We all know groceries are more expensive. But as Cardinal & Pine contributor Ryan Pitkin points out in his new edition of Good News Friday, those aren’t the only things that are more expensive.

Recreational, fun things are pricier, too. For instance, the typical prom cost is up about 40% since 1998.

For the last few years, one North Carolina faith community has done their part to make this high school rite of passage more affordable for everyone. Every year, they collect gently used prom dresses and give them away.

We have their inspiring story in a new Good News Friday. Check it out. 

For several years now, the Apex Prom Shoppe in NC has made prom accessible to everyone by giving away gently used prom dresses for free. (Apex UMC Dress Shoppe)

I hope everyone gets some good downtime this weekend. Here’s what’s in today’s Cardinal & Pine newsletter: 

P.S. We’re planning what comes next, and your input matters. Take our short, 5-minute survey to help shape the future of this newsletter. The survey window closes Monday night. Thanks in advance!

Thanks to Cardinal & Pine reader Wanda Bullard for this gorgeous sunrise view from Pembroke. 

(Shutterstock)

Courier correspondent Jessica F. Simmons is back with an important new report on one key lobbying initiative taking shape in NC ahead of the midterm elections.

As Simmons reports, door-to-door canvassers are expecting a massive influx of anti-abortion lobbying in the state. 

Last year, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, a national anti-abortion organization, said it was planning an $80 million investment to “retain pro-life majorities in the US House and Senate” for the 2026 midterm elections.

Their plan was to reach 10.5 million voters across battleground states, including North Carolina. Nearly five million of those voters, SBA says, will be reached through door-canvassing efforts. We took a look at what to expect. 

More NC news:

1. NC’s best hospitals of 2026. Business NC

“In ranking North Carolina’s top hospitals, biggest has consistently equated to the best, with Duke University Hospital topping Business North Carolina’s annual ranking for the third consecutive year.”

2. After transforming and expanding the program, NC Medicaid director steps down. NC Health News

“Jay Ludlam’s departure comes as the program faces some of its biggest challenges yet. But he believes it’s in good hands.”

3. Inside the intensely personal battle to be the GOP nominee in eastern NC. The Assembly

“Before a Republican can attempt to oust U.S. Rep. Don Davis in the 1st District, they must navigate a five-way primary.”

Jon Bilous via Shutterstock

If it’s Friday, we’re testing your knowledge of the Tar Heel State. Last week, we took you to Goldsboro, an old railroad town that’s home to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. 

Cardinal & Pine reader Lucy Edmondson had the speediest fingers, which makes her the King of NC this week. 

Let’s take on a really challenging one this week. Where are we, folks? 

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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 and Jessica F. Simmons. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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