Apex-based LiveSwitch says it will hire 100 workers through a new second‑chance initiative that will include applicants with criminal records. The hires would roughly double local headcount.

House Bill 1083 would let hiring parties — including app platforms — contribute to portable benefit accounts owned by independent contractors, allowing them to buy health and retirement coverage without reclassification.

Duke Energy says it spent nearly $1 billion with North Carolina suppliers in 2025 and could expand that to nearly $5 billion over five years to shore up grid equipment and jobs.

FEMA has cleared another major package — roughly $179M in public‑assistance and $18M in mitigation grants — to accelerate Helene recovery across western North Carolina.

Chapel Hill will replace its traditional Fourth of July fireworks with a 300‑drone light show at Chapel Hill High School, a move tied to resident feedback and climate goals.

Postino is coming to University Place in Chapel Hill with indoor dining, a large patio and a rotating wine-and-shared-plates menu; no opening date yet.

NC wildlife officials rolled out early-season hunts and new carcass-disposal rules aimed at slowing chronic wasting disease in affected counties. Hunters are being asked to test and to change how they handle deer remains.

A fallen tree struck a main feeder line early Wednesday, cutting power to more than 25,000 Durham residents as crews work to repair damaged equipment.

Red Lotus, a Chapel Hill staple since 2006, announced a permanent closure on June 30. Staff say a new Asian restaurant is slated to take the space in August.

A severe thunderstorm warning for Watauga County sent Boone and nearby communities indoors Tuesday as storms brought possible 60 mph gusts and flood risk.

A 15-year-old has been charged after a South Street shooting left another teen seriously injured. Police say the investigation is active and more arrests may follow.

Lawmakers' draft budget includes millions for PFAS testing and mitigation around fire stations, funding tests, temporary water and gear‑cleaning pilots to protect firefighters.

Durham crews probed a suspected explosion at Kymera's Weck Drive plant Monday evening; employees evacuated and no injuries were reported.