Good morning, Fayetteville.

Fayetteville police reported 28 homicides by July 22 compared to 15 last year—five remain unsolved—and Chief Roberto Bryan said local, state and federal partners will soon introduce new plans to address the increase in violence.

A Harnett County family mourns after Yoashica Johnson was fatally shot at a house party on Bethea Road in Lillington last month—two others were injured—while suspect Moashaun Bristow, already facing charges for a 2021 murder, was arrested three days later.

CityView staff earned seven awards at the North Carolina Press Association including three first-place prizes for reporting on local issues like the titanium reclamation plant that could affect Fayetteville’s environment.

They also received a second-place prize in environmental reporting at the Green Eyeshade Awards — reinforcing the paper’s commitment to top-quality local journalism.

Construction will soon begin on the 60,000-square-foot, $85 million museum building designed to tell the story of the Civil War, Emancipation and Reconstruction in Fayetteville near the Haymount area — board Chair Mac Healy said it will open in spring 2028 after a ceremony on July 25. The building will include exhibit space, classrooms, a library, and a community room for events.

Regional gas prices rose last week to an average of $2.92 per gallon from $2.88—this level remains about 6.3% below the national average of $3.12.

A year ago, the average price was $3.37 per gallon, marking a notable drop over time.

Former Governor Roy Cooper is expected to announce his bid for the U.S. Senate seat as current Sen. Thom Tillis will not seek reelection.

RNC Chair Michael Whatley is also set to run—setting up a tight contest for a key seat.

Fayetteville’s new police chief, Roberto Bryan Jr., sworn in on July 18, has 30 years of law enforcement experience and plans to improve staff retention and add new technology—like a drone program and enhanced surveillance—and build community trust with a youth mentorship program.

He will work with community safety partners to address public concern and strengthen local partnerships.

After frozen federal funds were released following a lawsuit led by Attorney General Jeff Jackson, Cumberland County Schools will receive $4.2 million from North Carolina’s $165 million allocation + the funds cover 11 percent of its annual federal support.

Officials said the funding will help the district plan, hire, and support essential school functions.

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.

North Carolina Subcontractor Networking Event

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Fayetteville Technical Community College Horticulture Center — Free entry — Network with prime contractors and learn about Job Order Contracting opportunities.

Corks & Connections Networking Mixer

6-9 p.m. — The Sip Room — Free entry — A lively evening of drinks and networking awaits local professionals.

Repticon Fayetteville Show

9 a.m.-4 p.m. — Crown Complex — Admission fee varies — Explore a fascinating exhibition of reptiles, exotic pets, and supplies.

3rd Annual Back to School Bazaar

3-7 p.m. — Rainbow Shops — Free entry — Celebrate back-to-school season with giveaways, food, and entertainment for the whole family.