Senator Natalie Murdock on Hip-Hop, Healing, and High-Stakes Legislating

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer In the world of North Carolina politics, Senator Natalie Murdock is proving that authenticity is the ultimate political currency.  As the first Black woman under 40 to serve in our state Senate, Murdock isn't just filing bills; she's building a brand rooted in the culture and the real-life struggles of her constituents. During a recent conversation, Murdock drew a thoughtful parallel between the halls of

Event Spotlight: A Soulful Black Nativity At Durham’s Hillside

By Jheri Hardaway, Staff Writer Producers Wendell Tabb and Xavier Cason, in powerful association with the esteemed Triangle Performance Ensemble, recently captivated audiences with an outstanding and truly inspiring rendition of Black Nativity. This production was far more than a simple retelling; it was a deeply soulful and triumphant celebration that vibrated with the spirit of the season, solidifying its place as an essential holiday tradition for the Durham community.

Black Women’s Leadership Collective North Carolina

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer The Black Women's Leadership Collective (BWLC) is emerging as a critical force in American politics, acting as a strategic organizing hub to significantly amplify the social and political influence of Black women nationwide. Powered by the "Power Rising" initiative, the BWLC connects national organizations, advocates, and grassroots supporters to ensure Black women are powerfully represented, both at the ballot box-mobilizing an audience of over 20

Reclaiming the Truth: The Legacy Of Scholar-Captive Omar Ibn Said 

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Fayetteville, N.C. - In a gathering defined by deep spiritual reflection and a determined search for historical accuracy, community members, scholars, and historians came together recently to honor the legacy of Omar ibn Said. The event, centered around a communal circle modeled after West African village traditions, focused on the life of Said, a highly educated Muslim scholar from Futa Toro (modern-day Senegal) who was

Mayor Leonardo Williams On Durham’s Economic Future

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Durham, N.C. - Mayor Leonardo Williams is not interested in code-switching, I'm glad because we are exhausted. Recently the teacher of the year-turned, restaurateur-turned-politician, was asked by a reporter about a comment Williams had made at a town hall meeting. In a moment of candid frustration regarding youth violence, the Mayor had used the acronym "YN." For the uninitiated, it stands for "Young N*****." "She

Updates From Veteran’s Affairs: VA Hits Seven-Year High in Housing Homeless Veterans

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Durham, N.C. - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced this week that it has permanently housed 51,936 homeless veterans across the country in Fiscal Year 2025, marking the largest number of veterans housed in a single year since 2019. This national milestone had a significant impact here in North Carolina. According to recent data, 1,379 North Carolina veterans were permanently housed this fiscal year.

Novartis Breaks Ground On $771 Million Manufacturing Hub Expansion In Durham

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Durham, N.C. - In a major victory for North Carolina's biotechnology sector, global pharmaceutical giant Novartis and DPR Construction broke ground this week on a massive expansion of its manufacturing capabilities in Durham and Morrisville. The event, attended by Governor Josh Stein, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary, and Novartis CEO Vas Narasimhan, marked the beginning of a $771 million investment projected to bring 700 new,

Perseverance, Politics, and the Power of Authenticity

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Raleigh, NC - In a city that has transformed dramatically over the last two decades, few voices have remained as consistent and authentic as Madison Jay, also known as "County!" A staple of the Raleigh hip-hop scene, Madison Jay has seen waves of artists come and go, but he remains grounded, driven by a philosophy of perseverance and community. I recently sat down with the

Passing the Baton, Not Throwing It: A Conversation On Leadership And Legacy With Reverand Dr. Darian Bouie

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer In the world of leadership-whether political, corporate, or spiritual-how one enters a role is often just as critical as how one performs in it. I was recently inspired by the installation ceremony of Rev. Dr. Darian Bouie, where a speaker noted the profound difference between a predecessor "passing the baton" versus "throwing it" at the new leader. This essential metaphor has stuck with me. It

Event Spotlight: Shaw University and the HBCU Triumph Gala

By Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Briar Creek, NC - December 6, 1865, was profoundly symbolic; the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, abolishing slavery. Saturday, December 6, 2025, at The Westin Hotel-RDU was powerful as well. The 2nd Annual HBCU Triumph Gala was a celebration of the very legacy, pride, philanthropy, and endurance that keep us going today. The premier black-tie event dedicated to celebrating triumphs of Historically