Hurricane Helene Devastates North Carolina Mobile Home Park, Highlighting Housing Crisis

Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding in Hendersonville, NC, displacing over two-thirds of the 70 residents of a low-income senior mobile home park. Tragically, one resident and her dog were swept away, while others, like park manager Robert Tallman, were rescued after hours in floodwaters. Many residents now live in FEMA-funded hotels, underscoring a dire affordable housing shortage in the area, where 44% of renters already struggle with costs. Recovery efforts continue, with FEMA aiding over 135,000 survivors, but rebuilding challenges persist, especially for those without flood insurance. (NC Newsline)

Spruce Pine Restores Wastewater Services After Hurricane Helene’s Devastation

The remnants of Hurricane Helene caused over $53 billion in damage across North Carolina, with Spruce Pine's wastewater treatment plant sustaining catastrophic damage. Temporary mobile treatment units, costing $1.2 million in a six-week lease, restored partial capacity while repairs continue. The town processes 400,000 gallons of wastewater daily and plans to rebuild the plant on higher ground, leveraging FEMA aid and insurance. With 103 storm-related fatalities statewide, including eight in Mitchell County, officials emphasize resilience and long-term planning to safeguard essential infrastructure. (WUNC)

Truist Pledges $650 Million for Hurricane Helene Recovery in North Carolina

Truist Financial Corporation announced a $650 million initiative to support Hurricane Helene recovery in North Carolina, including $340 million for small business loans, home mortgages, and commercial real estate, and $310 million in low-cost loans for municipal infrastructure. Additionally, $50 million in investments and $25 million in charitable grants will aid community rebuilding efforts. The storm caused over 100 deaths in the state and extensive damage to infrastructure, including 6,000 miles of roads and 1,000 bridges, underscoring the long-term need for comprehensive recovery efforts. (WRAL)

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Deadlines Near for Hurricane Helene Survivors

Residents in 39 North Carolina counties impacted by Hurricane Helene must apply for disaster unemployment assistance by December 2 or December 9, depending on their location. The program offers expanded benefits of up to $600 per week for up to 26 weeks, following Governor Cooper's executive order. FEMA has provided $203 million in disaster assistance to residents and continues to offer housing aid and supplies, with its Individual Assistance Program available through January 7, 2025. Survivors can call the DUA Hotline for guidance on applying. (CBS 17)

North Carolina Certifies 2024 Election Results Amid Record Turnout

With 5.7 million ballots cast, North Carolina saw its highest voter turnout in history during the 2024 election. The State Board of Elections certified results for races not under recount, emphasizing robust measures to ensure accuracy, including voter-to-ballot matching and hand-count comparisons. Discrepancies, generally five votes or fewer per county, were attributed to procedural errors such as misplaced provisional ballots. Recounts continue for the NC Supreme Court race and legislative contests, with Wilson County redoing its recount due to technical issues. Officials underscored the transparency and reliability of the election process. (FOX 8)

Allison Riggs Maintains Lead in NC Supreme Court Race Amid Recount and Protests

With recounts completed in at least 93 North Carolina counties, Democratic incumbent Allison Riggs holds a slim lead of over 600 votes against Republican challenger Jefferson Griffin in the state Supreme Court race, despite losing 89 votes in the process. Remaining counties, such as Randolph and Wilson, are yet to report results. Griffin has filed protests alleging over 60,000 ballots may be ineligible, including those cast by Riggs’ parents, which Riggs argues unfairly targets legitimate voters. Final briefs in the protest case are due by December 6, with the winner potentially affecting the court’s current 5-2 Republican majority. (News & Observer)

North Carolina’s Voter ID Law Faces First Presidential Election Test Amid Ongoing Legal Challenges

North Carolina’s voter ID law, implemented for the first time in a presidential election, resulted in nearly 7,000 voters casting ballots without valid IDs, of which over 2,000 were rejected. Preliminary data shows 5% of all rejected provisional ballots were due to ID issues, with most rejections stemming from non-registration. Critics argue the law disproportionately impacts minority voters, while supporters claim it is too lenient. Legal challenges continue, with a federal case ongoing despite the state Supreme Court's 2023 decision upholding the law. Additionally, new absentee ballot deadlines led to at least 1,700 rejections this election. (News & Observer)

Federal Judge Allows GOP Lawsuit Over 225,000 Voter Registrations in North Carolina to Proceed

A federal judge has allowed Republican groups to move forward with a lawsuit challenging 225,000 voter registrations in North Carolina, alleging that some registrants may be ineligible and could dilute legitimate votes. The case, rooted in claims of noncompliance with the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) and the North Carolina Constitution, seeks to verify eligibility through additional voter ID requirements. The court rejected attempts to dismiss the case, noting that GOP allegations warrant further review, though they lack evidence of specific ineligible voters. Legal disputes center on balancing election integrity with protecting voters' rights, with implications for future elections. (Carolina Journal)

Raleigh’s Outgoing City Council Reflects on Accomplishments, Challenges, and Future Priorities

Raleigh’s 37th city council held its final meeting, marking the departure of Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin and District A representative Mary Black. Baldwin highlighted her tenure's achievements, including surpassing affordable housing goals, launching Bus Rapid Transit, and initiating major development projects. She called for higher council salaries and expedited housing development on the former DMV site. Black, known for her advocacy for renters' rights and environmental justice, urged continued bold action on tenant protections and independent mental health crisis units. Both leaders reflected on the demanding nature of public service and shared hopes for Raleigh’s future. (Indy Week)

Wilson City Council Approves $23 Million in Projects and Amendments

The Wilson City Council adopted and amended several ordinances totaling over $23 million, including $2.5 million in budget amendments. Key updates include $287,190 for the police department via a Justice Assistance Grant, $723,140 for mass transit through Ride microtransit service, and $1.35 million for stormwater management improvements tied to the Hominy Swamp Park project. Additional actions included approving annexation of 25.74 acres, creating a municipal parking commission, and signing a lease with T-Mobile for water tower equipment upgrades. The council also allocated funds for a cemetery parking lot and broadband infrastructure. (Wilson Times)

Alamance County Begins Process to Fill Vacant Commissioner and Clerk Roles

Alamance County Commissioner Craig Turner resigned to assume a district court judgeship following his election, leaving the GOP executive committee to appoint his successor during a Saturday meeting. Similarly, Clerk of Superior Court Meredith Edwards, also elected to the district court bench, will require a replacement, with Senior Superior Court Judge Andy Hanford overseeing the selection process. Hanford is reviewing applications and recommendations, aiming to finalize the clerk's appointment by the end of the year to ensure continuity in the court system. (Alamance News)

Wake County Approves School Reassignment Plan for 2025-26

The Wake County school board unanimously approved a reassignment plan affecting a few thousand students due to the opening of four new schools and expansions. Families can apply for stability transfers, though restrictions apply, and rising tenth graders at Felton Grove High have limited exceptions. Concerns include calendar mismatches and longer commutes, with debates over walkability and reassignment logistics continuing. New schools include Rex Road Elementary, Bowling Road Elementary, Pleasant Plains Elementary, and Felton Grove High, with some existing schools adjusted to stabilize enrollment. Families can check their reassignment status on the district's website. (WRAL)

Wake County Schools Face $3 Million Budget Shortfall Amid Rising Meal Costs

The Wake County Public School System is projecting a $3 million budget shortfall for the 2024-25 school year, driven by increased school meal prices and rising operational costs. Elementary lunches cost $3.50, while middle and high school lunches are $3.75, up 75 cents over three years. Families may pay $619 to $663 annually per student for lunch. The district also faces higher expenses for cafeteria worker wages, which have risen 50% since 2018-19, and food costs, up 40%. Loss of COVID relief funds and gaps in funding for charter schools and criminal record checks compound the issue. Solutions from state funding may be necessary to address the deficit. (WRAL)

HELPS Tutoring Program Halted by Lawsuit, Temporary Curriculum Implemented

A federal lawsuit over intellectual property has temporarily halted the Helping Early Literacy with Practice Strategies (HELPS) tutoring program, which served over 1,000 North Carolina students, including 300 in Wake County. The program, lauded for improving reading fluency, will resume in Wake after Thanksgiving with new, vetted materials but without the disputed curriculum. The disruption affects data collection on tutoring effectiveness, which previously showed significant gains for students, especially Black and Hispanic learners. With pandemic relief funding exhausted and intervention resources limited, educators hope to restore a sustainable, long-term solution. (WRAL)

Durham Public Schools Adopts Rotational Bus Plan Amid Driver Shortage

Durham Public Schools introduced a temporary rotational bus plan to address a critical shortage of drivers that has left students waiting hours for transportation. Beginning December 2, the plan will suspend service for one of five bus route groups on a predetermined day each week, ensuring families can plan ahead while prioritizing daily service for students receiving exceptional children and McKinney-Vento services. While parents acknowledge the plan as an improvement, concerns persist about missed instructional time and long-term solutions. The district aims to resolve the crisis, with six new drivers nearing readiness, but acknowledges ongoing challenges as discussions about systemic remedies continue. (Indy Week)

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Face Second Day of Bus Driver Walkout

The second day of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools bus driver walkout has impacted 20% of routes, with 50 drivers calling out and 52 runs left without drivers for the afternoon. The walkout, driven by demands for better pay, safety, and communication, has drawn parent support and highlighted concerns about student discipline on buses. Officials are addressing safety through stricter bus codes of conduct under the WSFCS R.I.D.E.S program and plan to hold community meetings and trainings. Vice Chair Alex Bohannon emphasized the state’s role in funding solutions, as officials work to show appreciation for bus drivers and address their concerns. (ABC 45)

NC Launches $1 Million Fund for Field Trips to State Museums and Sites

Governor Roy Cooper's administration announced the "Learning Happens Here Field Trip Fund," a $1 million pilot program to help North Carolina public schools cover costs for field trips to over 100 state museums, aquariums, and historic sites. Priority will be given to Title I schools and schools in western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene. The program, funded through the federal American Rescue Plan, covers expenses like entry fees, transportation, and meals, with applications required at least eight weeks before planned trips. The initiative aims to inspire students through hands-on educational experiences. (North State Journal)

NC Families to Receive Private School Vouchers Following Funding Expansion

Republican lawmakers allocated an additional $463.5 million to the Opportunity Scholarship program, providing taxpayer-funded private school tuition vouchers to families on the waitlist. Eligible families, contacted by N.C. State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) in early December, can receive $3,360 to $7,468 per child, depending on income, for the current school year. Fall semester awards will go to students enrolled in private school since October 1, while others have until March 1 to qualify for spring funding. Vouchers are distributed directly to schools, which will reimburse parents for eligible costs already paid. Families rejecting vouchers must reapply for the next school year. (News & Observer)

Charter School Closures, North Carolina Outpaces National Stability Rates

A new report by the Network for Public Education highlights a high national closure rate for charter schools, with 36% shutting down between 1998 and 2022. North Carolina fares better, with only 22% of charter schools closing during the same period, though over half of closures occurred within the first five years. Charter schools in the state have seen rapid growth, with a 24.3% enrollment increase in the last five years, driven by Black and Hispanic families. Advocates argue closures reflect effective oversight, while critics warn of the disruptions caused by the sudden shutdown of schools. (WFAE)

UNC Asheville Offers Free In-State Tuition for Spring 2025 Following Helene Recovery

UNC Asheville will cover up to $2,061 of in-state tuition for all students in the spring 2025 semester, supported by $5.5 million from the North Carolina General Assembly's disaster funding. The program applies automatically to current students with unmet tuition needs and new students enrolling by the extended application deadline of December 6. Additionally, UNCA is offering $2,500 emergency grants, housing and dining credits, and increased scholarships to support students impacted by Hurricane Helene, totaling significant relief efforts aimed at easing financial burdens and maintaining student enrollment. (Citizen Times)

Charlotte Welcomes First Class to New Four-Year Medical School

In 2024, Charlotte will welcome its first cohort of 48 medical students to Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s new campus at The Pearl, marking a historic milestone for the city as it transitions from hosting clinical students to becoming a full-fledged four-year medical school. The campus, part of a major midtown development, includes a 14-story educational building and a 10-story research facility housing IRCAD's North American headquarters. The Charlotte class will grow to 100 students over five years, contributing to nearly 1,000 medical students training across both the Charlotte and Winston-Salem campuses. Applications are currently underway. (Axios Charlotte)

North Carolina Ranks Eighth for Launching Tech Careers

A Class Central study ranks North Carolina as the eighth-best state in the U.S. for technology careers, highlighting its robust education system and higher-than-average median earnings for tech graduates. Tech professionals in the state earn $59,303 annually—67.1% more than the state’s overall median earnings. With 174 schools offering tech programs and the North Carolina Community College System partnering with Google to provide free career certificates statewide, the state continues to expand opportunities for aspiring tech workers. North Carolina's appeal is bolstered by competitive salaries, remote work flexibility, and comprehensive benefits in the tech sector. (Carolina Journal)

Durham Rescue Mission Feeds Thousands in 50th Annual Thanksgiving Event

Hundreds of volunteers helped the Durham Rescue Mission serve 2,148 traditional Thanksgiving meals and 1,125 hotdog trays, while delivering 1,389 meals to the Durham Housing Authority and Meals on Wheels. The event drew 2,028 attendees, who received $110,000 in thrift store vouchers, 7,921 clothing items, and 262 bags of groceries. Volunteers also prepared 200 turkeys and provided essentials like gloves and blankets in "Bags of Hope." The celebration included carnival games, prizes, and a message of community and support for those in need during the holidays. (ABC 11)

Durham Cancer Patient Among First to Receive New Lung Cancer Treatment at Duke

Charlotte Johnson, a Durham resident and cancer patient, is one of the first at Duke Health to undergo pulsed electric field ablation, a new FDA-cleared lung cancer treatment. The robotic procedure uses high-frequency electric currents to destroy tumors and stimulate the immune system. Dr. Kamran Mahmood, leading the trials, notes promising early results, including tumor shrinkage and potential effects on untreated tumors in other lungs. With lung cancer remaining the deadliest form of cancer, this treatment offers hope for patients who have exhausted standard therapies. Johnson hopes her experience inspires others facing similar challenges. (ABC 11)

NC Democrats Face Internal Struggles Over Party Identity and Legislative Loyalty

North Carolina Democrats are grappling with internal divisions between moderates and progressives, highlighted by primary challenges and key votes in the legislature. Incumbent Carla Cunningham, who faced a progressive primary challenge in March, joined two other Democrats in voting with Republicans to override Governor Cooper’s veto of HB 10, which expands school vouchers and mandates ICE collaboration. While Cunningham defended her votes as reflecting her constituents' interests, critics argue her actions undermine Democratic priorities, showcasing tensions between the party's "big tent" aspirations and demands for ideological alignment. This division risks alienating core voters and reshaping the party’s identity. (WFAE)

CNN Files Motion to Dismiss Defamation Lawsuit by NC Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson

CNN has filed to dismiss North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s defamation lawsuit, which challenges allegations linking him to explicit comments on a pornography website and claims made by a former video store clerk. CNN argues the suit lacks evidence of "actual malice," a requirement for defamation cases involving public figures, and calls Robinson's claims implausible and unsupported. The network defends its reporting, citing detailed investigations linking Robinson to the online posts. The lawsuit, filed weeks before Robinson’s gubernatorial campaign announcement, has been labeled "political theatre" by CNN. (CBS 17)

Lumbee Tribe Federal Recognition Efforts Spark Controversy Among NC Tribes and Congress

The Lumbee Tribe’s decades-long pursuit of federal recognition has gained renewed attention after Donald Trump pledged support during his campaign. While North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis champions their cause, introducing the Lumbee Fairness Act, opposition from federally recognized tribes like the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians remains strong, citing doubts about the Lumbee's historical claims. Tillis has reportedly blocked legislation benefiting other tribes, such as land preservation for the Cherokee and Sioux nations, to pressure their leaders into supporting the Lumbee. The debate underscores tensions over Indigenous identity, federal resources, and political tactics in Indian Country. (WWAY)