"Polarization" Named Merriam-Webster's 2024 Word of the Year Amid Divisive U.S. Election

Merriam-Webster selected "polarization" as its 2024 Word of the Year, reflecting the deep divisions in U.S. politics and culture following a highly contentious presidential election. Defined as "causing strong disagreement between opposing factions," the word encapsulates not only political rifts but also cultural debates and internet controversies. Among the top 10 words of the year were "demure," popularized by TikToker Jools Lebron, and "totality," inspired by April’s solar eclipse. The selection underscores the dictionary's role as a neutral arbiter of meaning in an era marked by stark ideological divides and public discourse. (ABC 11)

JD Vance Visits Hurricane Helene-Affected North Carolina, Pledges Support for Recovery

Vice President-elect JD Vance toured hurricane-stricken areas in western North Carolina, offering support and pledging future aid for recovery efforts. Hurricane Helene caused $53 billion in damages, over 100 deaths, and destruction to 120,000 homes, 6,000 miles of roads, and 160 water systems. Vance promised to prioritize rebuilding efforts, visiting first responders and residents while emphasizing the administration's commitment to restoring affected communities. North Carolina has allocated $900 million for disaster relief, but Governor Roy Cooper is seeking $3.9 billion more, alongside $25 billion in federal aid. (WRAL)

Syrian Government Falls as Rebels Seize Damascus in Rapid Offensive

The Assad regime fell on Sunday after a swift 10-day rebel offensive that culminated in the capture of Damascus, ending the Assad family’s 50-year rule. Opposition forces, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, seized key cities, including Aleppo, Hama, and Homs, meeting little resistance as the Syrian army retreated. President Bashar Assad reportedly fled the country, though Syrian state media denied this. Celebrations erupted in Damascus as detainees were freed and government institutions abandoned, marking a dramatic shift after 13 years of civil war. The UN has called for urgent talks on a political transition. (AP)

Congress Excludes IVF Expansion for Military Families in Final Defense Bill

The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) excludes provisions to expand TRICARE coverage for in vitro fertilization (IVF) for military members and their families, a decision criticized by Democrats and veterans' organizations. Current TRICARE policies limit IVF coverage to service-related infertility, leaving military families to bear significant out-of-pocket costs. Advocates argue the exclusion perpetuates inequity compared to federal employee health benefits, which will cover IVF starting in 2025. Opponents, citing ethical concerns and fiscal responsibility, blocked the expansion, highlighting ongoing divisions over reproductive healthcare and military benefits. (NC Newsline)

North Carolina’s Partisan Power Struggles Reflect Purple State Politics

North Carolina’s history of partisan power grabs continues, with Republicans in the legislature attempting to override Democratic Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of a bill limiting the powers of incoming Democratic officials. The bill reallocates appointment powers, weakens the Attorney General’s authority, and reduces the influence of the Democratic Lieutenant Governor and Superintendent of Public Instruction. This reflects a decades-long pattern in which close electoral margins in the state have spurred legislative maneuvers to undermine political opponents. The outcome of the veto override remains uncertain, as three Republican lawmakers oppose the bill. The cycle of power struggles highlights the aggressive partisanship prevalent in competitive states like North Carolina. (Time)

North Carolina Lawmakers Override Veto on Controversial Hurricane Relief Bill

The North Carolina General Assembly voted to override Governor Roy Cooper's veto of Senate Bill 382, allocating $227 million for Hurricane Helene relief while enacting measures that reduce the powers of Democratic-held offices. The House's 72-46 vote followed the Senate's earlier override, sparking protests and accusations of political maneuvering. Critics, including Governor-elect Josh Stein, labeled the bill a "power grab," while Republicans emphasized the importance of disaster relief. The bill also shortens the provisional ballot correction period and reallocates powers from the governor, attorney general, and other statewide offices. Republicans defended the legislation as necessary aid for hurricane victims, but its broader implications continue to fuel partisan tensions. (ABC 11)

North Carolina Governor and Governor-Elect Sue Over Controversial Power-Stripping Law

Governor Roy Cooper and Governor-elect Josh Stein have filed a lawsuit in Wake County Superior Court challenging the constitutionality of Senate Bill 382, a newly passed law that reallocates powers from Democratic-held offices to Republicans. The bill, passed under the guise of Hurricane Helene relief, removes the governor’s authority to appoint the state board of elections, changes judicial vacancy appointments, and limits executive oversight over the State Highway Patrol. Cooper and Stein argue that the law violates the separation of powers and undermines public safety. Republicans defend the measure as a necessary rebalancing of authority. (CBS 17)

UNC Charlotte Students React to Power-Shifting Senate Bill 382

UNC Charlotte students expressed concern and disbelief over North Carolina's Senate Bill 382, which reallocates powers from incoming Democratic officials to Republican-held offices while delaying $227 million in Hurricane Helene relief. Students criticized the bill as undermining democracy, with many questioning whether their votes truly matter. The legislation removes key appointment powers from Governor-elect Josh Stein and weakens other Democratic-held offices, sparking fears among students like Sam Lee and Ethan Greaves that such measures erode democratic principles and representation in the state. (Queen City News)

North Carolina House Republicans Secure Senate Bill 382 Amid Partisan Controversy

Senate Bill 382 is now law after House Republicans overturned Governor Roy Cooper’s veto, aided by three Republicans flipping their votes. The bill allocates $227 million for Hurricane Helene relief but freezes the funds until further appropriation, while also enacting sweeping changes to state governance. These include reducing powers of Democratic incoming officials, such as Governor-elect Josh Stein, and transferring election oversight to the state auditor—a move unprecedented in the U.S. Critics, including Cooper, labeled the bill a "sham," while supporters argued it was the only viable mechanism to pass relief. The law’s provisions, especially changes to election timelines and governance, have sparked accusations of a calculated political power grab. (ABC 45)

Senate Bill 382 Dispute Fuels Broader Court Battle Over Executive Power in North Carolina

The legal battle over Senate Bill 382, which strips power from North Carolina’s executive branch, has intertwined with an ongoing court case, Cooper v. Berger, concerning legislative control over state board appointments. Governor Roy Cooper and Governor-elect Josh Stein argue that recent laws, including SB 382, violate the state constitution’s separation of powers by reallocating key executive functions to the legislature or other officials. Legislative leaders counter that these measures are a legitimate exercise of the General Assembly’s authority to structure state government. The North Carolina Court of Appeals is set to hear arguments in the case, which could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in the state. (Carolina Journal)

North Carolina State Board of Elections Rejects GOP Election Protests in Partisan Vote

The North Carolina State Board of Elections voted 3-2 along party lines to reject election protests from Republican Supreme Court candidate Jefferson Griffin and three legislative candidates. Griffin sought to disqualify over 60,000 ballots but remains 734 votes behind Democrat Allison Riggs after a recount. Central to the dispute were controversial postcards with QR codes notifying voters of ballot challenges, which Democrats likened to junk mail, citing deficiencies in accessibility and clarity. Republican attorneys argued the protests aimed to uphold election laws, while Democrats accused them of attempting to disenfranchise eligible voters. The decision can be appealed to the courts, with Griffin retaining the option to escalate to the state Supreme Court. (Carolina Journal)

Campaign Finance Investigations Decline After 2018 Law Changes

A 2018 law shifted North Carolina’s campaign finance investigations to a secretive process, resulting in no charges filed in six years. Previously, public hearings led to convictions of prominent lawmakers, including Rodney Moore, who failed to report $141,000 in contributions, and Fletcher Hartsell, who misused over $100,000 in campaign funds. Critics argue the lack of transparency weakens accountability, while supporters contend it reflects compliance with the law. Recent allegations involving Mako Medical CEO Chad Price and suspect donations remain unresolved after a prosecutor declined to pursue charges. (News & Observer)

North Carolina Nonprofits Fund Lavish Lawmaker Trips Amid Transparency Concerns

Wilmington-based nonprofit Opportunity for NC spent $109,000 hosting North Carolina lawmakers and officials in Paris during the Summer Olympics, including Senate leader Phil Berger and other influential figures, raising questions about transparency as it does not disclose its donors. Similarly, Greater Carolina, a nonprofit linked to gambling lobbyists, organized a Kentucky trip in April attended by legislators and lobbyists, with receipts showing participation in events at distilleries. Critics highlight the lack of accountability for 501(c)(4) nonprofits in funding these activities, while proponents claim compliance with legal standards. (News & Observer)

North Carolina DACA Recipients Retain ACA Access Amid Federal Injunction

A federal court injunction has blocked Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) participants in 19 Republican-led states from accessing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, but North Carolina is unaffected as Attorney General Josh Stein did not join the lawsuit. Stein has been a vocal supporter of DACA, opposing efforts to curtail the program and supporting expanded access to healthcare for recipients. However, with a potential second Trump administration, both ACA and DACA face renewed threats, as Trump has vowed to undo Obama-era programs while exploring a possible compromise to address DACA recipients' status. ACA open enrollment in North Carolina ends on Jan. 15. (NC Newsline)

Defense Spending Bill Passes House with Key Benefits for North Carolina Bases

The House of Representatives passed its defense spending bill, bringing significant benefits to North Carolina’s military bases. For Fort Liberty, the bill includes $47 million for construction projects, expanded childcare for military spouses, improved family housing, and pay raises of 14.5% for junior enlisted and 4.5% for other servicemembers. Seymour Johnson Air Force Base will receive $41 million for a new training complex, retain 520 jobs, maintain F-15E Strike Eagles, and gain $5 million for cybersecurity and perimeter security enhancements. (CBS 17)

Alamance County's Secretive Land Swap Discussions with Developer Revealed

Emails obtained by The Alamance News show that Alamance County administrators began discussing a potential land swap with Koury Corporation as early as September 2023, two months before formally authorizing the developer to rezone county-owned land in Mebane for an EMS station. The emails contradict officials' claims of ignorance regarding Koury's plans to integrate the parcel into an 83-acre mixed-use development, approved by Mebane's city council last week. Despite Koury's claims of having the county land "under contract," no documentation or agreements on this have been disclosed, raising transparency concerns. (Alamance News)

Elm City Cancels Utility Management Contract Over Budget Constraints

Elm City’s town finance officer, Tiondra Fields, determined the town cannot afford the $40,000 monthly contract with Clear Water Solutions, despite commissioners approving the deal in November. The contract would have included staffing for public works and water management, system repairs, and grant writing. Commissioner Gil Wheeler expressed frustration over being informed of the budget shortfall during a public meeting, while Mayor Tawanda Moore emphasized the town’s commitment to avoiding overspending. The contract had been contingent on approval by the Local Government Commission. (Wilson Times)

Western NC Struggles with Hurricane Helene Recovery and Rebuilding

Hurricane Helene caused severe damage to over 650,000 properties in Western North Carolina, yet only 1% of repairs have been completed in Buncombe County despite issuing 1,100 emergency repair permits. The recovery is hindered by extensive debris removal needs, with only 4% of the county’s 10 million cubic yards cleared, delaying damage assessments and rebuilding decisions. MANNA FoodBank, the region’s sole food bank, was devastated by flooding but has relocated to a new warehouse in Mills River while navigating repairs and upgrades to continue serving the community. The slow pace of insurance payouts and regulatory complexities further complicate the region's recovery efforts. (ABC 13)

Henderson County Launches Debris Removal Program for Hurricane Helene Recovery

Over two months after Hurricane Helene, Henderson County residents like Brenda Cameron are overwhelmed by debris, with thousands of pounds of wood and unsafe structures left behind. Starting Dec. 12, the county’s Private Property Debris Removal Program offers free assistance for clearing debris and demolishing unsafe structures around homes. Residents must register in person at the Disaster Recovery Center on designated days. The program aims to ease the burden for those unable to manage the cleanup themselves. (ABC 13)

Guilford County Expands Free School Meals Program to 92% of Schools

Guilford County Schools has expanded participation in the USDA’s Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), providing free breakfast and lunch to students. With 20 additional schools added this year, 110 of the district’s 120 schools (92%) now offer free meals, up from 65 schools in 2022. Officials emphasize the importance of nutrition in supporting student learning and aim to provide healthy meals to foster academic success. (News & Record)

Wake County Tackles Racial Disparities and Rising Behavior Incidents in Schools

Wake County schools reported a slight drop in suspensions for the 2022-23 school year, with in-school suspensions decreasing by 0.1% and out-of-school suspensions down by 3%. However, behavior incidents increased by 5.5% to over 91,500. Black and Hispanic students, along with students with disabilities, continue to face disproportionate suspension rates, with Black students comprising 21% of enrollment but 57% of suspensions. The district is addressing disparities through training in de-escalation and emotional regulation and using restorative practices in some schools, such as Walnut Creek Elementary, which reduced suspensions from 153 to 107. School leaders highlight the need for professional development and time to further address student behavior. (WRAL)

Carolina Beach Rejects Private School Proposal Over Local Concerns

The Carolina Beach town council voted 2-3 against a proposal by Seaside Chapel to establish a K-5 private school, citing concerns over traffic, stormwater, and rezoning rather than socioeconomic issues. While proponents like Dana Vess argued the school would cater to diverse student needs and not significantly impact public school resources, critics like New Hanover County School Board member Tim Merrick opposed the idea, emphasizing its potential to divert funds from public education. Governor Roy Cooper has similarly expressed concerns about private school vouchers reducing public school funding. (WWAY)

Guilford College Faces Second Year of Accreditation Probation

Guilford College will remain on probation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) for a second year due to noncompliance with financial stability standards. Despite retaining its accreditation, the college has yet to fully demonstrate a stable financial base as required under Standard 13.3 of the Principles of Accreditation. The SACSCOC extended probation for "good cause," citing significant recent progress and confidence that deficiencies can be resolved within 12 months. About 80% of schools on probation utilize the full 24 months to achieve compliance. (FOX 8)

Western Carolina University Launches Nature U Series for Winter and Spring 2025

Western Carolina University’s Division of Educational Outreach has introduced the Nature U Series, a collection of workshops designed for nature enthusiasts of all levels. Courses include Basics of Botany ($179, Jan. 14–Feb. 4), covering plant biology and identification; Organic Gardening ($160, Feb. 11–March 11), focusing on soil health, composting, and pest management; and Mindful Birding ($59, March 13–May 1), blending mindfulness with birdwatching. Additional workshops in April 2025, including Nature Journaling and Forest Bathing, will further expand opportunities to connect with nature. Registration is available. (Sylva Herald)

Inflation Rises Slightly in November Amid Fed Rate Cut Expectations

Consumer prices rose by 0.3% in November and 2.7% over the past year, driven largely by increases in shelter and food costs, according to the Labor Department. Despite this slight uptick, the Federal Reserve is expected to proceed with a 0.25 percentage point rate cut during its December 17-18 meeting. Annual inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target, though it has fallen sharply from its June 2022 peak of 9.1%. Food prices rose 0.5% in November, with groceries up 1.6% and prepared foods up 3.6% year-over-year, continuing to strain household budgets. (CBS 17)

CFPB Caps Overdraft Fees at $5, Saving U.S. Consumers $5 Billion Annually

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has finalized a rule capping overdraft fees at $5 or at costs covering banks' actual expenses, significantly reducing the burden on consumers. This rule is estimated to save households $225 annually, totaling $5 billion in savings nationwide. Banks that wish to charge higher fees must treat overdrafts like short-term loans, adhering to stricter consumer lending regulations. While some financial institutions have already reduced or eliminated overdraft fees, Americans still paid $5.8 billion in related charges in 2023. The new rule, effective Oct. 1, 2025, faces potential reversal under a GOP-led Congress or incoming administration. (Charlotte Observer)

Brunswick County Receives $20M Grant to Combat Lead Contamination and Restore Wetlands

Unincorporated communities in Brunswick County will benefit from a $20 million Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Community Change Grant, the largest environmental justice grant in U.S. history, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. The grant will replace lead-contaminated water infrastructure for 500 households in Supply, Ash, and Longwood, addressing severe health risks from lead exposure. Democracy Green and The Working Lands Trust will also allocate 10% of the funds to restore 28 acres of wetlands, reducing PFAS and fecal coliform contamination in the Lockwood Folly River Watershed. This initiative follows years of advocacy and community-led water testing efforts. (Port City Daily)

Charlotte Douglas International Airport to Renovate Concourse D Starting January

Renovations on Concourse D at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, which handles international flights, will begin in January 2024. The $42.8 million project includes upgrades to 99,000 square feet with modernized restrooms, seating with charging capabilities, and refreshed interiors. The work is expected to be completed by mid-to-late 2026, complementing ongoing renovations at Concourse E, set to finish in 2025. CLT anticipates a record-breaking year for passenger traffic in 2024. (Axios Charlotte)

Bill Belichick Named Head Coach at UNC, Pledges Long-Term Commitment

Legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick has been introduced as the new head football coach for the University of North Carolina. Despite no prior collegiate coaching experience, the eight-time Super Bowl champion brings NFL expertise and a five-year, $10 million annually guaranteed contract to the Tar Heels, who face significant roster rebuilding and recruiting challenges. Belichick, whose ties to Chapel Hill date back to his father's time as a UNC assistant coach, dismissed speculation about a return to the NFL, emphasizing his commitment to building the program and fostering Carolina’s national recruiting ambitions. (Chapelboro)

Mooresville's Downtown Transforms into a Snowy Christmas Wonderland

Downtown Mooresville will feature guaranteed "snow" on Friday night during its "Classic Christmas in Mooresville" event. Snow machines atop historic buildings will blow artificial snow over Main Street starting at 5:30 p.m., creating a Hallmark movie-like holiday atmosphere. The event, running until 9 p.m., includes attractions such as iceless skating, life-sized snow globes, live performances, trackless train rides, horse and wagon rides, an inflatable toboggan slide, and a visit from Santa. (WFAE)

Second Harvest and MANNA Food Banks to Distribute Free Holiday Meals for 1,500 Families

On Wednesday, Dec. 18, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, Food Lion, and MANNA Food Bank will distribute free holiday meal supplies to 1,500 families at the N.C. Agricultural Center in Fletcher from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Families will receive holiday hams, themed food boxes, produce, and pies. The distribution follows increased food insecurity caused by Tropical Storm Helene, which destroyed MANNA's Asheville facility in September. MANNA, now operating out of Mills River, serves 158,000 people monthly through its network of 225 partner agencies and anticipates serving up to 250,000 people in 2024. (Citizen Times)

Carolina Theater, Preserving Greensboro's Cultural Gem Since 1927

Opened in 1927, the Carolina Theater in downtown Greensboro has weathered nearly a century of challenges, from the Great Depression to a 1981 fire. As a nonprofit, it relies on programming, rentals, and community support to sustain operations. Under new executive director Allie Arpajian, the theater aims to expand educational initiatives like youth drama camps and deepen its role as a cultural hub. While competing with larger venues like the Tanger Center, the Carolina Theater remains a historic centerpiece for arts and culture in Greensboro, offering concerts, films, and performances in a space renowned for its ornate décor and storied history. (North State Journal)

Benchwarmers Bagels Expands to North Hills with Third Location

Raleigh-based Benchwarmers Bagels is set to open a third location in North Hills' Innovation District, continuing its expansion beyond downtown. Known for its bagels, pizza, and coffee, the 2,800-square-foot location will feature outdoor seating, expanded hours, and a beverage menu including beer, wine, and cocktails. This follows the October announcement of a second location in the Rockway development near Dix Park, slated to open in 2025. The North Hills site is expected to launch shortly after the Rockway location. (Axios Raleigh)

Fearrington Village Opens Galloway's Wine & Beer Bar for Accessible, Casual Fine Wine Experience

Fearrington Village, known for its luxury dining and accommodations, has opened Galloway’s Wine & Beer Bar to offer a more accessible and casual wine experience. With over 1,500 wine varieties curated by three on-site sommeliers, the new bar features small plates under $20 and blind-tasting wine flights. Open Wednesday through Saturday evenings, Galloway’s aims to attract a younger, broader clientele with live music, free Saturday wine tastings, and an emphasis on affordability while maintaining Fearrington’s renowned quality. (Indy Week)