Happy August, y’all. I’m excited that a new month is here because that means we’re that much closer to fall arriving—plus, this weekend is supposed to bring some much-needed cooler temperatures.

Another fun thing about today? It’s time for another installment of Good News Friday, which includes positive bits for fans of independent film, plus props for NASA astronauts and NBA ballers with ties to the Tar Heel State.

Here’s what you’ll find in today’s newsletter:

Last week, we took you to the quaint (but fast-growing) city of Concord. Hilariously, Billy Ball’s wife, Hillary Little, was the first to get it right. 

We promise we didn’t cheat. Same rules this week. First to get it right gets a shout-out here.

Hurricane Helene from above. (BEST-BACKGROUNDS/Shutterstock)

North Carolina’s desirable climate—i.e., warm summers and mild winters—draws people to the Tar Heel State, either for vacation or a more permanent stay. However, North Carolina is also prone to extreme weather events, such as tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes.

North Carolina was affected by 121 weather events with losses exceeding $1 billion from 1980 to 2024, and the frequency of these extreme events is increasing in the state—and nationwide. Many of these weather events in North Carolina were so intense and devastating that they made national headlines, and local residents, storm chasers, and news teams captured footage showing the storms in action and their aftermath.

Click here to learn more to learn more about some of North Carolina’s extreme weather events and watch footage of them unfolding.

1. NC election changes? GOP seeks signature verification rules, ranked choice voting ban. WRAL.com

The bill would also allow for some foreign spending in state elections, politically motivated hiring or firing of election workers and more.

2. Michael Whatley launches bid for US Senate in North Carolina. Cardinal & Pine.

Republican Michael Whatley, who helped President Donald Trump spread lies about the 2020 election, announced his candidacy for North Carolina’s 2026 US Senate race on Thursday. 

3. NC House approves bill to reduce trips people must make to the DMV. News & Observer

An estimated 300,000 North Carolinians would be able to avoid a trip to the Division of Motor Vehicles each year under a bill approved by House lawmakers on Wednesday.

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