Good morning, Fayetteville.

Daniel Wayne Locklear, a 41-year-old from Robeson County who pleaded guilty in April to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, was sentenced to over 15 years—plus 2 additional years for breaching his federal release—after he shot an off-duty Dunn officer in the leg when he tried to drag a screaming woman out of an Exxon station during a domestic incident in Cumberland County in September 2023.

Cumberland County Schools will start the 2025-26 school year on Aug.

25 with fewer school resource officers than needed for all 86 schools—24 officers will cover unincorporated areas while the Fayetteville and Hope Mills departments add officers for city schools, and Spring Lake will rely on a security guard at the middle school with an officer dispatched in emergencies.

On August 14th, Cumberland County emergency management staff updated the board about new flood monitoring using 24 stream gauges (covering the Cape Fear River, Rockfish Creek, Cross Creek, and Little River) to help guide evacuations.

They plan to install solar-powered outdoor speakers (costing about $126,000 each) in the future and work to secure gauges after recent vandalism incidents.

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.

The Perfect Pairing: Charcuterie Workshop

1-2:30 p.m. — Grapes & Hops-Craft Beer & Wine — Included in ticket — Craft a personalized charcuterie board while enjoying expertly curated wine pairings.