It doesn’t get any more “wintry” than the last few days in North Carolina.

But here’s an opportunity to actually have fun with NC’s cold season. No one does it better than Haywood County, which is kicking off its annual Ice Fest beginning Thursday.

This week’s “3 things happening” has the scoop on Ice Fest. It features games, food, ice skating, and more. 

The Haywood Ice Fest kicks off Thursday, Jan. 29. (Visit Haywood)

Welcome back to the working week. Hope you’re staying warm, NC. Here’s what’s in today’s Cardinal & Pine newsletter: 

Elena Gallenberger sent us this beautiful snowy view from the Blue Ridge Parkway near Highway 215.

Winter does have its perks, too. 

Room In the Inn guests line up in the snow, anticipating the beginning of registration. (Courtesy of Roof Above)

Cardinal & Pine contributor Vanessa Infanzon has a fascinating new piece on a program called Room in the Inn. 

During the coldest months of the year, a network of faith-based organizations and colleges link up to offer housing to people who desperately need it. The need is especially acute when temperatures plunge, as they have recently across North Carolina. 

How does it work? Homeless folks receive an orientation training and enter a lottery. The number of available rooms varies, but ranges from about 30 beds to 115. 

Check it out. 

1. A winter storm, a viral claim and what the science actually says. WRAL

“After President Trump pointed to a winter storm as evidence against global warming, North Carolina scientists point to decades of warming winter data.”

2. Trans youth under 19 left with few options for gender-affirming care in NC. NC Newsline

“UNC Health and Advocate Health, the state’s two largest providers, have halted gender-affirming care for patients under 19.”

3. Roy Cooper is at the forefront of Democrats’ long-shot bid to flip the Senate. But what do eastern NC voters think of him? Mother Jones

“The former North Carolina governor may not be the future of the Democratic party, but he might just help Democrats flip a critical seat.”

Shoppers exploring Brightleaf Flea Market in Smithfield. (Brightleaf Flea Market)

There are bargain hunters, and then there are bargain hunters. 

Some folks spend hours sifting through the goods at their local flea market in search of hidden gems. Well, if that describes you, we have a new guide that you have to read. 

Britteny Dee has written a guide to 9 indoor flea markets across the state. 

From Smithfield’s Brightleaf Flea Market to Cooks Flea Market in Winston-Salem. Get digging! 

Do you want to support Cardinal & Pine’s mission while showcasing your products or services to an engaged audience of 200,000+ subscribers?

Contact advertise@couriernewsroom.com for more information.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Billy Ball. I’m an NC native and journalist. I tend to lean left on opinion, but I lean no way on facts. Today’s edition includes stories from Ryan Pitkin, Vanessa Infanzon, and Britteny Dee. It was edited by Paula Solis.

Cardinal & Pine is free for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.