North Carolina's business creation has hit a record high in the first half of 2026, with over 100,000 new businesses created, according to Secretary of State Elaine Marshall. The state's economic relationship with Canada remains strong, with Canada being North Carolina's top trading partner. Meanwhile, Labor Commissioner Luke Farley reflected on an unforgettable experience meeting U.S. Marine Corps Major James Capers Jr., a recent Medal of Honor recipient. The state's healthcare affordability commission aims to lower healthcare costs, and the pension system has seen significant improvements, with a $8 billion earnings in the pension system reducing the pension deficit by almost 75%. Additionally, the state's emissions testing requirement is set to be rolled back in 19 counties, and Governor Josh Stein has signed 12 bills into law, including a virtual currency kiosk consumer protection act and a farmland and military protection act. [... more]

Governor Josh Stein signs North Carolina's $34.4 billion state budget into law, delivering major investments in education, public safety, and hurricane recovery, while also highlighting flaws in the budget and the need for continued investment in the state's people and infrastructure. [... more]

The US men's national soccer team fell short of expectations in the World Cup, losing to Belgium in a lopsided match. Analysts weigh in on the team's performance, citing a lack of mental composure and poor goalkeeping. Meanwhile, in the NBA, the Celtics' decision to trade Jalen Brown has sparked debate, with some questioning the value received in return. [... more]

The discussion revolves around the concept of unequalness in America, with the mayor of a large city stating that the country belongs only to those with the right accent or skin tone. The conversation also touches on the issue of immigration, with the mention of a mayor who emigrated to the US and is now destroying the city. Additionally, the topic of Islam and its true intentions are discussed, with the mention of the prophet Muhammad's life and teachings. The discussion also explores the idea of a caliphate and the potential for Muslims to establish one in the US. [... more]

In this episode of Q A with Koloff Nikita Koloff welcomes branding strategist entrepreneur and former Disney creative Matt Ferguson for an inspiring conversation about faith leadership purpose and making an impact in the marketplace Matt shares his journey from playing football at Florida State alongside legends like Deon Sanders Charlie Ward and Brad Johnson to helping shape storytelling and branding at Disney before launching the Ever After Group Along the way he explains how his relationship with Jesus has influenced every aspect of his life and career whether serving churches nonprofits or major organizations Nikita and Matt also discuss [... more]

The North Carolina legislature has reached a deal on a budget, but it still awaits Governor Josh Stein's signature or veto. The budget includes a provision to repeal certificate of need laws for inpatient rehabilitation care, which could increase access to affordable healthcare. Meanwhile, two Republican senators have voted against the budget due to a provision requiring tolls on all state ferry routes. Additionally, a lawsuit has been filed against Rockingham County and a county commissioner, Kevin Berger, alleging retaliation against former Sheriff Sam Page for running against Phil Berger's son in a primary election. [... more]

Tammy Harris, a tattoo artist from Cincinnati, shares her story of overcoming obstacles as a single mom and pursuing her dream of becoming a tattoo artist. She emphasizes the importance of putting customers first and treating them with respect and kindness, highlighting the value of ethics and profit complementing each other in business. [... more]

The United States men's national soccer team's World Cup performance was a failure, failing to meet expectations and losing to Belgium in the round of 16. The team had shown promise, but ultimately fell short, with many fans and experts questioning their strategy and player performance. [... more]

The United States men's national soccer team faces off against Belgium in a highly anticipated World Cup match, while the NBA offseason continues to unfold with LeBron James' future uncertain and the Los Angeles Lakers making moves to rebuild their roster. [... more]

The Declaration of Independence, signed 250 years ago, declared the 13 American colonies' independence from Great Britain, establishing a new nation built on the principles of natural law, inalienable rights, and the Creator. The document's authors, including Thomas Jefferson, drew inspiration from Christian principles and the works of John Locke, appealing to a higher authority to justify their separation from the British crown. The Declaration's significance extends beyond its historical context, influencing American politics and culture to this day. [... more]

In the Christian life, we often find ourselves tired and exhausted, but Jesus offers spiritual refreshment to those who labor and are burdened. Through prayer, Bible study, and putting the needs of others above our own, we can find spiritual refreshment and a deeper connection with God. Pastor Greg Laurie shares practical advice on how to tap into God's state of mind and experience the power of prayer in our lives. [... more]

Greg Laurie emphasizes the importance of being a preserving influence in the culture today, as Christians, by living out their faith and speaking up for what is true. He encourages listeners to infiltrate, not isolate, and to be both salt and light, as Jesus instructs in the Sermon on the Mount. Laurie also highlights the need for spiritual awakening and a return to God's will, and invites listeners to make a commitment to Christ and recommit to their faith. [... more]

President Ronald Reagan delivered a speech on July 4, 1986, aboard the USS John F. Kennedy, celebrating the founding ideals of the United States and the importance of national unity and freedom. [... more]

In 1790, George Washington wrote a letter to the Hebrew congregation in Rhode Island, affirming the principles of freedom of religion and paving the way for the passage of the First Amendment and the Bill of Rights. This letter, written in response to a plea from Moses Satius, demonstrated Washington's view that the president is equal to citizens and his commitment to religious tolerance. [... more]

The bald eagle, once considered a predator and nearly extinct, has made a remarkable recovery thanks to conservation efforts and the Clean Water Act. Its population has rebounded to 500,000, matching its estimated number at the nation's founding in 1782. The bird's symbolism of freedom and liberty has endured, despite its troubled past. [... more]

The UK is facing controversy over a new guidance that urges childcare workers to report racist toddlers to police, sparking debate over the country's approach to racism and cultural sensitivity. Meanwhile, Prince Harry's recent comments on politics have raised eyebrows, and Florida Man continues to make headlines with bizarre crimes. In other news, a UK nursery is serving baked dirt as a science experiment, and UK police have found a large shipment of cocaine hidden in Kim Kardashian's underwear brand. [... more]

The Supreme Court's recent decisions have sparked important discussions about the role of government and individual rights. Meanwhile, as the US celebrates its 250th birthday, many are reflecting on the meaning of patriotism and the values that have shaped America's history. Christians are grappling with how to balance their loyalty to their nation with their allegiance to a higher kingdom, and grandparents are seeking ways to pass on their faith to the next generation. [... more]

Dr. Abinash Shaw shares his incredible story of coming to America from India and finding his calling in ministry, highlighting the nation's foundation on Judeo-Christian values and the importance of returning to God's word. He emphasizes the need for Americans to love Jesus Christ and not just the country, and discusses the dangers of socialism and the importance of freedom and capitalism. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers have passed a state budget that includes tax cuts, teacher raises, and disaster recovery funding. The budget, which was passed with bipartisan support, now heads to Governor Josh Stein's desk for signature. The budget also includes funding for economic development projects, including a commercial aircraft manufacturing facility in Greensboro. Meanwhile, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved over $197 million in additional disaster recovery funding for Western North Carolina, which was affected by Hurricane Helene. [... more]

President Calvin Coolidge's defense of the Declaration of Independence on America's 150th birthday emphasizes the importance of the document's stated principles, which he believes are the closest thing to a perfect statement on human freedom. He warns that abandoning these principles would lead to a loss of freedom and that the mission statement comes first, with ideals making governments, not the other way around. [... more]