As autumn settles in and the air turns crisp, a bowl of Crockpot Potato Soup brings both warmth and comfort to any meal.

This dish blends diced potatoes, smoky bacon, and creamy cheese, slow-cooked with red and green bell peppers, onions, chicken broth, and a touch of cream cheese.

Just layer the vegetables in your crockpot, pour in broth and cream of chicken soup, season, and let it simmer for hours.

When nearly finished, stir in cream cheese and add the savory bacon for a rich, indulgent flavor.

If you’d like a lighter consistency, a splash of milk does the trick in the final half hour.

Leftovers are simple to store and can be refrigerated for three days or frozen for two months, making this soup both convenient and satisfying for busy families.

Enjoy every spoonful on a chilly evening.

North Carolina’s median household income climbed to $73,958 in 2024, outpacing its previous year and showing robust economic momentum.

While the state’s income growth topped national trends, it still falls about $9,772 short of the national median, highlighting an ongoing gap.

Poverty rates remain a concern, with 12.8% of residents living below the poverty line—above the nation’s 10.6%.

Child poverty stands at 16%, and Latino, Black, and American Indian communities are disproportionately affected.

Housing expenses continue to rise, as the median home price hit $381,000 and typical rents soared to $1,727, putting extra strain on many families.

The uninsured rate dropped to 8.6% thanks to Medicaid expansion, improving health coverage for thousands.

However, child care shortages are weighing heavily on the economy, and home insurance premiums are projected to increase by 15% by 2026, signaling more financial pressures ahead.

Addressing these hurdles is vital for long-term prosperity and quality of life across North Carolina.

The Democratic National Committee and a group tied to Marc Elias’s law firm are fighting to join a case over North Carolina’s voter registration practices, following a recent settlement between the U.S. Department of Justice and the North Carolina State Board of Elections.

Both parties argue before Chief District Judge Richard Myers that they must intervene to defend the privacy and voting rights of North Carolinians after a consent decree granted federal officials broad access to personal voter data.

The dispute stems from a Justice Department lawsuit accusing state officials of failing to collect mandatory identification numbers from all voters, as required by the Help America Vote Act.

With over 80,000 voter records still missing these details, the state board is now implementing a remedial plan that will require voters with incomplete records to use provisional ballots.

Efforts by outside groups to intervene remain unresolved, as Judge Myers continues to oversee the case through June 2027.

The North Carolina Supreme Court will soon decide if developers can unite in a class-action lawsuit challenging Apex’s recreation fee policy.

This follows a lower court’s approval for developers who paid similar fees to join the suit.

Empire Contractors sparked the legal fight after being required to pay $64,000 instead of dedicating land for recreation on a 3.5-acre, 20-lot project.

Empire’s attorney, Jim DeMay, argued that developers share concerns over lacking transparency about fee usage and questioned whether those funds truly benefit specific developments.

Representing Apex, Dan Hartzog maintained that state law doesn’t set deadlines for spending these funds and stressed that planning new parks takes time.

The broader trend shows developers increasingly challenging town fees, with major recent refunds ordered in cases involving True Homes LLC, D.R. Horton Inc., and the City of Raleigh.

The Supreme Court’s ruling could profoundly impact how development fees are handled across North Carolina.

Decarlos Brown Jr. has been federally charged in the fatal stabbing of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee, aboard a Charlotte light rail train.

U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson stressed the need for federal action to restore trust in public transit safety.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi condemned the violence, tying it to lenient justice policies and pledging to pursue the toughest sentence for Brown, described as a repeat violent offender.

FBI Director Kash Patel reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to bringing justice for Zarutska and her grieving family.

Surveillance video showed Zarutska sitting in front of Brown before he allegedly attacked her with a pocketknife, resulting in her death.

Brown was apprehended soon after and faces both state and federal charges, including a charge that could result in life imprisonment or the death penalty.

The tragedy has reignited debate over transit security, mental health, and the system’s handling of repeat offenders.

Mayor Vi Lyles promised improvements to prevent future incidents, as the community mourns Zarutska, who sought refuge in Charlotte after fleeing war in Ukraine.

Homemade meatballs are a delicious, versatile choice for any weeknight dinner.

Whether served with spaghetti, mashed potatoes and gravy, or noodles, these meatballs bring comfort to your table.

Simply mix lean hamburger, eggs, milk, Parmesan, onions, garlic, bread crumbs, and herbs in a bowl, then shape into golfball-sized rounds.

Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes using a muffin pan or rimmed baking sheet for best results.

Once cooled, freeze meatballs on a tray before transferring them to a sealed bag — they’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

Reheat as needed in the microwave, or add directly to soups or simmering sauces for a homemade touch any night.

Try swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken, and easily double the batch for a freezer-friendly staple.

Baked Pork Chops and Apples with Brown Sugar Glaze

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Layer sliced apples in the bottom of a casserole dish—no need to grease.

Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon over the apples for flavorful warmth.

Trim the fat off four boneless pork chops and place them on top of the apples. Add salt and pepper to taste.

In a small saucepan, melt butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring gently.

Pour this rich glaze over the pork chops and apples. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes.

Serve hot with sweet potatoes, stuffing, or rice, and your favorite local veggies.

Tips: Try swapping half the sugar for honey, use any apples you love, or substitute butter with applesauce for a lighter touch. Add chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.

The Feel Good Spot

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced over $8 million in funding for wildfire prevention and forest health projects across the country.

North Carolina's Uwharrie National Forest will receive more than $1 million for the "Uwharries to Sandhills, Phase 2" initiative, targeting restoration of about 18,000 acres through prescribed burns and silvicultural techniques.

This project aims to reduce wildfire risk, lower fuel loads, and protect nearby communities, while also improving water quality and enhancing local wildlife habitats.

With significant wildfire threats during spring and fall, state leaders like Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler stress the critical need for proactive management.

The funding comes through the Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership, uniting NRCS and the Forest Service to tackle broad conservation challenges.

Alongside North Carolina, Alabama, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Oregon will also benefit, strengthening forest resilience nationwide and reinforcing the importance of burn manager certification programs in the region.

North Carolina farmers devastated by Hurricane Helene in 2024 will receive crucial federal aid, as a $221 million disaster relief block grant was signed at the Mountain State Fair in Fletcher by U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen Vaden and North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

The grant targets 39 counties under the Presidential Disaster Declaration, offering compensation for production and infrastructure losses, market setbacks, future economic impacts, and timber damage not already covered by USDA programs or crop insurance.

Some producers must maintain USDA Risk Management coverage over two crop years to access support for certain losses, such as market and aquaculture claims.

Troxler urges affected farmers to gather documentation as the application process is finalized, reassuring swift distribution once plan approval is secured.

This grant, along with the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program launched July 9, aims to boost recovery and long-term resilience across the state’s agricultural communities.

A bipartisan panel of three judges has upheld North Carolina's 2018 constitutional amendments requiring photo ID at the polls and lowering the state's income tax cap from 10% to 7%.

The lawsuit, North Carolina NAACP v. Moore, alleged racial discrimination in the amendments' passage, claiming a legislature elected from racially gerrymandered districts lacked legitimacy.

After hearing arguments in October 2024, Judges James Gregory Bell, Michael Duncan, and Cynthia Sturges unanimously found no evidence of discriminatory intent or racial impact sufficient to overturn the amendments.

The panel ruled that the plaintiffs failed to meet the legal threshold needed to prove constitutional violations.

The decision is seen by supporters as a boost for election security and fiscal limits.

Opponents worry it may lead to voter disenfranchisement and reduced public funding.

This ruling highlights the ongoing debate over voting rights and tax reform in North Carolina.

Soybeans, a vital part of North Carolina’s farm economy, face mounting uncertainty amid global trade disputes and reduced exports to China.

Recent U.S. tariffs led China to slash its purchases of American soybeans, turning instead to Brazil, leaving North Carolina farmers at a disadvantage.

The American Soybean Association and Charles Hall, executive director of the North Carolina Soybean Producers Association, warn that continued loss of market share threatens local livelihoods and highlight the need for renewed trade agreements.

Additional pressures come from the temporary shutdown of the Fayetteville Cargill Ag soybean crush plant, further limiting options for processing and storage after the closure of another South Carolina facility.

In response, statewide educational programs are being launched to equip growers with research-backed farming techniques, helping them adapt in a shifting market.

The strength and adaptability of North Carolina’s agricultural community remain central to weathering these storms.

Natron Energy has abruptly shut down, canceling plans for a $1.4 billion sodium-ion battery plant in Edgecombe County, North Carolina.

This closure delivers a major blow to the area, erasing hopes for over 1,000 high-paying jobs and a substantial economic boost.

The California-based company cited overwhelming financial troubles and failed fundraising in an internal memo, notifying 95 employees at sites in Michigan and California of an immediate end to operations.

Some staff will remain briefly to oversee a safe, environmentally sound closure.

Natron’s advanced sodium-ion batteries, recognized for safety and performance, were set to supply sectors like data centers and electric vehicles.

No state funds had yet been distributed for the project, which was the county's largest investment since 2023 and expected to generate a $3.4 billion economic impact.

The plant’s cancellation marks the second major loss for Kingsboro’s megasite, following a previous withdrawal by Triangle Tyre.

GASTONIA, NC — A Gaston County judge has dismissed all claims brought by Prisha Mosley against medical providers who oversaw her gender transition procedures, closing the door on both fraud and malpractice allegations.

Judge Robert C. Ervin ruled that the defendants were entitled to judgment as a matter of law, preventing Mosley from refiling her case.

This comes despite House Bill 805, which extends the malpractice statute of limitations to 10 years for gender transition cases, as Mosley's claims failed to meet the legal threshold for revival.

Mosley’s case, which included several local healthcare organizations, drew sharp criticism from advocacy groups like the NC Values Coalition.

Her legal team plans to appeal, and a win could set significant precedent for future detransitioner litigation in North Carolina.

The case highlights growing debate over medical standards and accountability in gender-affirming care, with advocates and opponents closely watching the upcoming appeal.

Autumn’s arrival in Eastern North Carolina means more than falling leaves—it signals unpredictable weather that can turn dangerous fast.

Residents frequently face threats from torrential rain, flooding, fierce winds, and intense lightning strikes as the seasons shift.

Community members are urged to take simple precautions now to protect their families and homes.

Trimming weak branches, securing loose yard items, and checking emergency supplies are essential first steps.

Buying extra bottled water, canned food, and fresh batteries can make a big difference during multi-day power outages.

If you rely on a generator, test it beforehand to ensure safe operation.

Keep flashlights, candles, and oil lamps handy, but always supervise young children around open flame.

A stocked first aid kit provides reassurance, while checking on elderly neighbors and caring for pets ensures everyone stays safe and supported this season.

Biltmore Estate

Discover North Carolina

North Carolina stands out for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and dynamic cities.

From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the sprawling Atlantic coastline, the state offers something for everyone.

Raleigh, the capital, anchors the renowned Research Triangle, while Charlotte pulses as a major financial hub.

The state is celebrated for its world-class universities, regional cuisine, and deep historical roots.

Nature lovers flock to the Great Smoky Mountains and legendary beaches, making tourism a driving force in the economy.

From vibrant fall foliage to iconic sports rivalries, North Carolina’s spirit and traditions remain strong.

Congressman Brad Knott of North Carolina’s 13th District joined the Republican Study Committee in Washington, D.C., to support President Donald Trump’s stepped-up measures against crime in the city.

Knott, a former federal prosecutor, emphasized his experience in prosecuting major criminals—highlighting a need for decisive crime-fighting strategies.

Following President Trump’s early August declaration of a public safety emergency, federal control was imposed over the Metropolitan Police Department and over 800 National Guard troops were deployed.

Knott noted this surge has led to more than 1,200 arrests and the seizure of 135 firearms, but acknowledged some prosecutions are meeting scrutiny in federal courts.

He blamed what he calls the Democratic Party’s lenient crime policies for exacerbating public safety concerns locally and nationwide.

Polls show crime remains a top issue, worrying 63% of voters.

Natron Energy, a pioneering developer of sodium-ion battery technology based in California, has shut down operations as of September 3, 2025, due to severe financial struggles.

This sudden closure derails plans for a $1.4 billion manufacturing plant in Edgecombe County, North Carolina, which would have created over 1,000 high-paying jobs and spurred local economic growth.

Approximately 95 employees are impacted, with notices issued at sites in Michigan and California.

The announcement follows failed attempts to raise new funding to keep the company afloat, despite strong industry interest in their advanced, UL-listed sodium-ion batteries.

The state’s planned incentives — totaling over $50 million — were never distributed.

This is the second major setback at the Kingsboro Megasite, after a previous manufacturing project fell through in 2022.

Local leaders remain optimistic, seeking new investors to revitalize the promising site and support displaced workers.

Bobby Hanig, Republican state senator from Currituck County, has announced his bid for North Carolina's 1st Congressional District, setting up a high-profile challenge to Democrat Don Davis in 2026.

The 1st District, stretching from the Outer Banks to Raleigh’s edge, is North Carolina’s only swing district, making the contest especially significant for both major parties.

Hanig highlights his conservative record and leadership in the General Assembly, where he’s recognized for his assertive style and defense of coastal communities—most notably, his opposition to a proposed shrimp-trawling ban.

Rocky Mount Mayor Sandy Roberson has also entered the Republican primary, sharpening the competition ahead.

With a close 2024 race behind him, Davis faces a district in the political spotlight, as national parties target eastern North Carolina for control of Congress in 2026.

Eastern North Carolina has faced some of the nation’s most intense storms, leaving a legacy of resilience and recovery.

Hurricane Hazel struck in October 1954, tearing through at 55 mph and maintaining its strength deep inland.

The storm destroyed 15,000 homes and claimed 19 lives, ranking as one of North Carolina’s deadliest and most expensive disasters at the time.

In 1999, Hurricane Floyd hit just days after Tropical Storm Dennis.

Floyd unleashed relentless rains and record floods, submerging entire communities along the Tar River and resulting in $6 billion in damages statewide.

September 2024 saw Hurricane Helene devastate Western North Carolina, with over 100 fatalities and $59.6 billion in losses, the most costly disaster in state history.

As storms grow more powerful, communities in Eastern North Carolina adapt with stronger infrastructure and preparedness, determined to safeguard their future.

In a major legal move, a Gaston County judge has dismissed Prisha Mosley's fraud and medical malpractice claims against doctors involved in her gender transition.

Presiding Judge Robert C. Ervin found no genuine dispute over facts, issuing a summary judgment for the defendants and permanently closing Mosley’s case.

Mosley, who started transition care at age 16, first filed her lawsuit in 2023, but her malpractice claims were dismissed under North Carolina’s previous four-year statute of limitations.

Even after the legislature extended the limit to 10 years with House Bill 805, the court determined Mosley’s claims remained out of time.

The named providers included Piedmont Plastic Surgery, Family Solutions, Tree of Life Counseling, and Cone Health.

Advocacy groups and Mosley’s legal team sharply criticized the decision and promise an appeal, arguing unresolved factual issues remain.

A successful appeal could impact future malpractice lawsuits tied to gender transition care statewide.

The Meherrin River has long been central to Murfreesboro’s history, nurturing the region since the days of the Meherrin people, an Iroquoian-speaking tribe and original inhabitants.

Archaeological finds along the river reveal a deep-rooted legacy, including ancient pottery, tools, and ceremonial burial mounds.

Displacement in the late 1600s forced the Meherrin people from present-day Virginia south onto lands around the river, adding to its Indigenous significance.

By the early 1700s, settlers began claiming land along the Meherrin.

Henry Wheeler received the first land grant in 1714, while William Murfree’s 1746 purchase and the designation of “King’s Landing” in 1754 marked the emergence of Murfreesboro as a port town.

The river’s access to the Chowan River and Albemarle Sound helped the town, officially chartered in 1787, flourish as a vital agricultural and trade hub.

Today, Murfreesboro’s proud river heritage endures, rooting the community in centuries of resilience and commerce.

Transform your daily shower cleaning routine with an effortless homemade spray that requires no scrubbing or wiping.

Simply mix half a cup of hydrogen peroxide, half a cup of clear rubbing alcohol, one teaspoon of dish detergent, one tablespoon of dish washer rinse aid, and three cups of water in a 32-ounce spray bottle.

Gently rotate the bottle to combine the ingredients, ensuring you start with a clean shower to keep maintenance easy.

After each shower, spray the cleaner on all surfaces while they’re still wet and warm—including walls, doors, handles, and drains.

Just let everything air dry.

If you have dark tile grout, consider omitting the hydrogen peroxide.

This simple spray keeps showers sparkling—with minimal effort—and even works on bathroom sinks and mirrors.

A recent post-election survey found that 43% of North Carolina voters are dissatisfied with the state’s primary outcomes, suggesting the current system may not produce the most representative candidates.

North Carolina allows candidates to win primaries with just 30% of the vote plus one, the lowest threshold in the country since a 2017 law reduced it from 40%.

This policy was intended to open doors for more candidates but often results in nominees securing party backing with limited voter support.

Recent examples include Congressional contenders winning with barely a third of the vote, highlighting concerns about true party consensus.

In comparison, eight states require over 50% to win, and others enforce higher minimums.

Restoring a 40% threshold could help ensure broader voter engagement and more widely supported candidates, without the confusion of ranked-choice voting.

Many believe this move would better reflect North Carolinians’ voices at the polls.

The Northampton County Jaguars endured a tough 38-0 loss in their home opener, falling to the Roanoke Rapids Yellowjackets for the fifth straight meeting.

Standout performances from Demajay Williams and Malik Yellorday powered Roanoke Rapids to victory, combining for three touchdowns and over 160 rushing yards.

The Jaguars, aiming to rebound, will travel to face Perquimans this Friday at 7:00 p.m.

Roanoke Rapids, riding high, will look to defend their home field against KIPP Pride at the same time.

Last season, Northampton County showed flashes of promise, including a commanding 50-8 win over North Edgecombe, but also suffered tough defeats.

As the season progresses, the Jaguars are focused on building consistency and resilience, eager to earn local support and spark a turnaround.

Duke Energy has halted plans for offshore wind projects off North Carolina, citing economic challenges after an independent review found all proposals exceeded cost benchmarks.

The review, initiated in January 2025, evaluated submissions from Avangrid, TotalEnergies, and Cinergy, revealing offshore wind remains pricier than solar paired with battery storage.

No new requests for wind project proposals will be issued, but key data will inform Duke’s 2025 Carolinas Resource Plan.

Local responses are mixed.

Some coastal leaders, including Brunswick County Commissioner Marty Cooke, welcomed the pause over concerns for tourism and marine ecosystems.

Meanwhile, clean energy advocates, like N.C. Sierra Club’s Erin Carey, underscored offshore wind’s potential for sustainable, independent energy.

North Carolina continues to bolster renewables, with recent wind farms such as Desert Wind and Timbermill Wind reflecting ongoing efforts to balance cost, environment, and energy needs.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has taken temporary control of child welfare services in Bertie County beginning August 15, 2025, after a review found major concerns following the tragic death of a child previously involved with services.

This marks Bertie County’s second state intervention, making it the first in North Carolina to be placed under state oversight twice.

State officials, including Secretary Dev Sangvai, have pledged to work closely with local leaders, aiming to address deficiencies and ensure child safety.

The move follows statutory authority under N.C.G.S. § 108A-74, which allows intervention when standards are not met.

The state will deploy staff on-site to stabilize services and create a plan for compliance with child welfare best practices.

The Fostering Care in NC Act, effective June 2025, gives NCDHHS expanded oversight, highlighting statewide efforts to protect children.

North Carolina’s high-stakes lawsuit against TikTok will proceed after the state’s Business Court rejected TikTok’s motion to dismiss, reinforcing the state’s authority to challenge the platform’s alleged harm to minors.

Judge Adam Conrad ruled that TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, can be held accountable if it’s proven they intentionally designed the app to addict young users—placing mental health at risk and fueling compulsive use.

The lawsuit, brought in 2024 by former Attorney General Josh Stein, claims TikTok’s features, especially the ‘For You Page,’ exploit teen users’ vulnerabilities, mimicking the addictive qualities of gambling.

Federal immunity and First Amendment defenses were rejected, with the court stressing that minors need protection and North Carolina has jurisdiction since nearly 1 million teens use the app locally.

Current Attorney General Jeff Jackson continues to advocate for stricter safeguards, as parents and educators hope the case sets new standards for tech company accountability.

North Carolina updated its medical release law in 2023, lowering the eligibility age for geriatric release to 55 and extending the timeframe for terminal illness to nine months.

The changes were meant to allow more seriously ill inmates a chance to spend their final days at home, easing burdens on both families and the prison system.

Despite these reforms, new data shows that very few have benefited.

Only four people were granted early medical release in 2024 out of about 32,000 incarcerated, with just five more by August 2025.

Advocates say these disappointing numbers fail to meet the law’s compassionate goals.

Older inmates, less likely to reoffend and costing the state more in medical care, are still mostly excluded due to strict medical criteria and convictions for violent offenses.

Ambiguous terms like “incapacitation” further limit eligibility, and delays have caused some inmates to die before decisions were made.

Advocates continue to urge lawmakers to better align policy with the state’s humanitarian and financial needs as the prison population ages.

The Element by Westin Wilmington has opened in Mayfaire Town Center, bringing the brand’s first extended-stay hotel to Wilmington.

Jointly developed by Vision Hospitality Group and CBL & Associates, the 139-room property features amenities such as a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, conference facilities, and a fitness center.

Guests can take advantage of eco-friendly features like electric vehicle charging stations, filtered water access, and complimentary bike rentals, reflecting a growing demand for sustainable stays.

Mitch Patel, CEO of Vision Hospitality Group, expressed excitement over the Element brand’s Wilmington debut and highlighted a strong partnership with CBL & Associates in fusing hospitality with sustainability.

The opening signals continued growth in Mayfaire, coinciding with BrodyCo’s plans for Mayfaire West: a new residential community with apartments, townhomes, and green spaces.

These additions underscore Wilmington’s evolving mix of residential, retail, and hospitality offerings.