Rural recovery programs on the chopping block: The FY2026 HHS budget would slash nearly $1 billion in SAMHSA funding, jeopardizing vital mental health and addiction services in rural communities — find out what’s at stake.
Blueberry recall upgraded to Class I: The FDA raised its June 9 recall of 12,000 pounds of frozen organic blueberries from Alma, Georgia to its most severe Class I level on July 1 over listeria concerns, covering 400 boxes sent to a North Carolina customer — find out what you need to know.
Stein signs and vetoes bills: This week, Gov. Josh Stein approved bipartisan measures—from organ donor sign-ups on tax returns to Catawba Nation rights and epinephrine nasal sprays in schools—while vetoing anti-DEI and other culture-war proposals, with 18 more bills pending his desk — find out what happens next.
Two-year renewal grace period: North Carolinians now have a two-year window to renew expired Class C driver’s licenses under Senate Bill 391, easing DMV backlogs through end of 2027 — find out if you qualify.
Postal delays overwhelm Charlotte: An April audit found more than 70,000 pieces of delayed mail and packages at Charlotte and Concord post offices and a Gastonia distribution center, citing understaffing, transport troubles, and processing breakdowns — find out how this backlog could affect your deliveries.
Trump halts $169M school aid: Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Education froze nearly $169 million in federal K-12 grants North Carolina schools rely on for before-and-after-school programs and English-learner support — find out what’s next.
Aerial fireworks ban in NC: State law prohibits ground-launching pyrotechnics like Roman candles and bottle rockets, allowing only sparklers and novelty items for backyard celebrations — find out what you can light.
DMV ditching long lines: North Carolina’s DMV now welcomes walk-ins all day and lets you wait in your car until a text tells you to come inside, cutting down exposure to summer heat and winter cold — find out how it works.
Two North Carolina winners: A $1 Outlaw’s Loot ticket sold online in Elm City hit a $4.7 million progressive jackpot, and a Cash 5 ticket from Maggie Valley Mart scored $318,544 in the July 3 drawing — find out how luck struck twice.
NC’s Hidden Blue Ridge Gem: Banner Elk, a tiny mountain resort just 75 miles north of Asheville, packs foodie hot spots, quirky boutiques, and budget-friendly cabins alongside hiking, rafting, an alpine coaster, and more year-round adventures — find out why it’s North Carolina’s coolest small town.
Other North Carolina headlines this week
- North Carolina unemployment claims rose last week
- North Carolina’s highest-rated college leads top 10
- Buc-ee’s expands to North Carolina and beyond
- North Carolina barbecue trail offers authentic flavors
- Resilient North Carolina town welcomes visitors warmly
