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  • USDA removes ‘moderation’ from dietary guidelines on alcohol

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    GREENSBORO, N.C. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture updated dietary guidelines for Americans this week.

    What You Need To Know

    • According to a 2025 Gallup Poll alcohol use is at its lowest record ever at 54%

    • Previous alcohol suggested limiting intake to two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less in a day for women, while the update reads to “consume less alcohol for better overall health”

    • Dr. Beth Mayer-Davis, a former member of USDA Scientific Advisory Committee for dietary guidelines, said the language could send a confusing message



    One of the most notable changes involved removing language defining moderate alcohol consumption.

    “Alcohol is a social lubricant that brings people together in the best-case scenario. I don’t think you should drink alcohol, but it does allow people an excuse to bond and socialize,” said Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Dr. Mehmet Oz.

    From 2020 to 2025 the USDA guidelines recommended drinking in moderation.

    “Moderation” was defined as limiting intake to two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less in a day for women.

    The new guidelines simply reads “consume less alcohol for better overall health.”

    UNC Chapel Hill Dean of the Graduate School and Professor of Nutrition Medicine Dr. Beth Mayer-Davis served on the USDA’S Scientific Advisory Committee for the dietary guidelines in the past.

    She said the updated language is too vague. 

    “I think that it was a serious omission to not provide more information about what limiting alcohol intake looks like and why that’s important, especially with regard to risk for common cancers that people care about, like breast cancer and colon cancer. People care about those diseases. People worry about what might be contributing to risk for cancer,” the professor explained. 

    Mayers-Davis said the World Health Organization has long classified alcohol as a carcinogen, linking it to seven types of cancer. 

    “People need to have the information so that they can make informed decisions. And alcohol is not less of a worry. It’s more of a worry because the more we learn about alcohol, the more we learn that it is contributing to risk for cancer and other outcomes,” Mayers Davis said.

    The latest state Alcohol and Related Harms Data also shows North Carolina experienced more than 5,800 deaths, 66,000 emergency department visits, and a loss of $15 billion due to alcohol use in 2023.

    According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human services it was one of the highest on record.

    But since then the number of people drinking nationwide has been declining. 

    According to a recent Gallup poll, young people’s perception of alcohol being bad for health rose to a record high of 66% in 2025.

    And they are not the only ones calling it quits.

    The same poll showed that the overall number of people reporting to drink fell from 62% in 2023 to its lowest record ever at 54%.

    Bars on Spring Garden Street like Bites and Pints have long been a hub for college students, including longtime customer and new general manager Allan Leondro.

    “Throughout college I would go over to, you know, different places around, Spring Garden to grab drinks, grab food,” Leandro said. 

    He and his Operating Manager Ronny Real said they have seen the shift in the alcohol industry in real time.

    “I noticed throughout the years the Gen Z, or younger, crowd definitely has decreased. During this time, it’s became more about health awareness. Basically, you know, just trying to balance out your lifestyle,” Real explained. 

    The managers said they have new promotions and deals to help draw out more people.

    In the meantime they believe their customers will continue to drink responsibly no matter the guidelines.

    “People have to be have to have a good balance. And I think that’s something that we’re seeing nowadays. Gen Z and younger people are considering that a little bit more drink, drink socially every now and then. Make memories with it. Use that as a space for you to have minimal, meaningful conversations,” Leandro said.

    The new guidelines also advise people with a family history of alcoholism to be mindful of alcohol consumption and associated addictive behavior. 

    It advises  people who should completely avoid alcohol include: pregnant women, people recovering from alcohol use disorder, anyone unable to control the amount they drink, people taking medications and people with medical conditions that can interact with alcohol. 

    Read the USDA guidelines in full here.

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    Sasha Strong

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  • How to address speech delays in ‘COVID kindergartners’

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Most children born during the COVID pandemic are now in their first year of school, often being referred to as “COVID kindergartners.”

    Research from the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that experiences in early childhood can have long-term impacts on development and growth.

    What You Need To Know

    • The “COVID kindergartener” class refers to children born around the time of the pandemic who are now about halfway done with their first year of school

    • The Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center conducts around 2,500 speech screenings each year across the Carolina region

    • In 2025, in the Charlotte area alone, the failure rate was around 35%, compared to20% prior to the pandemic. A 15% increase just five years later

    • They just launched “Tools for Transformation,” which is a campaign to raise money for essential tools needed to help these kids with their therapy


    Jack, 6, was born right before the start of the pandemic and is part of that “COVID kindergarten” class, which are students now almost halfway done with their first year of school.

    Jack’s mom said that since the pandemic was a huge part of his early years of life, it had impacts on his speech development. 

    “You know, he only saw people outside of the house. When his sister was born, we kind of, like, locked down again, because she was born in 2021, so it was still shaky ground as far as seeing people. Even though I can’t say this is the specific way that he was affected by it, like there’s no way that it didn’t,” said Maggie Patterson, Jack’s mother.

    Seeing speech and language delays in children born around the time of the pandemic isn’t uncommon.

    The Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center conducts around 2,500 speech screenings each year across the Carolina region. In 2025, in the Charlotte area alone, the failure rate was around 35% and before the pandemic, it was 20%. That’s a 15% increase in only five years.

    “We were so shut down that children did not have that exposure to language stimulation they normally would have. Then, on top of that, everyone was wearing a mask. So that’s an important piece for children to develop language is to actually read lips,” said Shannon Tucker, executive director of the Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center.

    The center helps kids from across North Carolina and just launched its “Tools for Transformation” campaign to raise money for essential items needed to help these kids with their therapy.

    “A couple of examples of tools is, tools to build vocabulary. That can even be apps on an iPad that we have to pay for, that can be specialized books that help develop certain types of vocabulary. That could be oral motor tools to stimulate the development of the muscles of the mouth. Those are very specialized tools and are very expensive,” Tucker said.

    Tucker also has some everyday advice for parents to help children with speech development.

    “Read and have a lot of two-way conversation. So, reading a book is great. What’s even better than reading a book is asking questions about that book, engaging in dialog about what you’re seeing. If you don’t have books, you can do it on the bus, on the way to the grocery store. Just talking and talking, we tell all of our parents to be a radio announcer. Just talk about everything you can see and everything you do, and that child’s brain will just soak that up,” Tucker said.

    Jack’s mom says even though he’s still working on communicating, it’s nice to see her son improving. 

    “If it was “R” or “L” heavy, he really had a hard time getting his point across, and as a 5-year-old, that’s infuriating. So it’s just nice to see him be able to communicate what he wants,” Patterson said.

    For more information about the Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center and resources it provides, visit its website here.

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

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    Arin Cotel-Altman

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  • Immigration advocate and baker’s perspective on November immigration raids

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    Tying it Together podcast host Tim Boyum sits down with a Colombian native and U.S. citizen with his unique perspective on the November immigration raids by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol.

    Manolo Betancur owns a bakery but shut it down when the raids began.

    About the Podcast

    With the speed of the local news cycle, it’s easy to forget that the politicians who represent us and the influencers in our communities are more than just a sound bite. North Carolina’s veteran reporter and anchor, Tim Boyum, loosens his signature bow tie to give listeners a glimpse behind the curtain, showing us who these power players really are and why they do what they do. Through Tim’s candid conversations on “Tying It Together,” his guests reveal their most fascinating life stories, passions, and help all of us get a better grasp on the issues affecting our communities.

    Listen and Subscribe

    Apple | Spotify | Stitcher

    Join the Conversation

    Do you have any thoughts or questions for Tim? Weigh in on X with the hashtag #TyingItTogetherNC. Afterward, rate the podcast and leave a review to tell us what you think!

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • District attorney calls for SBI investigation into Mecklenburg Co. sheriff

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    The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has been asked to launch an investigation into Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden after a petition for his removal was recently submitted to the county’s district attorney.

    What You Need To Know

    •  The Mecklenburg County district attorney has asked the SBI to investigate the county’s sheriff, Garry McFadden

    •  A petition filed with the district attorney to remove McFadden accuses the sheriff of several crimes and wrongdoings, which prompted the call for the investigation

    •  The investigation comes as McFadden and other city and county leaders have also been called to testify before the N.C. House Oversight Committee on Jan. 22 to discuss topics like city and county safety, spending and DEI initiatives


    “On the evening of Sunday, January 4th, I was made aware of the intention of five qualified Mecklenburg County electors to submit a petition for the Removal of Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden on a number of grounds, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 128-16,” Mecklenburg County District Attorney Spencer Merriweather said in a release.

    A letter submitted to the SBI on Jan. 5 by Merriweather said the petition calls for McFadden to be removed on the grounds of “willful or habitual neglect or refusal to perform the duties of his office,” “willful misconduct or maladministration in office,” “corruption,” and “extortion.”

    The petition also alleges several crimes against McFadden, according to the letter, including state campaign finance violations, Hatch Act violations, extortion and bribery, economic threats made to influence legislation. The district attorney has also asked that these allegations be included in the investigation.

    While the approval of such petitions has rarely ever been granted, according to Merriweather, the district attorney said, “Nevertheless, our removal statute creates obligations for the District Attorney (or the County Attorney, if he so chooses) to exercise due diligence in the wake of such a petition. In this Office, a substantive review of any allegations will typically come only after a state or local law enforcement agency has had an opportunity to investigate any reported claims.”

    “Accordingly, before an approval determination comes from this Office, I will, in my discretion, request that the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) investigate each allegation and report its findings to my office directly. As with any inquiry, a request for an investigation is not itself a confirmation of the existence of wrongdoing.”

    Spectrum News 1 reached out to the sheriff for an interview but was denied, saying, “I can’t discuss this matter and plan to move forward with day to day business.”

    The investigation request comes as McFadden and other city and county leaders have been asked to testify before the state’s House Oversight Committee on Jan. 22.

    A letter from committee co-chairs Rep. Jake Johnson, Rep. Brenden Jones and Rep. Harry Warren said the sheriff and others are expected to speak about their office’s roles in “ensuring public safety throughout the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, including the Charlotte Area Transit System.”

    The letter also said strategic plans like spending and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives will also be discussed.

    McFadden responded to the request to testify by saying in part, “I respect the oversight process and welcome the opportunity to testify. I have nothing to hide.

    “Unlike municipal police departments and most other sheriff’s offices across the state, MCSO does not answer calls for service. Our responsibilities are focused on operating the county jail system, courthouse security, civil processes, and detention-related duties. That distinction matters when evaluating policies, resources, and accountability. I will ensure that state lawmakers receive accurate and credible information.

    ”The MCSO remains committed to transparency, accountability, and working collaboratively with local, state, and federal partners in the interest of public safety and good governance.”

    City and county leaders have come under intense scrutiny as safety concerns mounted following the deadly stabbing of Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light rail in August of last year, and then another stabbing on the light rail in December.

    Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, Mecklenburg County Manager Mike Bryant, Interim CEO of CATS Brent Cagel and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Estella Patterson are also among those asked to testify before the committee.

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

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    Justin Pryor

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  • NCDHHS confirms measles exposure in Gaston County, issues warning to residents

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    Another case of measles has been confirmed in North Carolina, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. This time, in Gaston County.

    What You Need To Know

    •  The N.C. Dept. of Health and Human Services has confirmed a measles exposure in Gaston County

    •  An unvaccinated person passed through the county on Dec. 26, officials said, and visited several areas while infected with the disease

    •  DHHS says anyone who visited Constantine’s Restaurant in Gastonia after 8:30 p.m. on that day has the highest chance of exposure risk and should monitor for symptoms


    Health officials say a person traveling through the county was not vaccinated for the disease and had recently visited areas in Spartanburg, South Carolina, linked to an ongoing outbreak in the northern part of the state.

    The person passed through Gaston County on Dec. 26, according to DHHS, and visited Constantine’s Restaurant on S. New Hope Road in Gastonia.

    Officials say anyone who was at the restaurant after 8:30 p.m. on that day may have been exposed to measles and should monitor for symptoms until Jan. 16.

    The person also visited Christmas Town USA in nearby McAdenville, North Carolina, between 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Dec. 26, officials said, but did not visit any indoor places. This makes the risk of transmission to anyone attending around that time low, DHHS said.

    Related: First case of measles reported in North Carolina this year, DHHS says

    Measles symptoms often appear 7-14 days after exposure, DHHS said, but can appear up to 21 days after. Health officials say to watch for the following symptoms:

    • High fever (may spike to more than 104 degrees)
    • Cough
    • Runny nose
    • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
    • Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots) two to three days after symptoms begin
    • A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin 

    Anyone who comes in contact with the disease and experiences these symptoms should seek immediate medical care and contact their local health department.

    Health officials also recommend anyone age one year and older who is unvaccinated to get the measles vaccine to help protect themselves and others. NCDHHS also offers a measles immunity checker tool to help those who are unsure whether they are protected against measles.

    Related: As measles case confirmed at RDU, doctor says best defense is vaccine

    Last month, a child in Polk County also tested positive for measles, according to DHHS.

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

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    Justin Pryor

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  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

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    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

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  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

    [ad_1]

    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

    Source link

  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

    [ad_1]

    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

    Source link

  • ‘Wolf Moon’: 2026’s first full moon will also be a supermoon

    [ad_1]

    The first full moon of 2026 rises this weekend and it just so happens to be one of only three supermoons this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • The ‘Wolf Moon’ rises this weekend

    • It will one of only three supermoons this year

    • Saturday evening will be the best time to see it across the U.S.


    January’s full moon, called the ‘Wolf Moon’, will brighten the night sky throughout this weekend. It technically will peak at 5:03 a.m. ET Saturday morning, but the best time to see it will be after it rises above the horizon that evening. 

    The ‘Wolf Moon’ also happens to be a supermoon this year. This occurs when the moon is closer to earth (parigee) so it appears larger and brighter than normal. You’ll have to wait until November to see the next supermoon.

    Visibility looks good across the Central U.S. Saturday evening, but clouds could be an issue on the opposite coasts.

    Potential cloud coverage Saturday evening across the U.S. (weathermodels.com)

     

     

    According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon gets its name due to it being a time you can hear the call of wolves. Though we know that happens year-round, the vocal calls of wolves can be haunting during the winter months.

    Other names given by various Native American tribes include Cold Moon (Cree), Center Moon (Assiniboin), and Freeze Up Moon (Algonquin).

    The next full moon will be the Full Snow Moon which will occur on Sunday, February 1st.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

    [ad_2]

    Meteorologist Ian Cassette

    Source link

  • Industries of the Blind offers career path for the visually impaired

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    GREENSBORO, N.C. — People living with disabilities play an important role in North Carolina’s workforce, and organizations like Industries of the Blind in Greensboro are working to expand those opportunities. For many North Carolinians, that support is life-changing.

         What You Need To Know

    • At Industries of the Blind, 21-year-old Brendon Brown spends his days packing and shipping military uniform orders that are distributed nationwide
    • Brown is legally blind. He lost his vision for the first time as a toddler after an allergic reaction
    • Nationwide, the American Foundation for the Blind found that in 2024, 10% of people ages 16 to 64 with visual disabilities were unemployed 
    • Earlier this month, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced that Project Spark, one of its initiatives that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will expand to 10 new locations across the state


    At Industries of the Blind, 21-year-old Brendon Brown spends his days packing and shipping military uniform orders that are distributed nationwide. He started at the organization just over a year ago.

    “I started out picking on the floor, getting everything that goes in the boxes, and I moved to shipping a couple months ago,” he said.

    Brown is legally blind. He lost his vision for the first time as a toddler after an allergic reaction.

    Brendon Brown is legally blind after suffering from an allergic reaction as a kid. (Brendon Brown)

    He regained it off and on for about a decade, but an infection in 2017 caused him to lose his sight completely.

    Finding employment wasn’t easy. Brown said he applied to multiple places before discovering Industries of the Blind.

    “I tried a few different places, and everybody sounded promising when you talked to them, but then you never hear back from them after that,” he said.

    According to the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Labor and Economic Analysis Division, one in nine working-age adults in the state was living with a disability as of 2022. Roughly 145,000 of those adults were visually impaired.

    Nationwide, the American Foundation for the Blind found that in 2024, 10% of people ages 16 to 64 with visual disabilities were unemployed — more than double the unemployment rate for people in the same age range without a visual disability.

    A separate study from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that as of 2024, 22% of all working Americans were living with a disability.

    Industries of the Blind aims to close those gaps by offering meaningful work and long-term career paths.

    Richard Oliver, the organization’s director of community outreach and government relations, said Brown represents exactly why their mission matters.

    “We like to put the effort into Brendon so he can learn and grow,” Oliver said. “We want him to be here for a long time.”

    Brendon Brown says he loves to fish when he's not at work. (Brendon Brown)

    Brendon Brown says he loves to fish when he’s not at work. (Brendon Brown)

    Brown is already taking that next step. On Nov. 25, he graduated from the company’s 2025 Future Leaders Academy cohort.

    The program teaches employees skills in finance, human resources, production and business development. His goal is to eventually move into a leadership role.

    “I have no plans on changing anytime soon,” Brown said. “I enjoy it, I see lots of room to grow.”

    A new class of Future Leaders Academy participants will begin next year.

    Earlier this month, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced that Project Spark, one of its initiatives that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will expand to 10 new locations across the state.

    NCDHHS says it will expand to new sites in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Durham, Greenville, Kinston, Jacksonville, Wilson, Gastonia, Asheville and Boone.

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

     

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    Ashley Van Havere

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  • ISIS-inspired New Year’s Eve plot foiled in Charlotte, FBI says

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    An 18-year-old allegedly planned a terror attack for New Year’s Eve in a town near Charlotte, North Carolina, the FBI said Friday.

    Federal agents arrested Christian Sturdivant on Dec. 31. The FBI said he planned to attack a Burger King and a grocery story in Mint Hill, a bedroom community just outside Charlotte.

    “Sturdivant planned a massacre,” said the FBI’s James Barnacle, the special agent in charge for the FBI in Charlotte. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The FBI said agents foiled a New Year’s Eve terror plot inspired by ISIS

    • Federal officials say an 18-year-old planned to attack a Burger King and a grocery store in Mint Hill, a town just outside Charlotte, North Carolina

    • Investigators say the suspect discussed his plans with an undercover agent with the New York Police Department

    • Christian Sturdivant is charged with attempted material support of a foreign terrorist organization and could face 20 years in prison if convicted


     

    Sturdivant, who turned 18 in December, has been charged with attempted material support of a foreign terrorist organization. He could face up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted.

    “This investigation unfolded quickly,” Barnacle said. He said Sturdivant had been on the FBI’s radar since 2022, but the investigation into this plot took place over about two weeks during the holidays. 

    He planned to attack New Year’s Eve shoppers with two hammers and two knifes that investigators found hidden under his bed, according to court records. 

    The planning came to light when Sturdivant began chatting online with someone he thought was an ISIS member but was in fact an undercover agent with the New York Police Department, according to U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson. 

    Sturdivant began chatting with the undercover officer on Dec. 12, according to court records. 

    He then also communicated with a second undercover agent with the FBI, Ferguson said. 

    “We had to act quickly,” he said. Sturdivant had been planning the attack for a year, the U.S. Attorney said. 

    “Americans deserve to celebrate New Year’s Eve without worrying about their personal safety,” Ferguson said. “That is why we worked non-stop to thwart this alleged violent terrorist attack. I am proud of the work done here and thankful for the time spent by law enforcement away from their families during the holidays to ensure public safety.”

    A chorus of high ranking federal officials praised investigators. 

    “This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve,” Attorney General Pamela Bondi said in a news release. “The Department of Justice remains vigilant in our pursuit of evil ISIS sympathizers — anyone plotting to commit such depraved attacks will face the full force of the law.”

    “The accused allegedly wanted to be a soldier for ISIS and made plans to commit a violent attack on New Year’s Eve in support of that terrorist group, but the FBI and our partners put a stop to that,” FBI Director Kash Patel said. 

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

     

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    Charles Duncan

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  • Vape pen robbery goes bad: One teen dead, another shot

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    A teenager is dead, another is in the hospital and other teens have been charged as adults after Mooresville town officials said a vape robbery led to deadly violence Monday night.

    Mooresville Police Department responded to Mazeppa Park around 8:30 p.m. Dec. 29. There they found two teenagers shot. One person was dead at the scene, and the other was sent to a nearby hospital.

    After investigating, police say a group of people were trying to rob another group of THC vape pens. The two groups shot at each other before one drove off. Police later tracked down the car, arrested and charged the following people.

    • Bryan Fernandez Acevedo, 19, of Statesville
    • Jovany Jiminez, 17, of Statesville
    • Jonathan Jiminez, 17, of Statesville
    • Christopher Chacon Ventura, 16, of Statesville
    • Christopher Palencia Lazo, 16, of Statesville

    All five will be charged as adults with homicide, robbery with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon, officials said. Two other adults were charged in relation to the crime as well.

    The park is closed as officials continue to investigate the homicide.

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

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    Daniel Gray

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  • New year, new way to deduct charitable donations

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    WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Changes to how charitable donations are taxed are coming in 2026.

    “I think that the winners are definitely going to be those that take a standard deduction,” said Jahad Zenith, chief financial officer of Ummah Tax Solutions in Winston-Salem.

    What You Need To Know

    • The way charitable donations are treated on income tax returns is changing in the new year

    • Depending on tax bracket, those who do not itemize can deduct cash donations to charity of up to $1,000 for single filers and up to $2,000 for joint filers

    • Itemized charitable donations will be capped at 35%




    Depending on tax bracket, starting Jan. 1, those who don’t itemize will be allowed to deduct charitable cash donations of up to $1,000 for single filers and up to $2,000 for those who file jointly. Itemized charitable donations will be capped at 35% and a new floor has been set regarding deductions for itemizers and corporations. 

    “If your [adjusted gross income] is $100,000, 0.5% of that is $500, you have to go above the $500 in order to get any credit,” Zenith said. “You have to meet a certain number before any deductions even count.”

    Reports show nearly one-third of charitable donations are made in December. It’s typically a busy time of year for nonprofits such as Goodwill to receive donations. 

    “It’s not unlikely for us to get hundreds of donations a day,” said Renee Rohrer, director of marketing for Goodwill Industries of Northwest N.C.

    Goodwill accepts gently used clothing, furniture, household goods and electronics, and 87 cents of every dollar received go toward the nonprofit’s mission programs.  

    “When you make a donation to Goodwill, you can receive a receipt,” Rohrer said. “[It’s a] tax-deductible receipt. It also has cool reminders on the back of what we can accept and what we can’t accept, and what our most needed items are.”

    Although the holiday season creates a rush, recently imposed tariffs have also led to an increase in those shopping at Goodwill. The new tax codes may move some to donate even more.

    “We still see an incredible amount of donations because people are just already in the swing of things this time of year to go through stuff in their houses, whether or not they’re able to write that off on their taxes,” Rohrer said. 

    With tax season around the corner, experts recommend consulting with a tax professional to make sure you get the most out of your return. Some organizations offer free estimates. 

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

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    Zach Tucker

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  • NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin’s father dies after Sunday night house fire

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    GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — A house fire in North Carolina on Sunday has claimed the life of NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin’s father and left his mother critically injured, authorities said Monday evening. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Officials say the father of NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin died and his mother was critically injured after a weekend fire heavily damaged the North Carolina home where they lived

    • Gaston County officials said Monday that firefighters arrived Sunday night at a two-story house near Stanley that was mostly engulfed in fire, with flames showing through the attic

    • Officials say 75-year-old Dennis Hamlin and 69-year-old Mary Lou Hamlin were found outside the house suffering catastrophic injuries

    • Dennis Hamlin died from his injuries at a hospital and Mary Lou Hamlin was being treated at a burn center, officials said

    Dennis Hamlin, 75, who supported his son’s rise to stardom in the stock car racing series, died from injuries he suffered in the fire Sunday, NASCAR said Monday. 

    Mary Lou Hamlin, 69, Denny Hamlin’s mother and wife of Dennis Hamlin, was being treated for her injuries at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Burn Center in Winston-Salem, Gaston County Emergency Services said Monday evening. 

    Firefighters arrived at the house on Blacksnake Road in Gaston County, about 20 miles from Charlotte, about 6:27 p.m. Sunday to find it mostly engulfed, with flames emerging from the attic, Gaston County officials said. 

    Dennis and Mary Lou Hamlin escaped the flames but suffered what were described as “catastrophic injuries,” officials said.

    Mary Lou Hamlin pulled her husband out of the fire, Lucia Riverbend Fire Department Chief David Toomey said. 

    They were taken to CaroMont Regional Medical Center, where Dennis Hamlin succumbed to his injuries.

    “NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Denny Hamlin and the entire Hamlin family,” the stock car series said in a statement. “Dennis Hamlin instilled a love of racing in his son, and sacrificed greatly to develop Denny into a world-class talent in the sport. We also continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to Denny’s mother, Mary Lou, and hope for her full recovery.”

    Firefighters managed to save NASCAR memorabilia that was in the back of the house and at least six cars in the garage. 

    Dennis Hamlin had been in declining health, Denny Hamlin said as this year’s season was nearing its finish, according to NASCAR. Denny Hamlin dedicated his October victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway to his father. 

    Property records show the house is registered to Won One Real Estate LLC, which state records show is owned by Denny Hamlin. 

    Denny Hamlin is one of the marquee drivers in NASCAR’s top circuit, having won 60 NASCAR Cup Series races, including the Daytona 500 three times.

    The 45-year-old driver for Joe Gibbs Racing has yet to win a Cup points championship. He fell short of the title during this season’s final race in Arizona last month.

    The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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

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    Daniel Gray, Associated Press

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  • The history behind North Carolina’s state capitol building

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    On this week’s episode, we take a deep dive into the fascinating history of North Carolina’s state capitol. 

    Kara Deadmon, the site administrator, will share the building’s story, from its fiery destruction to its relocation.

    She talks about the enslaved who helped build it, and even etchings on a window dating back to the 1800s.

    About the Podcast

    With the speed of the local news cycle, it’s easy to forget that the politicians who represent us and the influencers in our communities are more than just a sound bite. North Carolina’s veteran reporter and anchor, Tim Boyum, loosens his signature bow tie to give listeners a glimpse behind the curtain, showing us who these power players really are and why they do what they do. Through Tim’s candid conversations on “Tying It Together,” his guests reveal their most fascinating life stories, passions, and help all of us get a better grasp on the issues affecting our communities.

    Listen and Subscribe

    Apple | Spotify | Stitcher

    Join the Conversation

    Do you have any thoughts or questions for Tim? Weigh in on X with the hashtag #TyingItTogetherNC. Afterward, rate the podcast and leave a review to tell us what you think!

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Father of Denny Hamlin remembered for sacfrices that launched his son to fame

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    GASTON COUNTY, N.C. – The NASCAR community is mourning the loss of a driver’s father.

    Denny Hamlin’s father, Dennis, was killed in a fire at his Gaston County house Sunday night. Hamlin’s mother was critically injured and is being treated at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Burn Center.

        What You Need To Know

    • The NASCAR community is reeling from loss 

    • Driver Denny Hamlin’s father died after Hamlin’s mother pulled him out of their burning Gaston County home Sunday night 

    • Hamlin’s mother was badly burned and is still receiving medical treatment

    • Hamlin is an anticipated Hall of Famer, and his father is credited with helping him establish his career 

    Firefighters arrived at the house on Blacksnake Road just before 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Video from the fire shows flames engulfing the Hamlins’ home. According to Gaston County officials, when firefighters arrived, Dennis and Mary Lou Hamlin were already outside.

    Chief David Toomey of the Lucia-Riverbend Fire Department confirmed Mary Lou Hamlin pulled Dennis Hamlin out of the home to save him.

    “I don’t want to get emotional, but you do when you hear that the woman tried to drag her husband out, and he didn’t make it,” Michael Minando, a neighbor, said. “It’s very sad. My heart goes out to them.” 

    Just two months before Dennis Hamlin died, Denny Hamlin dedicated his 60th cup series race win to his dad. Dennis Hamlin was unable to travel to the race in Las Vegas. His son told the Associated Press his dad was battling a serious illness.

    Denny Hamlin celebrates in Victory Lane after winning a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Sunday, May 29, 2022, in Concord, N.C. (AP File Photo/Matt Kelley)

    Denny Hamlin was first introduced to racing by his dad when he was 5. When Hamlin decided to pursue racing professionally, his dad started a family-owned racing team. He took out two mortgages on their house and sold four classic cars to make ends meet. 

    “Denny’s parents, to me, are the quintessential parents that wanted to help their child reach their dreams,” Winston Kelley, the executive director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, said. “They did everything, anything and everything that they could to help them get to that point.”

    Neighbors said the Hamlins’ home was full of memorabilia from Denny’s NASCAR career, and their garage was filled with classic cars. Toomey said firefighters saved the memorabilia and several cars.

    The pain of losing Dennis Hamlin is being felt throughout the NASCAR community.

    “Dennis and Mary Lou were always there supporting Denny from the time, you know, he started in the entry levels of NASCAR to be able to support them,” Kelley said. “So they were a part of that family and are and always will be a part of the family.”

    The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

    NASCAR released the following statement after Dennis Hamlin’s death:

    “NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to Denny Hamlin and the entire Hamlin family. Dennis Hamlin instilled a love of racing in his son, and sacrificed greatly to develop Denny into a world-class talent in the sport. We also continue to offer our thoughts and prayers to Denny’s mother, Mary Lou, and hope for her full recovery.”  

    The NASCAR community is also still reeling from the loss of retired driver Greg Biffle and his family, who were killed on Dec. 18 when a Cessna C550 plane they were traveling in crashed. 

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    Chloe Salsameda

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  • Zebulon bank robbery suspect with alleged bomb arrested after police shootout

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    A man flashed a bomb during a bank robbery in Zebulon Friday morning and took off with cash but was later arrested in a store parking lot after getting into a shootout with police, according to officials.    

    What You Need To Know

    • On Friday, Dec. 26th, officers responded to reports of an armed robbery at a Zebulon Bank

    • Willie McGee Jr. flashed an alleged bomb to the bank teller before fleeing with more than $3,200 in a white semi-truck

    • Officers arrested McGee in a Rocky Mount parking lot after a shootout. Only McGee sustained injuries 

    On Dec. 26, Willie McGee Jr, demanded a First Citizens Bank teller hand over cash, or he would activate a C- 4 explosive, police said. He was originally facing charges related to just the robbery, but authorities added more over the weekend in connection to the shootout with police, officials said.

    “As alleged, this defendant didn’t just rob a bank – he threatened innocent civilians with explosives and then opened fire on police officers,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “That is not desperation, it is domestic terror.” 

    Willie McGee Jr. shoots at police in a Rocky Mount parking lot after armed robbery of a Zebulon Bank. (USDOJ)

    McGee left the Zebulon bank with more than $3,200 in a white semi-truck, police said. But later that day, Rocky Mount Police officers got tips about the truck sitting in a Hobby Lobby parking lot.   

    Police confronted McGee there, and he climbed out and started shooting at them with an AR 5.56 rifle, authorities said. Officers shot back and hit McGee. His condition was listed as stable on Monday, and he is expected to recover, according to police.   

    “Thankfully, no law enforcement officers or members of the public were injured during the arrest,” Katie Holcomb Vollmer, public affairs officer, said in a news release.

    McGee is charged with bank robbery and discharging a firearm. He is also now charged with two counts of attempted murder and other charges related to firing at police, officials said.

    The SBI, ATF and FBI are also investigating and said no explosives were found.

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

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    Blair Hamilton

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  • Rockingham County band director to march in Rose Parade

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    EDEN, N.C. — In his 11th year teaching at Morehead High School in Eden, director of bands Nathan Hines is getting to check an item off his bucket list. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Nathan Hines was selected to be a part of the 350-member Band Directors Marching Band in the 2026 Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California

    • The group features music educators from all over as part of the Saluting America’s Band Directors project

    • Hines, one of 12 North Carolina band directors to be selected for this honor, will play trumpet along the parade route 


    Hines was selected to be a part of the 350-member Band Directors Marching Band in the 2026 Rose Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California. The group features music educators from all over as part of the Saluting America’s Band Directors project.

    “There’s no better professional development for a teacher than being able to interact with teachers from all around the country and even some from other countries,” Hines said.

    Hines, one of 12 North Carolina band directors to be selected for this honor, will play trumpet along the 5.5-mile parade route. He previously played with some of the band members at the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York and expects a similar experience in California. 

    “When [the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade] was over, that was two and a half miles, and it felt like it lasted 20 minutes,” he said. “Getting to play in front of millions of people there is pretty, pretty neat.”

    Nearly 10% of the students at Morehead High participate in the band program, and many of Hines’ students are excited to see him perform.

    “To get that recognition, to put Morehead and Eden on the map, sort of in a sense, that’s pretty cool to be a part of that,” said senior percussionist Enrique Garcia. 

    “He really cares for everyone in [the] band,” said senior flute player Diana Mor Martinez. “He makes sure everyone here is OK. He likes to remind us that everyone in [the] band is important, no matter how small your part.”

    Hines said he hopes his journey will be an inspiration to students. 

    “I hope actually for my students that they see that and say, ‘Well, you know, he’s still doing these things and maybe I can do that too in the future,’” he said.

    This isn’t the first time Hines was selected for the Rose Parade. He got a call to participate in 2021, but that event was canceled due to COVID. 

    Now, five years later, this will be Hines’ first trip to California, and he’s planning to do some sightseeing on the West Coast.

    The Morehead High School Band will perform in Hershey Park, Pennsylvania, in the spring, and the band recently received invitations to play at Pearl Harbor next December and in Ireland in 2027.

    Hines also completed a service through music project with the Morehead High band as part of a Saluting America’s Band Directors initiative.

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

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    Zach Tucker

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  • Workforce training in Charlote helping people in recovery find stability

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    CHARLOTTE, N.C. — According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, employment is a key part of long-term recovery for people overcoming substance use disorders.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Workforce opportunities are helping residents in recovery open new career doors

    •  In North Carolina, a partnership is empowering more individuals overcoming substance use disorders through training for high-demand fields 

    •  One student shares how the workforce program is helping him 


    Research shows obtaining and maintaining meaningful work helps establish structure, income and self-esteem, which are linked to better recovery outcomes.

    This model is taking shape at the National Center on Institutions and Alternatives’ Vocational Training Center Charlotte, a nonprofit providing free, hands-on job training in HVAC-R installation and service, automotive repair and commercial driving.

    The Charlotte team has trained over 900 people for careers since its opening in 2020. 

    NCIA VTC Charlotte program director Christine Poltawsky said their reach includes residents identified as low-income, those who are justice-involved transitioning back into the community and people unhoused or in a recovery process.

    “What we’re really looking to do is reach anybody that does not have access to education and training,” said Poltawsky. 

    VTC Charlotte credits partnerships with the county and a local nonprofit for empowering more people facing barriers to education and workforce training. 

    Mecklenburg County awarded NCIA about $128,000 in opioid settlement funding for employment-related services tied to opioid recovery. 

    Poltawsky said those dollars are allowing them to expand workforce development reach to residents eligible for tuition-free training and support.

    “Most of the people in the county that got the funds – it’s been a lot of treatment centers. So we’re excited that we’re able to target things from a different direction,” Poltawsky said.

    “We are recruiting out in the community at all treatment centers, Charlotte Rescue Mission and others. It’s just allowed us to serve a larger number of their clientele because we have a different funding stream that we can bring them in under,” Poltawsky said.

    In 2023, VTC Charlotte partnered with the rescue mission, an organization offering residential recovery programs at no cost for individuals at the intersection of homelessness and addiction. This includes individuals overcoming alcohol and drug addiction.

    The rescue mission is connecting residents to career training and support at VTC Charlotte.

    “We started conversations on how we could refer people in their program, in order for them to continue to build on what they’re working on,” Poltawsky said.

    “They have steps they need to follow to move forward. What our program offers to the residents there is a pathway to get some industry-recognized credentials and then make some money so they can start paying the rent and move forward through that step process. Along with everyone else who comes through our doors, we’re just giving second chances,” Poltawsky said.

    Since 2023, over 50 rescue mission participants have enrolled in NCIA training programs, thanks to support from the opioid settlement funds. As a result of these partnerships, VTC Charlotte said many of the graduates are now working full-time jobs.  

    Graduate Kasey Lester was referred through the rescue mission and recently graduated from the HVAC program. 

    Lester said the workforce training has been a gamechanger for getting a job and for others seeking second chances. 

    Kasey Lester recently graduated from NCIA VTC Charlotte and credited its partnership with Charlotte Rescue Mission for opening new career doors. (Spectrum News 1/Jennifer Roberts)

    “I wasn’t aware of the opportunities that were up to grab, the things I could pursue, do for myself to get me out my regular routine of life,” Lester said. “That I could branch out and have more stability, more freedom, peace, knowledge. Through the Charlotte Rescue Mission, it has opened many doors.”

    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services estimates over 1.4 million adults struggle with a substance use disorder.

    From 2000 to 2022, NCDHHS reports over 36,000 North Carolinians died from drug overdoses.

    Poltawsky said the data speaks to the importance of connecting those in recovery programs to workforce pipelines, so they can create lasting stability beyond treatment. 

    “It feels really good to contribute to the good news and changing somebody’s life for the positive,” Poltawsky said. 

    Walter Boseman is enrolled in VTC Charlotte’s HVAC-R program.

    “I have an associate degree in it already, but I got in an accident years ago which led me out of the workforce,” Boseman said. “I’m going back to what I know to get me up to par with new systems being used.”

    Boseman was also referred through the Charlotte Rescue Mission.

    Boseman said the combination of support and workforce training has helped create a pathway he needed. 

    “Put me back where God wanted me from the beginning,” Boseman said. “It’s working together just like an air conditioning unit. I’m just moving on up.”

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

     

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    Jennifer Roberts

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  • Son decorates home for Christmas to remember late mother

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    SUMMERFIELD, N.C. — The holidays are a time to gather and celebrate with family and friends. For some, annual holiday traditions have a deeper meaning, especially after loved ones pass away. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Sterling Nix of Summerfield keeps a tradition of putting up Christmas decorations each year

    • He started out as a young boy, helping his mother put them up at the family home

    • His mother died in 2023, and he says the tradition now helps him remember her

    “This is the accumulation of several years of just loving this hobby, and I enjoy sharing the spirit with others,” said Sterling Nix, a Summerfield resident. 

    Sterling Nix moved to Summerfield from Florida with his family in 2019. He has helped put up Christmas decorations at his family’s home each year since he was a young boy. It started out as a fun, annual chore with his mom. 

    “When I was young, I was obsessed with things that plugged in as a baby,” said Nix. “My mom always told me that I was getting into the lamps and stuff, just walking around, plugging them in and unplugging them, so I guess it’s just kind of a natural connection.”

    Things took a turn in March 2023 when Nix’s mom, Beth, passed away from heart failure.

    “Inside [our home] we don’t have nearly as many decorations as we did before, because I was always the outside person and he would take care of the inside,” said Nix. “There’s always a spot missing.”

    Each year since, Nix has carried on the family tradition. He says his mom’s favorite part was the nativity scene because it helped share the true meaning behind the holiday.

    “You can easily get lost in all the commercial aspects,” said Nix. 

    Nix says it takes nearly a month to set everything up. The display includes dozens of inflatables, lights and other festive decor including rare or hard-to-find items. 

    “I haven’t seen them in a while,” said Nix. “I plug them up and I’m like, dang, I forgot how big these things were.”

    When cars pass by to look at the display, Nix feels joy knowing that his work is appreciated by many and hopes they’ll take away something from it.

    “You don’t have to lose the magic of Christmas as you get older,” said Nix. “You can always look at the things that brought you joy. They don’t have to stop bringing you joy.”

    All while remembering his mother.

    “She loved bringing people joy, so this is what she would have loved,” said Nix. “She’d probably think it’s a little insane with the amount I’ve gone, but she’d love it.”

    Nix says power and wind can be the most challenging aspects when it comes to managing the display. He also sets up decorations for Halloween. He plans to buy more Christmas decor in the coming months and hopes to have a bigger display next year. 

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

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    Zach Tucker

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