Congress Approves $100 Billion Disaster Aid Package Amid Ongoing Recovery Needs

Congress has approved over $100 billion in emergency disaster aid as part of a government spending bill signed by President Biden, providing $29 billion to FEMA’s disaster relief fund, $21 billion in agricultural assistance, $8 billion for rebuilding roads, and $12 billion for HUD grants aiding uninsured homeowners. North Carolina, hit hard by hurricanes Helene and Milton, will benefit from funding, though local officials caution recovery remains a long-term challenge. Additional allocations include $2.2 billion for low-interest recovery loans, funds for wildfire recovery, and infrastructure repairs nationwide. Recovery efforts continue for past disasters like Hawaii's 2023 Maui fire, underscoring the prolonged nature of disaster recovery funding. (WRAL)

NC Community Foundation Receives $15.5M for Helene Recovery Efforts

The North Carolina Community Foundation will manage $15.5 million from the state’s disaster relief fund to support long-term recovery after Tropical Storm Helene caused nearly $60 billion in damages across Western North Carolina. Established by Governor Roy Cooper, the fund has raised $17 million from donors nationwide and internationally, with $1 million already distributed to nonprofits addressing immediate needs, like food and emergency supplies. Major contributions include $1 million each from the Lennar Homes Foundation and BlueCross BlueShield of North Carolina Foundation. The foundation has raised an additional $12 million for ongoing recovery efforts and is accepting donations for future support. (Citizen Times)

Early Childhood Centers in WNC Struggle to Reopen Post-Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene disrupted childcare across Western North Carolina, leaving over 820 licensed early childhood providers scrambling to reopen amid water outages and damage. Verner Center for Early Learning, serving over 200 children, faced delays after a state rejection of its water filtration solution, requiring costly emergency operations instead. By November 4, 92% of centers had reopened, but nine remained closed due to severe damage. Advocates highlight systemic challenges, including inadequate funding, staff low wages, and lack of clear state guidelines, exacerbated by disasters like Helene. Despite $10 million in state relief and $34 million in stabilization grants, the sector remains fragile. (NC Newsline)

Insuring Homes in a Warming World: Lessons from Helene and Beyond

Hurricane Helene highlighted gaps in U.S. homeowners’ insurance, especially for hazards like landslides and flooding. David Marlett, an expert at Appalachian State, criticized the piecemeal approach to insurance, advocating for a universal policy similar to Spain's system, where a government-regulated entity covers extraordinary risks like floods and earthquakes. After Helene, North Carolina faced challenges distributing disaster aid—FEMA approved $200 million for over 121,000 households, yet only 15% of affected western N.C. homes applied for assistance. Spain’s Insurance Compensation Consortium offers a potential model, though it also struggles with claim processing delays, underscoring the need for streamlined disaster relief systems. (WUNC)

Legal Setbacks for GOP in Tight NC Supreme Court and Legislative Races

Republican Jefferson Griffin, trailing Democratic Justice Allison Riggs by 734 votes in the North Carolina Supreme Court race, faced a legal defeat as a federal judge rejected his bid to block certification of Riggs’ victory. The State Board of Elections also dismissed election protests by Griffin and three GOP legislative candidates, citing insufficient challenged ballots to overturn results. Griffin had sought to disqualify over 60,000 votes, arguing voter registration issues, but the board ruled these claims wouldn't alter outcomes. Riggs is set for an eight-year term, while close legislative races may impact GOP control of the General Assembly. Appeals remain possible. (WRAL)

North Carolina Leadership Clash Over Elections Board Control Intensifies

Outgoing Governor Roy Cooper and Governor-elect Josh Stein are challenging North Carolina's Republican-led legislature over Senate Bill 382, which shifts control of State Board of Elections appointments to the incoming Republican State Auditor, Dave Boliek. This follows a March court ruling favoring Cooper that legislative leaders are now trying to moot by repealing the challenged law through SB 382. Cooper and Stein argue that the move undermines a nearly century-old system of gubernatorial oversight, calling it a partisan power grab that violates democratic principles and the state constitution. The lawsuit marks the sixth attempt in eight years by Republican lawmakers to alter elections board control. (Carolina Journal)

North Carolina Elections Overhaul Shifts Control to Republicans

North Carolina's Republican supermajority overrode Gov. Roy Cooper's veto of SB 382, transferring the power to appoint state and local election boards from the governor to the Republican-led state auditor. This change flips election boards to a 3-2 Republican majority starting in May 2025. The bill also reduces the period for voters to fix provisional ballots from nine days to three and mandates provisional vote counting be completed within three days after elections, raising concerns about the accuracy and administrative feasibility. Democrats have challenged the law in court, citing constitutional concerns and potential impacts on election fairness. (News & Observer)

Durham Resumes Tent Distribution for Unsheltered Amid Shelter Shortage

Durham's City Council has reversed a policy barring HEART (Holistic Empathetic Assistance Response Teams) workers from distributing tents, allowing them to provide temporary shelter to unsheltered individuals during the cold, wet winter. With all 106 shelter spaces full and waitlists showing 114 single adults and 64 families without stable housing, the city faces a "crisis moment." While some officials voiced concerns about tent encampments, advocates and council members emphasized the urgent need to offer basic comfort as unsheltered homelessness has more than doubled since 2020. (News & Observer)

Alamance County Auditor Reports Strong Finances Amid Drop in Savings

Alamance County’s financial audit for FY 2024 revealed a $5.5 million increase in reserves, bringing the general fund to $96.9 million, yet highlighted a $5.7 million decline in “unassigned” savings, now below the commissioners’ target of 20% of expenditures. Auditor Elsa Swenson praised revenue growth, including a $5 million rise in property taxes, but noted reductions in sales tax receipts and grants. Spending increases in public education (28% of the budget), public safety, and human services drove higher expenditures. The audit also flagged issues with procurement card misuse, prompting corrective measures. Commissioners discussed raising reserve targets to 25% for future stability. (Alamance News)

AI Tools Empower Students with Disabilities While Raising New Challenges

AI-powered tools are transforming education for students with disabilities, providing resources like text-to-speech, word prediction, and personalized tutoring. Students like Makenzie Gilkison, a dyslexic 14-year-old, credit AI for their academic success, while educators balance its benefits against concerns about over-reliance and ethical dilemmas. Programs such as Question AI assist with tasks like math explanations and writing outlines, helping students like Ben Snyder stay on track. Despite accessibility hurdles, AI promises to level the playing field, though critics warn of risks, including improper usage, reduced rigor, and privacy concerns. Efforts are underway to refine tools and expand their impact responsibly. (WRAL)

Durham Schools Adjust Bus Services Amid Driver Shortage

Facing a severe bus driver shortage, Durham Public Schools will implement "family responsibility zones" starting January 21, ending bus service for 750-800 students living within one mile of 21 elementary schools. Additionally, the board is exploring express bus stops for three magnet schools but faced backlash from parents and concerns over equity. The district’s rotational bus service, providing only four days of coverage per week, will end on January 21 as well. Currently, 214 bus driver candidates are in the hiring pipeline, though stress, low pay, and workplace conditions remain barriers to retention. The board will revisit the issue on January 9. (Indy Week)

Alamance-Burlington School Board Approves Contracts for Study and Maintenance

The Alamance-Burlington school board approved several contracts during its latest meeting, including a $34,000 agreement with NC State’s Operations Research and Education Laboratory (OREd) for a six-month land use study to assess future school needs. The study will analyze factors like birth rates, enrollment, and residential development, with results expected in June 2025. The decision passed 5-1, with board member Seneca Rogers dissenting, citing sufficient data from a 2020 study. The board also unanimously approved an $88,175.50 contract with Triangle Roofing Services to inspect school roofs by June 2025, required to maintain warranties, and a $117,829 contract with Triangle Paving and Grading to repave a hazardous parking lot at Graham High School. Both maintenance contracts are funded by county-allocated capital. The paving project has already been completed, with final markings in progress. One board member, Chuck Marsh, was absent due to illness. (Alamance News)

UNC Offers New Course Amid Israel-Hamas Campus Protests

UNC-Chapel Hill will introduce a course titled "Courageous Conversations: Israel and Palestine on Campus" next semester, organized by the School of Civic Life and Leadership. The course, which responds to a year of intense campus protests over the Israel-Hamas conflict, will explore civil discourse on the issue and includes a proposed trip to Israel and Palestinian territories. With a diverse roster of instructors and guest speakers, the course aims to engage students from all backgrounds, fostering dialogue across deep divides. Faculty are still finalizing the course content and logistics. (News & Observer)

Brunswick Community College Achieves Record-Breaking Enrollment

Brunswick Community College announced a historic milestone with Fall 2024 enrollment reaching 2,069 students, the highest in its history. This marks an 81% growth since 2006, continuing a positive trend with a 9.7% increase over 2023's 1,886 students. President Dr. Gene Smith credited the achievement to the dedication of faculty and staff and the growing trust of students seeking quality education and transformative opportunities. (WWAY)

Home Prices to Rise Modestly in 2025, With Signs of Improving Affordability

Home prices are projected to increase modestly in 2025, with forecasts ranging from a 2% rise by the National Association of Realtors to 4% by Redfin. This is a significant slowdown compared to the double-digit growth during the pandemic, such as the record 18% increase in 2021. Improving inventory levels, declining mortgage rates, and a projected 4% rise in wages are expected to enhance housing affordability. While housing supply remains 30% below pre-pandemic levels, some markets, like Austin and Boise, have seen prices drop due to increased inventory. Experts remain optimistic about better homebuying conditions in 2025. (Charlotte Observer)

Burlington Moves Closer to Defining Affordable Housing with New Study

Burlington's housing study, commissioned in August 2024 for $37,500, is yielding preliminary insights into the city’s housing needs and affordability gaps. Led by Dancy Research and WolfRiver Advisors, the study reveals a growing population, with an 11.4% increase in five years, and a housing stock of 23,883 units, 45% of which are rentals. Vacancy rates are low, particularly for owner-occupied homes (.9%), while most housing stock is in the midrange price points of $100,000 to $300,000. The study aims to identify affordable housing needs by analyzing income data, housing stock, and economic dynamics. A final report due in February 2025 will include a housing needs model, transit impact analysis, and recommendations to guide affordable housing development. City Manager Craig Honeycutt emphasized the goal of creating a clear, workable definition of "affordable" for Burlington’s future housing strategies. (Alamance News)

Davidson County Revitalizes Economy After Decline of Traditional Industries

Davidson County, once reliant on tobacco, furniture, and textile industries, has experienced a remarkable economic transformation following the decline of these sectors in the late 20th century. New businesses, including Siemens Mobility, Nucor, and Eggers, are bringing higher-wage jobs, while local developers like Mike Tesh are adding amenities, such as event spaces and a distillery, to make the area more attractive to workers. County leaders are focused on creating housing to support the influx of new residents and ensuring the area retains its small-town charm. This growth is reshaping the county's future, leaving a legacy of resilience. (FOX 8)

Wave of Retail and Restaurant Closures Marks 2024

In 2024, the retail and restaurant sectors faced a tough year, with closures rising 69% compared to 2023, according to Coresight data. Major chains like Advance Auto Parts (closing 700+ locations), Big Lots, Party City, and Rue21 have announced nationwide closures, with some filing for bankruptcy protection. Restaurant chains such as Red Lobster, Denny’s, and Wendy’s are shutting down underperforming locations, while CVS and Walgreens are downsizing amid changing consumer habits and financial pressures. Despite closures, some businesses like True Value and Buybuy Baby are transitioning to new models, such as online-only operations or partnerships, reflecting a rapidly evolving market landscape. (Queen City News)

Ingles Expands Land Holdings in Sylva Amid Store Speculation

Ingles Markets has acquired multiple properties in Sylva, NC, sparking rumors of a new store. Recent purchases include a 6.53-acre plot for $550,000 and a 2.1-acre property for $500,000 near Evans Road, both above tax values. These acquisitions follow the 2023 purchase of Sylva Plaza for $2.75 million, though Ingles denies plans for a larger store there. (Sylva Herald)

Future of Former Canton Paper Mill Site and Wastewater Plant Remains Uncertain

The former Pactiv Evergreen paper mill in Canton, NC, has been closed for over a year, leaving the site's future—and the town's wastewater treatment—unresolved. Pactiv Evergreen operates Canton’s wastewater treatment plant, but the agreement expires in March 2025. Legal disputes over the mill's sale to Spirtas Worldwide, compounded by delays from Hurricane Helene, have further complicated plans. Meanwhile, Pactiv faces a state lawsuit over $12 million in subsidies for unfulfilled job promises, with a trial set for May. Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers insists wastewater services must continue and supports the state’s efforts to reclaim funds. (WFAE)

NC Reaches Medicaid Expansion Milestones, Faces Health Disparities

North Carolina has enrolled over 600,000 people in expanded Medicaid, doubling initial projections, while a plan to forgive $4 billion in medical debt for 2 million residents gains traction. Despite these achievements, challenges persist. Medicaid reimbursement rates for dental care have stagnated since 2008, leaving 94 counties with dental professional shortages and 20% of kindergarteners with untreated tooth decay. Maternal mortality remains high, especially among Black residents, with 65 of 76 pregnancy-related deaths in 2018-2019 deemed preventable. While research highlights the benefits of doula services, funding for Medicaid doula reimbursements has yet to be approved. Latino residents also face disproportionately high uninsured rates and unequal access to care, even with insurance. (NC Newsline)

Harris and Swain Labs Earn Joint Commission Reaccreditation

Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals have been reaccredited by The Joint Commission for their inpatient and outpatient labs, following a successful performance survey. The two-year certification reflects the hospitals' commitment to safety, accurate diagnostics, and high-quality patient care, with labs operating 24/7 and additional outpatient services available in Sylva and Franklin. CEO Ashley Hindman highlighted the achievement as a testament to the team’s dedication to excellence in healthcare. (Sylva Herald)

EEOC Sues UNC Rex Healthcare Over Alleged Religious Discrimination

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed a lawsuit against UNC Rex Healthcare, alleging the hospital violated federal law by denying a remote employee's request for a religious exemption to its COVID-19 vaccine mandate and subsequently firing her. The EEOC claims this violates federal statutes requiring employers to reasonably accommodate employees' sincerely held religious beliefs unless it causes undue hardship. The employee had previously been granted a flu vaccine exemption. UNC Rex Healthcare stated it is reviewing the lawsuit but declined to comment on ongoing litigation. (CBS 17)

FDA Proposes New Talc-Asbestos Testing Rule Amid Cancer Concerns

The FDA has proposed stricter rules requiring cosmetic companies to ensure talc-containing products, such as makeup and baby powder, are free of asbestos. Mandated by Congress, the rule aims to address long-standing consumer safety concerns despite recent FDA testing of over 150 talc products finding no asbestos. The move follows lawsuits alleging talc-based products, like Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder, caused ovarian cancer. While J&J maintains its product's safety and has removed talc from its baby powder globally, it faces a proposed $8 billion settlement over claims. The American Cancer Society notes any cancer risk from talc is likely minimal. (ABC 45)

NC Secures $25M Grant for Wildlife Crossings to Protect Endangered Red Wolves

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has received a $25 million federal grant to construct 13 wildlife underpasses along U.S. Highway 64 in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. The project aims to protect the critically endangered red wolf population, which has dwindled to just 16 in the wild, with vehicle collisions responsible for four deaths since September 2023. The underpasses, guided by fencing, will also safeguard other species like bobcats, otters, and deer. Advocacy groups and the Tuscarora Nation backed the initiative, with an additional $4 million campaign underway to support construction efforts. (WUNC)

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Raises Funds for Local Warming Shelter

This Christmas Eve, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Downtown Wilmington hosted two special services aimed at raising $6,000 to support a local warming shelter. Led by Pastor Jonathan Conrad, the initiative aligns with the church’s commitment to community outreach, covering shelter costs estimated at $500-$600 per day. Attendees participated in traditional hymns and a sermon on the difference between wants and needs, emphasizing generosity and love. Deacon Susan Jackson highlighted the congregation’s history of meeting community needs. Donations will be collected through December, with the church planning to present a check by January 5th. (WWAY)

Volunteers Spread Holiday Cheer with 20-Year Raleigh Christmas Tradition

On Christmas morning, dozens of volunteers in Raleigh, including restauranteur Wil O’Neal, gathered to distribute food, clothing, toiletries, and toys to those in need. This annual tradition, started 20 years ago, aims to support the growing number of homeless individuals in Wake County, which has seen an 8% annual increase in homelessness. Organizer Mary Brown emphasized the importance of uplifting others, saying she is committed to continuing the event as long as possible. The effort has become a cherished community event, bringing joy and relief to hundreds each year. (ABC 11)

The Rise and Fall of A Southern Season: A Chapel Hill Icon

For over 40 years, A Southern Season was a beloved Chapel Hill destination, offering gourmet foods, wine, cooking classes, and unique gifts. Founded in 1975 by Michael Barefoot, the store grew from a small coffee shop into a 57,000-square-foot emporium known as "foodie heaven." However, expansion missteps, financial struggles, and shifting management led to its bankruptcy in 2016 and ultimate closure in 2020. While attempts to replicate its culture failed, the store remains a cherished memory for locals and former employees who recall its community spirit and innovative offerings. Today, its legacy lives on through online operations in Graham. (Indy Week)