Triangle/Local
Trump administration freezes $108M at Duke amid inquiry into alleged racial preferences
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration is freezing $108 million in research funding to Duke University as the federal government accuses the institution of racial discrimination in the form of affirmative action, according to a person familiar with the matter. The National Institutes of Health halted the funding to the private university in North Carolina, said the person who spoke Wednesday on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. Earlier this week, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Education Department sent a joint letter alleging racial preferences in Duke’s hiring and admissions. Duke did not immediately comment.
Lantana: The sun-loving, pollinator-friendly powerhouse
I have grown to love lantana. I never really had anything against it. It’s just the fact I haven’t had a lot of sun areas in my landscape and lantana can take up a fair amount of room if it is happy. Most of North Carolina is hot throughout the summer and we certainly have drought periods. Lantana is made to order for these conditions. Lantana is in the verbena family and is sometimes called “shrub verbena.” It comes in various sizes from 1 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide according to my friends at the Cooperative Extension Service. It loves full sun, moist, but well-drained soil to fully perform. Lantana grows particularly well in the piedmont and thrives on the coastal plain and coast of North Carolina. It is even salt tolerant.
Record-breaking heat wave scorches Southeast US
SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) — Residents in the Southeast U.S. are no strangers to hot weather in the summertime, but the sweltering heat this week set at least one record, and forecasters urged residents to limit being outside if possible and to hydrate. The all-time high temperature record at Tampa International Airport was broken on Sunday when the thermometer hit 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The previous record had been 99 degrees Fahrenheit set in June 2020. The National Weather Service said Tuesday that the prolonged heat wave was expected to peak in the southeast U.S. at mid-week.
Wiley Nickel exits North Carolina Senate race the day after Roy Cooper announces candidacy
CARY, N.C. (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Wiley Nickel has decided to quit his bid for a Senate seat in North Carolina after Democrat Roy Cooper announced his candidacy. Nickel endorsed Cooper on Tuesday, citing leadership and inspiration by the former two-term governor. Cooper launched his campaign on Monday to succeed retiring Republican Sen. Thom Tillis. On the GOP side, Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley is expected to run with Donald Trump’s support. Nickel had formally launched a Senate campaign in April, but his activities were always overshadowed by what Cooper decided to do next. Nickel hinted at future political endeavors in his Tuesday statement.
Heat advisories and warnings issued for Southeast and Midwest as temperatures and humidity soars
The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories for the southeastern United States. The advisories cover areas from central Florida to Virginia through the weekend. Temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s, with heat indexes between 105 and 110. Extreme heat warnings are in effect for eastern North Carolina and parts of South Carolina. Forecasters warn of dangerously hot conditions, with temperatures approaching 100 degrees in parts of the Carolinas. Over 30 million people could be affected. The Midwest is also experiencing extreme heat, with watches in place for Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota. Storms in Iowa have triggered flash flood warnings.
State/Regional
NTSB finds Army chopper in fatal midair crash with plane was above altitude limit
Investigators have found that a helicopter involved in a deadly crash with a passenger plane over Washington was flying above its height limit. The helicopter’s altitude-measuring instrument was also inaccurate. These findings were revealed during the first day of National Transportation Safety Board hearings. The crash, which occurred in January, killed 67 people. The board is examining how the Federal Aviation Administration and the Army may have contributed to the incident. The hearings will continue for three days, focusing on military helicopter routes, collision avoidance technology, and air traffic controller training at Ronald Reagan National Airport.
Some North Carolina Democratic lawmakers break from party to pass Republican priorities
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina Republican lawmakers and some Democrats have overridden eight of Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s 14 vetoes. Tuesday’s override votes were a test for the GOP after the House lost its Republican supermajority during last year’s election. Republicans succeeded in enacting some bills targeting transgender rights and allowing guns on private school property. They accomplished the overrides with the help of some House Democrats. Democrats did block override votes on bills on permitless concealed carry and diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Those bills can still be overridden at a later date.
Union Pacific and Norfolk seek 1st transcontinental railroad through a massive merger
OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific is seeking to buy Norfolk Southern in a $85 billion deal that would create the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S, and potentially trigger a final wave of rail mergers across the country. The proposed merger, announced Tuesday, would marry Union Pacific’s rail network in the West with Norfolk’s rails that snake across Eastern states. The nation was first linked by rail in 1869, when a golden railroad spike was driven in Utah to symbolize the connection of East and West Coasts. Yet no single entity has controlled that coast-to-coast passage that so many businesses rely on.
Former Democratic North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper will run for Senate in 2026
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Former Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper will run for the U.S. Senate in North Carolina, giving Democrats a proven statewide winner in an open-seat race that is expected to be one of the most competitive 2026 contests. Cooper made the announcement Monday with a video released on social media and his campaign website. The former two-term governor will immediately become the front-runner for the Democratic nomination in the race to succeed retiring Republican Sen. Thom Tillis. Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley plans to run for the GOP nomination, with President Donald Trump’s blessing. Cooper’s candidacy is a big recruiting win for Democrats, who see the open seat as a top pick-up opportunity in what will be a challenging year.
Renaming of military bases stirs debate over Confederate ties
More than half a dozen Army bases’ names were changed in 2023 because they honored Confederate leaders. Those same bases are reverting back to their original names, this time with different namesakes who share Confederate surnames. Critics of the latest name changes argue it undermines efforts to move away from Confederate associations. The issue has long split people who favor preserving an aspect of southern heritage and those who want slavery-supporting rebels stripped of valor. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s decision to restore the names is his latest move to align with Trump’s purging of diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
World/National
Federal Reserve leaves interest rates unchanged even as Trump demands cuts
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve is leaving its key short-term interest rate unchanged for the fifth time this year, brushing off repeated calls from President Donald Trump for a cut. The Fed’s decision Wednesday leaves its key short-term rate at about 4.3%, where it has stood after the central bank reduced it three times last year. Chair Jerome Powell has said the Fed would likely have cut rates already if not for Trump’s sweeping tariffs. Powell and other Fed officials say they want to see how Trump’s duties on imports will impact inflation and the broader economy. Two Fed governors dissented in favor of a cut.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris says she will not run for California governor in 2026
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Former Vice President Kamala Harris says she will not run for California governor next year, leaving open the possibility that she could mount a third run for the White House in 2028. The Democrat’s decision, announced Wednesday, extends a guessing game about her political future that started after she lost last year’s presidential election to Donald Trump. She has not ruled out another run for president, after unsuccessful bids in 2020 and 2024. It’s not known when she will make that decision.
Trump administration is launching a new private health tracking system with Big Tech’s help
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration is pushing for Americans to upload personal health data to new apps run by private tech companies. This initiative aims to make accessing health records and monitoring wellness easier. On Wednesday, President Donald Trump is expected to discuss this at an event with leaders from companies like Google and Amazon. The system will focus on diabetes, weight management, and digital tools for patient check-ins. While officials say patients must opt in and data will be secure, experts warn of ethical and legal concerns. Critics worry about data privacy and potential misuse of sensitive information.
8.8-magnitude earthquake sends small tsunami into coasts of Russia, Japan and Alaska
TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s meteorological agency says that a powerful earthquake has hit near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula and issued a tsunami advisory for Japan. The agency said the quake registered a preliminary magnitude of 8.0 when it hit early on Wednesday. It issued an advisory for a tsunami of up to 1 meter (yard) along the Pacific coast of Japan. The quake was about 250 kilometers (160 miles) away from Hokkaido and was felt only slightly. That’s according to Japan’s NHK television. So far no damage has been reported. A tsunami watch, which is a relatively low-level warning, has been issued for Hawaii.
Wall Street coasts for now ahead of a week packed with potential flashpoints
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks coasted to a quiet finish to begin a week full of potentially market-moving events. The S&P 500 edged up by less than 0.1% on Monday to set an all-time high for a sixth straight day. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.1%, and the Nasdaq composite added 0.3% to its own record. Stocks held steady after the United States and European Union agreed on the framework for a trade deal, one that still has many details to be worked out. Later this week will come Big Tech profit reports, a decision on interest rates by the Federal Reserve and other highly anticipated updates.
Entertainment
American Eagle’s ‘good jeans’ ads with Sydney Sweeney spark a debate on race and beauty standards
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. fashion retailer American Eagle Outfitters wanted to make a splash with its new advertising campaign starring 27-year-old actor Sydney Sweeney. It has. The question is whether some of the public reactions the fall denim campaign produced is what American Eagle intended. Titled “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans,” the campaign has sparked a debate about race, Western beauty standards, and the backlash to “woke” American culture. Most of the negative reception focused on videos that used the word “genes” instead of “jeans” when discussing the blonde-haired, blue-eyed actor. Some critics saw the wordplay as a nod to eugenics, a discredited theory that held humanity could be improved through selective breeding for certain traits.
Birmingham gives an emotional farewell to Ozzy Osbourne as tearful family lead tributes
BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) — Thousands of emotional Black Sabbath fans have paid their respects to band founder and singer Ozzy Osbourne as his hearse makes its way through the streets of Birmingham. The rock legend died on July 22 after performing his final show weeks earlier. As the funeral procession made its way through the city’s streets on Wednesday, his family stopped to inspect the array of tributes, with his wife of 43 years, Sharon, visibly moved and wiping away tears. Since his death was announced, fans have made pilgrimages to sites around Birmingham, the city in central England where he grew uo and where his band was formed in 1968.
Company involved in Coldplay KissCam drama hires Gwyneth Paltrow as spokesperson
BOSTON (AP) — A tech company whose CEO resigned after being caught on video at a Coldplay concert embracing another employee has hired Gwyneth Paltrow as a temporary spokesperson. The “Shakespeare in Love” and “Ironman,” star, who was previously married to the band’s frontman Chris Martin, appeared in a video on Astronomer’s X account Friday to announce her new role. The move follows the resignation of the company’s CEO Andy Byron and a human resources executive, Kristin Cabot, after they were caught cuddling on a KissCam at Coldplay concert in July. The video resulted in endless memes, parody videos and screenshots of the pair’s shocked faces.
Comic-Con salutes James Gunn and gets first looks at ‘Coyote vs. Acme,’ and new ‘Star Trek’ forays
SAN DIEGO (AP) — The day three highlights at Comic-Con included a standing ovation from thousands for “Superman” director James Gunn, led by John Cena. Cena was in full costume at a panel on his HBO series “The Peacemaker,” part of Gunn’s take on the DC Comics screen universe. The day in Comic-Con’s vaunted Hall H also included a preview of Ryan Gosling’s forthcoming space adventure “Project Hail Mary.” And fans also get a sneak peek at “Coyote v. ACME,” a hybrid live-action and animated project featuring Cena. This film was shelved by Warner Bros., but it will now get a theatrical release.
Teens say they are turning to AI for friendship
Teenagers are increasingly turning to AI for advice, emotional support and decision-making, according to a new study. Common Sense Media found that over 70% of teens have used AI companions, with many finding the interactions as satisfying as talking to real friends. Experts warn this trend could harm social skills and mental health, as teens rely on AI for validation and avoid real-world challenges. Concerns also include inappropriate content and the lack of regulation of AI platforms. Researchers emphasize that while AI can assist, it should not replace human connections, especially during adolescence, a critical time for social and emotional development.
Sports
Coaches race to master art of retention amid NIL, revenue sharing and transfer portal challenges
College coaches are racing to master retention as revenue sharing and NIL opportunities steer athletes toward the transfer portal. Arkansas coach Sam Pittman, who lost most of his 2023 recruits, says the transfer rate isn’t about treatment or development but possibly playing time or finances. At SEC Media Days, he emphasized loyalty, with players like Cam Ball staying committed. Florida coach Billy Napier highlights the importance of pitching the right message during recruiting. Coaches like SMU’s Rhett Lashlee and NC State’s Dave Doeren stress rewarding loyalty over enticing new players with higher offers.
PGA Tour ends regular season in Carolina. LPGA wraps up major season with Women’s British Open
The PGA Tour wraps up its regular season at the Wyndham Championship. At stake is the top 70 advancing to the FedEx Cup playoffs. Jordan Spieth is back in the field trying to fortify his position in the FedEx Cup. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley also is playing. This also is the week for the final major of the year. The Women’s British Open is at Royal Porthcawl in Wales. Nelly Korda is still searching for her first win this year. The attention shifts to Lottie Woad. She won the Women’s Scottish Open last week in her professional debut.
Max Homa and Sahith Theegala played in the Presidents Cup. Now both might miss PGA Tour postseason
The Wyndham Championship closes out the PGA Tour’s regular season. It’s the last chance for players to get into the top 70 in the FedEx Cup and advance to the postseason. And it’s a reminder that golf doesn’t offer guarantees. Max Homa, Sahith Theegala and Adam Scott played in the Presidents Cup. All three are among those outside the top 70 going into the Wyndham Championship. LIV Golf is going to South Africa next year. A Sports Business Journal report says the Saudi-funded league also is going to provide a $10 million purse for the team competition next year.
Max Homa and Sahith Theegala played in the Presidents Cup. Now both might miss PGA Tour postseason
The Wyndham Championship closes out the PGA Tour’s regular season. It’s the last chance for players to get into the top 70 in the FedEx Cup and advance to the postseason. And it’s a reminder that golf doesn’t offer guarantees. Max Homa, Sahith Theegala and Adam Scott played in the Presidents Cup. All three are among those outside the top 70 going into the Wyndham Championship. LIV Golf is going to South Africa next year. A Sports Business Journal report says the Saudi-funded league also is going to provide a $10 million purse for the team competition next year.
Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase placed on paid leave as part of MLB sports betting investigation
Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave as part of a Major League Baseball investigation into sports betting. Clase, a three-time All-Star, becomes the second Guardians pitcher to be placed on leave in connection with a sports gambling probe. Luis Ortiz also is on non-disciplinary leave through Aug. 31. It was unclear if the cases were related in any way. The Guardians said in a statement they “have been informed that no additional players or club personnel are expected to be impacted.”
