Trick-or-Treat on Main Street Brings Community Together Amid Helene Recovery

The 15th annual Trick-or-Treat on Main Street in Burnsville gathered 2,500 to 3,000 attendees for Halloween festivities, featuring live music, food, and treats from local vendors. Organized to offer relief to families affected by Hurricane Helene, many of whom still lack utilities and Wi-Fi, the event provided a much-needed community space despite challenges in sourcing candy and entertainment this year. (ABC 13)

NC Attorney General Sues Business Owner for Alleged Price Gouging Post-Hurricane Helene

Attorney General Josh Stein has filed a lawsuit against Lorenzo Huggins, Sr. and his companies for allegedly charging $25,000 for incomplete tree removal services in Hendersonville following Hurricane Helene. Huggins reportedly left debris in a home, forcing the homeowners to pay additional contractors. Since 2018, Stein has pursued 13 price-gouging cases, securing over $1 million in judgments and settlements, with his office emphasizing strict enforcement against exploitative practices during emergencies. (ABC 11)

Early Voting Surge in North Carolina Shows Republican Lead

With two days left for early voting, 3.6 million (46%) of North Carolina's 7.7 million registered voters have already cast ballots. Republicans lead early voting at 53%, ahead of Democrats (48%) and unaffiliated voters (40%), despite being the smallest group by registration. Counties heavily affected by Hurricane Helene report 48.4% early voting turnout, and white voters are participating at a higher rate, representing 71% of early voters while making up 64% of registered voters. (WRAL)

Election Security and Misinformation Loom as Americans Head to Polls

As Election Day approaches, concerns over voting machine security and lingering conspiracy theories about election integrity remain, despite extensive safeguards. Roughly 98% of ballots are cast on paper, and voting machines lack internet connectivity, making remote tampering nearly impossible. Security measures, including rigorous federal and state certification processes, secure storage, and continuous surveillance, help ensure vote integrity; however, misinformation persists, fueled in part by social media and notable public figures. (ABC 11)

DOJ Steps Up Election Security, Addresses Voter Intimidation and Foreign Influence

With Election Day approaching, the U.S. Justice Department has reinforced its commitment to safeguard voting rights and election integrity. Its divisions for civil rights, criminal law, and national security are prepared to address issues from voter intimidation and election fraud to foreign influence. In response to recent incidents, including ballot box arson and intimidation tactics, the DOJ urges the public to report violence to local authorities and civil rights violations to the agency, while law enforcement in key areas remains alert to potential disruptions. (NC Newsline)

Over Three Million North Carolinians Vote Early as Unaffiliated Voters Hold Key Role

North Carolina has seen over three million early votes, with Democrats and Republicans close in registration at 32.5% and 30%, respectively, while 36.7% of voters are unaffiliated, many of whom are younger. Political expert Chris Cooper highlights the difficulty in mobilizing unaffiliated voters, crucial in swing states like North Carolina, which could impact the 2024 election. Early voting continues through Nov. 2, with Election Day on Nov. 5. (ABC 45)

Courts Reject GOP Efforts to Restrict 225,000 North Carolina Voters Ahead of Election

Federal and state courts have blocked Republican attempts to remove approximately 225,000 North Carolina voters from the rolls or require them to cast provisional ballots, citing federal law that prohibits voter roll changes within 90 days of an election. The GOP lawsuit argued that registrations using outdated forms lacking specific ID information were invalid; however, the state board updated these forms and confirmed that voter ID requirements would be enforced at the polls. Additionally, a North Carolina appeals court dismissed a separate GOP lawsuit targeting absentee ballots from overseas voters. (WFAE)

Polling Firm Sues Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson's Campaign Over Unpaid $114,000 Invoice

Polling company Vox Insights LLC has sued Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s gubernatorial campaign, alleging non-payment of a $114,000 bill for polling data supplied in September and requesting a freeze on campaign funds. Robinson’s campaign disputes the claim, stating all invoices from Vox Insights have been fully paid. (News & Observer)

Fayetteville City Council Passes Ordinance Restricting Smoke Shops Near Schools and Churches

Fayetteville has enacted an ordinance prohibiting hemp and tobacco shops from opening within 1,000 feet of schools, churches, parks, and daycares, aligning with Cumberland County's regulations. The measure, approved with a 7-3 vote, aims to reduce tobacco retailer density near vulnerable populations, especially in low-income areas, where experts say e-cigarette marketing targets youth. Cumberland County recently banned vaping on county property in a related effort. (CBS 17)

Durham City Council Cuts Parking Costs for Downtown Workers, Eyes Long-Term Solutions

Durham City Council has reduced the monthly parking fee from $140 to $35 and the evening rate from $80 to $20 for eligible low-income downtown workers, addressing concerns over rising costs. The change, well-received by some business owners, aims to improve affordability while balancing the city's goal to encourage alternative transportation. While downtown parking remains accessible, Council Member Caballero and others are exploring future car-free initiatives and transit improvements, though workers like Rubies bartender Bruce Kenyon see the current adjustments as a "temporary fix." (Indy Week)

Cary Voters to Decide on $560 Million Parks Bond Amid Debate Over Cost and Benefits

Cary residents are voting on a $560 million bond to fund six parks and recreation projects, including a $300 million sports and recreation center at South Hills Mall, with a proposed 26% increase in property taxes over six years to cover costs. The bond aims to address Cary’s rapid growth and rising demand for recreational facilities, with projects like an Asian garden, a tennis park expansion, and a new greenway. While some residents support the bond for its community benefits, others question the long-term financial impact, especially given an estimated total cost of $875 million including interest. (WUNC)

North Carolina Charter Schools See Record Growth and Diverse Pathways Amid Challenges

North Carolina charter schools enrolled over 145,000 students in 2022-23, representing more than 10% of the state's total enrollment, with high demand evidenced by waitlists exceeding 85,000 students. Schools like Pine Springs Preparatory Academy and Aspire Trade Charter High School are expanding to meet community needs; Pine Springs plans a biotech high school, while Aspire Trade offers trade-focused programs with certifications in fields like automotive and plumbing. Despite the growth, charter schools face funding challenges, lacking capital support and grappling with an arrears funding model that complicates budgeting. (North State Journal)

North Carolina Provides $19.1 Million in Aid to College Students Impacted by Hurricane Helene

The N.C. State Education Assistance Authority is granting additional financial aid to students affected by Hurricane Helene, benefiting over 20,000 students across western North Carolina, including those at Appalachian State, UNC Asheville, and Western Carolina University. Eligible students with family incomes below $80,000 will receive an average of $850 to offset storm-related costs, while UNC Asheville students will have spring tuition covered by a $5.5 million allocation. The relief funding follows widespread disruption, including 99 reported deaths and significant ongoing recovery needs. (CBS 17)

UNC Suspends 17 Pro-Palestine Activists Amid Allegations of Bias and Police Force

Following May antiwar demonstrations, UNC-Chapel Hill suspended 17 pro-Palestine students, citing varied conduct violations, including alleged assaults on officers. Two students, Hashem Amireh and Kaleb, chose formal hearings to dispute charges, with Amireh eventually cleared but Kaleb’s suspension upheld despite appeals pointing to procedural issues and police bias. The situation spotlights the university’s complex disciplinary response to activism on campus, with heightened security measures implemented for future protests. (Indy Week)

Microsoft Purchases 1,385 Acres in North Carolina, Potential Major Development Ahead

Microsoft has acquired approximately 1,385 acres in Person County, North Carolina, for $28.9 million, signaling a potential large-scale project but has yet to disclose specific plans. Economic officials highlight the acquisition's potential to boost the local economy and create jobs, though the final scope remains undetermined. Microsoft's investment aligns with its recent focus on AI infrastructure, with state officials noting the property as one of North Carolina's prized "megasites" reserved for attracting substantial corporate projects. (WRAL)

Credit Karma to Pay $2.5 Million Settlement for Deceptive Credit Offers

Nearly 3,000 consumers in the Carolinas will receive part of Credit Karma’s $2.5 million payout after the FTC found the company made misleading “90% odds” claims on credit offers. The FTC is distributing 50,994 payments nationwide to those affected, including individuals who saw their credit scores drop due to these deceptive practices. Credit Karma, which has had its East Coast headquarters in Charlotte since 2016, agreed to stop making such claims as part of the settlement. (Charlotte Observer)

Cary Breaks Ground on Marigold Affordable Housing Complex, Set for 2026 Completion

Cary, in partnership with Wake County and state leaders, broke ground on the Marigold, a 126-unit affordable housing complex on SE Maynard Road, with half of the units designated for households earning 30%, 60%, and 80% of the area median income. A $1 million federal grant, presented by Rep. Deborah Ross, supports the project, which aims to provide accessible housing options for essential workers and others with incomes below $70,000. The development is expected to welcome residents by spring 2026. (CBS 17)

Greensboro Sees Economic Boost from Presidential Campaign Visits

Recent visits by presidential candidates to Greensboro, including Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, are estimated to bring over $200,000 to the local economy. Costs for venues, security, and other logistics are covered by the campaigns, with additional revenue generated from parking and local spending. City Council Member Zack Matheny sees these events as valuable for both immediate economic benefits and for promoting Greensboro as a potential hub for future investments. (FOX 8)

NC Correctional Facilities Invest in $38 Million Solar Project for Long-Term Energy Savings

The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction has begun a 500-kilowatt solar project at Tabor Correctional Institution, part of a $38 million energy savings contract targeting sustainability and efficiency at six correctional facilities statewide. The initiative is projected to save over $60 million in energy costs over the next 20 years, marking a significant step toward state sustainability goals. (WWAY)

New BBQ Joint, Café Openings, and Seasonal Events Heat Up the Triangle’s Food Scene

Tom Meyer’s Southern Harvest Hospitality is opening Knucklehead BBQ in Mebane this November, featuring classic BBQ meats and Southern sides, with 5% of sales going to local charities for the first 120 days. In Raleigh, RH Raleigh unveils a 3-story gallery and rooftop restaurant, and The Bomb Bar opens its first NC location in Gateway Plaza, offering superfood-based dishes. Durham will soon welcome Honeygirl Meadery and Fullsteam Brewery’s new taproom at the American Tobacco Campus. Upcoming events include Durham’s final Food Truck Rodeo on November 3 and Carolina Brewery’s Annual Oyster Roast. (WRAL)