Cornel West's Justice for All Party Challenges NC Ballot Access Decision

A lawsuit is underway to challenge the North Carolina State Board of Elections' decision to deny ballot access to the Justice for All Party (JFA) led by presidential candidate Cornel West. The Board's July 16 vote, split along party lines, rejected JFA's recognition as a new political party, citing insufficient valid signatures despite JFA's submission exceeding the required number. U.S. District Judge Terrence Boyle will consider an emergency injunction that could allow JFA to place its candidates on the November ballot. The lawsuit, supported by North Carolina Republicans and opposed by Democratic-linked groups, claims that the Board's decision violates constitutional rights by preventing voter choice and political participation. The outcome could significantly impact the 2024 general election in North Carolina. (Carolina Journal)

NC Recruits Poll Workers for Upcoming Election Amid New Voter ID Laws

With less than 100 days until the election, counties across the Carolinas are recruiting thousands of poll workers. While Mecklenburg County already has a full roster, Union County and others need hundreds more due to increased polling locations and new voter ID laws. Union County's Board of Elections Director, Kristin Holloway, noted that these factors require additional staffing. Lincoln, Burke, and other counties are also seeking more workers. Prospective poll workers must apply, undergo training, and assist with setup before election day. With an anticipated high turnout, election leaders encourage early applications. (Queen City News)

Harris vs. Trump Presidential Race Energizes Young Voters in North Carolina

The new presidential race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump has sparked significant interest among young voters. The North Carolina Federation of Young Republicans and the College Democrats of North Carolina report a surge in political engagement, with many young people registering to vote for the first time. According to Votes.com, 40,000 people registered within 48 hours of President Joe Biden's announcement to endorse Harris, with 80% of new registrants aged 18 to 34. While some young voters remain unenthusiastic, others, particularly people of color, express excitement about the opportunity to make their voices heard. The deadline for voter registration in North Carolina is October 11. (CBS 17)

NC House Overrides Three of Gov. Cooper's Vetoes, Sends Bills to Senate

The North Carolina Republican-led House successfully overrode three vetoes by Democratic Governor Roy Cooper, with votes largely following party lines. The overrides now await Senate action. The first bill involves the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles issuing title certificates for all-terrain and utility vehicles, expanding road access for modified utility vehicles to roads with speed limits of 55 mph or less. Cooper vetoed this bill citing safety concerns. The second bill restricts local ordinances from preventing landlords from denying tenancy based on federal housing assistance. The third bill prohibits state agencies from accepting payments in central bank digital currencies, which Cooper called "premature, vague and reactionary." The Senate, which does not meet this week, will reconvene in early September to consider these overrides. (WRAL)

NC Lt. Gov. Robinson Criticizes State Agency Amid Probe into Wife’s Nonprofit

North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson criticized the state's Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), alleging political motivation behind a compliance review of his wife Yolanda Hill's nonprofit, Balanced Nutrition. NCDHHS claims the organization owes over $130,000 due to "serious deficiencies" in managing the Federal Child and Adult Care Food Program. Robinson argued that the investigation began only after his political connections were known and linked the review to his gubernatorial race against Atty. Gen. Josh Stein. NCDHHS denied political bias, stating the review followed standard procedures. Robinson's campaign stated Hill plans to appeal the findings. (CBS 17)

Gov. Roy Cooper Withdraws from Vice Presidential Consideration Amid Concerns Over Successor

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has withdrawn from consideration as a potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris, partly due to concerns about his Republican lieutenant governor, Mark Robinson, assuming gubernatorial powers during Cooper's potential campaign travels. Cooper's decision came before Harris formally requested vetting materials from candidates. Cooper, who has a longstanding relationship with Harris, stated his support for her campaign but expressed that this was not the right time for him or North Carolina to join the national ticket. The Harris campaign has not commented on the matter. (WSOC)

NC Governor Roy Cooper Weighs Future Political Options as Term Nears End

With his term ending on January 1, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper is exploring future political opportunities after withdrawing from consideration as Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate. Possible paths include a Cabinet position, a 2026 Senate run, a 2028 gubernatorial race, or a move to the private sector. Cooper's decision remains undecided, with his focus currently on supporting Democratic candidates in North Carolina, including Josh Stein for governor. Political analysts, like Asher Hildebrand, suggest Cooper's extensive experience makes him a strong contender for roles such as U.S. Attorney General or in education and transportation, depending on his future electoral plans. (News & Observer)

Durham City Council's Agenda Includes New City Manager, Affordable Housing, and Infrastructure Bonds

As Durham City Council returns, they focus on hiring a new city manager to replace retiring Wanda Page and addressing affordable housing challenges. Council member Nate Baker highlights the need to update the city's unified development ordinance to better manage land use. Additionally, the council is promoting two bond referendums for the fall: a $115 million bond for streets and sidewalks and an $85 million bond for parks and recreation improvements, including a new water park. These efforts aim to enhance public safety and community amenities. Affordable and sustainable housing remains a top priority, with recent tensions over development decisions, like the approval of a controversial 200-acre project. (Indy Week)

Childcare Centers in Crisis Due to Federal Funding Cuts Threaten Stability

Childcare centers across the mountains face financial uncertainty after the expiration of $300 million in federal COVID-19 funds for early education on June 30. The North Carolina General Assembly approved a $67 million extension, providing temporary relief but leaving many facilities, particularly in rural areas, at risk. Jennifer Rambo, director of Spruce Pine Montessori, and other advocates like Amy Berry and Greg Borom emphasize the urgent need for a long-term funding solution. With many centers operating at a deficit or reducing hours, the situation impacts not only the centers but also working parents and local businesses. The WNC Early Childhood Coalition is advocating for increased state and federal support to stabilize the sector. (ABC 45)

Parents Rally for Full Funding of NC Private School Scholarships

Dozens of parents in North Carolina rallied to urge Republican legislators to fully fund the Opportunity Scholarship program, which saw a six-fold increase in applications after income caps were removed. With nearly 55,000 children on a waiting list due to insufficient funding, families face difficult decisions about their children's education. The Senate had proposed $488 million for the program, but the House did not act, and the legislature will not reconvene until September. (WRAL)

Rise in Home-Schooling and Private School Enrollment Continues in North Carolina

Recent state reports reveal a continued increase in home-schooling and private school enrollment in North Carolina during the 2023-24 school year. The state saw an estimated 157,642 home-schooled students, a 3% rise from the previous year and 6% above pre-pandemic levels. Private school enrollment also grew by 3.5%, reaching 131,230 students, influenced by pandemic-related disruptions and the Opportunity Scholarship program. Despite these trends, 75% of North Carolina's school-age children were still enrolled in traditional public schools. The Charlotte area, particularly Mecklenburg County, reflects these shifts, with a higher proportion of students attending private and charter schools compared to the state average. (WFAE)

North Carolina Sees Shift Towards School Choice as Public School Enrollment Declines

New state data reveals a growing trend among North Carolina families opting for alternatives to traditional public schools. The 2023-24 school year saw a 3.5% increase in private school enrollment, with 131,230 students attending 881 private schools. Homeschooling also rose by 3.2%, with 157,642 students. Meanwhile, traditional public school enrollment fell by 0.4%, with gains in overall public school numbers driven by a 4.9% increase in charter school enrollment. The shift has prompted debates about the state's role in education, with Republican lawmakers expanding school choice options and Democratic lawmakers calling for more support for public schools. Despite these changes, traditional public schools still educate the majority of students, though their share has declined from 86.5% in 2010 to 75.7% last year. The NC School Boards Association and NCAE are campaigning to bolster public school support amid concerns over funding and teacher pay. (News & Observer)

North Carolina K-3 Students Excel in Literacy, Surpassing National Averages

For the third year in a row, North Carolina's K-3 students outperformed the national average on end-of-year literacy assessments. The number of students meeting or exceeding the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) 8 benchmark increased by 81,616, while 53,808 fewer students scored well below the benchmark. The most significant progress was seen in kindergarten, where the percentage of students "on track" in reading grew by 40%. The success is attributed to the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) professional development program, which equips teachers with research-based instructional tools. (Carolina Journal)

Back-to-School Spending Dips Slightly, But Remains Near Record Highs

The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports a slight decline in per-household spending on K-12 school supplies, with families expected to spend an average of $874.68, down $15 from 2023. Total K-12 spending could reach $38.8 billion, the second-highest on record. The slight drop is attributed to decreased demand for electronics, which were heavily purchased last year. Meanwhile, spending for college students remains high, with an average expected spend of $1,364.75, slightly below last year's record of $1,366.95, with total back-to-college spending forecasted at $86.6 billion. (North State Journal)

Divisive School Board Politics in Moore County

David Hensley, a key figure in a conservative campaign to control Moore County's school board, became estranged from his allies after winning six of seven seats. The board's MAGA majority, influenced by former Trump strategist Steve Bannon, pushed a conservative agenda but became embroiled in infighting. The controversy peaked when Hensley was censured for calling board chair Robert Levy, who is Jewish, "a Nazi." The discord threatens to split the local Republican Party, with Hensley now positioning himself against both moderates and former allies. (The Assembly)

UNC System Faces Trust and Graduation Rate Challenges

UNC System President Peter Hans highlighted a national decline in trust towards higher education, citing perceptions of universities straying from their core mission and being overtly partisan. Hans emphasized the need to link chancellor compensation and public funding to measurable performance. He noted that while some universities, like Elizabeth City State University and UNC Charlotte, have improved four-year graduation rates significantly, others, such as Fayetteville State University, have seen declines. The system aims to raise the baseline four-year graduation rate from 55% to 61.5% by 2027, with concerns about uneven completion rates and gaps between student groups. (NC Newsline)

UNCW Faces Housing Shortage Amid Rising Enrollment

For the second consecutive year, UNCW is accommodating more students than it has available beds. With 5,378 students needing housing, the university is 146 beds short. To address this, UNCW has partnered with nearby Plato’s Lofts apartments and will convert study rooms into dorm spaces. Chancellor Aswani Volety emphasized the need for new residence halls to keep pace with growing enrollment. Despite challenges, Volety and Student Body President Skyler Stein view the overflow as a testament to the university’s appeal and quality of education. Efforts are being made to improve overflow housing conditions based on last year's feedback. (WWAY)

NC Medical Debt Forgiveness Plan Approved by Federal Government

The federal government has approved North Carolina's plan to potentially erase $4 billion in hospital debt for two million residents. The plan, introduced by Governor Roy Cooper and DHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley, involves increasing federal payments to hospitals through the Health Access and Stabilization Program (HASP) in exchange for hospitals forgiving old debt and preventing new debt. The NC Healthcare Association expressed cautious support but emphasized the need for comprehensive solutions involving employers, payors, and providers. Key conditions for hospitals include wiping out uncollectible debt for low-income patients, providing discounts, and not reporting certain debts to credit agencies. Vice President Kamala Harris praised the initiative, aligning it with broader federal efforts to address medical debt. The plan's success now hinges on hospital systems agreeing to participate. (NC Newsline)

North Carolina Medicaid to Cover Expensive Weight Loss Medications Like Wegovy and Ozempic

Starting Thursday, North Carolina Medicaid will begin covering weight loss medications known as GLP-1s, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, which are effective but costly. Kody Kinsley, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, emphasized that these medications could prevent severe health conditions associated with obesity, including heart attack, stroke, and diabetes. The coverage will extend to all Medicaid beneficiaries over the age of 12, with a $4 copay. The estimated annual cost to the state for covering these drugs is around $16 million. However, these medications are no longer covered under the State Health Plan for government employees, with State Treasurer Dale Folwell expressing concerns about the financial impact. (WUNC)

Asheville VA Employee's Death Sparks Mental Health Discussion Among Healthcare Workers

An employee at the Asheville VA Medical Center was found dead on July 29, prompting concerns about mental health issues among healthcare professionals. While the cause of death remains undisclosed, experts like Robin Payne, executive director of NAMI, emphasize the increased risk of suicide in the medical field, as healthcare workers frequently face high-stress and traumatic situations. The American College of Emergency Physicians reports that 300-400 physicians die by suicide annually in the U.S. Payne stresses the importance of recognizing signs of distress and seeking help, highlighting the critical need for support systems for those in the healthcare profession. (ABC 13)

Core Technology Molding Corp. Expands in Greensboro with Incentives and New Jobs

Core Technology Molding Corporation, led by CEO Geoff Foster, produces plastic parts for major automotive brands and the pharmaceutical industry. After South Carolina attempted to lure the company away, Greensboro City Council and Guilford County Commissioners provided over a million dollars in incentives to keep the business in the area. In return, the company will invest approximately $28 million and create 26 new STEM jobs. Core Technology will move to a larger facility on Millstream Road, significantly expanding their production capacity. (ABC 45)

Charlotte Ranked Among Top Job Markets for Recent College Graduates

The Charlotte metro area has emerged as one of the top five job markets for recent college graduates, according to a new study by payroll software maker ADP. This ranking is part of a broader trend where Sun Belt metro areas, known for their strong science and tech sectors, are attracting a growing number of young professionals. Charlotte's appeal has been bolstered by new developments and an increasing percentage of recent graduates choosing to settle there. Notably, the city is also home to the new Wake Forest University School of Medicine, which promises to be one of the most innovative medical schools in the country with a focus on artificial intelligence. (Axios Charlotte)

PNC Arena Plans $300M Renovation and Entertainment District

The Centennial Authority, governing body of PNC Arena, is exploring renovation ideas with a $300 million budget to enhance the 25-year-old facility. Proposed upgrades include re-imagined entrances, an indoor/outdoor beer garden, additional food and beverage stands, and improvements to behind-the-scenes areas. The renovations are part of a contract signed by Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon, which also includes an entertainment district development and a lease extension to keep the team in Raleigh until at least the 2043-44 NHL season. The first phase of the entertainment district, costing $200 million, will feature retail, a hotel, apartments, office space, and a new 4,300-seat ballroom, with completion expected by 2030. The arena is projected to generate $3.2 billion over the next five years. (CBS 17)

Kane Realty Transforms Raleigh's "West End" into a Vibrant Destination

Kane Realty is investing significantly in transforming a formerly industrial area of downtown Raleigh, now called the "West End," into a bustling residential and retail hub. The development includes major projects like the 442-unit Platform apartments with 26,000 square feet of retail space, and the upcoming 252-unit Oldham & Worth apartments. The area, strategically located between downtown and Dix Park, is attracting hundreds of millions in investments and new businesses, enhancing connectivity and community engagement. (Axios Raleigh)

Over 200 North Carolina Schools Exempt from New Federal LGBTQ+ Protections

A federal injunction has exempted more than 200 North Carolina public schools from a new federal rule that expands discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ students under Title IX. The rule, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, is being blocked for schools with members of Moms for Liberty and two other groups. Among the exempted schools are 54 in Wake County, with the total list covering 205 schools statewide. The exemption was granted as part of a broader injunction issued by a federal judge in Kansas, halting the rule's enforcement. (News & Observer)

Declining Attendance and Changing Trends Lead to Church Closures in Greensboro

The closure of Centenary United Methodist Church in Greensboro highlights a broader trend of declining church attendance, with Gallup polls indicating a drop from 42% of adults attending weekly services twenty years ago to 30% in 2023. Reverend Kelly Groce, the church's pastor, attributed the sale to Cone Health to this decline. Dean Corey D. B. Walker of Wake Forest University School of Divinity notes that churches are adapting to changing spiritual practices and demographics, with some using innovative approaches like social media to engage younger generations. Despite these challenges, the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church continues to see growth in new and innovative church communities, emphasizing the ongoing importance of spiritual support and community engagement. (FOX 8)

Cherokee-Owned Marijuana Retailer to Expand Sales to General Public

Great Smoky Cannabis Co., a marijuana retailer owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, announced that it will begin selling cannabis products to anyone aged 21 or over starting September 7. Initially opened for medical marijuana purchases in April and later expanded to recreational sales for tribal members, the store's new policy follows a September referendum where tribal members supported adult recreational use. Although marijuana possession remains illegal in North Carolina, the tribe, as a sovereign nation, can regulate cannabis use on their lands, known as the Qualla Boundary. (ABC 11)

A Sports Writer’s 42-Year Legacy: Reflecting on a Career at The Herald

In 1982, the author began a career at The Herald, following a family tradition in journalism. Over 42 years, they covered numerous high school sports events, highlighting memorable moments like state championships and notable athletes, including Cal Raleigh and Cetera DeGraffenreid. They also experienced the highs and lows of the local sports scene, from triumphant victories to heartbreaking losses. The author expresses gratitude for the friendships and support received from players, colleagues, and readers, announcing their retirement and reflecting on the impact of their work. (Sylva Herald)