Good morning, Fayetteville.

J. Cole closed the Dreamville Festival period by releasing his final studio album + returning to Fayetteville repeatedly from 2023 to now.

His journey inspired murals, community projects, and local businesses, marking a full-circle moment from a teen with big dreams to a global star.

J. Cole will conclude his Fall-Off Tour at the sold-out Crown Coliseum on Sept.

23. Doors open at 7 p.m. and parking starts at 4 p.m. as officials advise early arrival to manage heavy traffic on the approach roads.

J. Cole spotlights Fayetteville by naming local landmarks and nicknames in songs from his album 'The Fall-Off' and earlier tracks, offering a vivid nod to community pride (including Market House references).

On Friday, Sept. 11, Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine held its inaugural White Coat Ceremony at Huff Concert Hall for 64 new students, highlighted by a $1 million donation supporting start-up operations and scholarships.

Founding dean Hershey Bell emphasized the school’s commitment to socially accountable care.

Fayetteville State University received a record $10M grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to launch its new defense-focused AI research program; the five-year award will expand courses in applied air defense systems, logistics technology and biomanufacturing on campus.

Seventy-First rallied to beat Jack Britt 38-12 Friday (Sept.

18) with key runs by Shon Pone and an interception return on a pick-6. The Falcons will play Cape Fear in a rescheduled Week 2 matchup on Thursday at 7 p.m.

Local high school football teams ended nonconference play on Friday, Sept.

18 as live scoreboard updates tracked matchups featuring Westover, Douglas Byrd, Gray's Creek, South View, Trinity Christian, Seventy-First and Cape Fear. Reporters captured key plays and standout performances from local athletes (details updated every 60 seconds).