Plane spotting at Raleigh-Durham International Airport has grown into more than a hobby — it’s a thriving community. From seasoned aviation enthusiasts to curious newcomers, spotters gather to watch, track and photograph aircraft, finding connection and meaning in moments most travelers overlook.
Population Growth Fuels Change Across North Carolina’s Business Landscape
North Carolina’s rapid population growth is fueling economic success while quietly straining the systems beneath it. As infrastructure lags and real estate pressures mount, small businesses face rising costs, tighter competition and uncertain futures — raising a critical question: can the state sustain its growth without losing the local character that built it?
Young men struggle with body image and an obsession with bulking up
Story by Rachel Moody In his off-campus apartment kitchen, UNC-Chapel Hill sophomore Tate Mannell adds…
The almost untold story of Ivan Fleser: From his Chapel Hill days to playing with Ted Williams and former presidents
During World War II, Ivan Fleser trained at UNC-Chapel Hill’s Navy Pre-Flight School and played on the Cloudbuster Nine alongside Ted Williams and Johnny Pesky. After surviving a near-fatal plane crash, he returned home to serve as an educator and coach. Decades later, his quiet legacy endures through family and history.
New Asia Continent to open at the N.C. Zoo this fall
The North Carolina Zoo will open a 12.5-acre Asia Continent this September featuring tigers, Komodo dragons and more. Designed for immersive guest experiences and top-tier animal welfare, the exhibit blends jungle landscapes with architecture. Funded by $152 million in state and private support, it’s expected to boost tourism and conservation awareness.
Believe it or not, Bigfoot is booming in North Carolina
In small-town North Carolina, Bigfoot tourism is fueling economic revival. From Littleton’s Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum to guided hunts in Bryson City and Uwharrie trails near Troy, believers and skeptics alike draw crowds. Experts say the allure lies in curiosity and possibility—faith in discovering something mysterious still unexplained.
One superfan from Charlotte is chasing her Olympic dreams
Kristen McMillen, a Charlotte resident, has dreamt of going to the Olympics since she was six years old. Now, at 37, the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are her sixth games.
“Every queen deserves a crown”: Women’s professional basketball comes to Charlotte
The Charlotte Crown will debut May 21, 2026, ending the city’s nearly 20-year wait for women’s pro basketball. As part of the new Upshot League, the team aims to create opportunities for players, build community pride and establish a lasting presence in Charlotte’s sports culture.
Rell Harwood to compete in the Olympics Big Air with an ACL tear
Rell Harwood is competing at her first Olympics after an ACL tear prevented her in 2022. She is competing in big air in the Livigno Alps with another ACL tear. Her childhood best friend and boyfriend are also on Team USA, cheering her on in the stands.
27 Routines: One Coach Choreographs Multiple Olympic Programs
Benoit Richaud is a figure skating choreographer for 16 athletes representing 13 countries at the 2026 Winter Olympics. He has gone viral for his outfit changes in the kiss and cry area.