Good day Durham! We're here again with what you need to know today. Grab a cup of coffee and read on. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: What do you call advice from a cow ? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Are COVID vaccines free in 2026? Here's what is and isn't covered in NC (charlotteobserver.com) — Durham families can still get free COVID-19 shots for children through the county public health department, even as federal blanket coverage has ended. The article explains who qualifies under new FDA guidance, typical out-of-pocket costs without insurance, and how options in Durham, Wake, and Mecklenburg counties differ so you can plan your next vaccination visit wisely.
2. Durham police disperse 'hundreds' of cars at takeover following reckless stunts (newsobserver.com) — Durham police broke up a massive unsanctioned car meetup on Avondale Drive Saturday night, dispersing an estimated 600 vehicles after reports of loud noise and reckless driving stunts. One driver was cited and had a car towed, and multiple agencies, including State Highway Patrol and the sheriff's office, joined the response as street takeovers grow into a recurring safety concern locally.
3. 2nd suspect sought in Durham killing of Morrisville soccer standout, police say (myfox8.com) — Durham police are searching for a second suspect in the August 6 shooting that killed 21-year-old Morrisville soccer player Jamari Sharpe on Ross Road near Junction Road. One man has already been charged with murder, while investigators now seek 21-year-old Desmond Strudwick as Sharpe's family continues honoring the former Panther Creek High standout's legacy in the Triangle soccer community.
4. The Durham Redemption (redeyebr.com) — Incarcerated residents in Durham are now helping decide how millions in city funds are spent through the participatory budgeting process. From jail, they proposed and voted on projects like youth recreation spaces and park repairs, contributing to $2.4 million in resident-selected improvements such as accessible restrooms, charging stations, and neighborhood murals that will shape daily life across Durham.
5. Three Charlotte family members killed in crash near Durham County early Saturday (newsobserver.com) — A serious overnight crash on I-85 near the Durham County line killed three Charlotte family members and left a 10-year-old boy hospitalized at Duke University Hospital in Durham. Authorities say their SUV hit a fire truck blocking an earlier wreck, and the cause of the collision is still under investigation.
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Ok Durham! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: Beef Tips (Thank you Gary M. for sending it in!)
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