruz, 37, is the founder and CEO of Your Financial & Marketing Desires and Heaven Under Business, and she was named to Fayetteville's 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 for her work in financial education, mental health, and small business support.

She runs programs that guide entrepreneurs and youth through workshops and one-on-one mentoring — a path forged by her own journey from personal struggle to community impact.

A former Hope Mills police major, Bradley Hall Rountree, pleaded guilty on June 4 to felony obstruction of justice and stealing fentanyl from the evidence locker + received two years probation with a suspended prison sentence after he was fired when he was found unresponsive at the department headquarters.

Actor and comedian Marlon Wayans visited The Airborne Cigar Emporium on June 12 to promote his new Liga Tridante Cigars & meet local fans eager for photos, marking the first celebrity event at the lounge since it opened.

His visit came ahead of a scheduled comedy show in Raleigh on June 14.

Five warehouses in North Carolina stored medical devices treated with ethylene oxide, a gas that can cause cancer, including one just 1,100 feet from homes in Four Oaks.

The state did not track these emissions—neighbors have asked for more monitoring and clear information.

Senate Bill 266 was approved yesterday — it is now headed to Gov. Josh Stein's desk today.

The bill lets Duke Energy avoid a fast-approaching climate change goal while critics say it may push up power bills by charging for future power plants.

Elaine Smith, Cumberland County Animal Services Director, resigned after nearly seven years and her resignation will be effective June 27.

Members of the Animal Services Advisory Board urged the county to rehire her and boost support — including building an isolation facility and increasing staff — to improve the shelter's care for animals.

Nerf Wars

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — The Rick Herrema Foundation — Free meals provided — Experience an action-packed day of Nerf battles and fun activities for the whole family.

Canvas Confessions

3-6 p.m. — 226 The Warehouse — Ticket purchase required — Experience an artistic journey combining live poetry and guided painting to express emotions on canvas.

DIY for the 4th of July

6-8 p.m. — Cape Fear Studios Inc — $45 — Unleash your creativity with a patriotic painting class to celebrate Independence Day.

FRC Firecracker 4 Miler

7-10 a.m. — North Carolina Veterans Park — Entry fee required — Celebrate Independence Day with a fun 4-mile race and a Kids/Fun run through historic Downtown Fayetteville.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

July 8th-10th — Freedom Courts Sports Complex — Registration required — Enhance your shooting and ball-handling skills with expert coaching and tailored drills.

Fayetteville Roller Derby

5-6:30 p.m. — Crown Complex — One ticket covers both games — Witness an exciting double header with Fayetteville Roller Derby taking on Low Country.

Whispers of Villa Romance Styled Shoot

6-8:30 p.m. — Villa Mirabela — Early Bird Special available — Elevate your portfolio with a glamorous styled shoot featuring romantic setups and stunning European-inspired aesthetics.

Rhythm & Rodeo Line Dancing Series

3-8 p.m. — 5319 Yadkin Rd, Fayetteville, NC — Free entry — Enjoy a high-energy line dancing series with music, food, and fun for the whole family.