Good morning, Fayetteville.

Family and friends gathered in Fayetteville today to honor Darius 'DJ' Dawson—who died in a car accident in 2020 and would have turned 37 on July 24—with a 5th Annual Ruler Day pop-up that featured food, games and local business booths.

Proceeds from the event will support a memorial endowment fund that provides scholarships at North Carolina A and T.

Cumberland County has extended the deadline for proposals to operate a temporary homeless shelter to 5 p.m. on August 8 — the county is seeking community groups to serve unhoused residents after the Salvation Army shelter closed in April.

Interested organizations may submit new or updated proposals to help provide shelter services.

Unemployment claims in North Carolina fell last week as initial filings dropped to 3,213 from 3,768, and overall U.S. jobless claims fell to 217,000 from 221,000—according to the Department of Labor report on Thursday.

A field outside Fort Bragg’s NCO Academy was dedicated on July 25 to honor Sgt. Jack Stillman, who died from cancer in 2018 and earned the distinguished honor graduate title during his service.

Family members including his 12-year-old son Jackson and military leaders attended the event and said the field stands as a reminder of his strength — a legacy meant to inspire future soldiers.

Duke Health is negotiating with Aetna for higher reimbursement rates and may drop the insurer from its network if a fair deal is not reached by October 20.

Thousands of Aetna patients could lose in-network access and face higher costs for care—though patients with separate contracts will not be affected.

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.