North Carolina voters are expressing concerns about the direction of the state and the country, with 54% of voters saying North Carolina is heading in the wrong direction. The state's governor, Josh Stein, has a 50% approval rating, while President Trump's job approval has dropped to 41.5%. The Republican Party is facing a tough election in North Carolina, with 47.5% of voters supporting the Democrat candidate for the state legislature. The Opportunity Scholarship Program has a high level of support among voters, with 65.1% supporting the program. The state's certificate of need law is also a topic of discussion, with 65% of voters supporting the repeal of the law. [... more]

The Carolina Panthers' schedule is released, with the team opening at home against the Chicago Bears. The Panthers will have three primetime games, including a Sunday night game against the Detroit Lions. The Charlotte Hornets' rookie season is discussed, with Con Knipple talking about his experiences and Charles Lee's extension. The ACC Spring meetings are underway, with Jim Phillips discussing the conference's financial situation and Duke's Amazon deal. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are considering a constitutional amendment to lower the state's income tax rate from 7% to 3.5%. Meanwhile, a levy limit proposal aims to cap property tax growth, and the Senate Majority Pact has announced a $31.5 million investment in former Governor Roy Cooper's U.S. Senate campaign against Michael Watley. [... more]

Giannis' time with the Bucks has come to an end, and he's open for trade. Potential landing spots include the Miami Heat, Clippers, Cavaliers, and Knicks. Meanwhile, the NCAA is pleading with coaches not to cancel series for better seeding in the tournament. In college baseball, Georgia Tech and Boston College are set to face off in a series that could have implications for the ACC tournament. Darren Vought and the team discuss various topics, including astrophysics, guitar, and music. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers have reached an agreement on a state spending plan, ending a months-long impasse between Republican leaders in the House and Senate. The budget includes record salary increases for teachers and state employees, as well as tax relief for citizens. Meanwhile, a joint legislative committee will investigate the release of inmates under a 2021 pandemic settlement, which has raised concerns about public safety and government accountability. [... more]

The Hurricanes made history by sweeping two playoff series, becoming the first team to do so since the 85 Oilers. The team's success can be attributed to their business-like approach and ability to stay consistent in various situations. Meanwhile, LeBron James' time in LA is being debated, with some considering it a success despite not meeting expectations. The Knicks are also making a strong playoff run, with the highest margin of victory in NBA playoff history. [... more]

LeBron James' future with the Los Angeles Lakers is uncertain as the team's season comes to an end. The Oklahoma City Thunder's impressive playoff run has sparked discussions about LeBron's potential departure. Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers' general manager, Dan Morgan, discusses the team's draft strategy and expectations for the upcoming season. [... more]

A state auditor in North Carolina is examining a surge in Medicaid-funded autism therapy costs, which have increased from $1.4 million to over $660 million in five years. Meanwhile, a new study suggests that stricter cell phone bans in schools may not have an immediate impact on academic achievement or behavior, but could lead to positive results in the long term. Additionally, multiple blue states, including North Carolina, are suing the Trump administration over tariffs imposed under Section 122 of the 1974 Federal Trade Act. [... more]

Former FBI Director James Comey's scheduled court appearance in North Carolina has been canceled due to a motion filed by his lawyers. Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced legislation to eliminate tax exemptions for data centers, which could save the state millions of dollars. Additionally, a proposal to create a $50 million revolving loan fund to help nonprofit developers cover upfront infrastructure costs for affordable housing projects is gaining traction. The North Carolina Supreme Court is also considering a petition for rehearing in the Leandro case, which has been ongoing for over 30 years and deals with education funding in the state. [... more]

The Carolina Hurricanes are on a hot streak in the NHL playoffs, while the Carolina Panthers are gearing up for rookie minicamp. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets are looking to build on their 25-win improvement from last season, and the college football world is debating the merits of expanding the playoff system. In other sports news, the NHL's Rod Brenda More is being hailed as a legend, and the Charlotte FC is searching for a win against Cincinnati. [... more]

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles announces her resignation, effective June 30th, citing a desire to spend more time with her grandchildren. Meanwhile, North Carolina officials urge residents to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, which officially begins on June 1st. In other news, a competency hearing is set for DeCarlos Brown Jr., who is accused of murdering Irina Zarutska on the Charlotte Light Rail, due to concerns over his mental fitness to stand trial. [... more]

The North Carolina legislature is considering property tax reform and electricity generation proposals, while the city of Rocky Mount faces a financial crisis due to mismanagement and excessive spending. The city's utility revenue is under scrutiny, with some lawmakers proposing a bill to restrict its use. Meanwhile, Charlotte is preparing to host the 2027 Military World Games, which is expected to have a significant economic impact on the region. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are pushing to overhaul the state's budgeting process with zero-based budgeting, requiring agencies to justify every dollar spent. Meanwhile, a lawsuit challenges the state's ban on ballot selfies, citing First Amendment rights. The debate over state taxes and a long-term budget continues in the General Assembly. [... more]

The Carolina Hurricanes demonstrate their ability to overcome adversity in the NHL playoffs, while the Kansas City Chiefs look to make a comeback with Patrick Mahomes' return. In college football, the possibility of expanding the playoff to 24 teams is discussed, and Kevin Durant's future with the Houston Rockets is uncertain. The Carolina Panthers have a promising draft class, and Henry Vassar's decision to enter the NBA draft is analyzed. [... more]

A merger between Wake Med and Atrium Health is being met with opposition from state officials, citing concerns over increased healthcare costs and reduced competition. Meanwhile, the USDA is relocating its research hub to Raleigh, North Carolina, as part of a decentralization plan. Additionally, a bill has been filed in the North Carolina General Assembly to cut funding for the Opportunity Scholarship Program and redirect it to childcare subsidies, while also addressing issues with incomplete voter registration records. [... more]

The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face the Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL playoffs, with a series that promises to be exciting. Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers have made some significant moves in the NFL draft, including selecting Monroe Freeling as their first-round pick. The team's general manager, Dan Morgan, has been praised for his draft strategy, and the Panthers are looking to build a strong team around quarterback Bryce Young. [... more]

Thousands of educators from across North Carolina are expected to gather at the state capitol to call for increased teacher pay and education funding, while the governor signs a $319 million Medicaid bill into law, but expresses concerns about the ongoing costs of Medicaid and the elimination of health care coverage for nearly 27,000 children and pregnant women. [... more]

Duke basketball has announced a multi-year partnership with Amazon Prime, giving the streaming service exclusive access to multiple games each season. This move is seen as a significant development in the world of college sports, where streaming is becoming increasingly popular. Meanwhile, the NBA playoffs are heating up, with LeBron James and the Lakers facing off against the Rockets. In other sports news, the Carolina Panthers are looking to prove themselves with Bryce Young at the helm, and the Red Sox, Phillies, and Mets are struggling to find their footing in the MLB. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly is considering a proposal to eliminate local sales taxes on groceries, which would provide direct relief to households grappling with rising costs. Meanwhile, a bill imposing new restrictions on the use of social media by minors has cleared a key Senate hurdle, and a study by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality found widespread PFAS contamination in wastewater and biosolids. Additionally, the US Supreme Court has ruled on a case related to redistricting, clarifying the role of the Voting Rights Act and its impact on the drawing of election districts. [... more]

Rich Eisen discusses the NFL draft with Kellen Moore, head coach of the New Orleans Saints, and shares his power rankings of players who will live up to the billing. They talk about Caleb Downs, Jeremiah Love, Ty Simpson, and other top picks, as well as the Saints' draft strategy and roster moves. [... more]

A federal grand jury in North Carolina has indicted former FBI director James Comey on charges of making threats to harm President Donald Trump. The indictment comes after a 2025 Instagram post involving seashells arranged on a beach with the message 8647. Meanwhile, North Carolina has fewer low-income households than it did 14 years ago and more upper-income ones, according to a new analysis of U.S. Census data. The state's education system is also facing challenges, with roughly 45% of public school students not proficient in reading and math. The Blue Ribbon Commission on Public Education is working to address these issues and improve education funding. [... more]

Defining enough is a crucial step in achieving financial contentment and living a life of purpose. Scripture reframes the question of enough, emphasizing trust, stewardship, and contentment. By setting a financial finish line and prioritizing generosity, individuals can create margin for kingdom impact and live on mission. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are dealing with a litany of issues in the General Assembly's 2026 short session, including a plan to fully fund the state's Medicaid program and potential veto overrides. Meanwhile, two Democrat lawmakers in Mecklenburg County have switched their party affiliation, and Attorney General Jeff Jackson is urging North Carolina businesses impacted by President Donald Trump's tariffs to apply for refunds. Additionally, the state treasurer's office is promoting financial literacy through an internship program and a statewide competition for students. [... more]

Representative Carla Cunningham switches party affiliation from Democrat to unaffiliated, potentially impacting veto overrides in the North Carolina House. Meanwhile, a new infusion of federal disaster funding highlights progress and challenges in Western North Carolina's recovery from Hurricane Helene. Governor Josh Stein's proposed budget would phase out the Opportunity Scholarship Program, affecting an estimated 60,000 students. The U.S. Postal Service's regulations on cluster box units are causing delays and adding costs to housing developments, making homes less affordable for many families. U.S. Representative Alma Adams was cleared of any wrongdoing after an investigation by the House Ethics Committee regarding an alleged inappropriate relationship with a staffer. [... more]

The Carolina Panthers select Monroe Freeling in the NFL draft, while the Charlotte Hornets face challenges in the NBA playoffs. Meanwhile, the world of sports is abuzz with news of Michael Jackson's music and the upcoming season of Duke Blue Devils basketball. In other news, Wake Forest football looks to build on last year's success, and the Charlotte Hornets are weighing their options for the offseason. [... more]

A contentious committee hearing in Raleigh revealed that the Chapel Hill-Carborough City School District is not in compliance with Senate Bill 49, the Parents' Bill of Rights, which aims to increase transparency in curriculum and protect children from inappropriate content. The district's superintendent, Dr. Rodney Trice, was questioned by lawmakers over the district's handling of materials in its libraries, with some lawmakers expressing concerns that the district is intentionally subverting the law. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Supreme Court is considering a rehearing of the Leandro case, a 32-year-old legal challenge to education funding in the state. The case has been a major point of contention in North Carolina politics for decades, with some lawmakers arguing that it is a key factor in the state's education funding woes. [... more]

The Carolina Panthers are in a good position in the NFL draft due to their flexibility and options, having addressed their holes in free agency. They may consider adding depth to their roster, and the draft is receiver-heavy. The Panthers have been linked to several prospects, including Casey Concepcion and Dylan Thienman. Meanwhile, in college basketball, Henry Vessar's decision to enter the NBA draft is a crucial one for the North Carolina Tar Heels, and Michael Malone's team is hoping to keep him. The ACC is also preparing for the upcoming season, with Duke Blue Devils coach John Shire looking to build a strong roster. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers have reached an agreement on legislation to overcome a shortfall in the state's Medicaid program, while tightening oversight of the program. The legislation, House Bill 696, would allocate an additional $319 million to cover the Medicaid rebase for the remainder of the fiscal year and implement several policy changes designed to strengthen eligibility verification and program integrity. Meanwhile, a major election integrity lawsuit is continuing to play out in the state as the State Board of Elections is asking a three-judge panel to jump in on a case dealing with so-called never residents. Additionally, some North Carolina lawmakers have filed a proposal that would dock their own pay if they failed to pass a state budget on time, an idea that appears to have overwhelming public support. [... more]

The Carolina Blue Devils made a splash in the transfer portal, retaining Caleb Foster and adding John Blackwell, while Duke also retained Pat Gamba. Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets are looking to make moves in the offseason, potentially trading LaMello Ball for Giannis Antetokounmpo or Steph Curry, and the Panthers are gearing up for the new season with Bryce Young and a revamped receiving corps. [... more]

Governor Josh Stein laid out his recommended state budget for fiscal year 26-27, proposing a $3 billion spending increase and tax cuts. He emphasized the need to invest in public education, workforce development, and public safety, while also addressing issues like childcare and housing costs. The governor's budget also includes proposals to increase teacher pay, expand community college programs, and provide more funding for school safety and mental health services. [... more]

A new committee is formed in the North Carolina General Assembly to investigate the release of 4,200 inmates from prison under a settlement in 2021, sparking public safety concerns. Meanwhile, a state audit reveals $1.25 million in mental health resources were spent on items like stuffed animals and plants instead of supporting students and faculty in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. The state auditor's office is working to bring transparency to how hurricane relief funds are spent, and the issue raises questions about waste and abuse in government spending. [... more]

The town of Lake Lure is reopening after months of storm recovery, with a phased soft opening allowing limited public access. Meanwhile, a North Carolina drone operator is taking his case to the U.S. Supreme Court, challenging state regulations on occupational licensing. The North Carolina legislature is also gearing up for a busy session, with lawmakers set to tackle issues like the state budget and drone regulation. [... more]

The Charlotte Hornets are looking to end their 10-year playoff drought against the Orlando Magic, while the Carolina Panthers are preparing for the NFL draft and considering their options with the 19th overall pick. Meanwhile, the NASCAR Cup Series is gearing up for the Kansas Speedway, and Charlotte FC is facing off against New York City in a crucial MLS match. [... more]

A 91-year-old woman was found playing video games in her bedroom by police during a welfare check, highlighting the importance of mental health and advocating for oneself when living with non-small cell lung cancer. Meanwhile, a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has been negotiated by POTUS, but its effectiveness is uncertain due to the involvement of Hezbollah. Additionally, a Florida man was arrested for forcing his girlfriend into the trunk of her car, and a woman was rescued by fire crews after being bitten by a rattlesnake in Montecito, California. [... more]

The North Carolina State Board of Elections adopted new non-citizen voter rules despite heated debate. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein is calling for the legalization of recreational marijuana, citing a report that warns of the dangers of the state's unregulated cannabis market. Additionally, Duke Energy is seeking a $800 million rate increase to recoup energy costs from a recent cold snap. The U.S. birth rate has hit a record low, with implications for the economy and public education. North Carolina's demographic shift is expected to have significant impacts on the state's economy and education system. [... more]

Randy Wilson shares her story of struggling with an eating disorder, attending AA and NA meetings, and eventually finding recovery and motherhood. She credits her faith and support system for helping her overcome her addiction and achieve her goals. [... more]

A look at the latest developments in North Carolina politics, including the U.S. Senate race between Roy Cooper and Michael Watley, and the ongoing debate over tax reform and property tax rates. Additionally, the state health plan is seeking a new third-party administrator and pharmacy benefit manager. [... more]

Dennis Peterson shares a story about his maternal grandmother's hands, which revealed a lot about her life and character. Her hands were hard working, expressive, and kind, despite being arthritic and worn. The story explores the connection between hard work and arthritis, and the importance of understanding the difference between a personalized savior and a revolutionary king. [... more]

A North Carolina House Select Committee is recommending broad changes to the state's mental health and criminal justice systems to reduce violent incidents and address untreated mental illness. The committee aims to improve access to mental health services, increase the mental health workforce, and enhance data collection and sharing between state agencies. [... more]

North Carolina Treasurer Brad Breiner is expanding the use of artificial intelligence in the state's treasurer's office after a successful pilot program. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein's proposal to revisit North Carolina's data center tax incentive is drawing attention from lawmakers and industry leaders. In Western North Carolina, private entities like Samaritan's Purse and Baptists on Mission are continuing their recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene, with Samaritan's Purse expanding its rebuild program and Baptists on Mission completing 472 grant-related home repair projects. [... more]