Wholesale inflation and steep produce-price spikes are driving more Wake County residents to local food pantries, stretching groups like Community of Hope in Garner. Donations and budgets are struggling to keep pace.

A Raleigh sergeant jumped into a partially frozen pond in February to rescue a child; the city praised his actions in a March 21 post. Local reporting says the child was treated at WakeMed.

Dozens of residents pressed Durham leaders during a community conversation as city and county officials collect public input for a months‑long violence‑reduction plan. Community members urged faster action and more youth programming as leaders gather data to shape interventions.

After a March 7 e-bike "ride out" slowed traffic in Heritage, Wake Forest police warned riders and parents that violators could face arrest, citation or impoundment under new local rules.

William Peace University has named Dr. Jennifer E. Walsh its 13th president, effective June 1, 2026. She plans to expand employer partnerships, internships and workforce pathways in Raleigh.

A Halifax County man scratched a $100,000 Stacks of Cash ticket at Cloud 9 in Roanoke Rapids and left with $72,016 after taxes. The win comes from a $20 ticket launched in January.

After the UNC System rolled back DEI rules, UNC Charlotte disbanded offices and student groups are running mentoring and cultural programs — often with limited resources.

Duke unveiled a roughly $203 million Homegrown plan to increase local hiring, contractor spending and affordable-housing support across the Research Triangle. The university will track progress publicly.

Community groups and descendants sued to overturn a Stokes County rezoning for Project Delta, saying gravesites and the Dan River corridor are at risk.

A $475,000 Golden LEAF award will bankroll Phase 1 of Durham’s Farm Campus on a 129‑acre Orange Factory Road site, funding training, a shared kitchen and a farm manager.

A Raleigh CARES pilot now transfers certain 911 callers to licensed clinicians during weekday hours, aiming to de‑escalate crises and route people to care instead of police.

Late fees and water shutoffs are back in Raleigh after a billing portal rollout. Customers behind on bills can set up payment plans or apply for assistance.

Wake County schools are about 2,000 students shy of recent projections this year, a shortfall planners link to fewer immigrant arrivals and rapid voucher growth. The shift is changing facility and budget priorities.