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North Carolina Governor Josh Stein Featured in Documentary on PFAS Contamination Fight

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein Featured in Documentary on PFAS Contamination Fight

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein is featured in a new documentary titled 'GENX: The Saga of Forever Chemicals,' which premieres in Saxapahaw. The film explores the nearly decade-long battle against PFAS contamination in the state's drinking water, particularly in the Cape Fear River. Governor Stein served as attorney general during a significant portion of the investigation and legal actions related to these 'forever chemicals.' The documentary, directed by Eli Yetter-Bowman and Sammy Bauer, delves into the history of PFAS contamination, its impact on communities, and ongoing efforts to hold chemical manufacturers accountable. It also includes environmental attorney Robert Bilott and actor Mark Ruffalo. The film highlights the personal connection of Yetter-Bowman, who grew up in Wilmington and was exposed to contaminated water, inspiring his investigation into the broader health implications. Recent testing has revealed the nationwide extent of PFAS contamination, with nearly 197 million Americans served...

U.S. Representatives Form Bipartisan Caucus to Combat PFAS Pollution

U.S. Representatives Form Bipartisan Caucus to Combat PFAS Pollution

U.S. Representative Clay Fuller, a Republican from Georgia's 14th congressional district, has announced the formation of the Southeastern PFAS Caucus. This bipartisan group aims to address the widespread issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pollution, often referred to as 'forever chemicals,' which have been a source of concern regarding drinking water contamination and potential health effects. The caucus's primary goal is to find solutions and secure funding for cleanup efforts across the region. Founding members include U.S. Representatives Laurel Lee and Brian Mast, both Florida Republicans, and Darren Soto of Florida and Deborah Ross of North Carolina, both Democrats. Representative Fuller emphasized the personal significance of this issue, citing his own thyroid cancer diagnosis, which he believes may be linked to environmental factors in his childhood community in north Georgia. PFAS are manufactured chemicals used in various products for their resistance to water, stains, grease, and...

HanesBrands Inc. Identified as Key Employer in Piedmont Triad's Diverse Economy

HanesBrands Inc. Identified as Key Employer in Piedmont Triad's Diverse Economy

HanesBrands Inc. Identified as Key Employer in Piedmont Triad's Diverse Economy

Thomas Burke Advocated for States' Rights During the American Revolution

Thomas Burke Advocated for States' Rights During the American Revolution

Thomas Burke, a prominent figure in North Carolina's Patriot movement and later its governor, was a strong advocate for states' rights during the American Revolution. As a delegate to the Continental Congress, to which he was selected three times, Burke actively participated in debates concerning the structure of the new country's government. His arguments for states' autonomy were so influential that they eventually formed a basis for the 10th Amendment to the federal Constitution. Burke, who was born in Ireland and settled in Virginia before moving to North Carolina, was a multifaceted individual, practicing medicine and law, and writing poetry. He played a crucial role in drafting the Halifax Resolves and North Carolina's first state constitution, demonstrating his commitment to the principles of self-governance and individual state sovereignty.

Reps. Castor, Obernolte, and Matsui Introduce Bipartisan ON-DEMAND Act to Lower Electric Bills and Enhance Grid Reliability

Reps. Castor, Obernolte, and Matsui Introduce Bipartisan ON-DEMAND Act to Lower Electric Bills and Enhance Grid Reliability

U.S. Representatives Kathy Castor (FL-14), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), and Doris Matsui (CA-07) have jointly introduced the Optimizing Networks for Distributed Energy Management and New Demand (ON-DEMAND) Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to reduce electricity costs for consumers and improve the stability of the nation's power grid. The core of the bill focuses on expanding the adoption and effective use of virtual power plants (VPPs). These VPPs would coordinate various home and business devices, such as batteries, smart thermostats, water heaters, and rooftop solar systems, to balance electricity supply and demand. The ON-DEMAND Act directs the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to establish standards, provide technical assistance to utilities and grid operators, and strengthen consumer protections related to VPP deployment. Supporters of the bill, including several industry and advocacy groups like Advanced Energy United and the Sierra Club, believe it will help manage increasing electricity demand and shif...

Charter Senior Living Expands Partnership with Ventas, Adding Three Senior Living Communities

Charter Senior Living Expands Partnership with Ventas, Adding Three Senior Living Communities

Charter Senior Living Expands Partnership with Ventas, Adding Three Senior Living Communities

North Carolina Attorney General Sues Charlotte-Area Driver's Ed Company for Unfair Practices

North Carolina Attorney General Sues Charlotte-Area Driver's Ed Company for Unfair Practices

The state attorney general of North Carolina has initiated a lawsuit against a driver's education company operating in the Charlotte area, along with its owner. The lawsuit alleges that the company engaged in 'unfair and deceptive practices.' This legal action comes as part of broader efforts to address consumer protection issues within the state. The specific details of the alleged unfair and deceptive practices have not been fully disclosed in the provided information, but such lawsuits typically involve misrepresentation, failure to deliver promised services, or other actions that harm consumers financially or otherwise. The attorney general's office is responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and ensuring businesses operate ethically within North Carolina.

U.S. Department of Energy Emphasizes Comprehensive Approach to Hydrogen Economy Development

U.S. Department of Energy Emphasizes Comprehensive Approach to Hydrogen Economy Development

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is advocating for a comprehensive approach to developing the hydrogen economy, treating production, storage, delivery, and safety as distinct yet interconnected technical challenges. According to Zoe Talent Solutions, the DOE's perspective highlights that the viability and emissions impact of hydrogen depend on the entire production and delivery pathway, not just the initial production method. Hydrogen can be produced through various pathways, including water electrolysis using electricity, natural gas reforming, and biomass conversion. The DOE stresses that 'color labels' for hydrogen (e.g., green, blue) are insufficient for project comparison; instead, lifecycle emissions, electricity sources, methane emissions, process efficiency, and carbon capture performance are crucial. Key considerations include infrastructure development, ensuring reliable supply and demand, and addressing safety concerns related to hydrogen's flammability and material compatibility.

Senator Jacky Rosen Recognizes Kerwin Pittman for Reentry Program Leadership

Senator Jacky Rosen Recognizes Kerwin Pittman for Reentry Program Leadership

U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen has issued a Special Congressional Recognition to Kerwin Pittman, the Director of Programs at Emancipate NC and founder of Recidivism Reduction Educational Program Services (RREPS). This recognition acknowledges Pittman's extensive work in supporting individuals returning to their communities after incarceration. Pittman, who spent over 11 years incarcerated, has dedicated his efforts to creating pathways for successful reentry, challenging systemic barriers, and transforming lives. His initiatives include the ambitious project to convert the former Wayne Correctional Center in Goldsboro, North Carolina, into a Recidivism Reduction Campus. This campus aims to provide comprehensive support, resources, and opportunities for individuals transitioning from incarceration, emphasizing investment in people over punishment. Emancipate NC highlights Pittman's journey as a powerful example of how lived experience can drive meaningful change and underscores the importance of recognizing forme...

WFAE's Charlotte Talks with Mike Collins Explores Indigenous Veterans Day Perspectives

WFAE's Charlotte Talks with Mike Collins Explores Indigenous Veterans Day Perspectives

WFAE's 'Charlotte Talks with Mike Collins' program recently featured a discussion titled 'Veterans Day through an Indigenous lens.' The episode addressed the historical contributions of Indigenous people to the U.S. armed forces, noting that their efforts have often been minimized and their cultural traditions disrespected. The discussion highlighted that as of 2022, over 160,000 Indigenous veterans serve across the country, yet they face significant challenges upon returning home, including social barriers, lower incomes, and higher unemployment rates. The program also mentioned that the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is breaking ground on North Carolina’s first tribal veterans cemetery, which would be the 15th such cemetery in the U.S., compared to nearly 160 recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Guests included Nakia Arrington, Esq., a retired Marine Corps officer and enrolled citizen of the Lumbee Tribe; Ashley Lomboy, an Army veteran and Waccamaw Siouan; and John Hall, a professor of U.S...

Nova Farm Hosts Corporate and Wellness Retreats in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains

Nova Farm Hosts Corporate and Wellness Retreats in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains

Nova Farm Hosts Corporate and Wellness Retreats in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains

North Carolina HOAs Face Complex Process for State Takeover of Private Roads

North Carolina HOAs Face Complex Process for State Takeover of Private Roads

Homeowners associations (HOAs) in North Carolina often inquire about transferring the maintenance responsibility of their private roads to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). While this is possible, the process is not straightforward and can be costly. Many subdivision roads are private, either by design or because NCDOT has not formally accepted them into the state-maintained system. Even if a road is publicly used or dedicated for public use on a plat, NCDOT is not automatically responsible for its maintenance. To be considered for state maintenance, HOAs must contact their local NCDOT office, which evaluates factors like road location, number of homes served, rights-of-way, construction standards, and current road condition. NCDOT will inspect the roads and may require significant repairs or improvements, such as fixing deteriorated pavement, addressing drainage issues, or providing sufficient rights-of-way, before acceptance. The costs for these improvements typically fall to the H...