A Max Abbott Middle School teacher collapsed while attending a faculty meeting at school January 24. James Pietrowski, 27, died after arriving at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. The cause of death was not disclosed. Pietrowski was a sixth-grade math and science teacher, said Cumberland County Schools spokeswoman Renarta Moyd. “Mr. Pietrowski was … loved and respected by the faculty and students alike,” Superintendent Frank Till said. The school system informed students and parents of his passing via an automated telephone message later in the day.

Another Con Game Is Circulating
Fayetteville Police are warning about the latest scam targeting local residents. Fraud detectives have received reports that a subject calls people informing them that he is a lieutenant with the Fayetteville Police Department. He tells those he calls that police have a warrant for their arrest and that they must pay fines. The caller then asks for personal information and payments. The caller may sound professional and very courteous as he asks for names, dates of birth and social security numbers. The FPD reminds citizens that the police will not call you to request personal information over the phone or solicit money. This is the latest version of a reoccurring scam, said a police news release.

An Evening with Myrna Colley-Lee
From original artwork by acclaimed visual artists to smooth jazz by Reggie Codrington to an exclusive costume showcase by Myrna Colley-Lee, a pioneer in the black theatre movement, this event promises a multi-disciplinary sensory experience. Tickets are $50 per person ($45 for Arts Council members). Proceeds help keep Arts Council exhibits free and open to the public. Seating is limited for this event. To purchase tickets by phone, call (910) 323-1776.

Annual Cumberland County Job Fair
Local employers are invited to participate in an upcoming Cumberland County Department of Social Services March to Work Job Fair. It will be held on March 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Crown Expo Center. The annual job fair traditionally attracts over 2,000 qualified job seekers and approximately 100 employers. The job fair provides companies to sign new employees. Job readiness experts will be available to review resumes for job seekers. Services will also include resume writing assistance, job interview tips as well as information about job opportunities for youth, older adults, veterans and people with disabilities.