Representatives with Mecklenburg County announced at a community meeting on Monday that they plan to launch a post-overdose response team and a program that aims to support those dealing with substance use and mental health challenges.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools board member Melissa Easley faced criticism over the weekend for a statement on the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. She and the CMS school board have since responded.

At a Flat Rock briefing with state and local leaders, Gov. Josh Stein said North Carolina has received in federal funds only 9% of the estimated $60 billion in damages from Hurricane Helene.

Nearly a year after Hurricane Helene destroyed Lake Lure’s beloved Flowering Bridge, the structure is set to be rebuilt with more than $2.5 million in federal funds. Republican Congressman Tim Moore says the FEMA grant will cover 90% of the cost to replace the 1925 stone arch bridge, which volunteers had transformed into a public garden. The landmark was declared damaged beyond repair after the storm, and demolition began last month.

By January, a new state law will require NC school districts to restrict students’ cell phone use. Some schools were already trying similar policies, and students say they're less distracted in class.

Over the past several months, immigration enforcement activity, both real and rumored, has frightened communities across Charlotte. Latino residents, regardless of status, have been adjusting their daily lives. Many have reduced shopping, gathering and other public activities. While headlines often focus on political arguments and border statistics, the local consequences are playing out quietly, in corner stores, laundromats and bakeries.

The Mecklenberg Board of Elections confirms JD Mazuera Arias's District 5 primary victory. A new art exhibit in uptown explores how companies use misdirection to avoid scrutiny. Lake Lure's Flowering Bridge will be rebuilt. Another earthquake rattles S.C. The Panthers lose a pair of offensive linemen to injury.