Good morning, Fayetteville.

Child care costs and long waitlists at Fort Bragg keep many military spouses from working, as 68% of surveyed spouses said childcare is their top barrier.

Federal programs under the National Defense Authorization Act will expand affordable off-base care—local leaders must address understaffed centers to support military readiness.

FEMA cancelled over $18 million in funds for flood prevention projects in Fayetteville, including replacing the closed East Russell Street bridge and improving Blounts Creek — delaying important works.

North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson and attorneys general from 19 states sued FEMA and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Wednesday to force the money’s return — local officials say that without the grants, taxpayers may bear extra costs.

John Jones, Fayetteville’s first Office of Community Safety director, took the helm on June 23 and has set goals to tackle homelessness, mental health issues, youth programming and community intervention—he plans to build trust through public forums and roundtable discussions to encourage community-led events.

Former Fayetteville Police Chief Kemberle Braden, who retired on March 31, is mulling his application for the sheriff vacancy — as county commissioners will accept applications until Aug.

4 and pick a successor on Aug. 11 — because he said he misses law enforcement.

A Fort Bragg clinic is now testing a 'shotgun method' with holistic treatments to help Special Ops soldiers recover from traumatic brain injuries, combining art therapy, pain management and sleep rehab.

The Return to Forces program tracks each treatment's effectiveness — quickly adjusting therapies based on the soldiers' responses.

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.

Video Editing Course for High School Students

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Image Graphics Inc. — Cost varies — Dive into the world of video editing and motion graphics with hands-on training in Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects.

Day of the Cowboy Benefit Rodeo

5-10:30 p.m. — 7 Branch Farm & Arena — Tickets available — Experience thrilling rodeo action and family fun while supporting local cancer patients.

Fayetteville Rockstar Connect Networking Event

6-8 p.m. — Gaston Brewing Restaurant — Free entry — Connect with local professionals and expand your network in a friendly atmosphere.

Find Your Tribe Fayetteville

5:30-8 p.m. — Melvin’s at Riverside — Free entry — Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and discover tips to enhance your financial well-being.