While other states and local governments have enacted laws prohibiting intentional balloon releases, North Carolina’s legislature has taken the air out of all proposed legislation.
July 2026
Posted inMilitary
U.S. Soldier Killed in Iraq Identified as Fayetteville Father of Two
The 30-year-old was killed in an explosion while helping dispose of a downed Iranian drone in Iraq, officials said.
Posted inCulture
Belles and Whistles
In 2020, Wilmington decided to do away with the Azalea Belles. Now some are waging a campaign to bring them back.
Posted inThe Assembly
The Assembly Network Wins 39 State Reporting Awards
The North Carolina Press Association will honor winners at a September 10 dinner.
Sponsored Content
Rising Energy Bills Aren’t Inevitable. North Carolina Can Reverse the Trend with Proven Strategies.
North Carolina can curb rising electricity costs by expanding grid competition, modernizing transmission infrastructure, and embracing clean-energy innovation while countering misinformation, improving reliability, and protecting consumers from escalating energy prices.
Posted inHigher Education
UNC-Chapel Hill Journalism Dean to Step Down
Raul Reis will step down on August 1. He has led the journalism school since 2022.
Posted inHistory
Suite Dreams
For more than 40 years, North Carolina’s politicians worked, ate, and slept at the Sir Walter hotel in Raleigh.
Posted inCourts & Justice
Judge Denies Hearing for Former Pro Basketball Player Serving Two Life Terms
James Richardson was convicted in a drive-by double shooting outside a Greenville nightclub in 2009.
Posted inHigher Education
Before She Took Historic Moon Photos, Christina Koch Honed Her Skills in N.C.
Koch is credited with taking “Earthset” on a mission that made her the first woman to orbit the moon.
Posted inHigher Education
Why Davidson College Is Offering Free Tuition to Families Making Less Than $175K
President Doug Hicks said the change is expected to expand Davidson’s applicant pool by simplifying the school’s financial aid offerings.
