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Tag: North Carolina

  • Coach’s Near-Drowning Rescue: A Summer Beach Safety Tale

    Imagine this: you’re enjoying a sunny day at the beach with your family, the waves are gentle, and laughter fills the air. Suddenly, a loved one is in trouble, caught by a powerful ocean current. This is exactly what happened to UNC-Wilmington women’s basketball coach Nicole Woods, who recently experienced a terrifying near-drowning incident while heroically saving her young nephew. Her story is a powerful reminder of the ocean’s unpredictable nature and the importance of water safety, especially as more Black families head to the coast this summer.

    A Day at the Beach Turns Dangerous

    On May 21st, Coach Woods, who considers herself a strong swimmer, took her two daughters and her niece and nephew to Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina for a seemingly ordinary outing. However, the day took a dramatic turn when her nephew, wading in the water, was suddenly swept away by a wave. Without a second thought, Woods sprang into action to rescue the child.

    The situation quickly escalated as a strong rip current pulled both Woods and her nephew further into the sea. In a moment of incredible presence of mind, even as she struggled, Woods managed to push her nephew towards safety, ensuring he could get air. “When I saw the gentleman coming, I went under the water to push my nephew to the help because I knew he couldn’t get both of us,” Woods recounted to local outlet WECT. “And so me going under the water and pushing him up towards the help would make the decision for him—to save my nephew first.”

    A Miraculous Rescue and a Stark Warning

    The ordeal left Woods feeling like she was being pulled under by a “suction cup,” and she lost consciousness. Thankfully, a rescue team arrived and managed to bring both her and her nephew back to shore. However, the situation was dire for Woods; she had no pulse and wasn’t breathing. Rescuers immediately administered CPR and used a defibrillator.

    After what felt like an eternity, her pulse returned. Her oldest daughter and niece watched anxiously, fearing the worst. Woods was placed on a ventilator and spent time in the hospital recovering. She described her survival as nothing short of a “miracle,” emphasizing that if this could happen to her, a strong swimmer, it could happen to anyone.

    Key Beach Safety Tips to Remember

    Coach Woods’ harrowing experience serves as a critical reminder for everyone planning a beach trip this summer. Rip currents are powerful and can catch even experienced swimmers off guard. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

    • Always swim near a lifeguard station.
    • Learn to identify rip currents (look for channels of churning, choppy water or a line of foam moving seaward).
    • If caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, then swim back to land.
    • Never swim alone.
    • Educate yourself and your family about water safety.

    Coach Woods’ bravery in saving her nephew is truly inspiring, but her subsequent survival is a testament to the quick actions of the rescue team and, as she believes, a miracle. Her story is a powerful call to action for all of us to prioritize safety and awareness whenever we enjoy our beautiful beaches.

    What are your top tips for staying safe at the beach? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

  • Charlotte Hosts WorthWealth Conference for Homeownership

    Charlotte, North Carolina, a city known for its significant Black population, is set to host the second annual WorthWealth Conference. This exciting two-day event, taking place on April 24 and 25, is dedicated to expanding homeownership and fostering generational wealth through practical financial education and asset-building strategies.

    Four Pillars of Wealth Building

    Organized by BrightUp Inc., the WorthWealth Conference is designed to equip attendees with actionable tools and insights. The event is structured around four core pillars: Self-Worth, focusing on mindset and confidence; Financial Fluency, emphasizing practical money management; Innovation, exploring the role of AI and technology in wealth creation; and Community, fostering networks crucial for building lasting generational wealth.

    This in-person experience aims to sharpen financial skills and connect participants with leading industry experts. It’s a unique opportunity for individuals to gain knowledge and build connections that can significantly impact their financial future.

    Day One: Financial Literacy and Career Empowerment

    The conference kicks off at Johnson C. Smith University, focusing on financial literacy. Attendees can expect a financial and career empowerment program offering tools to grow assets and advance their careers. A dedicated networking session will connect participants with professionals from various industries, and a special AI podcast and brand monetization workshop will highlight how to leverage AI tools for personal brand building.

    Day Two: Generational Wealth and Homeownership

    Day two, hosted at Park Church, shifts the focus to building generational wealth. This segment will provide access to certified housing counselors offering guidance on crucial topics like homeownership, credit management, and budgeting. A homeownership activation session is also planned, aiming to strengthen families and communities through sustainable wealth-building practices.

    Insights from Local Leaders

    The WorthWealth Conference will feature insights from prominent local leaders and industry experts. Speakers include retired NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham, CEO of Xtreme Solutions Inc. Phyllis Newhouse, President of Johnson C. Smith University, and Dr. Bernard Harris Jr., chairman of Onset Capital Partners. They will share valuable strategies for wealth building and expanding ownership opportunities.

    Are you attending the WorthWealth Conference in Charlotte? What are you most looking forward to learning? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • NC Teens Killed in Planned Fight Shooting

    A planned confrontation between teenagers in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, took a devastating turn on Monday, resulting in a mass shooting that claimed the lives of two young people and left five others injured. The incident highlights the dangerous consequences that can arise from escalating conflicts among youth.

    Tragedy Strikes Leinbach Park

    The violence erupted in the parking lot of Leinbach Park, a suburban area northwest of downtown Winston-Salem. Responding officers discovered 17-year-old Eruby Romero Medina, who tragically passed away at the scene due to a gunshot wound. Another victim, 16-year-old Daniel Jimenez Millian, was found in the park with a gunshot wound and later succumbed to his injuries. Millian was a student within the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School District.

    The injured victims, whose ages range from 14 to 19, sustained wounds varying from minor to critical. According to Winston-Salem police Captain Kevin Burns, a 14-year-old girl, a 15-year-old girl, a 17-year-old girl, an 18-year-old boy, and a 19-year-old girl were all hospitalized following the shooting.

    An Ongoing Investigation

    As of now, no suspects have been taken into custody. Police Chief William Penn expressed his frustration and sadness, stating, “I feel like everyone else. I’m frustrated, I’m angry, I’m sad. This didn’t have to happen.” Authorities are working to determine if the teens who were killed were the intended participants in the fight and are still investigating the motive behind the planned altercation.

    Adding to the complexity, police believe some of the individuals who were injured may have also been involved in the shooting itself. This underscores the chaotic and dangerous nature of the event.

    A Call for Community Action

    Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines shared his deep sorrow over the incident, offering his condolences to the victims, their families, and everyone affected. “My heart is with those who were injured, their families, and everyone affected by this incident,” he stated. “I know this has caused fear, pain, and heartbreak for many, especially our youth and the people who care about them.”

    Mayor Joines emphasized the interconnectedness of the community and the shared responsibility to protect young people. “Moments like this remind us how connected we all are as a community. They also remind us of the responsibility we share to look out for one another, to listen, and to work together toward real solutions that help keep our young people safe and supported,” he urged.

    What steps do you believe communities can take to prevent such tragedies? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

  • Miss North Carolina Carie Everett Dies at 22

    The community is mourning the loss of Carie Everett, the 22-year-old who made history as the first Liberian American and HBCU student to be crowned Miss North Carolina in 2024. Her passing, after a courageous battle with signet ring cell carcinoma, is shining a stark light on a growing and concerning trend: the rise of early-onset cancers in young people.

    A Legacy of Advocacy and Faith

    Her family shared the heartbreaking news via her Instagram, stating, “We are heartbroken to share that last night, the beautiful nightingale, Helen Carrie Everett, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer.” They remembered her for her inspiring spirit, her advocacy, and her unwavering faith, noting her final words were a proclamation of God’s goodness.

    Everett’s journey with cancer began shortly after she relinquished her Miss North Carolina crown in June 2025. Initially diagnosed with pneumonia due to persistent bloating and a cough, further tests revealed aggressive masses in her pelvic area, leading to the devastating cancer diagnosis. She shared her fear and shock with ABC11 in September 2025, but also her determination to hold onto her faith.

    The Alarming Rise of Early-Onset Cancers

    Carie Everett’s story tragically underscores a trend that scientists are increasingly observing: a significant rise in cancers diagnosed at younger ages. These are often referred to as ‘early-onset’ cancers. The American Cancer Society reports a startling 82% higher cancer rate in women under 50 compared to their male counterparts, representing a 51% increase since 2002.

    Cancers like colorectal, breast, and kidney cancer are among the more than 10 types of cancer showing a notable increase in adults between 20 and 50. Experts like Dr. Andrea Cercek from Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center note that many health issues are manifesting at younger ages than in previous generations.

    Potential Causes and Prevention

    While the exact causes remain under investigation, researchers like Dr. Cercek and Dr. Shanthi Sivendran from Yale’s cancer center hypothesize that environmental factors could be playing a significant role. However, a single definitive cause, or ‘smoking gun,’ has yet to be identified. This uncertainty makes prevention and early detection even more critical.

    Medical professionals are urging everyone, especially young adults, to be proactive about their health. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle and, crucially, undergoing regular screenings with primary care providers. A family history of cancer can be an additional risk factor, making consistent check-ups even more important.

    Carie Everett’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of health awareness. What are your thoughts on the rise of early-onset cancers? Share your experiences or concerns in the comments below.

  • TikTok Star Ordered to Pay $40K in Appeal

    Infidelity can come with a steep price, especially in North Carolina. TikTok influencer Brenay Kennard has been ordered to pay $40,000 while her appeal of an “alienation of affection” lawsuit is pending. This case centers on an extramarital affair that allegedly destroyed a marriage.

    The Alienation of Affection Lawsuit

    The initial lawsuit gained significant media attention in November 2025 when Akira Montague accused Kennard of alienation of affection. This legal concept, recognized in only a handful of states, allows a spouse to sue someone who allegedly caused their partner to end the marriage. Kennard admitted to having an affair with Timothy Montague, Akira’s husband, while she and Akira were reportedly friends.

    A jury ultimately sided with Akira Montague, and a Superior Court judge initially ordered Kennard to pay $1.75 million. However, Kennard is now pursuing an appeal.

    The Appeal and the $40,000 Undertaking

    During a court appearance on March 24, Kennard’s attorney requested a $10,000 undertaking for the appeal process. Kennard presented bank statements and expense records, claiming the allegations have negatively impacted her income from online brand deals and prevented her from securing traditional employment. “Since the allegations that have been upon me—stalker, a jezebel, a liar, a cheater, all of those things—it really just doesn’t look good to the public eye as far as these brands I used to get,” Kennard stated in court footage.

    However, Akira Montague’s lawyer argued that Kennard’s lifestyle hasn’t changed significantly, citing her continued patronage of restaurants and stores. The lawyer contended that the affair caused mental anguish, health issues, and deprived the children of a two-parent household, impacting the family’s income. Judge Hoyt Tessener ruled in favor of Akira Montague’s request for a $40,000 undertaking, stating, “The evidence presented shows income and expenses to be approximately the same before and after the judgment.”

    Online Influence and Legal Consequences

    Kennard boasts a substantial online presence, with nearly 3 million followers on TikTok and 274,000 on Instagram, where she shares daily vlogs and lifestyle content. Her online activity was reportedly used as evidence in the original case. This situation highlights the real-world legal consequences that can arise from personal relationships, even for those with a large digital footprint.

    • TikTok influencer Brenay Kennard ordered to pay $40,000 during appeal.
    • Case involves North Carolina’s “alienation of affection” law.
    • Kennard admitted to an affair with the plaintiff’s husband.
    • Original judgment was $1.75 million; appeal is pending.
    • Judge cited Kennard’s consistent income and expenses as basis for the undertaking.

    What are your thoughts on the alienation of affection law and Brenay Kennard’s case? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • NC Republicans Win Redistricting Battle Amid Gerrymandering Claims

    In a significant development ahead of the midterms, North Carolina Republicans have emerged victorious in a federal redistricting battle. This ruling approves a new congressional map that could dramatically shift the political landscape in the state, potentially flipping districts long held by Black Democrats.

    A Federal Panel’s Decision

    A federal three-judge panel has given the green light to a new congressional map, with the most significant impact expected in North Carolina’s 1st district. This decision also validates several other maps previously drawn by the GOP, which have already helped Republicans gain seats in the state.

    This victory is seen as a win for Donald Trump’s broader redistricting strategy across multiple states. He had reportedly urged state GOP leaders to redraw maps to ensure favorable election outcomes, particularly aiming to maintain Republican control in the House of Representatives for the upcoming year.

    Impact on Representation

    The new congressional map raises concerns about a key seat currently held by a Black representative. Rep. Don Davis currently serves over 20 counties in the 1st district, a position historically held by Black leaders for three decades. The ruling could jeopardize this long-standing representation.

    Lawsuits Dismissed, Critics Speak Out

    This federal decision means lawsuits filed by the NAACP and various voters have been dismissed. These legal challenges argued that the redistricting violated the First Amendment and unfairly targeted the ‘Black Belt’ region, an area known for its diverse electorate. Another argument from voters was that the maps were based on outdated Census data.

    While North Carolina Republicans celebrated the ruling, local Democrats voiced strong opposition. Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina, condemned the decision, stating, “This ruling gives blessing to what will be the most gerrymandered congressional map in state history, a map that intentionally retaliates against voters in eastern North Carolina for supporting a candidate not preferred by the majority party.”

    A Divided Political Landscape

    The current breakdown in the House of Representatives is razor-thin, with 219 Republicans and 213 Democrats. This close margin means that redistricting efforts, like the one in North Carolina, could have a significant impact on the balance of power in the upcoming midterms.

    Meanwhile, some states like California are actively pushing back against efforts to redraw districts in favor of specific parties, working to ensure more Democratic-leaning turnouts. The fight over redistricting is far from over, with legal and political battles continuing across the country.

    What are your thoughts on the North Carolina redistricting ruling? Do you believe it’s fair, or does it disenfranchise voters? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • NC Redistricting: Judges Allow GOP-Favored Map for 2026

    In a significant development for the upcoming 2026 elections, a federal three-judge panel has allowed North Carolina to proceed with a newly drawn congressional map. This map is designed to give Republicans an advantage by flipping a crucial swing seat, a move that’s part of a broader redistricting effort reportedly influenced by former President Donald Trump.

    Targeting the State’s Only Swing Seat

    The controversial map specifically targets North Carolina’s sole swing seat, currently held by Democratic U.S. Rep. Don Davis. Davis, an African American representative, serves over 20 northeastern counties, and this district has a long history of being represented by Black members of Congress for more than three decades. The judges unanimously denied requests for preliminary injunctions after a mid-November hearing.

    This decision follows a separate ruling where the same judges upheld other redrawn U.S. House districts enacted by GOP state lawmakers in 2023. Those districts were used in the 2024 elections, contributing to Republicans gaining three additional congressional seats.

    Trump’s Redistricting Push and Partisan Battles

    Breaking with tradition, former President Trump reportedly directed GOP efforts in North Carolina and other states to redraw maps mid-decade, aiming to prevent Democrats from regaining control of the House in the upcoming midterms. Democrats need only a few seats to achieve this and potentially impede Trump’s agenda.

    This isn’t an isolated effort. Republican-led states like Texas, Missouri, and Ohio have also adopted new districts to boost their chances. Conversely, California voters approved maps favoring Democrats, and Virginia’s Democratic-led assembly is pursuing redistricting through a proposed constitutional amendment. While many lower courts have initially blocked such initiatives, the U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority has often put those rulings on hold.

    Arguments and Criticisms of the New Map

    North Carolina’s Republican-controlled General Assembly gave final approval to the map on October 22nd, without requiring Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s consent. Republican Senate leader Phil Berger hailed the court’s decision as thwarting the ‘radical left’s’ attempts to circumvent the will of the people in a state that has voted for Trump in recent presidential elections.

    However, critics like Bob Phillips, Executive Director of Common Cause North Carolina, condemned the ruling, calling it a blessing for what will be the most gerrymandered congressional map in state history. He argued it intentionally retaliates against voters in eastern North Carolina for supporting candidates not preferred by the majority party.

    Legal Challenges and Concerns

    The ruling addresses two lawsuits. One, filed by the state NAACP, Common Cause, and voters, argued the map unconstitutionally targeted North Carolina’s ‘Black Belt’ and Democratic-voting areas. The second lawsuit questioned the use of five-year-old Census data for mid-decade redrawing, potentially violating the Constitution’s one-person, one-vote guarantee, and alleged mapmakers relied on race unconstitutionally.

    Attorneys for the Republican lawmakers countered that their map-drawing intentions were political, not racial, and part of a ‘nationwide partisan redistricting arms race.’ They disputed claims of old Census data use and retaliation, citing Supreme Court precedent.

    Impact on Representation

    Republicans currently hold 10 of North Carolina’s 14 House seats, largely due to the 2023 map. They aim to flip an 11th seat with this latest redrawing, particularly impacting the 1st and 3rd Districts. The new map reportedly reduces the Black voting-age population in the 1st District from 40% to 32%, with counties having significant Black populations being moved to the 3rd District.

    What are your thoughts on this redistricting decision and its potential impact on North Carolina’s representation? Share your views in the comments below!

  • NC Judges Uphold GOP-Drawn House Districts

    In a significant ruling for North Carolina politics, federal judges have upheld several U.S. House districts drawn by Republicans in 2023. This decision comes after accusations that the maps unlawfully fractured and packed Black voters, thereby weakening their political power. The ruling, issued by a panel of three judges nominated by GOP presidents, means these districts will likely remain in place for upcoming elections.

    Upholding the 2023 Redistricting Map

    The judges rejected claims that the Republican-drawn lines discriminated against Black voters, violating the U.S. Constitution and the Voting Rights Act. The map, enacted in 2023, significantly benefited the GOP, helping them flip North Carolina’s congressional delegation from a 7-7 split to a 10-4 Republican advantage in the 2024 elections. This shift led three incumbent Democrats to decide not to seek reelection, citing the near impossibility of winning under the new district configurations.

    The judges, including 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Allison Rushing and District Judges Thomas Schroeder and Richard Myers, concluded in a 181-page order that ‘the General Assembly did not violate the Constitution or the VRA in its 2023 redistricting.’ Their decision focused on five congressional districts and three state Senate districts, finding that the lines were not drawn with racial discrimination as a primary motivation.

    Focus on Partisan vs. Racial Gerrymandering

    Attorneys representing Republican leaders argued that partisan considerations, rather than racial ones, guided the redistricting process. They pointed to a 2019 U.S. Supreme Court decision that largely limited federal claims of illegal partisan gerrymandering. The judges’ order echoed this, stating that the ‘circumstances surrounding the plans’ enactment and the resulting district configurations and composition are consistent with the General Assembly’s non-racial motivations.’

    The plaintiffs, including the state NAACP and Common Cause, had argued that the maps split and diluted the voting power of Black communities, particularly in the Greensboro region and around Charlotte. They cited the example of then-Rep. Kathy Manning, a Greensboro Democrat, who chose not to run again after her district shifted significantly to the right. The decision can still be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

    Ongoing Scrutiny of the 1st Congressional District

    Notably, Thursday’s ruling did not address changes made in October 2025 to the 1st Congressional District. This alteration, reportedly influenced by President Donald Trump, aims to unseat Democratic Rep. Don Davis in 2026. The panel is still considering whether to block the use of the 1st and adjoining 3rd Districts for the upcoming elections while further legal arguments are heard. Candidate filing for the 2026 elections is scheduled to begin on December 1st.

    • Federal judges upheld several Republican-drawn US House districts in North Carolina.
    • The ruling rejected claims of racial discrimination and voter dilution.
    • The 2023 map helped Republicans win 10 out of 14 seats in 2024.
    • Judges cited partisan considerations and traditional districting criteria.
    • Changes to the 1st Congressional District are still under review.

    What are your thoughts on the federal judges’ decision regarding North Carolina’s congressional districts? Do you believe these maps fairly represent the state’s voters? Share your views in the comments below!

  • Michael Jordan Honors Mom with $10M Neuroscience Gift

    Talk about a slam dunk for community health! Basketball legend Michael Jordan is making a monumental contribution, honoring his incredible mother, Deloris Jordan, with a $10 million donation. This generous gift is set to significantly boost neurological care in his hometown of Wilmington, North Carolina.

    A Neuroscience Institute in Mom’s Name

    The star athlete announced the donation to Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, dedicating the new neuroscience wing as the Novant Health Deloris Jordan Neuroscience Institute. This isn’t just a building; it’s a testament to the values his mother instilled in him – compassion and community.

    Jordan expressed his pride in continuing his partnership with Novant Health, stating, “I can’t think of a better way to honor her than by helping to ensure those in need can obtain the most advanced neurological care available.” He’s committed to expanding access to world-class healthcare and supporting his mother’s passion for global health and wellness.

    Expanding Access to Critical Care

    Scheduled to open its doors in 2026, the Deloris Jordan Neuroscience Institute will focus on making specialized neurological treatments more accessible. This includes critical areas like stroke care, spine treatments, and diagnoses for conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, particularly benefiting the southeastern region of North Carolina.

    This latest gift brings Jordan’s total contributions to Novant Health to an impressive $27 million. Previously, he funded four family medical clinics aimed at serving underserved communities in Wilmington and Charlotte, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to his home state.

    A Legacy of Giving Back

    Michael’s mother, Deloris Jordan, is no stranger to philanthropy herself. She founded the James R. Jordan Foundation, named after Michael’s late father, which is dedicated to lifting families out of poverty through education. This foundation even established a wellness center in Kenya in 2009 for women and children.

    I’ve always believed caring for others is one of life’s greatest callings. As a mother who raised my family in Wilmington, I know how access to quality care shapes a community. — Deloris Jordan

    Deloris shared her perspective, highlighting the profound impact of quality care on a community and her fascination with the link between neuroscience and overall well-being. It’s truly inspiring to see how this family’s dedication to health and wellness extends across continents.

    What do you think about Michael Jordan’s incredible donation and his mother’s legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • TikToker Brenay Kennard Ordered to Pay $1.75M

    In a significant legal ruling, TikTok influencer Brenay Kennard has been found liable for ‘alienation of affection’ and ‘criminal conversation’ and ordered to pay $1.75 million. The verdict came after a North Carolina jury determined Kennard’s actions negatively impacted a marriage.

    A Jury’s Decision

    The jury awarded $250,000 for criminal conversation and $1.5 million for alienation of affection. Kennard’s accuser, Akira Montague, alleged that Kennard’s affair with her then-husband, Timothy Montague, caused emotional distress to her and her children, depriving them of a two-parent home. Akira’s attorney praised the verdict as justice and accountability.

    North Carolina is one of the few states that still recognizes ‘alienation of affection’ as a tort, allowing a spouse to sue someone for interfering with their marriage. The lawsuit accused Kennard of seducing Timothy Montague and publicly flaunting their relationship online, including sharing images of his children.

    Responses to the Verdict

    Both Kennard and Timothy Montague have spoken out against the verdict, believing it to be unjust. Kennard, who has a large following on TikTok and Instagram, stated, ‘The truth will always be the truth, and it’s easy to believe the lies, especially when playing the victim card.’ She added, ‘God will have the final say.’

    Timothy Montague stood by his testimony, asserting that the marriage was loveless and that Kennard should not be held liable for its dissolution. He commented, ‘The marriage was NOT full of genuine love. All parties involved know that. God will get the glory.’

    Potential Financial Repercussions

    Beyond the substantial civil judgment, the ruling could significantly impact Kennard’s brand and future earnings. Collection efforts might involve seizing future income and revenue from her monetized online content, unless a settlement is reached between the parties.

    What are your thoughts on the concept of ‘alienation of affection’ lawsuits? Share your opinions in the comments below!