Jimmy Carter, Humanitarian and 39th President, Dies at 100

Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, passed away at 100 in his Plains, Georgia, home after 22 months in hospice care. Known for his integrity and humility, Carter rose from peanut farming to the presidency during a time of national disillusionment. Despite a challenging term marked by the Iran hostage crisis and economic struggles, his post-presidency redefined global humanitarianism through The Carter Center, advancing democracy, human rights, and public health. President Joe Biden hailed Carter as an "extraordinary leader" and declared Jan. 9 a National Day of Mourning in his honor. (AP)

Ranked Choice Voting: A Path to Fairer Elections

Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) is revolutionizing elections by ensuring winners secure majority support, promoting issue-based campaigning, eliminating "spoiler" candidates, and saving costs by avoiding low-turnout runoffs. In North Carolina, where primary winners can prevail with just 33% of the vote, RCV could deliver fairer outcomes and better representation. Success stories in 2024 include Washington, D.C., Alaska, and multiple cities adopting RCV, while setbacks highlight the importance of focusing reforms solely on RCV to maintain voter confidence. As more communities embrace RCV, it offers a promising future for inclusive and majority-backed elections. (NC Newsline)

Durham County Launches New Guaranteed Basic Income Program for Families

In 2025, Durham County will provide $750 monthly payments to 125 low-income families for a year as part of its second guaranteed basic income experiment. Families must have children under 18 and earn less than 30% of the area median income (e.g., $31,750 for a family of four). Another 125 participants will receive $100 monthly for surveys to provide comparable data. Funded with $1.7 million, the program aims to improve family well-being, building on findings from similar initiatives showing benefits like reduced stress, better employment outcomes, and enriched child development. (News & Observer)

NECHAMA Brings Light and Hope to Western NC After Hurricane Helene

As Hanukkah ends, NECHAMA (nechama means “to comfort” in Hebrew) Jewish Response to Disaster continues its mission of "bringing light and hope" to Western North Carolina communities recovering from Hurricane Helene. Operating since October, volunteers have mucked, gutted homes, and removed debris, with plans to begin rebuilding efforts, including hanging sheetrock and painting. Though rooted in Jewish values like tzedakah (charity) and tikkun olam (repairing the world), NECHAMA welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds, embodying its commitment to aiding communities in need. The organization plans to remain in the region for at least six months. (ABC 45)

Josh Stein Sworn In as North Carolina Governor, Succeeding Roy Cooper

Josh Stein, North Carolina’s first Jewish governor, was sworn in during a ceremony at the historic Capitol, succeeding fellow Democrat Roy Cooper. Stein, 58, who defeated Republican Mark Robinson by nearly 15 points, emphasized bipartisanship and addressing urgent issues such as Hurricane Helene recovery and public school improvements. Stein’s term follows his tenure as attorney general and marks a continuation of Democratic dominance in the governor’s office, with eight wins in the last nine elections. (WUNC)

Gov. Roy Cooper Commutes Death Sentences of 15 Inmates on Final Day in Office

In a historic move, outgoing North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper commuted the death sentences of 15 individuals to life without parole, citing thorough review and input from victims' families and district attorneys. Cooper, who oversaw no executions during his tenure, highlighted issues of racial bias and flaws in the death penalty system. Advocates praised the decision, noting it as a significant step toward justice reform. The commutations leave 121 people on North Carolina's death row as Cooper prepares to hand over leadership to Governor-elect Josh Stein. (WUNC)

Governor Stein Prioritizes Hurricane Helene Recovery with Executive Orders

Newly sworn-in Governor Josh Stein announced five executive orders to aid Western North Carolina's recovery from Hurricane Helene, which displaced over 12,000 people and damaged tens of thousands of housing units. Key measures include waiving procurement regulations to deploy up to 1,000 FEMA-funded temporary housing units and repairing over 8,000 private roads and bridges. Stein also established the Governor's Recovery Office for Western North Carolina (GROW NC) and allocated additional community service hours for state employees to support recovery efforts. (News & Observer)

Recommendations for a More Transparent and Effective North Carolina General Assembly

In a recent report from the John Locke Foundation, new proposes for legislative reforms are made to enhance the transparency, efficiency, and public responsiveness of the North Carolina General Assembly. Recommendations include imposing eight-year leadership term limits to prevent power consolidation, limiting legislative session lengths to about 150 days biennially to reduce costs and improve efficiency, and increasing legislative salaries from $13,951 to $20,533.70 without additional taxpayer burden. It also emphasizes strengthening transparency by repealing the 2023 provision granting legislators discretion over public records and advocating for a constitutional amendment to enshrine transparency standards across state government. (John Locke Foundation)

North Carolina Lowers Income Tax Rate as Part of Ongoing Reductions

North Carolina’s personal income tax rate dropped from 4.5% to 4.25% on January 1, 2025, continuing a phased reduction plan that will lower the rate to 3.99% by 2026. The state also reduced its corporate income tax rate from 2.5% to 2.25%, with plans to eliminate it entirely by 2030. Additional fiscal changes include a slight reduction in motor fuel taxes, an increase in toll rates for major expressways, and a $400 increase in campaign contribution limits for state elections. These changes align with broader tax cuts seen in nine states this year. (Carolina Journal)

New NC Laws Lower Income Tax but May Increase Auto Insurance Costs

Effective Wednesday, North Carolina’s individual income tax rate dropped to 4.25%, potentially saving $125 annually for someone earning $50,000. The tax cut is part of a broader plan to reduce the rate further to 3.99% by 2026. However, a new law also raises auto insurance liability minimums to $50,000 for one person and $100,000 for multiple people per accident, potentially increasing insurance premiums. Economists suggest that these premium hikes could offset savings from the tax cut, impacting household budgets. The changes aim to enhance financial protection for drivers while sparking debate over their broader economic effects. (ABC 11)

NC Republicans Take Control of Election Boards Amid Legal Challenges

Following the override of former Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of SB 382, North Carolina Republicans will gain control of state and county election boards starting May 2025. Appointment authority shifts from the governor to the Republican state auditor, flipping board majorities to 3-2 Republican control. The law also shortens the time for curing provisional ballots from nine to three days and requires counties to finalize counts within three days after elections, raising concerns about administrative feasibility. Cooper and Gov. Josh Stein have filed a lawsuit challenging the changes, citing constitutional violations and risks to election integrity. (News & Observer)

NC Court Ruling Targets Skill/Sweepstake Games as Unlawful

North Carolina’s Court of Appeals ruled against skill-based and sweepstakes games in Robeson County, specifically targeting No Limit Games, a Greensboro-based manufacturer. The decision affirms the state’s prohibition of electronic sweepstakes machines, which have long been challenged as illegal gambling devices. Judges found the games to be predominantly based on chance, despite claims they require skill, with one dissenting opinion suggesting a lawful game of skill could be acceptable. No Limit Games plans to appeal, extending the decades-long legal battle over these controversial machines. (News & Observer)

Jackson County Commissioners Approve Key Measures in December Meeting

The Jackson County Board of Commissioners met on Dec. 17, addressing a range of issues. Key decisions included keeping the Local Child Fatality Prevention Team local, approving the $425,000 purchase of a 4.3-acre property for the Cullowhee greenway project, and signing a contract for emergency signal support on a radio tower. The board also approved a $1.96 million contract for the Qualla-Whittier Park construction and revised rec center fees, eliminating specific pass types for a simplified pricing model. Additionally, resolutions supporting Blue Ridge Parkway improvements and appointing land records review officers were passed, alongside setting regular meeting schedules for 2025. (Sylva Herald)

NC Superintendent Mo Green Begins Tenure with Listening Tour and Advocacy

Mo Green, North Carolina's newly sworn-in Superintendent of Public Instruction, has launched his tenure with an "entry plan" focused on listening sessions under the banner "Mo Wants to Know." The initiative aims to gather insights from educators, parents, and leaders, including those in higher education and families opting out of public schools. Green, a Democrat succeeding Republican Catherine Truitt, emphasized his commitment to advocating for public schools and developing a strategic plan by June. Public feedback is welcomed online through the Department of Public Instruction. (WFAE)

NC Universities Educate Students on Preventing Lone Wolf Attacks

Following the recent New Orleans attack, central North Carolina universities, including Campbell University and North Carolina Central University, are equipping students with tools to understand and prevent lone wolf and terror attacks. Amanda Parker, chair of Campbell's Security and Computing Department, highlighted the challenges of securing public spaces and the evolving nature of threats, including self-radicalization inspired by groups like ISIS. Courses in homeland security and cybersecurity focus on theoretical and practical approaches to understanding radicalization and counterterrorism strategies, preparing students to address emerging global security challenges. (CBS 17)

Minimum Wage Increases Take Effect in 21 States for 2025

As of January 1, minimum wage hikes have taken effect in 21 states, benefiting more than 9.2 million workers. Increases range from modest inflation adjustments, like Alaska’s 18-cent rise to $11.91 per hour, to more substantial boosts, such as Delaware’s jump to $15 from $13.25 and Missouri’s increase to $13.75. While 14 states adjusted wages for inflation, seven states implemented changes through legislation or ballot measures. Currently, 19 states now have minimum wages at or above $15 per hour, even as the federal minimum remains unchanged at $7.25 for over 15 years. (Charlotte Observer)

Wake County Opens Peer-Run Respite House as Alternative to Psychiatric Hospitalization

Wake County has launched its first peer-run respite house, offering a voluntary, home-like setting for individuals experiencing mental distress. Operated by Promise Resource Network, the facility provides up to 10 nights of support from peer specialists with lived mental health recovery experiences. Funded through $835 million in state behavioral health appropriations, this initiative aims to reduce emergency department visits and involuntary commitments. As uncertainty surrounds future federal mental health policies, advocates remain hopeful that peer-led models will continue to gain momentum as impactful, community-focused alternatives. (Indy Week)

I-440 Beltline Widening Project Faces Delays, Expected Completion in 2025

The widening and overhaul of the I-440 Beltline in West Raleigh, initially slated for completion by 2023, has been delayed and is now projected to be substantially finished by late 2025, with final touches extending into 2026. The $415 million project aims to widen the four-mile section to six lanes, modernize interchanges, and include a Blue Ridge Road underpass near the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Delays stem from COVID-19 impacts, utility relocations, and soil challenges, but NCDOT anticipates the highway will be in its final traffic pattern by Christmas 2025. (News & Observer)

Alamance County Expands as a Hub for Distribution Centers Along I-85/40 Corridor

Alamance County has solidified its role as a prime location for distribution centers, with major projects like UPS's 1 million-square-foot facility employing 451 people at an average salary of $65,147 and Walmart’s expansion to over 1.1 million square feet. Development in Mebane, Graham, and the Buckhorn Industrial Park includes several completed and proposed warehouses, such as Al Neyer’s 579,000-square-foot Graham facility and Crow Holdings’ nearly finished 248,310-square-foot warehouse. New projects, like the $40 million Sunlight Batteries USA plant in Mebane, add to the region's robust growth in warehousing and distribution. (Alamance News)

Smart City Technologies Advance Crime Detection but Spark Privacy Concerns

Smart city technologies, such as FLOCK's automated license plate readers, are transforming crime detection and traffic management by leveraging IoT devices, AI, and cloud-based databases. These tools have enabled faster resolution of cases, such as a recent hit-and-run arrest in California. However, concerns about data retention, surveillance overreach, and racial bias persist. Privacy advocates warn that without clear regulations, such systems could infringe on civil liberties. While cities and states develop individual policies, experts emphasize the need for federal data privacy standards to balance technological benefits with ethical and privacy considerations. (NC Newsline)

Homelessness Rises 19% in North Carolina, Reflecting National Trends

Homelessness in North Carolina increased by 19% in 2024, aligning with an 18% nationwide rise, according to federal data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Contributing factors include the end of pandemic aid, housing affordability issues, and improved counting methods by local agencies. Winston-Salem and Forsyth County reported the state's largest increase at 58%, while Chapel Hill saw a 17% rise, and Durham and Raleigh recorded 8% increases. Comprehensive local estimates, like Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s, suggest higher numbers than federal counts, highlighting the growing challenge of homelessness across the state. (WUNC)

U.S. Life Expectancy Recovers but Lags Behind Peer Nations

After pandemic-related drops, U.S. life expectancy is recovering to 2019 levels but remains slower than similar nations, with a modest increase projected to 80.4 years by 2050, according to a study by the University of Washington. State disparities persist, driven by factors like healthcare access, poverty, and public policies. States like New York, which implemented harm reduction programs and expanded Medicaid, have seen significant improvements, while West Virginia continues to face challenges with poverty and rural access. Programs like Michigan's Rx Kids, offering cash payments to new mothers, highlight potential solutions to address place-based health disparities and improve life expectancy outcomes nationwide. (NC Newsline)

NCCU Sophomore Carrie Everett Competes for Miss America Title

Carrie Everett, a sophomore classical music major at North Carolina Central University and the reigning Miss North Carolina, will compete for the Miss America title this Sunday in Orlando. Everett, a former tackle football player with a 300-pound weightlifting record, has used her platform to advocate for making pageants more accessible to contestants with limited resources. The competition, featuring 52 contestants, will stream live from the Walt Disney Theater at 7 p.m. (ABC 11)

Durham Family Reflects on Jimmy Carter’s Role in Hostage Crisis Resolution

Dotty Morefield, whose husband Dick was held hostage in Iran for 444 days during the 1979 embassy crisis, recalled former President Jimmy Carter's deep anguish over his inability to secure the hostages' release during his presidency. Despite their release occurring minutes after Carter left office, the Morefield family credits him for his tireless efforts and personal compassion, highlighted by a telegram sent to Dotty in 1981 and a heartfelt letter after Dick’s passing in 2010. "It was still President Carter who brought my dad home," said their son Steven, reflecting on Carter’s enduring legacy. (ABC 11)

Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity Honors Jimmy Carter with Memorial Ceremony

Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity will hold a memorial ceremony next Thursday to honor former President Jimmy Carter's decades-long humanitarian work. Visitors can sign one of three commemorative doors, which will be displayed at the organization's three ReStores. Though Carter never visited the Cape Fear location, his contributions to Habitat for Humanity's mission inspired the tribute. Volunteer Daniel Campbell, who met Carter several times, praised the former president's warmth, intelligence, and dedication, calling the ceremony a fitting way to honor his legacy. (WWAY)