2024 Was A Year of Global Progress

  By: Jordan Meadows Staff Writer One of the most remarkable moments of 2024 occurred in the fight against HIV. In June, Science Magazine heralded the discovery of a potential game-changer for global health: the twice-yearly drug lenacapavir, which, in an African clinical trial, reduced HIV infections to zero-an astonishing 100% efficacy rate. This breakthrough represents the closest humanity has come to a vaccine for HIV in four decades. The

Diversifying The N.C. Film Industry

By: Jordan Meadows, Staff Writer The film industry has long been known for its glamour, but it is also a world where your connections often matter more than your skills. However, a North Carolina-based organization, the Film Partnership of North Carolina (FPNC), is working to break this mold and open up opportunities for a more diverse range of voices and talent in the industry. Founded in Wilmington in 2021 by

Empowering Women Through Firearm Safety Training

By: Jordan Meadows, Staff Writer Dr. Joy Allen’s journey from clinical research executive to firearms trainer and community advocate is defined by a passion for empowerment and a commitment to creating safe spaces for women in the world of firearms education.  Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Allen founded InHER Piece, a pioneering business that offers inclusive and accessible firearms training, personal protection education, and community-building opportunities for women from all

Onesimus: The African Who Helped Defeat Smallpox

By: Jordan Meadows Staff Writer The story of Onesimus, an enslaved African man in 18th-century Boston, is one of perseverance and quiet revolution-whose ripples are still felt today in the global fight against infectious diseases. His knowledge of smallpox inoculation, passed down through generations of Africans, played a pivotal role in introducing the practice of variolation to America. This intervention not only saved lives during a devastating smallpox outbreak in

A Bitter Recount, Legal Battle Over Votes

By: Jordan Meadows Staff Writer The race for the North Carolina Supreme Court has entered a tense and legally complex phase, with Democratic Justice Allison Riggs narrowly edging out Republican challenger Jefferson Griffin by a mere 734 votes. However, Griffin is not backing down. In an unprecedented move, Griffin has filed a legal challenge to the validity of 60,000 votes cast in the state, including those from military and overseas

David R. Davis Honored At St. Matthew AME For Dedication

By: Jordan Meadows Staff Writer  Gospel singer and music director at Saint Matthew AME Church David R. Davis was honored on Sunday in Raleigh for his years of devoted service to his community and his faith. At 58 years old, Davis has built a remarkable legacy in both music and community leadership. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Edward Waters College, he has dedicated over 16 years

The Return of Moral Mondays

By: Jordan Meadows, Staff Writer On Monday evening, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the North Carolina State Capitol to demand that lawmakers halt the passage of Senate Bill 382, a controversial piece of legislation they condemned as a "legislative coup."  The protest marked the return of the Moral Monday movement, a tradition that began over a decade ago under the leadership of Reverend William J. Barber. The protests first erupted

Hall Insurance Group’s Personalized Medicare Solutions

By: Jordan Meadows, Staff Writer Since opening its doors in 2017, Hall Insurance Group has been committed to offering personalized Medicare solutions to over 3,000 individuals. The company’s philosophy is built on the understanding that each client’s situation is unique and deserves individualized attention.  Founder Melissa Hall emphasizes that her company’s core mantra, "Everyone Matters," is not just a slogan, but a principle that guides every aspect of the business.

Men at Work: A Commitment to Second Chances

By: Jordan Meadows Staff Writer For over 30 years, Men at Work Car Care Center, a full-service car wash and detail center, has been a beacon opportunity in Raleigh, dedicated to providing second chances to those who need them most. Founded by Mike Phillips in 1988, the center has become a vital part of each community it touches. Phillips, a Philadelphia native and 1979 graduate of Saint Augustine University, believes

Recounts: NC’s High-Stakes Elections

By Jordan Meadows Staff Writer The race for North Carolina's Supreme Court between Democratic incumbent Justice Allison Riggs and Republican challenger Jefferson Griffin is going to a recount. With 5.5 million ballots cast, Riggs leads by just 625 votes, or 0.01%, after the final votes were tallied from several counties. As of Tuesday afternoon, all ballots appear to be in- Forsyth and Duplin were the ones left to be fully