Good morning, Fayetteville.

Cumberland County Superior Court Judge Jim Ammons on August 19 ordered Raj Laxmi Hospitality LLC to demolish the Coliseum Inn on Gillespie Street within 90 days as a public nuisance after its long history of violent crimes – including homicides, drug use and human trafficking – led to repeated law enforcement interventions, and Sheriff John Morgan said the measure will improve county safety.

Fayetteville’s new medical school received a $1.5M grant from The Duke Endowment to help fund early costs for a five-story, 200-room building at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center campus, with classes set to start in fall 2026.

Dr. Hershey Bell and CEO Mike Nagowski said the project will boost local health care—pending accreditation from the LCME in mid-October.

Hurricane Erin, a Category 2 storm strengthening in the Atlantic, is forecast to bring 25-foot waves, coastal flooding, and life-threatening rip currents to the NC coast.

Local officials declared a state of emergency and ordered evacuations in some coastal areas — residents are urged to heed the warnings and avoid the water until conditions improve.

Neighbors rallied at a meeting to oppose a developer’s plan to build 160 housing units of duplexes and quadplexes on 21.27 acres at Rosehill Road—residents worry the project will worsen flooding, traffic, and parking issues.

The Fayetteville City Council will hold a public hearing Monday at 6:30 p.m. to decide whether to rezone the site.

North Carolina high school football will begin August22 and three recruits committed to coach Manny Diaz’s Duke team are drawing attention—safety Lyrik Pettis, wide receiver Brody Keefe, and safety KD Cotton—as the program looks to build on past success.

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.

Boots & Brews

5-10 p.m. — Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy line dancing, food trucks, and local vendors at this family-friendly rodeo party.

Hanging with the Highlands

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Sweet Valley Ranch — Ticket required — Experience a gentle giant encounter with friendly Highland cows in a scenic farm setting.

Cumberland County Fair on September 3rd

5-6:30 p.m. — Crown Complex — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Cumberland County Fair with live performances and community fun.

Around the World Run

12:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Cape Fear Botanical Garden — Cost not specified — Celebrate diverse cultures through a community-centric running event.

Cumberland County Fair 2025

1-2:30 p.m. — Crown Complex — Ticket prices vary — Experience local festivities at the Cumberland County Fair in Fayetteville.