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]

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]

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]

Faithful planning is a delicate balance between preparation and surrender, trusting in God's guidance and wisdom. It's about holding plans loosely enough for God to redirect them, embracing the paradox of planning, and finding peace and trust in the one who holds the future. [... 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]

Hiram Stevens Maxim, a prolific inventor, held over 140 patents, including those for the light bulb and machine gun. However, his story is often overshadowed by Thomas Edison's, who is credited with inventing the light bulb. Maxim's life was marked by eccentricity and controversy, including a feud with Edison and a history of bigamy charges. Despite this, Maxim's invention of the machine gun became his lasting legacy. [... 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 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]

A man shares his mother's inspiring story of overcoming adversity and achieving success despite being a poor, biracial woman in a predominantly black community. She worked multiple jobs, raised three children on her own, and eventually became a licensed clinical social worker and earned a master's degree, embodying the American dream of advancing without arbitrary barriers. [... more]

The church plays a vital role in shaping the faith of children, but with the rise of screen addiction, parents and pastors must find new ways to disciple kids in today's digital age. Awana, a global leader in child discipleship, equips churches with training and resources to help parents and leaders shape the faith of children and reach them with the gospel. [... more]

God's power is beyond human comprehension, demonstrated through Jesus Christ's resurrection and ascension to heavenly places, where He sits at the right hand of God, giving us authority over all powers and principalities. This power is available to us, and we can experience it by having our spiritual understanding enlightened and knowing our inheritance in Christ. [... more]

Doug and Mary Ketchum's quest to own their own liquor store in Memphis, Tennessee, was a horror story that took them all the way to the Supreme Court. They faced a state law that required a 10-year residency to get a liquor license, but the Constitution says everyone should be able to work and have gainful employment without restrictions. The couple's story highlights the importance of rule of law and property rights, and how the Institute for Justice fights for the rights of property owners who can't afford to litigate against bigger interests. [... more]

Allegations of election mismanagement and misconduct have been made against the election director in Anson County, North Carolina, with claims of failure to execute lawful board duties, interference with statutory duties, and mismanagement affecting election administration. The county board has filed a petition to remove the director, and the state board of elections will decide whether to terminate her. Meanwhile, a lawsuit over election integrity in North Carolina has been settled, with the state board of elections agreeing to comply with a 2023 law requiring the removal of non-citizen voters from the rolls. [... more]

North Carolina's latest statewide audit of federal spending identifies questionable costs and reporting failures across multiple agencies. The audit resulted in 19 findings, including 18 related to federal awards and one tied to financial statement reporting. The state auditor's office will provide oversight for the $650 million stadium renovation project in Charlotte, the largest expense of public dollars in the history of the state. [... more]

North Carolina faces a nearly $2.8 billion revenue shortfall over the next two years, according to Governor Josh Stein. Meanwhile, a long-standing election dispute in the small town of Pembroke has finally been resolved, with the challenger, Alan Dial, being certified as the winner after a two-and-a-half-year battle. The state is also dealing with wildfires and a burn ban, with crews making progress in containing the fires. [... more]

A federal judge upholds a North Carolina law changing same-day voter rules, while the state's Board of Elections reviews 15,000 comments on its adoption of a rule for non-citizen list maintenance. Meanwhile, the state's tax policy is compared to that of Vegas casinos, which treat high-net worth individuals well, and the North Carolina Forest Service is working to contain multiple wildfires across the state. [... more]

Rapid spending on autism therapy in North Carolina's Medicaid program is projected to exceed a billion dollars within the next two years, prompting state lawmakers to raise alarms and press health officials to explain these rapidly rising costs. Meanwhile, a legal challenge in North Carolina is testing the limits of body camera footage access, and a ballot selfie ban is being appealed to the Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. [... more]

Investing time and effort in children is crucial for raising a godly legacy. Parents must balance discipline and encouragement, guiding their children towards wisdom and righteousness. By following biblical principles and setting a good example, parents can instill a love for God's Word and a desire to walk in truth. [... more]

Raising a godly seed requires a legacy of encouragement, guidance, affirmation, and correction. Parents must balance discipline with love, teaching children to walk with the Lord and trust in His plans. A godly legacy is not about wealth or material possessions, but about passing on wisdom, values, and faith to future generations. [... more]

A Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, VinFast, plans to resume construction on a $4 billion plant in Chatham County, North Carolina, despite significant financial losses and a major scaling down of its hiring goals. The company's original promise of 7,500 jobs has been reduced to 1,400, raising questions about the state's investment in job development investment grants and infrastructure. Meanwhile, lawmakers in North Carolina are questioning the costs of solar energy and its impact on the state's energy policy, with some arguing that it is not the least cost and reliable option. [... more]

A godly legacy is passed down through generations, starting with a love for the Word of God and prayer. It's a treasure that brings strength and courage, and is essential for raising a godly seed. A grandmother's influence can be a powerful catalyst for this legacy, as seen in the story of Sharon Knotts' grandmother, who prayed her son into the kingdom of God and instilled in him a love for the Bible. This legacy is not just about material wealth, but about the pearls of wisdom and spiritual inheritance that are passed down from one generation to the next. [... more]

A recount request has been filed in the North Carolina Senate District 26 race, with the current leader, Phil Berger, trailing by 23 votes. Meanwhile, a report highlights the issue of skyrocketing property taxes in the state, with some counties collecting hundreds of millions of dollars more than they would have under a levy limit. The state's business growth and conservative tax reform have contributed to the influx of people and rising home values, leading to increased property tax revenue. [... more]

Work is not just a means to an end, but an act of worship to God, reflecting the God who creates, orders, and sustains all things. Scripture reframes the conversation on work, showing it as a sacred calling woven into what it means to bear God's image. Faithful stewardship of resources, including finances, is a key aspect of living out one's faith, and trusting in God's provision and sovereignty is essential for navigating life's uncertainties. [... more]

Brian Keith's remarkable life, from his early days as a child actor to his decorated service in the Marine Corps during World War II, is told through his incredible story of overcoming the impossible. With a career spanning over 70 movies and 300 TV episodes, Keith's life was marked by his bravery, talent, and dedication to his craft. From his early days on stage to his rise to fame in Hollywood, Keith's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. [... more]

A new Blue Ribbon Commission on Public Education has been formed in North Carolina to study the state's school system, examining areas such as teacher training, student achievement, and accountability measures. Meanwhile, concerns are emerging around Medicaid fraud, with a recent scheme exposing improper enrollment and potential fraud during the sign-up process. Additionally, Western North Carolina is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, with a significant funding shortfall for water infrastructure repairs. [... more]

North Carolina's record voter turnout in the 2026 primary elections was driven by the presidential race, but still relatively low compared to general elections. Meanwhile, a state auditor's report reveals financial mismanagement in Rocky Mount, leading to a $80 million decline in cash reserves. Legislative leaders are seeking to intervene in a federal lawsuit challenging a state law banning taxpayer funding for gender transition procedures for prison inmates, arguing it's a matter of state policy. [... more]

Children are struggling to find friends and being friends, leading to conflict management and relationship issues. Parents must model emotional availability and teach their kids how to have conversations, ask questions, and listen fully to the story. This is crucial for building security, identity, and belonging in their children, ultimately leading to a sense of purpose and fulfillment. [... more]

Securing a child's heart involves prioritizing a loving relationship, being present, and asking open-ended questions to understand their thoughts and feelings. Parents should focus on teaching and training, rather than yelling and telling, and model a vibrant relationship with God to inspire their child's spiritual growth. [... more]

A Christian pastor shares his experiences and insights on raising children in a spiritual home, emphasizing the importance of humility, prayer, and authenticity in parenting, and how these qualities can shape the next generation of believers. [... more]

Pastor Andrew Hopper shares his journey of adopting a child with special needs and how it has deepened his family's understanding of the gospel and their role in the church. He discusses the challenges of adoption and the importance of the church coming alongside families in this process. [... more]

North Carolina's early voting numbers are showing a significant increase, with over 420,000 votes cast through Tuesday. Dr. Andy Jackson from the John Locke Foundation discusses the implications of this trend and how it may impact Election Day. Meanwhile, the state's election management system is in need of modernization, with a bipartisan commission working to bring the system up to date. The commission aims to complete the overhaul by next summer, 2027. Additionally, six more JDIG projects were canceled by the North Carolina Department of Commerce's Economic Investment Committee, adding to a troubling long-term pattern of failed job creation targets. [... more]

Women are increasingly becoming the primary financial decision makers after inheriting wealth from their spouses, and with this responsibility comes the opportunity for wise and faithful stewardship. Sharon Epps, president of Kingdom Advisors, shares insights from research on Christian women's financial habits and generosity, highlighting the importance of clarity, confidence, and biblical understanding in making financial decisions. [... more]

The State of the Union address is approaching, and President Trump is facing challenges in the economy and trade deals. The Supreme Court's decision on tariffs has left the administration with a plan B, and the president is expected to make significant changes to the economy. Meanwhile, corruption in Maine's social services program has been exposed, and Governor Paul LePage is running for Congress to address the issue. Health and Human Services Secretary RFK Jr. is pushing for a food policy overhaul, focusing on real food and reducing ultra-processed food. Robotics and socialism are also being discussed, with some experts questioning whether America can thrive under socialist leadership. [... more]

Martin Luther's marriage to Katerina von Bora was a revolutionary model for the home and the Protestant Reformation. Their partnership and commitment to each other and to their faith led to a reformation of marriage and parenting, where men and women worked together as equals, and the home was seen as a sacred calling. Despite facing incredible vitriol and slander, Katerina remained faithful and humble, serving as a true hero of the Reformation. [... more]

Raising sons to be confident, capable, and compassionate individuals requires intentional mothering. By focusing on belonging, relationship, authority, and fun, mothers can provide their sons with the tools they need to thrive in life. Molly DeFranc's book, Mothering Boys, offers practical advice and biblical guidance for mothers to help their sons develop a strong sense of identity, build meaningful relationships, and navigate the challenges of growing up. [... more]

North Carolina's manufacturing sector reported one of the largest yearly job losses of any major industry, with a 1.5% decrease in jobs over the past year. Meanwhile, the state's unemployment rate decreased in 99 out of 100 counties, and statewide employment numbers have continued to move in a positive direction. In other news, early voting for the primary election continues across the state, with 319 sites open for voters. Additionally, Congressman Brad Knott discusses the Critical Mineral Dominance Act, which aims to secure the United States' supply of rare earth minerals and reduce dependence on foreign nations. [... more]

A bipartisan commission in North Carolina aims to modernize the state's election management system, addressing outdated technology and improving voter registration and election results. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein signed an executive order to strengthen the state's behavioral health and criminal justice systems, focusing on mental health crises, involuntary commitment, and re-entry support for individuals leaving prison. [... more]

A federal safety audit has found widespread non-compliance within the Charlotte area transportation system, citing serious deficiencies in how the agency manages safety risks, protects transit workers, and oversees rising violence across its system. Meanwhile, a state audit has revealed over $1 billion in lapsed salaries across North Carolina, with some agencies collecting funds for vacant positions for years. The state auditor recommends improving tracking and reporting of lapsed salaries, reducing administrative delays in the hiring process, and making state salaries more competitive with surrounding states. [... more]

Any family can disintegrate, and parents play a crucial role in rearing their children. The consequences of parental neglect can be severe, and it's essential to take action and confront wrongdoing. Godly parenting is key to raising children who will follow in their parents' footsteps, and it's never too late to make a change. [... more]

Intentional time, moments, and milestones are key to family discipleship, where parents model and teach their children to follow Jesus. By setting aside time for Bible reading, prayer, and worship, families can cultivate a deeper relationship with God and raise children who are confident and capable in their faith. [... more]