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@nclocal.bsky.social
1.6K followers 329 following 122 posts

Working with local news and information providers to ensure everyone in North Carolina has access to news and information they trust. Stay connected with our weekly newsletter: nclocalnewsworkshop.org/resources/n…

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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
We’re partnering with more than a dozen regional and statewide news organizations to answer your questions about Hurricane Helene as we mark the second anniversary. What do you want to know? Head to nclocal.org/helene to take the survey.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
Did you know North Carolina sent its absentee ballots out before any other state in the country this year for the midterm elections? Catch the first episode of Purple Primer, an NC Local show on the 2026 elections, out today. Send us your questions and watch the episode at nclocal.org/purpleprimer.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 24/07/2026
North Carolina’s ‘school cellphone ban’ was supposed to help students focus. Is it working? NC Local interviewed students and teachers to find out how the ban is playing out in classrooms around the state. Read the full story at nclocal.org/2026/07/16/n....
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 13/07/2026
We’ll use this support to expand our regional reporting structure, grow our newsletters, and build statewide publishing partnerships — helping us serve all 100 North Carolina counties. Read more about the investment and how we’ll work together at theajp.org/american-jou....
theajp.org
American Journalism Project invests $3.25 million in three nonprofit local news organizations - American Journalism Project
Investments in The Maine Monitor, NC Local and The Richmonder will help the organizations strengthen their business capacity, expand their journalism, and build long-term sustainability.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 13/07/2026
📢 NC Local has received a $1.25 million investment from the @theajp.bsky.social to grow our fundraising and operations team, including membership, major gifts, institutional fundraising, and development operations.
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Michael Barajas @michaelbarajas.bsky.social · 26/06/2026
3/ our first collab w/ @nclocal.bsky.social dug into a local election that really deserves more attention—a sheriff who has long drawn criticism for policies and rhetoric targeting Latinos, from racial profiling stops/arrests to spewing epithets (like calling Latinos in his community “taco eaters”)
boltsmag.org
A North Carolina Sheriff and ICE Ally Faces Accusations of Racism—and a Challenger This Fall - Bolts
This story is produced as a collaboration between Bolts and NC Local. One Saturday in May, Shannon Long, a pastor running for sheriff in North Carolina, set up his campaign... Read More
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Pauline Arrillaga @parrillaga.bsky.social · 09/07/2026
Education Secretary Linda McMahon says the new Workforce Pell Grant program “is revitalizing the American Dream.” Yet community colleges are scrambling to determine which programs will even qualify. @opencampus.org & @nclocal.bsky.social report on challenges in North Carolina: tinyurl.com/36ajhzhn
tinyurl.com
As financial aid for workforce training launches, North Carolina community colleges find few courses mesh with strict federal rules - Open Campus
Officials estimate less than 1% of course sections will be eligible for Workforce Pell.
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Open Campus @opencampus.org · 09/07/2026
Education Secretary Linda McMahon says the new Workforce Pell Grant program “is revitalizing the American Dream.” Yet community colleges are scrambling to determine which programs will even qualify. @nclocal.bsky.social reports on challenges in North Carolina: tinyurl.com/36ajhzhn
tinyurl.com
As financial aid for workforce training launches, North Carolina community colleges find few courses mesh with strict federal rules - Open Campus
Officials estimate less than 1% of course sections will be eligible for Workforce Pell.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 15/01/2026
We crunched the data. Here's what we found: 🎒ICE agents apprehended at least 38 children. One was younger than 3. 🌽Few arrests were recorded in the northeastern NC, a farming region. 🏛️ICE targeted jails & prisons (more than 2/3 of recorded arrests). Find our map + more info here: bit.ly/4bwYlgH
nclocal.org
ICE arrested more than 3,300 people across NC during Trump’s first 9 months in office.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested more than 3,300 people in North Carolina during President Donald Trump’s first nine months in office, according to data from the University of Calif...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 15/01/2026
In NC, agents arrested 3,300+ people during President Trump’s first 9 months in office. This data comes from the University of California Berkeley’s Deportation Data Project.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 15/01/2026
Diving Deeper Into ICE Activity in North Carolina: 🚨A DHS website lists what the agency dubs the “worst of the worst” arrested by ICE, even though most people arrested by ICE — 56%, according to a recent CATO Institute analysis — haven’t been charged with violent crimes.
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Lexi Solomon @solomonlexib.bsky.social · 10/01/2026
Hey fellow NC journos! Are you interested in meeting up with other women in journalism in our state? If so, I've got good news for you: We're hosting a networking event Jan. 25 from noon to 2 p.m. in Chapel Hill. Light refreshments will be served! DM me for the address. @nclocal.bsky.social
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jacob biba @jacobbiba.bsky.social · 09/01/2026
New case just reported in Rutherford county.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 07/01/2026
FAQ: Measles in North Carolina *️⃣How many cases are reported? 🗨️Four recently confirmed cases *️⃣How did it spread? 🗨️This week, health officials said a family in Buncombe Co. contracted measles after traveling to Spartanburg, SC (where there's been a large outbreak). nclocal.org/2026/01/07/n...
nclocal.org
As NC reports more measles cases, how can you protect yourself?
North Carolina is reporting rising measles cases in 2026 — learn the latest on local exposures, CDC guidance, and expert tips on vaccination, symptoms, and how you can protect yourself and your family...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 29/12/2025
CBD, hemp and other marijuana products may not be available in North Carolina next year. Full details 👉 nclocal.org/2025/12/23/cbd-hemp-and-other-marijuana-products-may-not-be-available-in-nc-next-year-heres-why/
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 24/12/2025
We spent some time last week volunteering with Urban Ministries of Durham. We appreciate the work they do to help families & individuals with shelter, food, clothes & more.🎁We hope your holiday is filled with warmth & joy! From all of us at NC Local, thank you for your support of local journalism!
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 18/12/2025
Want to make sure you get the next newsletter? It's free, sign up here: nclocal.org/thetrailhead/
nclocal.org
About The Trailhead
Why is our newsletter called The Trailhead? The natural beauty of Western North Carolina is one of the things that makes this region special. The people of our region come together on the trails, camp...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 18/12/2025
🗳️In Jackson Co., WCU may lose its early voting location. 🏡Update on Asheville Vice Mayor's homestead exemption on property in Atlanta. 🚶‍➡️1st installment of our "My Favorite Trail" series, ft. Senior Reporter Lilly Knoepp's guide to Wayah Bald. Read the full newsletter: bit.ly/4qaJ2OU
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 18/12/2025
🥁Our first edition of The Trailhead: A Guide to Western North Carolina landed in subscribers' inboxes this morning! Here's a look at what's inside⬇️
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 13/12/2025
North Carolina ferry system gets boost, but challenges remain. The latest 👇 💵State lawmakers approved an extra $7 million this year for the OBX ferry system 🛟Due to an aging fleet, leaders say millions more will be needed for repairs & improvements ℹ️More here: nclocal.org/2025/12/12/s...
nclocal.org
Still afloat: NC ferry system gets boost but challenges remain
North Carolina’s ferry system is a critical transportation network serving coastal communities and hard-to-reach areas of the state, including Ocracoke and other Outer Banks destinations. Operated by ...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
An NC Local investigation finds Asheville Vice Mayor Antanette Mosley has been claiming a tax benefit for a home in Georgia. Full story here: nclocal.org/2025/12/11/a...
nclocal.org
Asheville Vice Mayor claimed tax break for Georgia residence
Public records show that for at least seven years, while registered to vote at an Asheville address — making her eligible to serve on City Council — Asheville Vice Mayor Antanette Mosley simultaneousl...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
💸Where does North Carolina tourism tax money go? 📈Recent figures show more than $400 million is collected statewide from tourists paying this tax. Find out who joins these TDA boards that control the money and why there's a related case before the N.C. Supreme Court: nclocal.org/2025/12/09/w...
nclocal.org
What are Tourism Development Authorities?
Tourism Development Authorities (TDAs) play a major role in how North Carolina funds and promotes local tourism. This article explains what TDAs are, how occupancy taxes work, and where the money coll...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 05/12/2025
Do you have ACA coverage/marketplace insurance? How much more do you expect to pay in 2026? In this story, we include the @kff.org ACA enhanced premium tax credit calculator, which helps you see your estimated plan cost, with & without the federal tax credit. nclocal.org/2025/12/03/a...
nclocal.org
Why are health coverage costs increasing under the Affordable Care Act in North Carolina?
Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance costs in North Carolina are set to rise sharply in 2026, driven by significant premium increases and the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits. State In...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 05/12/2025
Why is the cost of health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act increasing in North Carolina? Federal tax credits (set to expire in 2026) & North Carolina's rate hike approval, all explained here: nclocal.org/2025/12/03/a...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
🚗Changes at the NC DMV Future plans include improving customer feedback systems, longer hours, and using more self-service kiosks and mobile units. Want more info? Read the latest in our coverage, including tips to get an appointment and what to know about the REAL ID: nclocal.org/2025/11/26/w...
nclocal.org
What is up with the DMV and driver licenses in NC?
The North Carolina DMV is facing record-long wait times, with September averages reaching two hours and forty-five minutes, according to a state transportation report. The primary issue driving delays...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
🪪Struggling to get appointments Amid long wait times, the state legislature has issued a moratorium on expired driver's licenses, which means you may still be able to drive with an expired license.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
🛎️Staffing woes A main problem with DMVs across the state is low staffing levels, which State Auditor Dave Boliek highlighted in a recent performance audit report. Boliek proposes that North Carolina remove DMV from under the NC Department of Transportation, to let it run as an autonomous agency.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
⏲️Increased wait times If you’ve been to a North Carolina DMV lately, you probably waited a long time. Recently, the average wait time reached 2 hours and 45 minutes.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
What’s happening with the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles? If you’ve been to the DMV lately, you may have waited a long time. Also, some leaders want to separate the DMV from the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Here's what to know 👇
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
We've put a searchable data set in this story with the website where you can find policies for each public school in North Carolina: nclocal.org/2025/12/02/h...
nclocal.org
How is school library access changing for NC students?
A new North Carolina law, House Bill 805, is reshaping school library access by giving parents the power to block their children from borrowing specific books. Effective July 2024, the law requires ev...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
Nationwide, parent complaints about books have generally increased the number of texts/resources being removed from libraries. Here's how you can check your school district's policy in North Carolina.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 03/12/2025
A new law this year gave North Carolina parents and guardians more control over what books their children can access in public schools. Here's what HB 805 requires of school boards and teachers, and what control parents now have.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 02/12/2025
From Murphy to Manteo, we’re convening North Carolinians to help them feel more connected — to each other, and to our state. If you'd like to support our work, you can donate here: nclocal.org/donate
A person presenting on community-centered journalism; Giving Tuesday reminder for NC Local supporters
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 01/12/2025
Need help paying energy bills this winter? North Carolina’s Low Income Energy Assistance Program helps with gas, electric and fuel bills. 👉What to know & how to find out if you're eligible: nclocal.org/2025/11/24/n...
nclocal.org
Need help paying energy bills this winter?
North Carolina residents can access several programs to help pay energy bills, reduce home energy costs and handle emergencies. The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) offers one-time heating...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 21/11/2025
What's the difference between ICE and Border Patrol? FAQ: nclocal.org/2025/11/14/f...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 19/11/2025
⚠️ Wildfire danger is high across NC. Here’s what you should know nclocal.org/2025/11/19/w...
nclocal.org
Wildfire danger is high across NC. Here’s what you should know
Overview: While there are currently no state-issued burn bans in North Carolina, current conditions in parts of central and western North Carolina have a higher wildfire danger than normal. While ther...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 18/11/2025
How are Border Patrol operations affecting kids and schools in Charlotte? nclocal.org/2025/11/18/i...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 14/11/2025
🛒Need food in North Carolina? Use this map to find it! 1,000+ locations 🔎 Search by map or city/county 👉 Find free food resources here: nclocal.org/2025/11/12/n...
nclocal.org
Need food in NC? Use this map to find it
If you are looking for free food in North Carolina, especially after the SNAP cuts, use this free tool to find food pantries, food banks and other food giveaways.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 12/11/2025
In North Carolina, 24 sheriff's offices or police departments have specific agreements that go beyond state requirements to aid ICE operations/arrests. Full list of those counties and details here: nclocal.org/2025/11/06/l...
nclocal.org
How does local law enforcement partner with federal immigration officials in NC?
A new North Carolina law, House Bill 318, took effect Oct. 1, requiring local police and sheriffs to cooperate more closely with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The law mandates loc...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 12/11/2025
Prior to this new law, there had been increased immigration enforcement across North Carolina. According to the Deportation Data Project, ICE arrested 1,580 people in NC for immigration-related reasons from January to July 2025. That's a 162% increase from the same period last year.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 12/11/2025
Do North Carolina police officers work with ICE? Here's what to know about ICE detainers and immigration status checks in local jails, as well as the new HB318 law in North Carolina, a potential vote on Nov. 17 to override Gov. Stein's veto of SB153, and more. nclocal.org/2025/11/06/l...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 07/11/2025
🥾Come hike with NC Local! 📍Lake Powhatan Loop, Arden 🗓️Nov. 14, 10 a.m. 🎟️Free registration (coffee and donuts after the hike!) 👉 www.eventbrite.com/e/a-short-hi...
eventbrite.com
A Short Hike with NC Local’s Lilly Knoepp
Join a short hike to meet Lilly Knoepp, NC Local’s newest journalist, and learn more about the work of NC Local in WNC.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 07/11/2025
We're hosting two great (free!) events next week in Western North Carolina as we connect with the community & welcome NC Local's Senior Reporter, Lilly Knoepp. 🍻Launch Event: The Trailhead 📍The Lazy Hiker (Sylva) 🗓️Nov. 13, 5 to 7 🎟️Free (first round on us!) 👉 www.eventbrite.com/e/nc-locals-...?
eventbrite.com
NC Local’s Lilly Knoepp Welcome Reception
Join us to meet Lilly Knoepp, NC Local’s newest journalist, and learn more about the work of NC Local in WNC.
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
This work is made possible by our partners at Impact Alamance, who believe in the power of local news to build civic trust and connection🤝 nclocal.org/the-alamance...
nclocal.org
The Alamance Fabric
A community-driven newsletter for connection, celebration, and civic issues The Alamance Fabric is a new local news initiative powered by NC Local and built from deep community listening across Alaman...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
📢We’re also thrilled to welcome journalist Laura Brache, who will lead our Alamance County coverage right from her hometown of Burlington! Stay tuned and stay up-to-date by subscribing to The Alamance Fabric (free📧newsletter) Sign-up👉 nclocal.org/the-alamance...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
Big news!🎉Yesterday, nearly 80 community leaders in Alamance County joined us as we announced the launch of The Alamance Fabric — a new newsletter and community engagement initiative! ✨Connecting neighbors ℹ️Sharing trusted information 🤝Strengthening a sense of place
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 05/11/2025
Don't forget to sign up for The Trailhead, our free WNC email newsletter: nclocal.org/thetrailhead/ NC Local’s mission is to fill information gaps & highlight community voices. The Trailhead is the fulfilment of that vision here in the mountains.
nclocal.org
The Trailhead: Western NC's Guide
How do we define Western North Carolina? It is a question that seems like it should have an easy answer, but defining Western North Carolina is a challenge. For some, WNC is defined by county lines an...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 05/11/2025
🥾Come hike with NC Local near Asheville on Nov. 14! Event + coffee & donuts are free! Dogs on a leash welcome! More info + free registration here: www.eventbrite.com/e/a-short-hi...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
Will North Carolina teachers get raises this year? nclocal.org/2025/11/02/w...
nclocal.org
When will state employees get pay raises? What can they expect?
WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATUS OF PAY RAISES FOR STATE EMPLOYEES? Well into the new fiscal year, the North Carolina General Assembly has not yet agreed on a comprehensive budget. As a result, pending rais...
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NC Local @nclocal.bsky.social · 24/10/2025
NC lawmakers just redrew congressional districts. The change is expected to flip another seat to Republicans by moving Black voters out of District 1. In this explainer (available for republication), we break down what just happened & what it means for voters: nclocal.org/2025/10/22/t...
nclocal.org
The North Carolina legislature just changed the voting maps. What happened?
North Carolina lawmakers have approved a controversial congressional redistricting plan that shifts key boundaries in Districts 1 and 3, strengthening Republican control ahead of the 2026 elections. T...
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