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We experienced the hottest day of the year this week and it looks like this weekend will continue to be a scorcher. I want to take a moment to share a few important updates and reminders that matter to all of us.
First, with temperatures climbing and heat indices expected to exceed 100 degrees, the City and County have cooling stations open and ready to welcome anyone needing relief. These air-conditioned spaces include the FAST Transit Center lobby, our Parks & Recreation lobbies, the Cumberland County Department of Social Services and Public Health on Ramsey Street, and all eight public libraries. They are open during regular business hours and offer a safe, cool environment, free of charge. Please take care of yourself, check on neighbors, and never leave children or pets in vehicles. Staying cool saves lives.
In the spirit of strengthening community safety and wellness, I’m proud to announce that John Jones has been selected as the inaugural Director of the Office of Community Safety (OCS). A Fayetteville native and graduate of Freedom Christian Academy, John brings with him a wealth of experience from leading rapid-response violence prevention strategies in Chicago. His work coordinating multi-agency efforts and managing public health and safety programs has impacted hundreds of thousands of lives. As our new OCS Director, he’ll help lead initiatives addressing violence reduction, mental health response, youth opportunity, and homelessness. We’re thrilled to welcome him home and confident that his leadership will help set a national model for integrated community safety. I will introduce him at the Regular City Council Meeting on Monday, and he will be available to speak with people at our next Fayetteville Outfront on Thursday, June 26 at Bill Crisp Sr. Center.
Lastly, if you’re looking for something fun this weekend, join us downtown for Fayetteville After 5 at Festival Park. This is a free, family friendly outdoor concert series hosted by the Fayetteville Dogwood Committee, held every second Friday from June through August at Festival Park. Gates open at 5 p.m. tonight, and the smooth sounds of Camel City Yacht Club take the stage around 6:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chair or blanket, enjoy local food trucks (including Greek favorites!), and soak in the summer vibes with neighbors and friends. It’s free, family-friendly, and one of the best ways to experience our vibrant downtown.
Let’s keep showing what it means to be America’s Can Do City—by staying safe, staying cool, and showing up for one another.
Best,
Dr. Douglas J. Hewett
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