Gov. Stein Urges Swift Helene Aid, Teacher Raises, and Bipartisan Action in State of the State

In his first State of the State address, Gov. Josh Stein called on lawmakers to swiftly pass over $500 million in Hurricane Helene aid, raise teacher salaries to the highest in the Southeast, and fund law enforcement pay increases and a fentanyl control unit. Stein also proposed free community college for high-demand sectors, three working-family tax cuts, and a $4 billion school repair bond, while cautioning against further tax cuts and school vouchers due to potential budget shortfalls. His message received bipartisan support, particularly on disaster relief and education priorities. (NC Newsline)

New Poll Shows Rising Optimism Among NC Voters, Strong Support for Government Reform and Term Limits

A new Carolina Journal poll reveals improved optimism among North Carolina voters, with 48% now believing the U.S. is on the right track, up from 23% in August, and 38% saying the state is on the right track, up from 33%. President Trump holds a slight net positive favorability (49.5% approve, 48.7% disapprove), while Governor Josh Stein enjoys 55.6% approval. Key issues show strong voter sentiments: 51.9% support creating a state-level Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and 87.6% favor term limits for legislative leaders. Additionally, 49.4% support ending DEI initiatives, and 67.7% oppose smartphones in classrooms. However, 55.6% oppose constitutional carry for firearms. The state's response to Hurricane Helene is viewed negatively, with only 30.2% approval, and private organizations seen as more effective responders. The poll surveyed 615 likely voters with a 3.94% margin of error. (Carolina Journal)

Protesters Rally in Raleigh Against Trump-Musk Government Efficiency Plan

Hundreds gathered at Raleigh’s Bicentennial Plaza to protest the Trump administration's Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, which opponents fear could cut essential programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and the Department of Education. Hosted by North Carolina Democrats, the rally featured speeches from elected officials, including Rep. Terry Brown, Sen. Graig Meyer, and Sen. Natalie Murdock, who highlighted concerns such as the indefinite furlough of 370 FHI 360 workers in NC. Protesters carried signs and ended the event by marching to the Legislative Building, while Republicans dismissed the protest as a "silly" stunt. (News & Observer)

Helene Aid Set to Begin Flowing by Late March as Farmers Struggle with Delays

Federal officials plan to start distributing tens of billions in Hurricane Helene disaster aid before the March 21 deadline, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced, though farmers say delays have already hurt planting plans. The $100 billion relief package includes $21 billion for farmers, $8 billion for roads, $12 billion in community grants, and $2.2 billion in low-interest loans. Helene caused $78 billion in damages and 219 deaths, with $5.5 billion in agricultural losses in Georgia and $4.9 billion in North Carolina. State lawmakers in North Carolina and Georgia are supplementing federal funds, with NC negotiating a $500 million relief bill and GA approving $285 million in loans and cleanup funds. (WRAL)

NC Officials Warn of Growing Toll Road Text Message Scam

A toll road text message scam that began in North Carolina last summer is spreading, with scammers falsely claiming people owe money to the N.C. Turnpike Authority or a generic toll agency. Attorney General Jeff Jackson and the FBI warn that these bogus texts direct recipients to fraudulent websites threatening extra fees or legal action. The N.C. Quick Pass program never requests payments via text, and the scam, known as "smishing", aims to steal personal or financial information. (News & Observer)

Governor Stein Renews Call for Fentanyl Control Unit to Combat NC Drug Crisis

During his State of the State address, Gov. Josh Stein renewed his call to create a Fentanyl Control Unit, a task force of law enforcement and prosecutors aimed at targeting fentanyl distributors. Stein highlighted the personal toll of the crisis by inviting Debbie Dalton, whose son died from fentanyl in 2016, as a guest of honor. Advocates like Barb Walsh, founder of the Fentanyl Victims Network of NC, praised the proposal, emphasizing the urgent need for bipartisan action. The unit’s funding will likely be discussed in upcoming state budget negotiations. (ABC 11)

Gabe Torres Act to Expand Survivor Benefits for Fallen NC First Responders Advances in Legislature

The Gabe Torres Act, named after Raleigh police officer Gabe Torres, who was killed in the 2022 Hedingham mass shooting while on his way to work, is moving through the North Carolina legislature. Approved by the House Pensions Committee, the bill would ensure survivor benefits for first responders injured or killed while traveling to or from work, closing a key loophole that delayed benefits for Torres' family. First responder organizations, like the NC State Firefighters Association, support the bill, which now heads to the appropriations and rules committees before a full House vote. (ABC 11)

Veterans Hit Hard by Federal Worker Firings Amid Controversial Trump Administration Cuts

Military veterans, who make up nearly one-third of the federal workforce, are being disproportionately affected by mass firings of federal employees under a Trump administration cost-cutting initiative, with an estimated 6,000 veterans fired so far, according to Sen. Tammy Duckworth. A federal judge has ordered thousands of workers reinstated but left open the possibility of renewed layoffs if proper procedures are followed. Many veterans, including those with positive performance reviews, are among probationary employees receiving termination notices. Duckworth and other Democrats have introduced legislation to reinstate fired veterans, calling the actions a betrayal of veterans’ service and sacrifice. (WUNC)

Federal Cuts to Food Programs Threaten NC Farmers, Food Banks, and Schools

Second Harvest Food Bank in northwestern North Carolina, which distributes food to over 300 pantries across 18 counties, faces challenges as the USDA cuts over $1 billion in federal funds, including support for the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program. The cuts will end funding for local farms supplying produce and meat, impacting both farmers and families in need. Additionally, $660 million in cuts to the Local Food for Schools Program threaten school meal services, with Guilford County Schools awaiting guidance on how their nutrition programs will be affected. (CBS 17)

Trump Threatens 200% Tariff on European Wines, Local NC Businesses Warn of Rising Costs

President Donald Trump is threatening a 200% tariff on European wine, champagne, and spirits in response to the EU's planned tariff on American whiskey, set to begin April 1. North Carolina restaurant owners, like Kevin Jennings of Urban Food Group, warn that such tariffs will lead to higher menu prices and fewer options for consumers. Doreen Colondres of Vitis House, whose wine classes rely on over 80% European wines, says the tariff would be impossible to afford, jeopardizing her business and ability to offer certification courses. Both business owners emphasize that domestic alternatives can't fully replace European wines, and higher costs will inevitably be passed on to consumers. (CBS 17)

Rep. Chuck Edwards Faces Tense Town Hall Crowd in Asheville Over Trump Ties

U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11) faced a hostile crowd of about 300 constituents during a tense town hall in Asheville, where attendees criticized his support for the Trump administration and Elon Musk. Despite Republican leaders advising against such events, Edwards defended holding the town hall, saying he’s proud of GOP accomplishments and wants to engage with voters. Protesters gathered outside, and inside, Edwards fielded sharp questions, including concerns about presidential overreach in federal funding. Edwards said he has no regrets and plans to continue hosting town halls, acknowledging this one was "more uncomfortable" than others. (CBS 17)

Asheville Revises Disaster Recovery Plan After HUD Criticism Over DEI Language

The city of Asheville has revised its $225 million HUD-funded disaster recovery plan after U.S. HUD Secretary Scott Turner criticized its inclusion of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) language that prioritized Minority and Women Owned Businesses. The original plan, addressing $59 billion in damages from Hurricane Helene, was deemed "unsatisfactory" by HUD. In response, Asheville removed DEI-specific criteria, now stating that small business support will be available to all businesses, including those employing low- and moderate-income individuals. The city will submit its final plan by April 21 and has scheduled three public input sessions. (News & Observer)

Forsyth County Neighbors Frustrated Over Homeless Encampment as Cleanup Efforts Continue

Residents near Pfafft Lane in Forsyth County are raising concerns about threats and disruptive behavior from individuals living on a compound housing people facing homelessness. Neighbors report verbal harassment, public urination, and intimidation, prompting misdemeanor charges against the property owner and tenant. County officials say over 50 tons of waste have been removed from the site, but neighbors remain frustrated with the pace of cleanup. The property owner is expected to finish clearing the area before his April 2 court date. (FOX 8)

Audit Finds New Hanover Elections Board Violated Ballot Deadline, Recommends $200K in Reforms

A $30,000 audit of the New Hanover County Board of Elections found the board violated state law by delaying the counting of nearly 2,000 absentee ballots, citing miscommunication, not staffing issues. The report recommends six major reforms, including hiring three full-time and three part-time staff, and new election management software, totaling up to $200,000. Although no legal penalties apply, the audit stresses the need for improved oversight, communication, and ballot processing to restore public trust. (Port City Daily)

Pender County Moves to Take Over Private EMS Amid Financial, Contract Disputes

Pender County commissioners voted to move forward with a plan to take over Pender EMS and Fire Inc., a private nonprofit that received $20.27 million in county funds for FY2024, citing concerns over financial transparency and stalled contract negotiations. The board directed the county manager to develop a plan to assume control of the nonprofit and its assets by December, while appointing three commissioners as interim board members. The decision follows disputes over contract terms with Union Rescue Squad and frustration with Pender EMS' reluctance to share full financial details. The nonprofit has $1.9 million in net income for FY2023 and saw management salaries rise 21% to $960,786. (Port City Daily)

Gov. Josh Stein Announces Bipartisan Task Force on Child Care and Early Education

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein announced a new bipartisan Task Force on Child Care and Early Education to address the need for more accessible, affordable, and high-quality child care. Chaired by Lt. Gov. Rachel Hunt and Sen. Jim Burgin, the 25-member group will deliver a preliminary report by June 30 and a final report by Dec. 31. Stein also plans to propose a "substantial investment" in early childhood programs, including raising child care subsidy rates, improving program quality, and creating 1,000 new pre-K slots. (News & Observer)

Fayetteville Native and NASA Scientist Inspires Cumberland County Students

NASA scientist Gary Smith, a Fayetteville native, visited Howard Learning Academy on Thursday to speak with middle school students about his career in aerospace technology. Smith showcased robots he designed specifically for the event and encouraged students to dream big about their futures. His next stop will be Lewis Chapel Middle School on Saturday, continuing his mission to inspire local youth. (ABC 11)

Duke University Braces for Massive NIH Funding Cuts Under Trump Administration

Duke University faces the potential loss of hundreds of millions in federal research funding due to Trump administration cuts to National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants, including a reduction in indirect cost rates from 61% to 15%, which would cost universities over $4 billion annually. Duke received $580 million in NIH grants last year, primarily supporting the School of Medicine, which now faces hiring freezes, canceled expansions, and fewer Ph.D. admissions (down from 130 to about 100 students). With NIH grant awards already plummeting from 166 to 64, faculty and students fear layoffs and halted research, threatening future medical breakthroughs and shrinking the pipeline of new scientists. (WRAL)

UNC-Chapel Hill Pauses Music Education Program Amid Teacher Shortage and Declining Enrollment

UNC-Chapel Hill’s music education program, which trains K-12 music teachers, has been paused indefinitely starting Fall 2024 due to declining enrollment, mirroring a 10% statewide drop in teacher education candidates since 2022. Current students like Corey Sheppard will finish their studies, but no new students are being admitted, leaving future music educators uncertain. While UNC still offers music and education classes, officials hope to eventually revive the program. Graduates like Madi Marks, now a band director, and educators like Michael Jenkins emphasize the need for strong music education pathways and adapting programs to evolving student interests, including electronic music creation. (Indy Week)

NC Main Street Conference Highlights Downtown Revitalization Success in Mooresville

The NC Main Street Conference brought over 800 city leaders, business owners, and professionals to Mooresville to discuss downtown revitalization under the theme "Creating Livable, Lovable Communities." Mooresville, a Main Street Community since 1988, showcased its success with $117 million in investments, 141 new businesses, and nearly 600 new jobs. Attendees participated in workshops and tours, learning strategies to revitalize their own towns and left with new ideas and inspiration to foster community growth across North Carolina. (WCNC)

GoTriangle's New Strategic Plan Acknowledges Deep Challenges, Seeks to Rebuild Trust and Focus on Bus Projects

GoTriangle’s 2025-2028 strategic plan highlights major internal and external challenges, including declining ridership, leadership turnover, and loss of public trust following failed rail projects. The draft plan admits to issues like rising costs, a lack of responsiveness, and poor project delivery history, as identified by regional partners. To address these, GoTriangle aims to improve service, revamp marketing, train its board on ethics and finance, and complete key projects like the RUS Bus facility in Raleigh. The agency, now pivoting away from rail and considering bus-focused solutions, plans to publish the final strategy in July as it searches for a permanent CEO to guide its reset. (Indy Week)

Downtown Garner Sees Growth with New Development, Boosting Local Businesses

Barbara Jemison, owner of Nana’s Lil Sweets bakery in downtown Garner, hopes new developments like the Metro 201 Project, which will add 10,000 square feet of commercial space and 24 residential units, will bring more consistent foot traffic to her shop. With Garner's population now over 41,000 — a 30% increase since 2020, town leaders are focusing on revitalizing downtown through projects and initiatives like the Social District and public events. Economic Development Director Nate Groover and Chamber CEO Matthew Coppedge emphasize smart growth, destination retail, and public art as keys to attracting residents and visitors to the area. (News & Observer)

Wilmington Business Owners Push to Make Social District Permanent After Successful Pilot

Business owners in Downtown Wilmington’s Brooklyn Arts District are urging city leaders to adopt a permanent social district after a highly successful pilot program last month. Over 9,000 people attended the Saturday events, where patrons could enjoy to-go alcoholic beverages in designated areas. Brooklyn Cafe owner Tara English reported that businesses saw three to four times their normal sales, and there were no incidents requiring police, fire, or EMS, nor any littering. English plans to formally propose making the district permanent to the city council in May. (WWAY)

Hindu Center of Charlotte to Host Annual Holi Festival of Colors

The Hindu Center of Charlotte will celebrate its annual Holi festival on Sunday at 11 a.m. in east Charlotte, featuring food, shopping, music, and color throwing. Holi, which marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes the victory of good over evil, is best known for the tradition of throwing colorful powders. Attendees are encouraged to wear white clothing to enjoy the vibrant festivities. Admission is free, but food, apparel, and colors will be available for purchase. (WFAE)

Stephen Curry Named Assistant GM for Davidson College Basketball While Continuing NBA Career

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry will serve as assistant general manager for Davidson College’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, becoming the first active major pro athlete in the U.S. to take a college administrative role. Curry, along with his wife Ayesha and the Berman family, is launching an eight-figure fund to support Davidson basketball, drawing additional backing from Under Armour. While continuing his NBA career, Curry aims to help Davidson athletes thrive in the modern era of name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities. Davidson's current men's basketball record is 16-15, and Curry hopes to enhance resources so future scholar-athletes can succeed both on and off the court. (WRAL)