Author: Jheri Hardaway

Jheri Hardaway is a staff writer for The Carolinian whose reporting explores the intersection of activism, politics, and community life across North Carolina. Drawing on her own experience and history in political organizing and civic engagement, Hardaway focuses on political coverage that highlights grassroots movements, public policy, and the voices of communities often overlooked in traditional media. Through thoughtful storytelling and analysis, she brings attention to the people and issues shaping the region’s political and social landscape.

Local Government Commission September Meeting: Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, Taylortown Update, and more!

September 19, 2025September 17, 20250

By: Jheri Hardaway Staff Writer Raleigh, N.C. - From the office of the Local Government Commission (LGC), members cleared the way on September 9th for the state to contract for an outside, independent audit of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. The school system has been cited for financial mismanagement and a $46 million budget deficit that led to the elimination of 350 positions. Commission members unanimously passed a resolution at Tuesday's

Teens with Guns Murder Beloved Roseville Educator Ericka Ruffin Lucas

September 18, 2025September 17, 20250

By: Jheri Hardaway (formerly Ms. Jheri Worldwide) Staff Writer Former Rolesville High School Principal Ericka Ruffin Lucas, 56, is dead after being shot in Wake Forest. She was not the intended target. Her life was tragically cut short by two members of our community's youth. Principal Lucas opened Rolesville High in 2013, proudly led its first graduating class, and dedicated her life to giving students a future. She believed every

The Legacy Of John Hunter Continues: Raleigh Hosts Informative Family Reunion

September 16, 2025September 10, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway (formerly Ms. Jheri Worldwide) Staff Writer "If you leave home you still need to know where home is" one of the family members mentioned during the presentations of Belle Long and Yvonne Hunter Sanders at Tucker House in downtown Raleigh. The City of Raleigh hosted members of the Hunter family for a follow up to an experience that took place four years ago. On YouTube.com you can find

Nazar Fragrances on Crabtree Changes and Cultural Shift

September 15, 2025September 10, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway (formerly Ms. Jheri Worldwide) Staff Writer The heart of a community often beats in its small businesses. The Crabtree Valley Mall we knew is no longer. Drastic changes have impacted every element of the customer and retailer experience. For four years, Nazar, a perfume kiosk in the Crabtree Valley Mall, was a pulsating artery of that community. Located in the bustling corridor between popular shoe stores, the kiosk,

Harnett County Commissioner McKoy’s Impactful and Informative Town Hall

September 11, 2025September 10, 20250

By Jheri Hardaway (formerly Ms. Jheri Worldwide) Staff Writer Lillington, NC - Harnett County officials addressed growth, taxes, and public services at a town hall hosted by Commissioner Barbara McKoy. This gathering updated residents on key county initiatives and services, addressing a range of topics from property taxes and public health to the challenges of managing a rapid population growth. The event was held in Lillington at the Harnett County Resource

Courage & Conviction: Honoring The Life Of Major General Joseph McNeil

September 11, 2025September 10, 20250

By: Jheri Hardaway (formerly Ms. Jheri Worldwide) Staff Writer Long Island, NY - The world is mourning the passing of Major General Joseph A. McNeil, a true American revolutionary whose actions helped ignite the Civil Rights Movement. As one of the Greensboro Four, McNeil's legacy is defined by his unwavering courage and a deep-seated belief in justice. His life, from a humble upbringing to a distinguished military career, was a testament

The Battle For Heritage: Historic Black Towns Under Threat From Development

September 8, 20250

By Ms. Jheri Worldwide Staff Writer In the heart of the American South, a quiet but urgent battle is unfolding. Historic Black towns, many founded by formerly enslaved people seeking autonomy and community, are facing an existential threat from aggressive real estate development. These communities, rich in history and cultural significance, are being targeted for their valuable land, a process that risks erasing not only homes but centuries of heritage.

Taylortown Welcomes A New Police Chief

September 5, 2025September 3, 20250

By Ms Jheri Worldwide Staff Writer TAYLORTOWN, N.C. - The Taylortown Police Department recently welcomed a new leader, as Chief Daniel Smith was officially sworn in to head the force. While any new appointment marks a new chapter for a town, Chief Smith's leadership is a profound reminder of what it means to serve and protect. Daniel Smith, a native of Southern Pines, has held roles in public safety from

Dr. Allanté Whitmore on the Road Ahead: Demystifying Autonomous Vehicles

August 29, 2025August 27, 20250

Atlanta, GA-The sight of a vehicle driving itself, with a passenger in the back and an empty driver's seat, might seem like a scene from a science-fiction movie. But for many, this is becoming a daily reality. The question is, are we ready for this shift? The Carolinian sat down with autonomous vehicle expert Allanté V. Whitmore, PhD, Executive Board Vice President for PAVE (Partners for AV Education), to discuss

Near Miss at Carlie C’s IGA: A Call for Responsible Gun Ownership

August 28, 2025August 27, 20250

By: Ms. Jheri Worldwide Staff Writer Dunn, NC - A recent incident at a local grocery store has ignited concerns about the implications of North Carolina's permitless carry law and the importance of responsible firearm handling. On Sunday, August 16th, at approximately 12:15PM, a startling event unfolded at the Carlie C's grocery store at the East Cumberland location in Dunn, North Carolina. According to a witness, a loud bang sound