By Jessica Strickland, Agriculture Extension Agent, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Wayne County — (May 24) — If you’ve recently noticed a black, soot-like substance covering the leaves of your garden plants, don’t panic—it’s likely not a disease, but something known as sooty mold. This dark fungal coating can make foliage appear almost charcoal gray and…… read more »
Smithfield, NC — Tucked away in rural North Carolina lies a treasure trove of American history, grit, and cinematic charm: Wild Bill’s Western Town. Once a bustling replica of an Old West frontier town built from the ground up by actor and cowboy-at-heart William Dallas Drake, the site now faces one of its greatest challenges…… read more »
Goldsboro, N.C. — As Memorial Day weekend approaches, millions of Americans are expected to hit the road or take to the skies for vacations, family gatherings, and holiday events. But with the unofficial start of summer also comes an increased risk of travel-related accidents—especially on the roads. Experts warn that Memorial Day weekend is among…… read more »
Raleigh, N.C. — In a celebration of service and selflessness, 20 individuals and two organizations from across 21 North Carolina counties were honored with the 2025 Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service— the state’s highest recognition for community volunteerism. Presented annually by the North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism & Community Service (VolunteerNC), the prestigious award…… read more »
Wayne County, N.C. — Tuesday, May 20, Wayne County Manager Chip Crumpler unveiled his recommended $276.3 million budget for Fiscal Year 2025–2026 during Monday’s regular Board of Commissioners meeting, highlighting key investments in education, infrastructure, and public services. The proposed budget includes an ad valorem property tax rate of $0.6209 per $100 of assessed value—above…… read more »
Raleigh, N.C. — The Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP), a critical lifeline for uninsured residents affected by Hurricane Helene, will officially end on May 31, 2025, state officials announced this week. Launched in partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), FEMA, North Carolina Emergency Management, and local pharmacies, the program has…… read more »
Goldsboro, N.C. — As the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1, emergency officials are urging residents across North Carolina and the southeastern U.S. to prepare early and understand the full scope of hurricane hazards—not just wind, but the far-reaching impacts that come with every tropical system. While hurricanes are often defined by wind…… read more »
Raleigh, N.C. – A North Carolina pilot program is offering a fresh start for formerly incarcerated individuals by helping them land transportation-related jobs and obtain state identification—key tools for rebuilding their lives after prison. Launched in 2024 under Executive Order 303, the N.C. Department of Transportation’s (NCDOT) Transitional Work Pilot Program is showing early success…… read more »
RALEIGH, N.C. — (May 21) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the NC AIDS Action Network came together today to spotlight the state’s progress in combating HIV—and to raise alarm about how proposed federal funding cuts could reverse decades of hard-won gains. Speaking at a joint event, NCDHHS Secretary…… read more »
Goldsboro, N.C. — On Sunday, in a small town with a big heart, an annual event has become much more than a community gathering — it has become a living legacy. Now in its fourth year, Two Wheelers for Tommy, hosted by local nonprofit Kriquette’s Kidz, once again brought together families, volunteers, and businesses to…… read more »
