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Tag: Jatrissa Wooten

  • Raleigh driving instructor provides tips on driving during the winter

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina is in the winter weather season. With sleet and/or freezing rain coating the roads, that makes driving dangerous.

    One expert shares some tips on how you can stay safe if you have to drive in the elements.

    What You Need To Know

    • Sleet or freezing rain coating the roads makes driving dangerous

    • Drive slower than posted speed limit when roads are slippery

    • Highway Patrol said they responded to nearly 1,200 collisions statewide early last year


    Savannah Gregory trains drivers for safety and success.

    She is the director of Drivers of the Future, a driving school based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

    Gregory dedicates over 30 hours each week to instructing drivers who are beginners, anxious, or new to the state’s laws.

    “The issue in North Carolina is not that it’s unpredictable. It’s that it’s unfamiliar,” Gregory said.

    This week, the driving instructor is preparing everyone for the roads that come along with winter weather.

    “In this area in particular, we have some of the most adverse winter weather conditions in the sense that roads are not treated as aggressively as they are up north,” Gregory said.

    Gregory said a major concern during the winter weather months — black ice.

    Related: Icy roads cause a 10-13 car pile-up in Winston-Salem. How to stay safe

    It’s slippery, but it’s also virtually undetectable. Gregory said it’s best to take it slow and be careful on highways, especially near bridges and overpasses.

    She also said to leave a space between you and other drivers.

    “You’re following distance. It’s going to increase from 2 to 3 seconds to somewhere around 9 to 10, potentially,” Gregory explained.

    In addition, Gregory said braking and accelerating should be smooth, not abrupt.

    She said drivers should be going slower than the posted speed limit during this time.

    “And keep in mind that traction is your currency when it comes to winter weather, and once you spend it, it is no longer there,” Gregory said.

    Slippery roads caused a series of crashes on I-40 in Orange County, involving more than 50 vehicles early last year.

    The State Highway Patrol said it responded to nearly 1,200 collisions statewide around the same time.

    Gregory, unfazed, stated that driving in poor weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, ice, or extreme heat, often leads to dangerous situations or unforeseen delays.

    “Sometimes it’s the safest choice to not drive at all,” Gregory said.

    Gregory said during her five years of operating, she’s heard some of the most dangerous stories of drivers being hurt or injured are due to slippery road conditions.

    She thinks it’s best to play it safe.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Jatrissa Wooten, Spectrum News Staff

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  • Buddhist monks, supporters battle freezing temperatures after winter storm

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    LOUISBURG, N.C. — The Buddhist monks aren’t slowing down despite the winter weather.

    For the past week the group journeyed across North Carolina on their way to Washington, D.C., through rain, sleet and sunshine. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Monday was Day 93 for the Buddhist monks on their Walk for Peace 

    • The monks will be out of North Carolina this week 

    • They are heading to Warrenton on Tuesday


    The monks were making their way through the state Monday, Day 93 of their Walk for Peace. The group has been welcomed and admired by thousands.

    “They’re walking in faith. They’re walking in faith,” said supporter Jeannette Bucher.

    Despite the road conditions after this weekend’s winter storm, the monks continue to walk while spreading their message. 

    Bucher said she and her friends were waiting at the airport in Louisburg for two hours. 

    “When I first saw them marching, I’ve been following them for months, and I just feel so blessed to be able to be here today. And I just can’t wait to be in their presence and just root them on,” she said.

    Louisburg native John Yarborough said he and his son grabbed their jackets and hats, then hit the road to see the monks.

    Yarborough said the group’s message, motivation and mission is nothing short of inspiring.

    “Because this world is about to be corrupt, there is so much hatred in this world, Black against white, that’s why we need peace,” he said.

    Yarborough said the Walk for Peace is the most exciting thing the area has seen in a long time. 

    “Something they have never been to here before, other than the civil rights stuff, when we used to march back in the day,” he said. “Other than that, that’s it.”

    Supporters seem to have one thing in common — they were ready to endure this weekend’s winter weather to support the message of peace for all.

    The monks are almost out of North Carolina but have a couple of more stops. 

    The group will be in Warrenton on Tuesday.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

     

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    Jatrissa Wooten

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  • Small businesses cut ties with Shop Local Raleigh

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    ZEBULON, N.C. — There is an emphasis on the importance of small businesses in North Carolina. The state is filled with many businesses that support inclusivity, diversity and the LGBTQ community.

    But now, many of these businesses are calling for the leader of Shop Local Raleigh to step down after she allegedly posted an anonymous comment dismissing transgender youth.

    What You Need To Know

    • North Carolina is filled with many businesses that support inclusivity, diversity and the LGBTQ lifestyle 

    • The executive director for the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association is under fire after allegedly posting a comment about transgender youth on Facebook 

    • A handful of local business no longer want to be affiliated with Shop Local Raleigh following comment 


    “I immediately stop my scroll because it felt so unnecessary and unkind,” said Erica Vogel, owner of Be Like Missy online shop.

    Vogel was scrolling through social media when she first saw a comment in a local community Facebook group on Dec. 21.

    “I dug and read the responses because of course, I was not the only one that was upset about the comment. And then I ended up finding out who made the comment,” Vogel said.

    The comment was allegedly posted by the executive director for the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association, which also operates as Shop Local Raleigh, a nonprofit dedicated to growing and promoting locally owned businesses.

    Spectrum News 1 reached out to the executive director of the Greater Raleigh Merchants Association and Shop Local Raleigh for further comment on the situation. Spectrum News 1 has decided not use their name until they respond.

    According to the Facebook group, the comment was made in response to another parent’s post regarding their transgender child. 

    “At that point I immediately commented and said, ‘for real,’” Vogel said.

    Even though it was posted anonymously, the page’s admins were able to see who made the comment.

    Shop Local Raleigh said in a statement, in part: “The Board is currently addressing the matter. The comment made does not reflect those of the organization. Shop Local Raleigh is dedicated to a culture of diversity, inclusion and respect.”

    Vogel said her business has been a member of Shop Local Raleigh for five years. She said she can’t do business with the organization any longer, if its leaders think this way.

    “Being a longstanding ally of the LGBT community, I thought that would be disingenuous for me to continue with the status quo of, like, remaining in Shop Local Raleigh and continuing to be a part of their events,” Vogel said.

    Be Like Missy is not the only business cutting ties with Shop Local Raleigh. 

    Raleigh Downtown, an organization that helps promote events around the city, and The Night Market Company, a company that is LGBTQ friendly, took to Facebook to announce that it too will no longer be affiliated with the organization. 

    “I’m so proud of my small business friends that have also stepped up, and, you know, taken back their support in solidarity with the LGBT community,” Vogel said. 

    Vogel said her company will not be participating in Brewgaloo, the annual event held by Shop Local Raleigh that brings in vendors and breweries from around the state to Raleigh in April.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Jatrissa Wooten

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  • North Carolina teen carving own path in music despite family name

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    FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Fayetteville native Durrell Babbs Jr. is on a journey to recognition, through his music.

    Despite the fame and success of his parents, 17-year-old Babbs said he wants people to know him for who he is and his own sound.   

    What You Need To Know

    • Durrell Babbs Jr. released his first song “Christmas Songs” in 2024

    • Babbs is relaunching the song this year 

    • The Fayetteville native says he will release new song in 2026 



    His father is R&B singer Tank, and his mother is Fayetteville radio personality Alysse Stewart. 

    This week, Babbs is relaunching a song he released last year titled “Christmas Songs,” about the holiday and the joy it brings. 

    Through the soulful beat and catchy chorus, Babbs said he wanted to promote feel-good music, especially during the holidays, when families come together and bond.

    He said his music is for all ages, but he really wants to reach the younger generations.

    “I wanted to make something that everybody can resonate with, even though there’s a lot of bad days, there’s always good days to come right after,” Babbs said.

    At just 7 years old, Babbs began piano lessons.

    “And after that, I kept going. I kept learning songs and songs,” he said.

    Many people might assume his inspiration came from his parents, but Babbs said it’s his love for the melody, for the keys, for the rhythm and for what he calls good vibes. 

    “Might not be able to reach out to everybody, but people around the time will still know about it and might try to listen to it. So I might be able to reach everybody in the end,” he said.

    Babbs is carving his own path trying to inspire younger generations to use their talents for good.

    “You got to give the gift, make everybody happy around the world,” he said.

    Babbs said he plans to audition for UNC School of the Arts in Winston-Salem in his senior year. 

    He said he will also release a new song in 2026 and that there might be more holidays songs in the near future.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Jatrissa Wooten

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  • Mom left with questions after death of toddler in state care

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    ROXBORO, N.C. — The mother of a toddler who died in the care of social services said she’s been left with unanswered questions.

    What You Need To Know

    • Latisha Annette Linzsey was indicted on a second-degree murder charge in the death of 1-year-old Kemari Morgan 

    • Linzsey is being held on $300,000 bond

    • She was set to appear in court on Wednesday


    Kemari Morgan, 1, was found unresponsive in his crib May 24, and toxicology testing determined he died as a result of a fatal dose of medications, the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation said.

    Briauna Morgan, Kemari’s mother, said she’s been left in the dark since his death. 

    “I want to know the time of death. I want to know the steps of everything,” Morgan said. “I want to know (what) did you give? Like, what did she say in the interview? Why did you give him so much medication?”

    Latisha Annette Linzsey, 49, who was caring for the toddler, has been charged with second-degree murder in his death. Linzsey was booked into the Person County Detention Center on Monday and was set to appear in court on Wednesday.

    “I feel like I did on May 24 all over again. It was like it hit me real hard. My body felt hot,” Morgan said.

    Morgan said Monday afternoon was the first time in seven months that she heard what the cause of death was.

    “The findings was listed as poison, which he had toxic, too much med medication in his system,” Morgan said.

    She said her son had never been prescribed any medication, and that she was supposed to be notified if medicine was ever given to Kemari.

    Despite that, Morgan said she has no hard feelings toward Linzsey.

    Morgan said she and Linzsey were in communication prior to the May 24 death. But Morgan said that stopped suddenly, and she didn’t know why.

    Morgan said all she wants now is the truth and her family.

    “Justice will be served, but mainly focus on getting my five kids back home,” she said. “They need to be home with me. They need to.” 

    Morgan said her remaining children are with family members and are safe.Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Jatrissa Wooten

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  • N.C. business feels impact of tariff increases before holidays

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    CARRBORO, N.C. — Businesses and customers may be feeling a pinch this holiday season from the Trump administration’s decision earlier this year to raise taxes on imported goods.

    What You Need To Know

    • The National Retail Federation’s holiday forecast predicted retail sales growth of about 4%

    • The organization said people would still spend money – just at higher prices

    • The owner of Ali Cat Toys has said 70% of the products in his store are made in China


    The owner of Ali Cat Toys, Bipin Shah, welcomes each customer. He’s been doing this faithfully for two years now.

    When he first purchased the toy store, Shah said it was a no brainer, although he knew it would come with challenges.

    “The prices of almost everything has increased, I would say, from 10% to 15%,” Shah said.

    That’s because the Trump administration advocated for higher taxes on foreign goods earlier this year.

    Small businesses like Ali Cat are feeling the impact.

    “Anywhere from 90% to 95% of our items have been impacted by the tariffs,” Shah said.

    Shad in an August interview said 70% of the products in his store are made in China.

    This week, he said 85% of the products in the store come from overseas.

    He said the price increases are still up at least 10%, as they were in August.

    “So that is really something that we have to deal with right now,” Shah said.

    Ali Cat Toys has been a community staple for nearly 40 years.

    Shah recently opened a Morrisville location.

    To help his customers, Shah said he’s been trying to use American manufacturers — that way he can keep his products at a reasonable price.

    “If we can get some items that are made in the U.S., we would prefer that. Given that, we do not have to pay the tariff, and then if we do not have to pay the tariff, then we don’t have to increase the prices of those items,” he said.

    Shah said whatever the federal government does regarding small businesses, he will try to be prepared.

    He said Ali Cat Toys will be around for another decade or more.

    The National Retail Federation’s holiday forecast predicted retail sales growth at around 4% this season, even with tariffs causing price uncertainty.

    The report predicted that people would still spend money – just at higher prices.

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Jatrissa Wooten

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  • Member of Muslim political organization speaks up against federal operations

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — The presence of Border Patrol agents in some North Carolina communities has caused numerous people to feel a range of emotions.

    It’s led a few North Carolina Muslim organizations to address the treatment of American Muslims and immigrants as a whole. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Boarder Patrol agents arrived and made arrest around North Carolina 

    • Muslim American Public Affairs Council (MAPAC), Council on American–Islamic Relations North Carolina (CAIR-NC) and Charlotte Muslim Caucus (CMC) wrote a statement criticizing federal operations within the state

    •  CAIR-NC reports violence toward Muslim-Americans has increase since 9/11


    “Features a lot of different parts of the crown on it, but in the center, it features, cover from Mecca, which is the thing that we, you know, pray toward,” Al Rieder, manager of the Council on American Islamic Relations North Carolina, said as he describes a tarp he received as a wedding present.

    It features Muslim landmarks and verses from the Quran – all from a culture he loves and stands for. 

    “I see an injustice, and I try to do my best to help those in need,” he said.

    Rieder, who sympathizes with some of the communities affected by recent Border Patrol raids, says he knows firsthand some of their concerns.

    He feels Muslim Americans have been under attack for years, with tensions increasing since 9/11.

    “I mean, we’ve had people, everything from people spitting on each other and driving away on college campuses to people not being allowed to pray in the parking lot of their business they work at to a whole, amount of things,” Rieder said.

    Just recently, CAIR-NC, along other local Muslim organizations, partnered up to repaint a mosque in Statesville.

    Rieder said this happened after an unknown person vandalized the side of the building. 

    He said the Muslim community is currently in a state of fear. 

    “Afraid to go overseas, they’re afraid to see family. They’re afraid to leave their home. They’re afraid that federal officers are going to come to their home,” he explained.

    Rieder said no one should have to face harassment or intimidation, regardless of where they come from or their faith.

    He said he hopes for a community that stands up to hate, bigotry and discrimination.

    “We can’t let that fear stop us from living our lives,” he said. “At the same time, though, we have to be very protective of ourselves and be rational about how we go about our days.”

    Earlier this week, the Muslim American Public Affairs Council, the Council on American–Islamic Relations North Carolina and Charlotte Muslim Caucus wrote a statement criticizing federal operations within the state. 

    The statement said in part, “North Carolina as a whole has been shaped by newcomers. And we refuse to allow anyone, local or national, to use xenophobia or Islamophobia to divide us or make our neighbors feel unsafe.”

    Follow us on Instagram at spectrumnews1nc for news and other happenings across North Carolina.

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    Jatrissa Wooten

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  • Holly Spring family combines fright and faith

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    HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. — Kids in costumes and candy of all kinds go hand-in-hand with Halloween.

    But what about the children who can’t celebrate the holiday?

    One Holly Springs family is bringing skeletons and charity together by allowing trick-or-treaters to have fun while raising money for others in need.

    What You Need To Know

    • A Holly Springs family is bringing skeletons and charity together

    • The Robertsons created fundraiser Facebook page in 2020

    • Skeltons for St. Jude Facebook group has over 5,000 members with close to 700 homes on the map


    With a flick of a switch a house on Skygrove Drive lights up the area.

    The Holly Springs home has been recognized for years for its spooky display with everything from skeleton pirates, crew members and mermaids.

    “There’s also a lot of like theme-building like all the shipwrecks and stuff. It’s different each year,” said the owner’s son, Gavin Robertson.

    Father and son Jeff and Gavin Robertson created a Facebook page back in 2020 dedicated to helping children and families of St. Jude.

    They partnered with the hospital and before they knew it, Gavin Robertson said hundreds of people took interest.

    He said people began decorating their homes, posting them on the internet, to raise money for St. Jude.

    And with the amount of support they received, he and his dad have made their display bigger and better. 

    “I start building like multiple months before Halloween. So it takes up a while, but it’s definitely worth it,” Gavin Robertson said.

    Today, Skeltons for St. Jude Facebook group has over 5,000 members with close to 700 homes on the map.

    Each year a new monetary goal is set.

    “Since, I guess year one, I think year one. We got, like, 11,000. Just like we’ve rocketed,” Gavin Robertson said.

    This week, the group reached its ultimate goal by raising a little over $1 million over the last 5 years.

    “That’s pretty impressive,” Robertson said.

    He said St. Jude families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food, and it’s because of efforts like this.

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  • Troll hunting: Danish artist brings installation to the Tar Heel State

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — The City of Raleigh is promoting sustainability, imagination and the power of public art.  

    This fall, Danish artist Thomas Dambo is bringing his giant troll art installation to Dix Park. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Danish artist Thomas Dambo is bringing his largest U.S. art installation to Raleigh

    • Seven trolls can be found in the state 

    • Five trolls are in the Oak City, one is in High Point and the other in Charlotte


    Five giant trolls made up of recyclables are being built and spread throughout the park.

    Parts of Dix Park have looked like a construction zone for the last couple of weeks.

    All for two words — giant trolls. 

    One of the trolls being erected at Dix Park in Raleigh by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. (Spectrum News 1/Jatrissa Wooten)

    “I knew what a troll was. I just didn’t know how we were going to build it,” said Habitat for Humanity volunteer Tim Woods.

    Dambo, an artist from Denmark, uses recyclables and nature’s gifts to create masterpieces all over the world.  

    He built the five giant trolls with the help of volunteers from near and far. 

    “Some of my trolls are really tall, so maybe they’re 30 feet tall,” Dambo said.

    The group also created a tail that spans more than 600 feet and will run through the park’s forest.

    “The tail is the most extraordinary thing out here,” said Woods.

    Woods said he’s been working for hours each day for about two weeks.

    Although he isn’t building a home, Woods said trolls are just as fulfilling.

    “I have eight grandkids. So, I can bring them out here and show it to them, explain it to them and tell them, ‘I helped,’” Woods said.

    These installations in other cities have drawn thousands of visitors daily and boosted tourism.

    Raleigh leaders and volunteers believe the same will happen here. 

    “I think it’s going to be a nice tour. An area. It would also allow people to understand and see what a life of a troll is about,” Woods said.

    Dambo said it will take at least an hour to find all five trolls in the park, and that’s all part of the fun behind “troll hunting.”

    These trolls in the Oak City are part of a larger family of seven coming to the Tar Heel state, one in High Point and the other in Charlotte.

    Together, Dambo said this will create his largest U.S. installation to date.

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  • NC State blames Monsanto for building shutdown, multiple personal injury claims

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — N.C. State University filed a lawsuit this week against Monsanto over the contamination in Poe Hall.

    The building was said to be connected to hundreds of cancer cases and other illnesses, which ultimately led to the decision to close it.

    What You Need To Know

    • N.C. State University filed a lawsuit against the chemical company Monsanto on Wednesday

    • The university closed Poe Hall in 2023 after it tested positive for PCB

    • Monsanto said it discontinued its production of bulk industrial PCBs nearly five decades ago


    The university has been back in session for weeks, with students and staff greeting one another on campus.  

    But a former university hallmark is getting the cold shoulder.

    N.C. State closed Poe Hall in 2023, after it tested positive for PCB, a chemical compound that health experts say is toxic and can cause cancer.

    The school filed a lawsuit against the chemical company Monsanto on Wednesday, saying it’s to blame.

    UNC School of Law professor Don Hornstein looked over the lawsuit and said N.C. State wants a declaratory judgment.

    “We want the court to declare that they’re liable, which, among other things, would mean they would have to reimburse us, N.C. State, for any money we may owe the victims, the actual people that may be able to prove they were injured by these PCBs,” Hornstein said. 

    The lawsuit states that the company manufactured the PCBs into the materials used to construct the building decades ago.

    It alleges that Monsanto marketed the PCB mixtures as non-toxic, knew the claim was false, but did not tell the university.

    Hornstein said some of the claims made by the university sound like strict liability for Monsanto.

    “Which means because we’re dealing with these toxic chemicals, they are subject to sort of a unique set of law that makes the person ultimately responsible, like, immediately responsible,” Hornstein said.

    The lawsuit states that expert analysis discovered the PCBs were coming through the building’s HVAC system, resulting in hundreds of cancer cases and other related illnesses.

    Hornstein said N.C. State has a strong case for a new building and any possible liability that may come from personal injury claims.

    “N.C. State definitely has a colorable case. It’s not a slam dunk. Obviously, Monsanto will have its defenses, but on the face of it, it alleged a dozen different ways that it believes that Monsanto is liable,” Hornstein said.

    Hornstein said if this case goes to trial for the full length of time, it could take years.

    Spectrum News 1 reached out to Monsanto, which provided the following statement. 

    “The Company believes these claims lack merit and will respond in court in due course. Monsanto discontinued its production of bulk industrial PCBs nearly five decades ago, conducted hundreds of studies on PCB safety, and provided appropriate warnings to its sophisticated industrial customers based on the state-of-the science at the time. Any PCB-containing building products used in Poe Hall or other buildings on campus were manufactured, sold and installed by sophisticated third-parties, and maintained by the University.”

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  • Business booms for local solar energy company despite ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — Solar is the fastest growing source of electricity in the U.S.

    Data from the Solar Energy Industries Association shows the country generated over 750,000 gigawatt-hours of electricity from solar and wind last year. That’s enough to power more than 70 million homes.

    The industry is facing changes, however, from President Donald Trump’s new federal tax and spending policies. Some for the better, some for the worse.

    What You Need To Know

    • Solar is the fastest growing source of electricity in the U.S.

    • President Donald Trump signed what he calls “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act” in July 2025 that will impact solar companies and customers

    • The Solar Energy Industries Association says the industry will no longer have access to an investment and production tax credit after 2027 under the new law


    Trump signed what he calls “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act” in July.

    Part of that bill changed policies and placed restrictions on energy tax credits for the solar energy industry and its customers.

    The Solar Energy Industries Association said the industry will no longer have access to an investment and production tax credit after 2027 under the new law.

    These two credits are financial incentives to encourage clean energy investment and innovation.

    It might be a shock to some, but Vice President and Director of Sales for N.C. Solar Now Jesse Solomon said he’s witnessed funding cuts before. 

    “We’ve seen a lot of turbulence over the past 15 years, and we’ve always been able to adapt. Right?” Solomon said. “We’ve lost the state tax credit in 2015, and then we’ve lost some of our metering subsidies as well. But we’ve always been able to overcome that adversity up to this point.”

    The residential clean energy credit is also at risk and will be cut at the end of the year.

    This non-refundable tax incentive is for homeowners who installed systems, such as solar panels, batteries and geothermal heat pumps.

    The association said this credit allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the system’s cost from their taxes.

    But Solomon said with North Carolina’s population growth and the demand for power increasing, the solar industry will continue to boom.

    “You know, there are data centers that are going to be built here over the next five years, and we’re in a perfect situation to provide functional power and reliable energy to the grid as well as the centers,” Solomon said.

    Solomon said one thing is for sure — solar energy isn’t going anywhere.

    “I think because the price of power just continues to rise, and as it does, you know, our business allows people to hedge themselves against that power price increase each year,” he explained. “So, we’ll continue to see demand.”

    Solomon said N.C. Solar Now is a small, privately owned business with about 100 employees.

    He says they are “working hard to minimize any layoffs and are cautiously optimistic.”

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  • Apex animal hospital creates fundraiser to honor 10-year-old boat crash victim

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    APEX, N.C. — A local nonprofit vet clinic that serves hundreds of state shelters is getting some much-needed help, but the reason might surprise you.

    Harmony Animal Rescue Clinic launched the Brooklyn Mae Pet Rescue Fund this week.

    It’s a program designed to honor Brooklyn Mae Carroll, a 10-year-old Wake County girl killed this summer when she was hit by a boat on Harris Lake.

    What You Need To Know

    • Harmony Animal Rescue Clinic launched the Brooklyn Mae Pet Rescue Fund

    • 10-year-old Brooklyn Mae Carroll was killed this summer when she was hit by a boat

    • The clinic’s plan is to turn the girl’s $30 gift donation into $30,000 by securing 1,000 donations of $30


    When you enter the Apex clinic, you’re met with a small, decorative, handcrafted box.

    Next to it is a picture of Carroll, bright-eyed and full of hope and optimism.

    The executive director of the clinic, Ericka Basile, said Carroll’s parents gave a donation from the earnings their daughter made from her lemonade stand.

    They had a request on their daughter’s behalf to use that money for the animals.

    “Her parents actually came very, very soon after and donated. Brought this box in which Brooklyn Mae raised $30 (at) a lemonade stand the week before,” Basile said.

    “We all wanted to band together and help them keep her memory alive, because this is something that was close to her heart,” she said.

    Related: 2 accused in deadly Harris Lake boat crash charged with 2nd degree murder

    Basile said she has two children and hearing about Carroll’s story and her passions affected her greatly.

    “I mean, 10 years old, she wants to help pets. She might have even grown up to be a veterinarian here and help us,” Basile said.

    The clinic created the pet rescue fund with the family’s blessing.

    The clinic’s plan is to turn the $30 donation into $30,000 by securing 1,000 donations of $30.

    The money raised will go toward medical care and veterinary services for cats and dogs throughout the state.

    ‘We’re not going to forget her. And all of these animals that are being helped, they’re not going to forget her either,” Basile said. “They don’t even know her, but somehow, out there in the universe, everyone knows it and they’re going to know each other.”

    The clinic will get a plaque made in Carroll’s honor. That way, her spirit, good heart and effort will never be forgotten,” Basile said.

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  • Durham Highway Fire Department encourages people to volunteer

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — Volunteer firefighters make up 65% of the U.S. Fire Service, according to the National Volunteer Fire Council.

    In North Carolina, a number of communities rely on volunteers to respond to all types of emergencies. 

    What You Need To Know

    • National Volunteer Fire Council: Volunteer firefighters make up 65% of the U.S. Fire Service

    • Majority of fire departments in the United States are volunteer departments

    • NVFC launched the national junior firefighter program in 2007


    A majority of fire departments in the United States are volunteer departments.

    From structure and wildland fires to vehicle crashes, medical emergencies and natural disasters, these men and women show up and get to work.

    Durham Highway Fire Department volunteer Craig Dunkley said after he’s done saving lives with the fire department, he heads to his job as a full-time marketing expert.

    “If I have to stay late from a shift, and because of a fire or some situation like that, and I start work late, I’ll just work later in the evening to sort of cover the hours,” Dunkley said.

    Many volunteers work 12 to 16 hours a month depending on the department’s needs. They receive small stipends and benefits, such as a state pension plan.

    Luckily for Dunkley, he doesn’t volunteer for the money. He said he does the job for the community, camaraderie and commitment.

    “My kids always thought it was pretty cool. My wife took a little bit of convincing, because I’d had a busy job beforehand. And then when I started adding this on, she was like, ‘when are you going to be home?’ But we all worked it out,” Dunkley said.

    The National Volunteer Fire Council said a community’s population determines whether it gets a volunteer fire department.

    The agency said large communities with over 100,000 people are protected by departments that consist of primarily paid staff.

    Assistant Chief Mac Schultz said with the growing population in the Triangle, many volunteer departments need more people.

    Dunkley, who began volunteering six years ago, encourages volunteering. 

    “You have to make time not only for being here at the station to run calls and do your duty, but also for training, because we all train to a pretty high standard. There’s a lot of hours that go into that. And also, you have to make time to maintain your own physical fitness,” Dunkley said.

    Durham Highway Fire Department is actively seeking volunteer firefighters.

    All training and certifications will be provided free of charge. Prior training is not needed.

    In addition, the NVFC launched the national junior firefighter program in 2007, and it’s still active.

    The goal is to get more youth interested in the fire service.

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  • Nash County school receives praise from state superintendent

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — Nash Early College High School is one of the many schools achieving academic success.

    The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction released data for Accountability and Testing for North Carolina schools on Wednesday.

    Superintendent Mo Green praised the school, saying the graduation rate is very impressive, and he’s excited to see this school continue to lead the way, even saying it can be one of the best schools in the country.

    What You Need To Know

    • Data for Accountability and Testing for North Carolina schools was released Wednesday

    • Nash Early College High School has a 100% graduation rate

    • The school earned an “A” rating while exceeding growth expectations on the 2025 accountability report


    Principal Thomas McGeachy said he was drawn to the high school’s sense of community, and that is what kept him there.

    “One of the aspects of our school is to make this a welcoming learning environment for all of our school,” McGeachy said. “So, you’re going to see student work displayed in the hallways.

    “This gives them a chance to have a voice,” McGeachy added.

    Nash Early College High School prides itself on being collaborative, safe, inclusive and on allowing students to be self-advocates.

    McGeachy said his son had attended the high school before he was employed there.

    His son was a quiet student, he said, and to see the impact these teachers had on him and now other students, that shows McGeachy that his staff cares.

    He said his staff is top-tier and he wouldn’t expect anything less

    “The district recognizes those EOC teachers who exceed expected growth with the star,” McGeachy said.

    The principal said his students are just as amazing, and the stats don’t lie. He said the high school has a 100% graduation rate.

    Nash Early College High School earned an “A” rating while exceeding growth expectations on the 2025 accountability report.

    Some students even extend their high school career, as the high school offers a 13th grade. Students can even earn an associate’s degree.

    The principal said these are some of the main reasons his high school differs from others in the state.

    “Scholars are going to want to come to school. They want to, they’re going to want to do well when they feel like teachers and staff have their best interests at heart. Again, that ties into not only, graduation rate, but in reducing absenteeism, because if a student feels comfortable in the academic setting, they’re going to want to come to school,” McGeachy said.

    It’s the school’s data-driven approach that is fueling these successes.

    This year marks the sixth year in a row of the high school exceeding growth, and McGeachy said it’s because he and the staff are constantly collecting, analyzing and using various types of data to make decisions about instruction, resource allocation and overall school improvement.

    He said all instructors are involved in this method for the betterment of every student.

    “For those scholars who don’t meet the objective, we then have discussions around this table about what is it that we need to do in order to get them there,” he explained.

    Another interesting fact the principal mentioned is that every Friday students are dismissed early, allowing faculty to use the rest of the day for professional development where they discuss student proficiency data and how they and students can improve. This is again, going back to that data-driven model.  

    Following Wednesday’s meeting, Green shared he is eager to see this data continue to improve as the state continues to work to implement its strategic plan for state schools.

    Green said he is striving to have the best public schools in the nation, and with schools like Nash Early College High School, the goal is achievable.

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  • Education leaders discuss 2024-25 accountability, testing report

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina schools are seeing a three-year high for most standardized tests.

    That’s just one of the highlights the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction shared Wednesday when it released its accountability data.

    North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice “Mo” Green and other school officials shared the findings expressing how schools in the state are doing better, but they also said there is more work to do, saying state schools can be the “best in the nation.”

    What You Need To Know

    • The 2024-25 Accountability and Testing Report for North Carolina schools is on the table

    • According to the report, collectively students scored higher in 12 of 15 math and reading assessments

    • Reading, English II and N.C. math results fell when comparing them with the past school year


    On Wednesday local education leaders spoke to the hard work to promote excellence within each district.

    The release of the 2024-25 Accountability and Testing Report for North Carolina schools is on the table.

    According to the report, collectively students scored higher in 12 of 15 math and reading assessments.

    Chief Academic Officer Stacey Wilson-Norman said only third grade reading, English II and N.C. math results fell when compared with the past school year.

    “We will continue to build on the work that we’re doing with the science of reading. It is a strong foundation but with the adoption of our new standards that you’ll hear more about in the coming months for ELA,” Wilson-Norman said.

    Wilson-Norman said they are also working hard to build a math framework for pre-K through 12th grade.

    “To really begin to think about how high-quality math looks in every single classroom across our state,” Wilson-Norman said.

    The graduation rate improved from the previous year with leaders saying the four-year rate went up to 87.7% That’s up 0.7% and is the highest it’s been in 10 years, and school performance grades continue to show an increase of schools earning an A, B or C.

    School officials said some schools are still struggling, earning a D or F grade, but the number of schools falling behind is decreasing.

    Green said these results stemmed from strategic planning.

    “One was implementing Marzano high relative reliability model. They developed a unified instructional framework based on research and data. They added math and literacy facilitators. They built a safe and supportive and collaborative cultures,” Green said.

    Senior Director of the Office of Accountability and Testing Tammy Howard said the state emphasizes reading comprehension for all students and said it goes beyond the skill of reading

    “They ask students to do things like make inferences from text, to draw conclusions, to determine a main idea, and that is an extension of that,” Howard said.

    According to Howard, nearly 50 fewer schools were marked low-performing in the 2024-25 school year compared with the previous year.

    Green said these scores are a baseline for what’s to come.

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  • UNC Chapel Hill dedicates memorial site to late professor

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    CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — It’s been two years since a shooting on campus claimed the life of a UNC-Chapel Hill professor.

    Colleagues of associate professor Zijie Yan honored his life on the university’s campus with family, students and supporters on Thursday.

    What You Need To Know

    •  UNC Chapel Hill dedicated a memorial site to professor Zijie Yan 

    •  A custom plaque and bench were placed in Caudill Labs courtyard to honor Yan

    •  Two additional benches will be placed in Chapel Hill to honor Yan’s family 


    Dozens gathered to remember Yan, who worked in the applied physical sciences department.

    Two years ago, Yan lost his life at the university’s Caudill Labs. That location will now serve as a permanent memorial site in his memory.

    UNC Chapel Hill Chancellor Lee H. Roberts said this tragedy has taught the university lessons for the future regarding safety and community.

    “The silver lining is the way in which our community has come together in the aftermath. And use this tragedy as a way to learn some lessons about how to prevent something similar happening in the future. And also to reinforce the bonds that the tie us together as a community,” Roberts said.

    Friends took to the podium to say a few words about Yan’s character and love of science.

    Some also paid their respects to the plaque and bench set up to honor the professor.  

    Chair of the Department of Applied Physical Sciences Theo Dingemans said he loved having Yan in his department. He said he felt Yan’s passion for science and his students during every encounter they had.

    “It’s the joy that he brought to the department. He was very quiet, but very observant, extremely smart. Really good with his students,” Dingemans said.

    Two more benches will be created this semester. One for Yan’s family in Chapel Hill and one for his parents in China.

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  • Habitat for Humanity lends hand to Orange County residents after Chantal

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — It’s been more than a month since Tropical Storm Chantal swept over parts of North Carolina. People are continuing to rebuild and repair their lives and homes. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Habitat for Humanity of Orange County is fixing 12 Orange County homes damaged by Tropical Storm Chantal

    • The organization repairs and cleans up homes for low-income families after big storms

    • Repair crews help with everything from foundation or structural repairs to HVAC, electrical and plumbing


    Habitat for Humanity repair crews were hard at work recently fixing 12 Orange County homes damaged by Chantal. 

    Crews last week focused on four homes in the Weatherhill Pointe community in Carrboro.

    “That has been really a shock. And I think, like, I have PTSD right now because we didn’t expect it,” said resident Chea Terrell.   

    Terrell said that in her 19 years here, there had never been extreme flooding like this.

    Although she lives near a community pond, Terrell said she was told the area was not prone to flooding, and because of that, she canceled her flood insurance almost 8 years ago. 

    “FEMA declared the area a non-flooding area, and now here we are, we can’t rebuild the house,” said Terrell.

    Habitat for Humanity of Orange County repaired at least 25 homes last year in North Carolina, all of them a part of its home repair program.

    The organization repairs and cleans up homes for low-income families after big storms.

    “Everything was thrown out, everything from cabinets to clothes to everything. Appliances. Everything was gone,” said Terrell.

    Terrell said until the work is done, she and her husband are staying with friends. Having survived the storm, she’s thankful and looks forward to rebuilding her life with her family in a new house.

    “We didn’t know where to get the money to repair the house. So when Habitat came, it was a blessing,” said Terrell.  

    Repair crews help with everything from foundation or structural repairs to HVAC, electrical and plumbing.

    Habitat for Humanity said it’s continuing other outreach projects as it focuses on repairs from Chantal.

    These repairs can take several months, and the entire project in Orange County will take about 2 years to complete.

     

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  • Wake County chief judge shares early voting process for poll workers

    Wake County chief judge shares early voting process for poll workers

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    With Election Day being just a week away, Wake County has been training poll workers to make sure voting goes smoothly for everyone. Early voting continues through Saturday afternoon.

    What You Need To Know

    • Early voting ends Nov. 2

    • The general election is Nov. 5

    • Residents can choose whether to vote on Election Day or during the early voting period



    Richard Heinz is the chief judge at Lake Lynn early voting site in Wake County. In that role, he makes sure his team is properly trained and well versed in the rules, regulations and laws of early voting. He has been helping with elections for more than two decades.

    This year, he is supervising nearly 60 poll workers at the Lake Lynn site. 

    Wake County has 22 early voting sites this year, and there are hundreds throughout the state. North Carolina is seeing a huge interest in casting ballots before Nov. 5. 

    “The worst has been an hour, but average wait time [is] 30 to 60 minutes,” Heinz said.

    In Wake County, poll workers must work a morning or an afternoon shift during early voting.

    Heinz said there are at least 30 people working per shift to accommodate the mass amount of people coming to vote. 

    “The training we get helps us tremendously,” said Heinz.

    Workers must undergo extensive training. 

    Being a poll worker is an important job focused on keeping the election process secure, so workers have thorough training to learn about the process for either early voting or the general election, including a class. 

    “We spend a minimum of three hours in class,” Heinz said.

    Heinz said the big early voting numbers so far are great, but for him this election season is about serving the community and lending a hand. 

    “We are able to take care of people,” said Heinz.

    People interested in working the polls are advised to contact their local Board of Elections office to sign up.

    Find voting resources here.

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  • Carolina-based organization helps relieve patient stress during cancer journey

    Carolina-based organization helps relieve patient stress during cancer journey

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    Three kids under the age of 19 are diagnosed with cancer in both North and South Carolina every day and more than 700 are diagnosed every year, according to Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas.

    Children’s Cancer of the Carolina’s provide resources, a community and compassion to children with cancer and their families. The organization also provides emotional and financial support.


    James Walter, 15, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive type of cancer.

    “I was diagnosed with early T-cell precursor lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma,” James said.

    The discovery left the Walter family shocked and in denial.

    “I was thinking, I never smoked and I never vaped,” James said.

    James is cancer free now. He finished treatment in June but said in 2021, his life changed in an instant. 

    It all started from what he believed was a fever. 

    “I woke up and I was sweating a ton,” James said.  

    He ended up in the intensive care unit with doctors having to take two bone marrow biopsies. The results showed COVID-19 and leukemia.

    For James, the most difficult part of his diagnosis was knowing that he wasn’t going to be able to do the things he loved, like playing basketball or football.

    For his mother, Maureen Walter, the hardest part was knowing her son had a 50-50 chance to live.

    “No parent, no person wants to hear that their child has leukemia,” Maureen Walter said.

    For two and a half years, James was in and out of the hospital for chemotherapy treatments.

    In May of 2022, after his fourth bone marrow biopsy, the Walter family got the news they were praying for. 

    “It was clear,” Maureen Walter said.

    The road wasn’t easy, but Maureen said she’s thankful for the village that helped her family. She was thankful especially for Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas.

    “They provided so much assistance when James got diagnosed,” Maureen Walter said. “You don’t even have a clue; you can’t fathom what those costs are unless you are thrown into this situation.”

    Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas will help more than 2,400 children and their families this year.

    Even after a child or teen is considered cancer free or in remission, they continue to be a part of the program until they’re 21.

    Children’s Cancer Partners of the Carolinas help cover costs of meals, hospital visits, parking and gas for families.

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  • N.C. man challenges death sentence through repealed Racial Justice Act

    N.C. man challenges death sentence through repealed Racial Justice Act

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    RALEIGH, N.C. — A Raleigh man and nearly 100 others sentenced to death in North Carolina are hoping to get their sentences overturned as part of the state’s repealed Racial Justice Act.

    A hearing was held Monday for 37-year-old Hassan Bacote, a Black man convicted of murder and sentenced to death in Johnston County by a majority-white jury in 2009.

    The hearings began last week with Bacote’s legal team claiming a pattern of discrimination in jury selection in Johnston County and across North Carolina.

    What You Need To Know

    • Expert historians took the stand Monday in Hassan Bacote’s effort to have his death sentence overturned

    • Samuel Sommers of Tufts University described how racial bias can affect decision-making in the criminal justice system

    • The state’s Racial Justice Act, which was repealed in 2013, allowed those on death row to challenge their sentence if race played a significant role in the judgment

    Expert historians Samuel Sommers from Tufts University and Crystal Sanders, a professor at Emory University and a Johnston County native, both testified about how there can be racial discrimination in the legal system — even if it’s subtle.

    Bacote is looking to get off death row through the Racial Justice Act, a law passed in 2009 then revoked in 2013. It allowed those on death row to challenge their sentence if race played a significant role in the judgment.

    Executive director of the Center for Death Penalty Litigation Gretchen Engel says the RJA was about dealing with covert discrimination.

    “That sort of subtle, it’s under the radar,” Engel said.

    In 2020, the North Carolina Supreme Court ruled that all lawsuits brought under the RJA before its repeal could still move forward.

    “My hope is that people understand the truth is being revealed, and that they not look away,” Engel said.

    Samuel Sommers took the stand to explain how racial bias can have an impact on decision-making in schools, the workplace and the criminal justice system.

    Defense attorney Ken Rose says these expert testimonies are vital in hearings like this because studies show racial discrimination does happen.

    “Those studies all converged to suggest that prosecutors do, in fact, use race, sometimes not consciously, sometimes unconsciously, to exclude African American jurors,” Rose said.

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