ReportWire

Tag: Sarah Rudlang

  • N.C.’s 2026 economic outlook preview shows strength, economist says

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. — Last-minute holiday shoppers filed into ABC stores and retail centers across the state Wednesday, many feeling the weight of higher prices as they wrapped up their holiday purchases.

    But even as inflation, tariffs and rising insurance rates have strained budgets this year, one economist says North Carolina may be heading into 2026 on stronger footing than many expect.

    What You Need To Know

    • The U.S. economy grew at a 4.3% annual rate in the third quarter of 2025, according to new Bureau of Economic Analysis data, driven by consumer spending, exports and government spending

    • Prices also continued rising, with the broad index for gross domestic purchases increasing during the quarter, underscoring the inflation pressures North Carolina families reported during holiday shopping

    • Several key inflation measures are up about a full percentage point year over year, while wages have not kept pace and businesses are passing along higher tariff-related costs to consumers

    • Despite national economic uncertainty, economist Michael Walden says North Carolina remains in a strong position heading into 2026, with the Triangle outperforming state and national trends; his full economic outlook report is expected early next year


    “It’s been a tough year for a lot of families,” said Ricky Stevens, who was picking up holiday beverages in Fayetteville. “People stressed out with jobs, short hours, some jobs closing. They want to see their own family and take a social drink or whatever.”

    Other shoppers said it’s not just holiday items, but everyday essentials that feel more expensive.

    “You get in line and you’re paying like $50 more than you used to,” said Aleisa Washington.

    For Steve Stevenson, the strain is part of a longer pattern.

    “Things have been kicked down the road for a long time,” he said. “Somebody’s gotta pay the price eventually, and unfortunately, it’s us right now.”

    Inflation up, wages lagging behind

    A new economic report released this week shows several key inflation measures rising a full percentage point year over year, with wages failing to keep pace, a trend that worries families heading into the new year.

    “The way it impacts people is not so much in whether they can buy things, but whether their salaries keep up with those prices,” said Michael Walden, an economist at North Carolina State University. “And we have seen that not happening for a lot of people.”

    Tariffs still raising costs for consumers

    Walden says another factor affecting household budgets is tariffs on imported goods, including many alcoholic beverages.

    “American businesses have been paying these billions of dollars that are going into the tariff fund,” Walden said. “And they’re increasingly passing those on to consumers.”

    He noted that the holidays are typically the busiest time of year for alcohol sales, and some shoppers temporarily put aside cost concerns for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.

    “People tend to put those cost concerns aside,” he said. “This is a time for celebration for family, for friends, for the end of the year.”

    North Carolina’s economy remains resilient

    Despite the challenges, Walden says his early analysis shows North Carolina is in a stronger position than much of the country heading into 2026. He is preparing his annual economic outlook report, which will be released early next year.

    “I’ve been doing this for almost 50 years,” he said. “North Carolina always looks better on virtually every metric. And here in the Triangle, probably another step higher than that.”

    Walden says the state’s steady population growth, diversified industries and resilient job market continue to set it apart.

    “We are in a good place to weather some of these economic challenges here in North Carolina,” he said, “and especially in the Triangle.”

    Looking ahead

    As families celebrate Christmas and look toward the new year, Walden says cautious optimism may be justified, even with rising prices still affecting the cost of daily life.

    His full 2026 economic outlook presentation is expected to be released in the coming weeks.

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

     

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • Why college students should consider renters insurance

    Why college students should consider renters insurance

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. – As college students get settled into campus housing across North Carolina this week, the state insurance commissioner is sharing advice to protect them and their property: Get renters insurance.

    What You Need To Know

    • A recent report from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners shows 35% of Generation Z adults have cellphone protection plans, but only 21% have renters’ insurance

    •  North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey says insurance can protect property, provide medical benefits and more

    •  Causey says renters insurance is one of the most affordable types of coverage, costing $10-$25 per month



    According to North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey, this type of insurance is not a luxury but a necessity for students living away from home.

    He says renters insurance covers more than just personal belongings in the event of fire or theft. It offers protection against a range of issues that students might not initially consider.

    “If you don’t have it, you’re going to have to pay for it out of your pocket,” Causey said. “It has medical expenses, some liabilities. If you have to leave because a pipe breaks or something like that, you have to get out of the housing. It will pay for additional housing costs, restaurant meals, hotel bills, all sorts of things that we don’t think about.”

    In addition to covering the cost of damaged or stolen items, renter’s insurance can be a lifesaver in emergencies.

    “If you have somebody that comes to visit you in your room and they’ve been partying a little too much and they hit their head on the cabinet and they have to have stitches, these things will actually pay for a trip to urgent care, pay for minor medical expenses,” Causey said.

    He says it can also provide liability coverage if accidents occur, such as breaking a window or causing other damage that leads to a legal dispute.

    “This is the most inexpensive insurance there is,” Causey said. “For a basic policy, you’re looking at maybe $10 to $12 a month. Even if you have a top-notch $300,000 coverage, it would be in the neighborhood of maybe $20 to $25 a month.”

    A recent survey from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners found 35% of Generation Z adults have cellphone protection plans, but only 21% have renters insurance.

    For students worried about the cost, Causey reassures that the benefits far outweigh the minimal expense. “It’s a bargain,” he said. “I would highly recommend renter’s insurance because your landlord’s policy won’t cover your stuff.”

    Causey suggests taking a simple inventory of your belongings to understand the value of what you have.

    “Just go around the room with your cellphone and take a picture or video of everything you own,” he said. “It will add up much quicker than you think if you try to put a dollar value on that.”

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • Top tips for a healthy school year: vaccines, hygiene and more

    Top tips for a healthy school year: vaccines, hygiene and more

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. – Parents and guardians are gearing up for kids to head back to school, but with the return to class comes the exposure to more people, which often results in a rise in respiratory illnesses, including flu and COVID-19. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Students return to school this month after summer break

    • Emergency rooms in North Carolina are seeing an uptick in respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, which are expected to grow with the return of students in schools

    • Dr. Kitty O’Hare with Duke Primary Care Pediatrics says the best thing parents can do is to consult a pediatrician or health care provider


    To set kids up for success, Dr. Kitty O’Hare, the senior medical director for Duke Primary Care Pediatrics, shared advice for parents and guardians. 

    “One of the best things that parents can do is to check in with their pediatrician or health care provider to make sure that their kids are as up to date as possible on vaccines,” she said. 

    O’Hare says the seasonal flu vaccine and most up-to-date COVID vaccines should be available shortly, and it’s best to talk with a health care provider about the best vaccine regimen for children. 

    Beyond vaccines, O’Hare suggests teaching children of all ages how to protect themselves. 

    “Washing hands. It’s a great skill that everybody can learn, even our toddlers and preschoolers,” she said. “And of course, if you’re feeling unwell… let’s be staying home and away from other people.” 

    She also shared health tips for students going to college for the first time. 

    “Going away to college is such an exciting time,” she said. “It’s often the first time that our young adults really have the opportunity to take ownership of their health.” 

    “Sleep is just so important. Sleep helps our brains to function well, helps us to perform well in the classroom and get good grades,” O’Hare said. “And for mental health, sleep is just crucial. So helping your teen develop those good sleep habits.”

    She also says nutrition and exercise are key for maintaining good mental and physical health while in college and beyond. 

    “Whether it’s walking, swimming, biking, yoga, all kinds of healthy movements will help support your brain health and make your mental health more resilient,” she said. 

     

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • Protecting youth online: Officials address rising sextortion threat

    Protecting youth online: Officials address rising sextortion threat

    [ad_1]

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As families across North Carolina embrace the freedom of summer break, officials are sounding the alarm about a disturbing trend: the rise in online sextortion cases targeting teens.

    According to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, tips related to these cases have more than tripled from 2019 to 2022, and a continued upward trajectory is expected this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • Internet activity can increase among kids and teens during the summer away from school, leading to heightened opportunities for online predatory behavior targeting youth

    • Tips related to online sextortion cases in North Carolina have more than tripled from 2019 to 2022, according to the State Bureau of Investigation

    • U.S. Attorney Dena King shares tips and resources for parents and guardians to keep kids safe, including monitoring their devices and having frequent conversations about the topic


    U.S. Attorney Dena King, the top federal prosecutor for the Western District of North Carolina, says her office sees cases of predatory behaviors across all social media, messaging features on games and other online platforms.

    “What predators seek to do is be able to gain trust… oftentimes they pose as that child’s peer, or they pretend to be another child,” King said. “Generally, predators target children who are young, typically teenagers, but increasingly we’re seeing that predators are targeting young people at younger and younger ages.”

    King said parents should be proactive in safeguarding children online.

    “What parents and guardians should do [is] really have conversations with their young people, and we would encourage them to have those conversations often and frequently,” King said. “Just having that conversation one time is not going to be sufficient.”  

    For younger children, she advises parents to establish clear guidelines on acceptable online behavior and monitor their digital interactions closely.

    “They should monitor their children’s devices,” she said. “Children should be kind of encouraged to leave those devices in common places throughout the home. And then they should really just limit the amount of time that young people actually have exposure to these online tools.”

    Even seemingly innocent platforms like gaming apps can harbor risks.

    “Parents need to educate themselves about privacy settings and ensure their children understand the dangers of sharing personal information online,” King added.

    As children grow older and gain more independence online, King urged guardians to educate teens about the perils of sextortion and the importance of setting boundaries. She advises parents to stress the permanence of digital content and the risks associated with sharing intimate photos.

    King also underscored the need for teens to verify the authenticity of online acquaintances and to be vigilant for signs of grooming or exploitation.

    She urged parents and guardians to watch for behavioral changes that could signal distress in children, such as withdrawal, anger or anxiety.

    If you suspect online enticement or exploitation of a child, alert law enforcement or file a report with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678 or report.cybertip.org.

    Learn more about the U.S. Attorney’s Office Project Safe Childhood initiative and find more information and resources for parents here.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • Behind the scenes of Operation Dry Water on N.C. lakes and waterways

    Behind the scenes of Operation Dry Water on N.C. lakes and waterways

    [ad_1]

    JORDAN LAKE, N.C. – Fourth of July festivities continue on lakes and waterways this weekend, with safety remaining a top priority for authorities during Operation Dry Water, an annual crackdown on impaired boating.

    What You Need To Know

    • Operation Dry Water is a national campaign involving local, state and federal law enforcement, targeting impaired boaters

    • A driver’s alcohol limit cannot legally exceed more than 0.08, which is the same as driving a car

    • Last year, officers made 40 arrests for boating under the influence (BUI) in North Carolina

    • According to wildlife officials, there have been 65 boating incidents so far in 2024, resulting in 10 deaths



    According to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, there have been 65 reported boating incidents resulting in 10 fatalities this year, prompting heightened vigilance over the holiday weekend.

    This annual initiative, now in full swing, aims to prevent accidents caused by impaired boating.

    Wildlife Officers Kirby Lambert and Jacob Pattison are at the forefront of this effort, patrolling the waters to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

    “A lot of people, when they see blue lights and a boat coming to them, two guys in a uniform, you can see they kind of get a little scared. A little like, ‘What are they stopping me for?’ But we try to treat people with respect,” Lambert said.

    In North Carolina, boating under the influence laws are strictly enforced, mirroring regulations for driving a car. Boaters are prohibited from operating a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, and violations can lead to serious legal consequences.

    Lambert says the laws are critical.

    “If you’re out here boating under the influence, you can potentially risk lives of others, the passengers on your vessel, people working out here or just ordinary families enjoying the lake,” he said.

    Operation Dry Water isn’t just about enforcement; it’s also about education and awareness.

    Local, state and federal agencies, and advocacy groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving, are collaborating to spread the message of responsible boating. Ollie Jeffers, a chapter leader with MADD, shared her motivation behind her involvement.

    “I’ve been doing it for 27 years. It’s just once I got started, it’s hard to stop because it’s such a rewarding opportunity,” Jeffers said.

    She recalled a Fourth of July incident when a woman in her community was hit and killed by a drunken driver while on her way home from celebrating Independence Day with her daughter in Raleigh.

    “When I say devastation… Devastation. Because they, the family… can you imagine just celebrating? Everybody’s just having a great time and then you get the call and say your mom was killed by a drunk driver,” Jeffers said.

    The additional law enforcement presence will remain heightened through July 6.

    Wildlife officers will be conducting safety checks, ensuring boats are equipped with up-to-date safety gear and life jackets for all passengers, including children under 13 who are required to wear them at all times.

     

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • Pride month sheds light on LGBTQ+ mental health struggles

    Pride month sheds light on LGBTQ+ mental health struggles

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. — As June rolls in, so does Pride Month: a time of celebration, advocacy and reflection on LGBTQ+ rights around the state and world. The annual commemoration recognizes those who identify as LGBTQ+, community members as well as supporters and allies.

    Amid the rainbow-hued festivities lies a reminder of the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly concerning mental health.

    What You Need To Know

    • June is Pride Month, a time to commemorate and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and allies
    • This year marks 55 years since the Stonewall Uprising, which was a series of riots in 1969 over police action against the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City
    • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found 41% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously consider suicide, and 56% of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care were not able to get it
    • Jami Dumler, a licensed clinical social worker and regional clinic director of Thriveworks, shares tips and resources below to help address LGBTQ+ mental health concerns

    Jami Dumler, a licensed clinical social worker and regional director of Thriveworks, said she chose to specialize in LGBTQ+ issues after learning more about discrimination and, in many cases, trauma the marginalized community endures.

    According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 41% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously consider suicide and 56% of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care were not able to get it.

    She said there are several complex factors that exacerbate mental health challenges among the LGBTQ+ community, including the compounding effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, a surge in legislation regarding the LGBTQ+ community and pervasive discrimination.

    Despite those obstacles, Dumler said times like Pride Month help to outline pathways to support and resilience.

    “Pride month has a couple of important pieces to it. One of the pieces is just increasing overall awareness as well as representation, advocacy in both national and local communities that increases support, knowledge and action towards positive change,” Dumler explained.

    Dumler recommended several organizations that offer a variety of support to those who may need it.

    “There are a couple of amazing organizations out there,” Dumler said. “There is The Trevor Project … they have resources for information, advocacy, even a crisis support line.”

    “There are also local and national chapters of PFLAG, which offers support groups for LGBTQ+ individuals as well as their family and friends wanting to learn more and better support them,” Dumler said. “And finally, there is WPATH, specifically for transgender health that can give you a great provider network of trusted, endorsed sources for different health and mental health care.”

    Ultimately, Dumler says Pride Month isn’t merely a celebration; it’s a testament to resilience, an affirmation of identity and a rallying cry for a future where mental health disparities are eradicated, and every individual finds solace, acceptance and belonging.

     

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • National Police Week pays tribute to law enforcement

    National Police Week pays tribute to law enforcement

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. – As North Carolina comes together in mourning, communities across the country will pay tribute to law enforcement officers during National Police Week from May 12 to 18.

    What You Need To Know

    • National Police Week is May 12-18

    • It’s a time to pay tribute to men and women in law enforcement who dedicate their lives to protect and serve their communities, at times making the ultimate sacrifice 

    • 56 law enforcement officers have been killed in the line of duty so far in 2024, according to N.C. State Highway Patrol Sgt. Marcus Bethea

    • The 36th annual candlelight vigil will be at 8 p.m. Monday on the National Mall 

    Each year, hundreds of names of officers killed in the line of duty are engraved on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. The 36th annual candlelight vigil will be Monday on the National Mall at 8 p.m.

    On April 29, four names were added to that list of fallen officers, when three members of the U.S. Marshals Service fugitive task force and a Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer came under fire at a home in Charlotte.

    North Carolina State Highway Patrol Sgt. Marcus Bethea says it’s been a heartbreaking time for law enforcement in the state and across the country.

    “It’s been a tough month. It’s been a tough year. And, just looking at some statistics earlier, 56 law enforcement officers have been killed so far in the line of duty in 2024 — 56. Nearly half of those happened in the month of April,” Bethea said. “So, it has been a very active year for law enforcement. A lot of grief, a lot of death, a lot of the realities of what this profession can sometimes entail.”

    The officers killed in April were trying to serve a warrant to 39-year-old Terry Clark Hughes, who was wanted in Lincoln County for possession of a firearm by a felon and two counts of felony flee to elude, according to the Lincoln County sheriff.

    According to authorities, Hughes emerged and began shooting at them before he was shot and killed in the front yard of the house.

    In addition to the four killed, four other officers were injured.

    Remembering the fallen

    Thomas Weeks Jr. was a 13-year veteran of the U.S. Marshals Service who had served in the Western District of North Carolina for the last 10 years. He is survived by his widow and four children.

    William “Alden” Elliott and Sam Poloche both worked for the North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections for 14 years, starting out as probation and parole officers and later working as part of the special operations and intelligence unit assigned to the U.S. Marshals Carolinas regional fugitive task force.

    Elliot is survived by his widow and one child.

    Poloche leaves behind a widow and two children.

    Officer Joshua Eyer had served with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department for six years in the North Tryon Division and was a member of the 178th Recruit Class, according to police. He is survived by his widow and 3-year-old son.

    “It’s hurtful,” Bethea said. “As an agency, we’re hurting to see these officers in Charlotte go through this. Definitely really hits home. And we are certainly praying for them and thinking about them.”

    The final funeral of the four officers will be on Monday for Paloche in a private service at First Baptist Church in Charlotte.

    The heartbreak comes at the start of a week that honors the sacrifice law enforcement officers make to protect and serve their community.

    “It’s something we wish we didn’t have to do,” Bethea said. “But again, it’s that wake-up call. It’s that opportunity for us to understand the reality of what can happen in this line of work, but also, and more importantly, to honor the life and mission of those that came before us and made that sacrifice.” 

     

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • Miss America’s Teen shares tips for young entrepreneurs

    Miss America’s Teen shares tips for young entrepreneurs

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. – The pandemic inspired a record number of people to start small businesses, but the steps to get an idea off the ground can be the hardest part.

    The 2024 Miss America’s Teen, Hanley House, a North Carolina native, started her own small business when she was 12, making custom designs on T-shirts, pajamas and more, using a vinyl cutting machine.

    What You Need To Know

    • National Small Business Week is April 28 through May 4

    • It’s a time to celebrate and recognize entrepreneurs and small business owners in the U.S.

    • 2024 Miss America’s Teen and former Miss North Carolina Teen, Hanley House, focuses on entrepreneurship in her community service initiative Passion to Profit

    • She shares her five steps to help young people start their own businesses

    “When I was around, you know, 10 years old, I was auditioning and being accepted into some of the most respected ballet schools in the country,” House said. “So, of course, like any extracurricular activity, it was a little bit costly. And so, if I wanted a way to pursue my dreams, I would have to help pay for it.”

    House, now 16, credits the experience for helping her gain real-world skills that she now uses to help others through her community service initiative Passion to Profit.

    “I’m educating students with my five steps to becoming a successful entrepreneur nationwide. These five steps include finding your passion, marketing your passion, learning the true meaning of profit, community reinvestment and then lastly, taking action,” House said.

    National Small Business Week this year runs April 28 through May 4.

    Beyond business, House is inspirational for taking the national title, when just six months before she was new to the pageant world when she became Miss North Carolina’s Teen.

    “Having this experience has been amazing. I’ve been able to keep building my real-world skills, for example, interview skills and, you know, learning all the things about the Miss America opportunity,” House said. “I’ve earned $80,000 in scholarship funds through the Miss America opportunity, and I’m so thankful for that. And so I can’t wait to keep making relationships as Miss America’s Teen.”

    Hanley says she hopes to continue on her entrepreneurial journey, have her own small business and one day become an interior designer.

    She is dually enrolled as a junior at Cleveland High School in Johnston County and taking college courses through Wake Technical Community College.

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • AAA shares tips for smooth spring break travels

    AAA shares tips for smooth spring break travels

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. – Snag your sunhat and put school on the shelf, because spring break season is getting underway across North Carolina, and AAA predicts a surge in travelers this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • AAA predicts 44% more North Carolinians are planning to take vacations this year than in 2023

    • AAA reports the most popular period to travel is from March through July

    • Experts recommend planning trips and not waiting for last-minute deals

    According to AAA Carolina’s Tiffany Wright, the upcoming spring break marks the beginning of a surge in travel for 2024.

    “We expect that spring break is going to kick off what is already a huge travel season for 2024,” Wright said. “After a recent survey, we found that 89% of North Carolinians are planning to travel this year, which is a 44% increase from last year.”

    With travel on the horizon, people are exploring various modes of transportation, including air, sea and road travel. Wright says popular destinations domestically include Florida, while international travel to cities like Rome, Paris and Dublin have seen a notable uptick.

    However, Wright advises travelers not to procrastinate when it comes to booking.

    “It’s going to be busy out there,” she said. “So I think it’s very important to book now. Don’t wait around for those last-minute deals.”

    Booking early not only ensures availability but also helps travelers navigate any unforeseen challenges they may encounter along the way. She also says the expertise of travel agents can be particularly beneficial.

    Despite the excitement surrounding travel, there’s a sobering reality at the gas pump. Wright warns that motorists can expect to pay a bit more this year, with gas prices 5 to 10 cents higher per gallon than the previous year. Factors such as low temperatures leading to increased road trips have contributed to the rise in prices.

    As North Carolinians gear up for spring break adventures, the advice is clear: Plan ahead, book early and be prepared for a memorable travel experience. 

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link

  • Booze It & Lose It campaign set for week ending in St. Patrick’s Day

    Booze It & Lose It campaign set for week ending in St. Patrick’s Day

    [ad_1]

    RALEIGH, N.C. – You may be feeling lucky this St. Patrick’s Day, but law enforcement all across North Carolina doesn’t want motorists to take any chances by driving impaired.

    The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s St. Patrick’s Day Booze It & Lose It campaign runs March 11-17. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Increased law enforcement will be out on the roads for a Booze It & Lose It campaign March 11-17

    • The campaign is one of at least a dozen put on by the Governor’s Highway Safety Program to reduce crashes and promote highway safety awareness

    • Five people were killed in alcohol-related crashes on North Carolina roads during St. Patrick’s Day last year, GHSP Director Mark Ezzell says 


    The Governor’s Highway Safety Program coordinates at least a dozen campaigns each year to promote traffic safety along North Carolina roads.

    While the focus of this campaign is on impaired drivers, GHSP Director Mark Ezzell says his agency focuses on all things traffic safety during the year.

    “We also try to do similar campaigns around speeding or seatbelt use or things of that nature to help address issues around driving safety in North Carolina,” Ezzell said. “We know that last year regarding alcohol-related crashes, we lost 357 people on our roads and we lost five during the course of the St Patrick’s Day week, this time last year.”

    You’ll not only see increased law enforcement presence, but also additional DWI checkpoints.

    That presence will be seen on rural roads as well, areas Ezzell says have become dangerous with increased growth across the state.

    “Surrounding metropolitan areas that are growing. And as a result, those rural roads and those local areas are growing. And sometimes the roads were built not for that kind of population explosion that we see,” Ezzell said.

    “If you look at the statistics, rural roads are two and a half times more likely to have a traffic-related fatality than urban,” he said.

    Ezzell says the campaign will work to keep people safe across the state while educating the public on responsible behavior both on and off the roadways. 

    [ad_2]

    Sarah Rudlang

    Source link