Shoresides: Recent Episodes
Shoresides
Shoresides is a local news podcast by and for Carteret County, North Carolina. Serving the coastal region and beyond.
Vanessa Gonzalez is an immigration attorney in Wilmington. Many of her clients live in southeastern North Carolina.The federal offices deciding their cases do not. In this episode, Shoresides learns what that distance means in practice—and how transportation barriers may connect to health.
We also speak with Kevin Chen of the Union of Concerned Scientists about the decline—and possible resurgence—of affordable intercity bus service, a possible remedy.
Photo by Day Camposeco.
Learn more about the Coastal Journalism Hub: http://www.coastaljournalism.org/
This story was produced in partnership with the Coastal Journalism Hub, a collaborative focused on health and wellbeing in New Hanover County.
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Poet Delthea Simmons had a license, a car on its last legs, and a hometown she loved. What she didn't have was reliable transportation—so she organized her shopping, her work, and eventually her exit from Wilmington around rideshare apps. In this episode, Shoresides asks whether her story is part of a pattern. Lyft driver Jayce Esterline estimates that 60% of pickups on Wilmington's Northside are people getting to doctor's appointments, work, and groceries. And ride data pulled by Lyft's Sarah Conlisk, reviewed with Anna Casey of Cape Fear Collective, shows riders in Wilmington's lowest life-expectancy neighborhoods using the apps as basic transportation infrastructure—while riders in the highest use them to get to the airport.
Lyft provided ride data for this story; Uber did not respond to our inquiries.
Credits
Produced by Rend Smith, Aaleah McConnell and Nick Magrino. Ride data and analysis courtesy of Sarah Conlisk, data storyteller at Lyft. Photo by Day Camposeco.
Learn more about the Coastal Journalism Hub: http://www.coastaljournalism.org/
This story was produced in partnership with the Coastal Journalism Hub, a collaborative focused on health and wellbeing in New Hanover County.
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Across the country, communities are confronting a new challenge: what happens when the growing demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure collides with local concerns about land, water, energy and quality of life?
North Carolina is at the center of that debate, with at least 20 proposed data center projects across the state.
In Edgecombe County, residents from across the community have come together to oppose plans for large-scale data center development. Many see echoes of an earlier fight that united local residents against a proposed industrial project in the 1990s.
In this episode, we hear from community members organizing to stop the projects, explore their concerns about environmental impacts and economic benefits, and examine how a local dispute fits into a larger national conversation about the future of AI infrastructure.
Guests:
David Batts, candidate for Edgecombe County Commissioner, District 6
Kevin Wilson, chair and co-founder, Edgecombe Neighbors for Data Center Accountability
Briyana Baker, commissioner, Town of Conetoe
Dr. Erik Nordman, professor, Michigan State University and director of the Institute of Public Utilities
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Data showing that the community surrounding Portia Mills Hines Park has the lowest life expectancy in Wilmington is stark. But what does that reality look like up close—and what’s being done about it?
In this episode, Shoresides speaks with Dr. Mayra Galeano, the chief medical officer at a clinic close to the problem. She tells us what it's like to provide care in the community. The clinic is open to everyone, serving Black and Latino residents among others—and patients don’t need insurance.
Learn more
• MedNorth Health Center: https://mednorth.org
Learn more about the Coastal Journalism Hub: http://www.coastaljournalism.org/
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“New Hanover County has one of the highest shares of households without vehicle access in North Carolina—about 6 percent—according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey,” transportation expert Andrés Otero wrote in an article for WHQR last year. “People without access to a car often include college students, older adults, and others who either cannot afford a vehicle or are unable to drive. In Wilmington, these groups make up a significant portion of the population. The same data also show that in both the Northside and Southside neighborhoods, more than a third of households have no vehicle access.”
In this episode, Otero talks with Shoresides about living without a personal vehicle—and what that experience reveals about how cities like Wilmington function for pedestrians and bicyclists. He also discusses what it would take to build a city that works for everyone, not just drivers.
Learn more
• Andrés’ Substack: https://andytalksurbanism.substack.com
• WHQR article: https://www.whqr.org/local/2025-04-28/walking-and-bicycling-in-wilmington-and-north-carolina-face-significant-funding-barriers-says-advocate
Learn more about the Coastal Journalism Hub: http://www.coastaljournalism.org/
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Coastal Journalism Hub
Shoresides is proud to be part of the Coastal Journalism Hub.
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Recently, the Wilmington StarNews and Cape Fear Collective dug into Wilmington, N.C.’s life-expectancy gap. It turns out there are similar disparities regarding the city’s pedestrians. “Wilmington consistently has one of the highest annual pedestrian crash rates in NC. From 2011–2020,” says the 2023 Walk Wilmington Pedestrian Plan. The majority of crashes involving pedestrians occurred in areas with higher concentrations of minority residents and higher poverty rates compared to the county average.”
Abby Lorenzo of the Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization and Justin Carter, assistant director of engineering for the City of Wilmington, explain what’s called the “pedestrian high injury network" and what’s being done about it.
Learn about this work and about the Coastal Journalism Hub at www.coastaljournalism.org
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In this episode, Shoresides talks with Vanessa Gonzalez about what it means when people looking for help can’t easily tell the difference between a real attorney and a convincing impersonator — and why immigration law, with its limited pathways and high stakes, is a particularly easy place to run the con.
We also hear from Adonia Simpson at the American Bar Association Commission on Immigration, which has dealt with its own impersonation scams, and from Reuters investigative tech reporter Jeff Horwitz, whose reporting on Meta helps explain why taking down fraud can be harder than you’d think.
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North Carolina’s latest congressional map is part of Republicans’ efforts nationwide to gain more seats in the House of Representatives ahead of the 2026 election.
Right before Thanksgiving, federal judges ruled against local advocacy groups and voters who have challenged the map on the basis of racial gerrymandering.
This decision, along with rulings in states like Texas, could be setting a precedent of more blatant partisan gerrymandering in the future.
In this episode, I spoke with Sarah Michels, a reporter with Carolina Public Press. She covers state politics and elections, and has closely followed NC’s new congressional maps accused of racial gerrymandering.
This is the third part of a series on redistricting in eastern North Carolina.
Part 1 | Part 2
Host / Producer: Layna Hong
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Ahead of the 2026 Election, North Carolina’s Republican lawmakers — at the request of President Trump — have passed a new congressional map intended to squeeze out one more Republican seat in Congress.
The new map will also make it more difficult for northeastern Black voters to elect their preferred candidate.
In this episode, we break down what’s happening and how it’s playing out in the courts. We talk to Chistopher Cooper, a political science professor at Western Carolina University. Then, we hear from two of the plaintiffs on the lawsuit against state Republican lawmakers for the newest map: Bob Phillips from Common Cause and Dawn Daley-Mack of the Northampton County NAACP.
This is the second part of a series on redistricting in eastern North Carolina.
Listen to the first part here
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North Carolina’s Black Belt is a cluster of northeastern counties known for its rich soil and history. And now, it’s the site of one of the most enduring issues in the state: redistricting.
But this isn’t the first time that the region has been redistricted to disenfranchise Black voters.
In this episode, we go back to the turn of the 20th century, when white supremacists dismantled “The Black Second,” or North Carolina’s first majority-Black congressional district. This event would set up a century-long struggle between Black voters and those in power who sought to disenfranchise them — a struggle happening to this day.
Shoresides talked to two eastern North Carolinians. David Cecelski is a historian and storyteller from Carteret County who has written countless works on coastal NC. James Williams Jr. is a retired lawyer who grew up in the Black Belt — Plymouth, to be exact — during the Jim Crow era and Civil Rights Movement.
This is the first part of a series on redistricting in eastern North Carolina.
Host / Producer: Layna Hong
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Wilmington’s trees are disappearing faster than they can be replaced. In this episode Shoresides talks with Executive Director Isabel Shepherd of the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees about what’s driving the loss and how their new Code & Canopy report lays out a path forward.
Helpful Links
Alliance for Cape Fear Trees — Code & Canopy Report
https://www.allianceforcapefeartrees.com
New Hanover County Tree Canopy Assessment
https://www.nhcgov.com/2839/Technical-Reports-Survey-Results
World's Largest Christmas Tree
https://www.saltmagazinenc.com/o-christmas-tree/
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When a million-dollar beach house in the Outer Banks collapses into the surf, it looks like a sudden disaster. But for the people who study coastal risk, it’s anything but. In this episode, we talk with Travis Klondike of NC State’s Coastal Dynamics Design Lab about why.
Links:
Coastal Dynamics Design Lab (CDDL) at North Carolina State University
https://design.ncsu.edu/research/coastal-dynamics-design-lab/
Five homes lost in a day highlight the growing cost of inaction on NC erosion
https://www.wral.com/weather/5-homes-lost-nc-outer-banks-erosion-october-2025/20481590/An
Photo taken May 10, 2022, showing portion of a collapsed house and debris in the ocean and on the beach at 24265 Ocean Drive, Rodanthe. (NPS Photo)
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As the effects of H.R. 1 ripple across the country, North Carolinians are feeling the strain of new SNAP work requirements and a month-long government shutdown. In this episode of Shoresides, host Nicolas Magrino speaks with Emily Kraft and Andrea Cherry of the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina about how policy uncertainty is reshaping the state’s hunger relief network. Kraft and Cherry describe rising demand, shrinking food supplies, and the growing fear among residents—especially in Latino and veteran communities—about applying for help. As food banks scramble to fill the gap left by federal cuts, they’re also finding renewed strength in collaboration, reminding us that community care doesn’t end when resources do.
Key Resources
1. Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina (Wilmington Branch)
1000 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 · Phone: 910-251-1465
- Serves five counties in the Cape Fear region including New Hanover.
- Offers a “No-Cost Market on Greenfield” at the Wilmington location (days and hours listed on their website).
- Also supports SNAP/FNS outreach and benefits information.
2. NourishNC
3606 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 · Phone: 910-465-0995 (or via website)
- Focused on supplemental food assistance for children and families in New Hanover County.
- Programs include: Backpack Program (weekend meals for children), Market on Market (grocery-style choice model), Mobile Market, Food Farmacy.
3. New Hanover County Department of Social Services – Food & Nutrition Services (SNAP/FNS)
1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 · Phone: 910-798-3500 (Option 4)
- Manages the federal SNAP (Food & Nutrition Services) program for the county.
- Offers online, phone, mail, or in-person application options.
4. Local Food Pantry Network
The county provides a publicly available “Food Resource List” featuring many pantries, soup kitchens and mobile / community distribution sites in New Hanover County.
- Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard – 315 Red Cross Street, Wilmington. Wed & Sat, 12 pm-3 pm.
- Bethany Presbyterian Church Pantry – 2237 Castle Hayne Rd, Wilmington. Wed 1pm-4pm.
- Bread for Life Senior Pantry – 108 North Kerr Ave Suites K1&K2, Wilmington. Seniors 60+.
Tips for Using the Resources
- Call ahead: Hours and distributions can change quickly (especially during crises or disaster-related service shifts).
- Ask about identification or eligibility requirements: Some pantries may ask for proof of residence or ID; many are welcoming and serve all.
- Consider language/immigrant concerns: Especially for Hispanic/Latino communities — many residents may worry about applying for help; outreach coordinators (such as bilingual staff) are available.
- Combine services: SNAP benefits + food pantry + backpack programs for children can be used in tandem.
- Volunteer or donate: Many of these organizations rely on community support and seasonal surges.
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As the holidays approach, sweetpotatoes are finding their way onto tables across America — but nowhere are they more rooted than in North Carolina. For more than half a century, the state has led the nation in sweetpotato production, shaping both its economy and its culture. In this episode, host Layna Hong travels through eastern North Carolina’s fields to uncover why this region is so perfectly suited for the crop, how NC State researchers made it available year-round, and the deep traditions that have grown up around it. Featuring agronomist John Leach, NC Sweetpotato Commission executive director Michelle Grainger, and farmer Kamal Bell of Sankofa Farms.
Music: “Down Where the Sweet Potatoes Grow,” Library of Congress Archives.
Host / Producer: Layna Hong
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Take a slow listen to coastal North Carolina. This Shoresides soundscape moves through ordinary places that shape life along the coast — the surf at Wrightsville Beach, a trawler crossing the Intracoastal, a walk through the pines at Carolina Beach, frogs calling from Greenfield Lake, and the background hum of a favorite local restaurant.
These everyday sounds trace a portrait of place — familiar, shifting, and alive. A moment to pause, listen, and notice the rhythms that surround us.
“A portrait of place — recorded from the sounds we pass every day.”
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Along North Carolina’s coast, shrimping isn’t just an industry — it’s a way of life. This summer, a proposed state ban on shrimp trawling nearly upended that tradition. The measure, added quietly to an unrelated bill, would have outlawed the practice of dragging nets across the sea floor to catch shrimp in the state’s sounds.
When word got out, local fishers pushed back — and won. Now, they’re organizing through the new Coastal Counties Fisheries Coalition to make sure their voices are heard in Raleigh.
In this episode, host Nick Magrino speaks with coalition chair Bob Woodard and conservation advocate David Snead about what’s at stake: clean waters, local livelihoods, and the future of an industry that defines coastal North Carolina. Together, they explore how a fight over one bill became a larger debate about science, sustainability, and who gets to shape the future of the state’s seafood economy.
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In this episode of Storm Stories, Shoresides talks with Joe Friday—longtime meteorologist, former director of the National Weather Service—about how staffing shortages and fewer weather balloon launches have recently made forecasts less precise, a dangerous situation with two hurricanes spinning off our Coasts.
Friday reflects on the pressure on forecasters, the human connections that make emergency warnings work, and why even a small loss in accuracy can mean the difference between safety and risk.
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As more people move to the N.C. coast—and winters grow warmer—human encounters with alligators are on the rise in North Carolina. In this episode, Shoresides speaks with John Henry Harrelson, district wildlife biologist with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, about the challenges of “alligator season,” the launch of the new Gator Wise program, and why keeping gators wild is key to keeping people safe.
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In this episode of Shoresides, we talk with sports-betting expert Steve Bittenbender about the impacts of legal mobile sports betting in North Carolina. We explore what betting apps like FanDuel and DraftKings (and their tax dollars) mean for the future of local college basketball teams, like the Seahawks, as well as for residents seeking help with problem gambling.
Steve Bittenbender:
https://www.betcarolina.com/news/north-carolina-tax-hike-proposal
Takayo Siddle Contract:
https://www.wect.com/2025/03/26/siddle-agrees-five-year-contract-extension-with-uncw/#:~:text=WILMINGTON%2C%20N.C.%20(WECT)%20%2D,during%20a%20meeting%20Wednesday%20afternoon.
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This episode, Shoresides captures a pivotal moment in AI policy as North Carolina State Representative Zack Hawkins discusses a federal proposal that would have blocked state-level AI regulation for a decade and drew bipartisan criticism. Speaking to Shoresides during the final hours of budget negotiations—before federal lawmakers would ultimately strip the moratorium from the bill—Hawkins warns about the risks of federal inaction, particularly for communities where AI is already changing how we live and work.
Rep Zack Hawkins: https://www.ncleg.gov/Members/Biography/H/742
State Policymaker Coalition Letter: https://ari.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/State-Policymaker-Coalition-Letter-Oppose-AI-Preemption-6-3-25.pdf
Senate strikes AI regulatory ban from GOP bill after uproar from the states https://apnews.com/article/congress-ai-provision-moratorium-states-20beeeb6967057be5fe64678f72f6ab0
Anthropic C.E.O.: Don’t Let A.I. Companies off the Hook
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/05/opinion/anthropic-ceo-regulate-transparency.html
Music Credit
“Sonik Elektronik” by 1000 Handz is used under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Available at the Free Music Archive. No changes were made.
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When a false shark sighting shut down Carolina Beach, the confusion that followed revealed something deeper: how much we rely on the local National Weather Service office and its communication networks to keep coastal communities safe. In this episode, Shoresides speaks with Stephen Pfaff, meteorologist-in-charge at the NWS-Wilmington, about the challenges of misinformation, the delicate partnerships that power coastal safety alerts, and why clear, effective communication can save lives.
Links:
Statement issued after increased shark activity observed in Carolina Beach surf
https://www.wect.com/2025/07/07/statement-issued-after-increased-shark-activity-observed-carolina-beach-surf/
Miscommunication over shark activity causes confusion at Carolina Beach
https://www.wect.com/2025/07/08/miscommunication-over-shark-activity-causes-confusion-carolina-beach/
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Public radio stations across North Carolina — especially in rural and coastal communities — are facing devastating funding cuts following the passage of the Rescissions Act of 2025. That includes WRVS in Elizabeth City, which could lose up to 70% of its funding. What does that mean for you and your neighbors? No local tornado warnings. No emergency alerts. No hometown voices spinning music, sharing stories, and delivering news from around the corner.
In this episode of Shoreside, host Nicholas Merino speaks with A. Rima Dael, CEO of the National Federation of Community Broadcasters, about why these cuts could dismantle essential public safety infrastructure and silence vital community voices. Dael, a veteran of NPR and local radio, explains how local media is more than entertainment — it’s culture, it’s connection, and in some cases, it’s life-saving.
Hear why radio still matters — especially in North Carolina — and what you can do to support your public media in their work making waves.
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When alligators show up in swimming pools, under cars, or at the local Bojangles drive-through, Kate Marshall gets the call. As Southport's jurisdictional alligator handler, she's seen relocations quadruple this year alone. She tells Shoresides all about what it's like.
Helpful Links
- North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission - Alligators
- NC Wildlife Coexist with Alligators Guide
- City of Southport Animal Services
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Lately, the town of Southport, North Carolina has had some excitement, 20 alligator removals since May, setting a new record. For a resident named Bonner Herring and his trusty Labrador Strike, that almost ended in tragedy. In this episode, Shoresides catches up with them to hear their story and to wonder about the prospect of increased human-alligator conflict in coastal communities.
Here are five key things to know about alligators in North Carolina:
- Where Alligators Live in North Carolina
Alligators are native to the southeastern corner of North Carolina, primarily in the coastal plain. They are commonly found in:
- Swamps
- Marshes
- Rivers
- Lakes
- Canals
The northernmost limit of the American alligator's natural range includes parts of Brunswick, New Hanover, Pender, and Onslow counties, although occasional sightings occur farther north due to dispersal.
- Alligators Are Protected
In North Carolina, alligators are classified as a species of special concern. This means:
- It is illegal to hunt, harm, harass, or kill them without a specific permit.
- The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission manages alligator populations through careful monitoring and regulated removals in cases where safety is at risk.
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In some years, the state authorizes limited hunting through an alligator management program, but only under strict controls.
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Alligator Encounters Are Increasing
Due to rising populations and human development expanding into natural habitats, sightings have become more frequent. Important things to remember:
- Do not feed alligators—this is illegal and makes them more dangerous.
- Keep a safe distance (at least 60 feet).
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If you see an alligator near homes or public areas, report it to wildlife authorities if it poses a risk.
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Alligators and Cold Weather
North Carolina is near the northern edge of the alligator's habitat, so they have unique ways of surviving winter:
- Alligators brumate, which is similar to hibernation, becoming inactive during cold months.
- They use a technique called “icing” or “snorkeling”, where they keep their snout above frozen water to breathe while remaining submerged beneath the ice.
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They can survive brief freezes, but prolonged cold can be fatal, which naturally limits how far north they can thrive.
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Conservation and Coexistence
Alligators play an important role in the ecosystem by:
- Controlling prey populations (such as turtles, fish, and small mammals).
- Creating “gator holes”, which provide habitat for other wildlife during droughts.
For safety and conservation: - Never attempt to relocate or handle an alligator on your own.
- Teach children about alligator safety, especially near coastal waterways.
- Support conservation efforts that protect wetlands and preserve balanced ecosystems.
If you'd like, I can help you find local guides, safety tips, or educational resources for schools and community groups in North Carolina. Would you like me to gather those?
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In this episode of Temperature Check: Coastal Edition, host Natalia Sanchez Loayza dives beneath the surface to explore how climate change is disrupting marine life and infrastructure along North Carolina’s coast. She’s joined by Dr. Jane Harrison, an environmental economist at NC State University, whose personal story and professional research illuminate the complex intersections of climate, economy, and community.
Dr. Harrison reflects on her environmentally rich upbringing and explains how sea level rise and intensified storms are degrading rural septic systems—posing hidden threats to water quality and development. She outlines how these often-overlooked systems are increasingly failing in coastal areas, complicating housing and public health.
The episode also spotlights Harrison’s work with the North Carolina Oyster Trail, revealing how oysters—vital to both local culture and marine ecosystems—are struggling against climate-induced challenges. From habitat loss to harvesting delays after major storms, oysters offer a lens into the broader environmental and economic shifts underway.
Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of coastal resilience, wastewater policy, and the delicate balance between environmental protection and economic survival in Eastern North Carolina.
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In this episode of Shoreside, host Nicholas Merino explores the long-standing struggle for food access in Wilmington’s Northside neighborhood—classified by the USDA as a food desert. But as guest Sierra Washington, Executive Director of the Northside Food Co-Op, explains, “desert” doesn’t begin to capture the systemic inequality at play. Instead, she and many others call it “food apartheid”—the result of deliberate disinvestment and structural racism.
Through deeply rooted community organizing, Northside residents are reclaiming their health and dignity by building a grocery store of their own. The Northside Food Co-op isn’t just a retail space—it’s a symbol of economic empowerment and resilience, owned and shaped by the very people it serves. From participatory design and workforce development to the tension between grassroots ownership and institutional funding, this conversation reveals what it truly takes to build community-led infrastructure.
Join us as we trace the co-op’s history—from broken promises of chain store developments to the gathering of neighbors at the Foxes Boxes restaurant—and follow the journey toward the store’s projected 2026 opening at 10th and Post Street.
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In this introductory episode of Temperature Check: Coastal Edition, hosted by Natalia Sanchez Loayza, we explore the impacts of extreme heat in coastal North Carolina. Natalia speaks with Jordan Clark, a climatologist and senior policy associate at the Heat Policy Innovation Hub and the Water Policy Program at the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability at Duke University, about how extreme heat is reshaping daily life, agriculture, local economies, and even high school athletics. Clark discusses the cumulative dangers of heat stress, how nighttime temperatures significantly affect our health, and why coastal communities must urgently address these escalating risks.
Join us for this insightful preview of a critical new Shoresides series examining the human realities of rising temperatures on North Carolina's coast.
Clark references a Heat Action Plan Toolkit created by the Office of Recovery and Resiliency that supports counties preparing for extreme heat events. You can find out more about the research that created the toolkit as well as links to it here.
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In Robeson County, North Carolina—home to some of the state’s highest youth violence rates—community-led prevention efforts were working. Until they weren’t.
In this episode of Shoresides, host Nicolas Magrino speaks with Paul Smokowski, founding executive director of the North Carolina Youth Violence Prevention Center (NC-YVPC), and Leon Burden, lead violence interrupter and founder of the nonprofit Colors of Life. Together, they helped reduce violence in just a few years through a layered, evidence-based approach: school programs, restorative justice, parenting support, and community-based mentoring.
But a sudden federal funding cut in April 2024 brought much of that work to a halt.
Smukowski and Burden share how they built trust and impact in a county long marked by poverty, racial complexity, and criminal justice disparities—and what’s at risk now. This is a story of what real community violence intervention looks like, and what happens when a political shift pulls the plug.
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In this episode of Shoresides, we follow a community-led effort to uncover chemical contamination, protect public health, and rethink how we communicate environmental risk in places where food insecurity runs deep.
Read more about this issue: Subsistence Fish Consumption on the Lower Cape Fear River (PDF)
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A New Series About Rising Temperatures in Coastal North Carolina hosted By Natalia Sanchez Loayza
According to a public records request submitted by Shoresides, at least three New Hanover High School student-athletes have experienced heat-related illnesses since 2022—none of which received the media attention that often follows when such events turn deadly. While these incidents were safely mitigated, they underscore how rising temperatures are making it harder for coaches and others to keep young athletes safe. In Temperature Check: Coastal Edition, an upcoming Shoresides series, producer Natalia Sanchez-Loaza explores this issue and more. In this episode, we offer a preview.
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On this episode of Shoreside, host Nicholas Merino speaks with Catherine Moore, director of the Health Professions Data System at the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, about striking projections: by 2033, North Carolina may face shortages of 12,500 registered nurses and 5,000 licensed practical nurses if current trends continue. We explore regional disparities, challenges in retention and diversity, and state initiatives to expand programs, bolster faculty, and improve workplace conditions. We explore regional disparities, challenges in retention and diversity, and state initiatives to expand programs, bolster faculty, and improve workplace conditions. We learn how only decisive investment in recruitment, training, and retention will secure timely, equitable care for North Carolina communities.
For listeners who want to explore the data and policy work behind these projections, here are ten key resources on the Cecil G. Sheps Center website:
How has RN Retention in North Carolina Changed over Time? A detailed blog on registered nurse retention and exit trends from 2016–2023.: https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/news_release/new-blog-post-how-has-rn-retention-in-north-carolina-changed-over-time/
Report on the North Carolina Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Workforce just released A comprehensive brief describing APRN demographics, practice settings, and regional distribution (2013–2022) https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/news_release/report-on-the-north-carolina-advanced-practice-registered-nurse-workforce-just-released/
New NC Workforce Blog: Trends in the Racial and Ethnic Diversity of Health Professions Analysis of diversity shifts across eight key health professions using 2022 licensure data. https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/news_release/new-nc-workforce-blog-2022-racial-ethnic-diversity/
Program on Health Workforce Research and Policy Overview of the PHWRP’s mission, current projects, and expert work groups. https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/program/health-workforce-research-and-policy/
Data & Publications Repository A searchable collection of manuscripts, policy briefs, and blog posts on health workforce topics. https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/programs-projects/workforce/data-publications-resources/
Sheps Health Workforce NC: Interactive Visualizations County-level maps and charts tracking supply and distribution of 21 health professions. https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/programs-projects/workforce/health-workforce-nc/
North Carolina Health Professions Data System (HPDS) The state’s long-running licensure database, with a 27-year retrospective report on its evolution. https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/hp/publications/NCHPDS_27yrbk.pdf
How does the racial and ethnic diversity of NC healt
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This episode, Shoresides delves into the strange, ethically murky world of octopus aquaculture with scientist Dr. Jennifer Mather—to ask: Should North Carolina go ahead with banning Octopus farming? Does it need to?
Links:
My Octopus Teacher
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12888462/?ref_=ttawd_ov_i
Octopus farming in NC? A bill was filed banning it
https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/03/12/octopus-farming-house-bill-293-carolina-general-assembly-law-ban-aquaculture
'Horrific Terror and Pain': Warning Octopus Farm Will Lead to Cannibalism
https://www.newsweek.com/horrific-terror-pain-octopus-farm-plans-cannibalism-1809674
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In this episode, Shoresides talks with Jessica Thai, who grew up with immigration, tradition, and economic shifts shaping daily life and collective identity in a place that rarely makes the headlines—but offers powerful lessons about family, perseverance, and belonging.
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Cultural anthropologist Barbara Garrity-Blake takes us into the world of North Carolina’s menhaden fishery — a once-thriving industry built by coastal communities, African American crews, and the haunting work songs they sang. In this episode, we explore how this small but vital fish fed both the economy and the environment, and what was lost when machines replaced people and tourism replaced tradition. It’s a story about labor, race, ecology, and memory, deeply tied to North Carolina’s coastal heritage.
Barbara Garrity-Blake teaches marine fisheries policy at the Duke University Marine Laboratory. She has written books like "Living at the Water's Edge: A Heritage Guide to the Outer Banks Byway" with Karen Willis Amspacher, highlighting the culture of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Another notable work, "The Fish Factory: Work and Meaning for Black and White Fishermen of the American Menhaden Industry," examines the experiences of menhaden fishermen.
Menhaden are small, oily fish essential to the Atlantic coastal ecosystem. They filter plankton from the water and are a key food source for larger fish, birds, and marine mammals. Historically, they were harvested on a massive scale for fertilizer, animal feed, and bait. Today, debates continue about how to balance their ecological role with commercial interests.
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In Wilmington, North Carolina, the demand for healthcare workers is growing rapidly. Nurse Camp Academy, a program of the nonprofit Better is Possible based in New Hanover County, is stepping up to meet this need by inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals. One of the program’s most innovative aspects is its focus on workforce development starting with young teens, even before they reach high school. By introducing healthcare career pathways early, Nurse Camp Academy helps students build confidence, gain essential skills, and see themselves as future healthcare providers.
In this episode, we hear from students, mentors, and program leaders who are passionate about preparing young people for rewarding careers in nursing and the health field. Through hands-on training, mentorship, and emotional wellness guidance, Nurse Camp Academy empowers students to see themselves as capable future healthcare providers. Founder Suprena Hickman and lead trainer Alexa Hunt share their experiences on the importance of early exposure to the health field. Program coordinator Savanna Berrios highlights how the initiative is bridging gaps in care while fostering community resilience.
Discover how mentorship and meaningful engagement are shaping a new generation of healthcare leaders — and how programs like Nurse Camp Academy are essential to the future of healthcare in New Hanover County. Learn more about how to sign a youth up for Nurse Camp Academy at this link.
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In this episode of Shoreside, host Nicholas Magno explores the uncertain future of Eagle Island, a fragile stretch of wetlands that connects Wilmington to Belville, North Carolina. Once central to rice cultivation and shipbuilding, the island now sits at the intersection of climate vulnerability and development pressure. With sea levels rising and ghost forests replacing hardwood swamps, half a billion dollars’ worth of infrastructure in New Hanover County may be at risk by 2030.
We talk with Roger Shew, senior lecturer in Earth and Ocean Sciences at UNC Wilmington, who outlines the impact of dredging, saltwater intrusion, and misguided development proposals on the area. Shew also shares a vision for Eagle Island rooted in resilience—transforming it into an ecotourism and education hub that respects its history and its delicate ecosystem.
From shifting grasses to six-story hotel proposals, this episode reveals why what happens to Eagle Island is about more than just a patch of land—it’s about how we live with water in a changing world.
We found this 2021 report by NC State University Department of Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning to be a good read about Eagle Island.
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On this episode of Shoresides, host Nicholas Magrino explores the challenges and realities of substance use disorder in coastal North Carolina. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, nearly 10 to 12 percent of North Carolinians struggled with substance use disorder in 2022.
To better understand the journey of recovery, we speak with Megan Weber-Youssefi, Director of Development at The Healing Place of New Hanover County. The Healing Place offers a low-barrier recovery program providing detox services, long-term residential recovery, and overnight shelter beds—entirely free of charge.
Weber-Youssefi shares insights into the stigma surrounding addiction and homelessness, the role of peer-led recovery, and the changing landscape of substance use in the region. She explains that the most commonly abused substances in Wilmington are methamphetamine and alcohol, with fentanyl-laced meth contributing to overdose rates.
Despite the challenges, The Healing Place remains a beacon of hope, providing not just treatment, but community support, job training, and housing assistance to those working to rebuild their lives. Many program graduates go on to work at The Healing Place, helping others navigate the same struggles they once faced.
Tune in to hear how The Healing Place is transforming lives, one step at a time.
Learn more about Shoresides at Shoresides.org.
Supporting a friend struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) requires patience, compassion, and boundaries. Here are ten meaningful ways to help:
- Listen Without Judgment – Offer a safe space for them to share their feelings without criticism. Avoid shaming or blaming.
- Educate Yourself – Learn about substance use disorder, treatment options, and the challenges of recovery. Understanding addiction as a disease helps reduce stigma.
- Encourage Professional Help – Suggest they seek support from a counselor, support group, or treatment program. Offer to help research options or accompany them to an appointment.
- Set Healthy Boundaries – Support them while protecting your well-being. Avoid enabling behaviors like giving money or covering up for their actions.
- Be Patient – Recovery is a long process with setbacks. Let them know you’re there for them even when progress is slow.
- Offer Practical Support – Help with transportation to meetings, job searches, or childcare if needed. Small acts of kindness can remove barriers to recovery.
- Support Their Recovery Efforts – Celebrate milestones, encourage sober activities, and respect their commitment to staying clean.
- Help Reduce Stigma – Avoid negative labels like “addict” and instead use person-first language, such as “a person struggling with substance use disorder.”
- Encourage Connection – Suggest joining a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) to build a strong recovery network.
- Take Care of Yourself – Supporting someone with SUD can be emotionally draining. Seek your own support and ensure you’re maintaining your own mental health.
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Rising seas. Dredged rivers. Dying forests. In this episode of Shoresides, we investigate one of North Carolina’s most subtle yet devastating climate threats: ghost forests. These vast expanses of standing dead trees are creeping inland, driven by rising sea levels and relentless dredging of the Cape Fear River.
UNCW scientists Monica Rother and Andrea Hawkes join us to explain how their research—combining tree ring data and microscopic marine organisms—paints a stark picture of environmental change. They discuss why ghost forests are spreading, how they disrupt ecosystems, and what it means for communities, flooding, and environmental justice across the region.
Rother and Hawks are at the forefront of research on North Carolina’s ghost forests, using innovative methods to track the impact of climate change and human activity on coastal ecosystems. Rother, a forest ecologist and tree ring scientist, analyzes tree growth patterns to understand long-term environmental changes, revealing how rising salinity levels stress and ultimately kill freshwater trees. Hawks, a micropaleontologist, studies tiny marine organisms preserved in sediment to reconstruct past sea level changes and pinpoint when saltwater intrusion began affecting these landscapes.
Together, their interdisciplinary work provides a clearer picture of how dredging and rising seas accelerate the spread of ghost forests, offering crucial insights into the future of coastal resilience and community health.
Learn more...
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Ghost forests are dead tree stands caused by rising salinity. These eerie landscapes form when saltwater intrusion—driven by rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and human activities like dredging—kills freshwater-dependent trees, leaving behind lifeless trunks.
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They are a visible sign of climate change. Ghost forests are one of the most striking indicators of global warming, as they mark areas where land is transitioning from forest to marsh due to sea-level rise and increasing storm surges.
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The Cape Fear River dredging accelerates ghost forest formation. In Wilmington, NC, repeated deepening of the Cape Fear River has allowed tides to push saltwater farther inland, increasing salinity in freshwater wetlands and rapidly killing off bald cypress and other trees.
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They disrupt ecosystems and increase flooding risks. The loss of forested wetlands means less natural flood protection, leading to higher flood risks for nearby communities.
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Ghost forests are expanding along the East and Gulf Coasts. While they are particularly noticeable in North Carolina, ghost forests are appearing from the Mid-Atlantic to the Gulf Coast.
Useful articles...
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Bernhardt, E. (2022, June 29). “Coastal freshwater wetlands squeezed between migrating salt marshes and working lands.” Science Advances, 8(26).
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Carolina Public Press (2022, August 12). “‘Ghost forests’ are creeping across NC’s coast at an alarming rate. Researchers are trying to stop them.” Accessed October 29, 2024.
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Coastal Review (2022, June 15). “Research network to link e
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In this episode of Shoresides, we hear from Charles Seaton, President of International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) Local 1766 in Wilmington, North Carolina, as he speaks on the fight to protect jobs from automation in the maritime industry. Historian David Cecelski connects the modern labor struggle to the long and often-overlooked legacy of African American maritime labor on the North Carolina coast, while Portia Allen-Kyle of Color of Change provides a critical perspective on how automation and AI are reshaping labor markets, with disproportionate impacts on Black workers. Together, they explore the intersections of history, technology, and equity, and portray a vivid picture of coastal North Carolina's future.
Useful report to read for more context:
McKinsey Institute for Black Economic Mobility. The Impact of Generative AI on Black Communities. McKinsey & Company
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Shoresides explores life in coastal North Carolina through the lens of resilience, justice, and community action. In this episode, host Nicolas Magrino examines the implications of President Trump’s second term, focusing on the private prison industry’s role in mass deportations and the human cost of immigration policies. Featuring insights from immigration defense lawyer Martin Rosenbluth and Prison Legal News editor Paul Wright, we uncover how systemic practices affect families, communities, and the economy—highlighting the resistance and the profit motives driving these policies. Listen to understand the stories behind the statistics and the people fighting for change.
Note: Paul Wright is the board chair of Narrative Arts, the publisher of Shoresides.
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In this episode of Shoresides, we explore the challenges faced by low-income and elderly homeowners in Carteret County, North Carolina—a place of vibrant coastal life but growing climate vulnerability. Host Nicholas Magrino speaks with Catissa Head, Executive Director of Coastal Community Action, whose organization supports those struggling to maintain safe and livable homes amid increasing financial strain and extreme weather.
Head describes the housing crisis affecting her clients, from fixed-income seniors barely managing property upkeep to families forced into unsafe living conditions due to financial and bureaucratic barriers. Coastal Community Action offers essential services to sustain its clients’ homes and lives through weatherization, urgent repairs, and community advocacy.
Head’s work highlights the critical need for safe spaces and affordable housing in rural coastal North Carolina, where community action agencies play a vital role but face significant obstacles. Her story sheds light on a population often overlooked but deeply affected by our changing world.
Listen to learn about Coastal Community Action's efforts and the community resilience it fosters in the face of these pressing challenges.
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On this episode of Shoresides, we dive into the hidden side of North Carolina’s senior housing crisis. Coastal North Carolina has long been a retirement hotspot, but the influx of wealthy retirees has made it harder for lifelong residents to remain in their communities. While some seniors receive critical services like meal delivery and in-home care, others compete for the few affordable housing options left, often with younger renters and families.
We’ll hear from Casey Poplosky, an aging resource specialist at Brunswick Senior Resources Incorporated, who sheds light on the harsh realities seniors face: eviction due to rent hikes, long waitlists for in-home support, and limited access to shelters—some of which can’t accommodate seniors with disabilities. Poplosky also discusses the need for more shelters, temporary housing, and greater collaboration among local agencies to address Brunswick County’s growing senior needs.
Join us as we explore how rising demand is straining resources and leaving some seniors sleeping in parking lots, while organizations struggle to provide solutions.
Produced and edited by Nicolas Magrino
Photo credit: Spencer Platt
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You Don’t Need a Home to Vote dives into the intersection of homelessness and democracy in America. In this episode, Donald Whitehead, Executive Director of the National Coalition for the Homeless, speaks candidly about the barriers unhoused individuals face in accessing their voting rights. Whitehead shares why this issue is vital, detailing the practical steps and advocacy efforts needed to ensure everyone can participate in our democracy. From navigating ID requirements to the importance of representation, he reveals how voting rights can transform both policy and individual lives, proving that housing status should never be a barrier to having a voice.
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North Caroloina voter ID requirements. With the 2024 election underway, many voters are encountering ID rules for the first time, raising questions and concerns about how to vote without a hitch. Host Rend Smith shares his own experience of uncertainty at the polls and digs deeper with insights from experts, including Amy Campbell Bogie of You Can Vote and Karen Brinson-Bell of the NC State Board of Elections. They share tips for navigating ID issues, from alternative documents to emergency options for those facing unexpected challenges.
Tune in for a straightforward guide to help North Carolina voters show up with confidence and ensure their voices are heard.
Useful resources from the NC State Board of Elections.
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In this episode, we take you to Wilmington, North Carolina, where community members have gathered for Souls to the Polls, an event organized by local faith groups and the NAACP. We speak with Larry Dennis, the social action chair for St. Stephen's AME Church, on why supporting voting access is critical to democracy. Tune in to witness democracy in action.
Early Voting Dates and Sites
- The in-person early voting period for the 2024 general election:
- Begins Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024.
- Ends 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024.
- The general election is on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.
- Find early voting sites and schedules in your county: Early Voting Site Search.
- Locations and voting hours are also available here: Early Voting Sites for the Nov. 5, 2024 General Election (PDF).
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Welcome to Shoresides and our series on voter access. In this episode, Rend Smith sits down with Nicole Wolf-Camplin, the Adult Literacy Coordinator at the Cape Fear Literacy Council. Nicole discusses the range of programs offered by the Council, including their ESL program, which supports non-native speakers on their path to citizenship. She highlights the critical role literacy plays in ensuring voter participation, especially for individuals navigating language barriers. Join us as we explore how literacy programs can open doors to civic engagement and empower more people to vote.
Address:
1012 South 17th Street
Wilmington, NC, 28401
Phone:
(910) 251-0911
Email:
info@cfliteracy.org
Here are ten ways people with literacy challenges can be supported in voting in North Carolina:
- Accessible Voting Guides: Provide easy-to-read, plain-language voter guides that break down candidates and issues clearly.
- Assistance at Polls: Voters can bring someone to assist them with reading or marking the ballot.
- Curbside Voting: For voters with physical limitations, curbside voting is available at polling locations.
- Audio Ballots: Accessible voting machines offer audio instructions and ballots for those who struggle with reading.
- Election Day Transportation: Offer free rides or arrange transportation to polling places, especially for those attending literacy programs.
- Pre-election Workshops: Host community workshops to explain ballots and election processes in simple, understandable language.
- Literacy Support Staff at Polls: Recruit volunteers or staff trained in literacy assistance to help voters on Election Day.
- Early Voting Options: Encourage early voting, which allows more time for assistance and reduces pressure.
- Mail-in Voting Support: Offer help in understanding and filling out absentee or mail-in ballots, especially for those who may struggle with written instructions.
- Bilingual Resources: Ensure materials are available in multiple languages to support non-native English speakers.
These steps help ensure that voters with literacy challenges have the tools and support needed to cast their ballots.
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In this episode of Shoresides, we sit down with Dr. Thomas M. Dalton, founder of Eden Village in Wilmington, North Carolina. Dr. Dalton discusses the growing issue of chronic homelessness in New Hanover County and how housing is the critical linchpin to improving healthcare for the homeless. He shares insights from his work, highlighting how Eden Village is addressing the needs of the most vulnerable, chronically homeless population by providing affordable, small homes and fostering a supportive community. Dalton also explores the challenges of expanding emergency shelters, the role of government, and the future of homeless housing in the region.
Eden Village has a help page which includes steps to apply for housing.
Here are five resources for homeless people in Wilmington, North Carolina:
- Good Shepherd Center
Provides shelter, meals, and assistance in transitioning to housing.
Phone: (910) 763-4424
Website: goodshepherdwilmington.org - Eden Village of Wilmington
A community of tiny homes for the chronically homeless.
Phone: (910) 408-3092
Website: edenvillagewilmington.org - Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc.
Provides emergency shelter and support for survivors of domestic violence.
Phone: (910) 343-0703
Website: domesticviolence-wilm.org - Salvation Army of Cape Fear
Offers emergency shelter, meals, and housing assistance.
Phone: (910) 762-7354
Website: https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/cape-fear - First Fruit Ministries
Provides outreach, food, shelter, and transitional housing for the homeless.
Phone: (910) 794-9656
Website: firstfruitministries.org
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In this episode of Shoresides, we dive into the housing challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals and seniors in Wilmington, NC. Dr. Robert Ferber, retired physician and president of Independent Works, joins us to discuss their mission to create inclusive housing through the CityPlace project. Ferber shares his personal connection to the cause, driven by his daughter’s experience with autism, and highlights how Independent Works is collaborating with local organizations to provide affordable, supportive housing for neurodiverse adults and seniors. Tune in to learn more about this innovative approach to housing and community.
Resources for Neurodiverse individuals and families in coastal North Carolina:
Independent Works has several opportunities and resources found on their website. A good place to start is to sign up for their newsletter.
New Hanover County offers several resources for neurodiverse adults and children. Below are some key options for support and services:
For Children:
- Family Support Network of Southeastern NC
- Offers resources and support for families with children who have special needs, including neurodiversity.
- Website: https://www.familysupportsenc.org/
- New Hanover County Schools - Exceptional Children Services
- Provides individualized educational programs and services for children with disabilities, including autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Contact through your child’s school or visit the New Hanover County Schools website.
- Autism Society of North Carolina - Wilmington Chapter
- Offers support groups, advocacy, and information for families and children with autism.
- Website: autismsociety-nc.org
For Adults:
- The Arc of North Carolina
- Provides advocacy, resources, and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism and other neurodiverse conditions.
- Website: arcnc.org
- TEACCH Autism Program - Wilmington
- A statewide program offering diagnostic, therapeutic, and community support services for autistic individuals and their families.
- Website: teacch.com
- NAMI Wilmington
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides support for people with mental health and neurodiverse conditions, offering peer-led groups, education, and advocacy.
- Website: namiwilmington.org
General Resources:
- Cape Fear Clinic
- Offers behavioral health services, including for neurodiverse individuals.
- Website: capefearclinic.org
These organizations can provide a range of services, from educational support to mental health care and advocacy for neurodiverse individuals.
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In this episode of Shoresides, we delve into the often-overlooked reality of human trafficking survivors in coastal North Carolina. Join host Nick Magrino as he interviews Dawn Ferrer, Executive Director of A Safe Place, a nonprofit supporting survivors of human trafficking. Many of these survivors are left homeless, with few possessions, while struggling with substance use and the long-term effects of their experiences.
Ferrer explains how childhood trauma often leads to vulnerabilities, exposing individuals to exploitation. Through initiatives like supportive housing and their upcoming farm program, A Safe Place is working to bridge gaps in care, providing safe housing and employment opportunities for survivors. Learn about the intersecting crises of homelessness, substance abuse, and human trafficking, and how communities can step up to offer real solutions.
Listen in to understand the harsh realities of survival and recovery in coastal North Carolina, and how community resilience begins with addressing the root causes of vulnerability.
Here are five helpful tips and resources from A Safe Place:
- Victim Identification & Hotline: Reach out to the toll-free hotline for support, emergency supplies, and resources (855-723-7529).
- Restorative Housing: Survivors and their children can access free, trauma-focused transitional housing in a safe, secure location.
- Outreach Center & Case Management: Victims receive personalized support through the Outreach Center and ongoing case management services.
- Education & Prevention: Get trained on human trafficking awareness and prevention through expert-led programs.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Contribute to the mission by volunteering your time or skills.
Learn more at A Safe Place.
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This episode of Shoresides delves into the growing affordable housing crisis in Brunswick County, North Carolina. We sat down with Sally Learned of Brunswick Partnership for Housing to learn more about challenges and solutions to affordable housing.
Despite being employed, many residents are unable to make enough money to afford rent, forcing them into unstable living situations such as living in their cars, motels, or RVs. Doubling up in homes or couch surfing has become a solution for many people.
Host Nick Magrino highlights a recent report from the National Low Income Housing Commission, which reveals that North Carolinians need to make nearly $4 more per hour than last year to afford a moderate apartment. Brunswick County, reflecting a national trend, faces an increasingly dire housing situation, pushing many wage earners into homelessness.
This episode explores the community’s struggle to secure affordable housing amidst these challenges, shedding light on a critical issue impacting everyday lives in coastal North Carolina.
Produced and hosted by Nick Magrino.
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Unsure about North Carolina's changing marijuana laws and whether you can still get into trouble? You're not alone. That's why Shoresides is analyzing police records to uncover who’s still being penalized for marijuana possession and why.
In May, the federal government advanced a measure that’d remove marijuana from the most restricted drugs list. But in North Carolina, the situation is more complex. Small amounts of recreational marijuana have been decriminalized for decades, making it quasi-legal to carry a half-ounce or less and pay a $200 fine. Police officers have the option to issue citations for larger quantities. Additionally, Hemp stores in North Carolina now openly sell “hemp” products containing small and legal amounts of Delta 9 THC, and there’s an ongoing effort–Senate Bill 711– to legalize marijuana here for medical use.
Despite the progress, marijuana enforcement remains a concern for community members, particularly in cities like Wilmington, where officers file several hundred marijuana charges per year.
Public records obtained by Shoresides show that from 2016 to 2023, the Wilmington Police Department (WPD) filed over 5,000 marijuana charges, with roughly 84 percent filed as misdemeanors and the majority– 70 percent–for minor marijuana infractions like possession of more than a half ounce or paraphernalia, according to a Shoresides analysis.
“In North Carolina marijuana possession is still illegal,” Lieutenant Willet Greg, a spokesperson for the department told Shoresides in an email. “Is it a priority or something we are focusing resources on? No it is not, social norms change and over time the laws enacted by the legislative branch of government typically catch up with those norms.”
All of the infractions turned over to Shoresides through our public records request involved amounts of marijuana that were equal to or in excess of a half-ounce. But that doesn’t mean the department has ceased penalizing people for carrying less, Willet explained. Data related to those charges aren’t readily accessible. “In order to find data for anyone charged with below a half ounce of marijuana it would require our one analyst to go through every marijuana arrest within those years. That is due to the way the law is written regarding amounts of marijuana and how the data is retained within our records system,” he said. “I’m sure there are people that have been charged with that amount.”
In October 2016, a 12-year-old identified in a police report as an African-American male was arrested for marijuana possession and paraphernalia at Williston Middle School. (Paraphernalia might be anything from a plastic baggie to a glass pipe.) In July 2023, a 33-year-old identified in a police report as a white female employed by John Metts Insurance, was arrested on roughly the same charges at a local hotel.
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Hosted by Rend Smith
Featuring Johanna F. Still of The Assembly
Music by PenguinMusic – Better Day from Pixabay.
Rend speaks with Johanna F. Still about her recent story Shibumi Shade Has Cast Its Shadow Over North Carolina Beaches This Summer. Along the North Carolina coastline, Shibumis have become inescapable and we learn why.
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In this episode of "Leandro: Funding in New Hanover Falling Short," we delve into the ongoing challenges and implications of the Leandro court case for New Hanover County schools.
Join us as we interview Rebecca Trammel of Community Conversations, who is an education advocate and expert, who sheds light on the current state of funding, the barriers faced by local schools, and the broader impact on students and teachers. Discover the real stories behind the numbers and learn what this means for the future of education in our community.
Background: The Leandro case, formally known as Leandro v. State of North Carolina, is a landmark lawsuit filed in 1994 by five low-wealth school districts in North Carolina. The plaintiffs argued that the state was not providing adequate funding to ensure every child received a sound basic education, as mandated by the North Carolina Constitution. In 1997, the North Carolina Supreme Court affirmed this right and later rulings reinforced that the state must take action to rectify funding inequities. The case has led to ongoing debates and legal actions concerning the adequacy and equity of public school funding in North Carolina.
Resources for learning about Leandro:
Community Conversations has a dedicated page
Every Child North Carolina
NC Early Education Coalition
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This episode features an insightful conversation with journalist Linda Villarosa, focusing on her New York Times Magazine article, "The Disturbing Truth About Hair Relaxers." Linda discusses the surprising health risks associated with hair relaxer products and other hair products marketed to Black girls and women, including links to uterine cancer and various reproductive health issues. Through her extensive research, she reveals the systemic issues in the cosmetic industry and the regulatory gaps that disproportionately affect Black women.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context of hair straightening in the Black community, the potential health impacts of hair relaxers, and the importance of better regulation and personal choices in mitigating these risks. Tune in to hear about potential solutions and how we can support a shift towards safer, more natural hair care practices.
Go deeper and read the research underpinning Villarosa’s article:+
- A 2022 study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences found that frequent users of hair straighteners were significantly more likely to develop uterine cancer.
- Over the past two decades, researchers like Tamarra James-Todd from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health have conducted numerous studies revealing the harmful effects of chemicals found in hair relaxers, such as formaldehyde and phthalates. These substances are known to disrupt endocrine function and are linked to health issues like early menstruation and reproductive cancers (Harvard School of Public Health) (Fibroid Fighters).
Despite the mounting evidence, these products remain largely unregulated in the U.S., contrasting with stricter regulations in Europe. This lack of regulation has led to continued exposure and harm, with many Black women still using these products due to societal pressures and norms regarding hair aesthetics (Gatekeepers News).
Get Inspired:
- bell hooks, “Straightening Our Hair” in Talking Back: Thinking Feminist, Thinking Black”*
- Discover videos related to Black girl natural hair on TikTok.
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Hosted by Rend Smith
Featuring Melba Newsome, a veteran freelance journalist with more than 20 years of experience reporting on environmental news.
Music by PenguinMusic – Better Day from Pixabay.
In a recent article for Sierra Magazine titled "North Carolina Agency Warns Anglers About Poisoned Fish," Newsome reports that the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has issued a fish consumption advisory. The advisory recommends that almost everyone significantly reduce their intake of certain freshwater fish from the middle and lower Cape Fear River due to contamination concerns. These fish are suspected to be contaminated with perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a toxic chemical from the PFAS group that can persist in the environment for up to 1,000 years.
The press release from the NCDHHS states: "We recommend limits on the consumption of certain freshwater fish from the middle and lower Cape Fear River based on concerns about exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) found in fish sampled from that area."
The Cape Fear River Watch has published guidelines titled "Stop, Check, Enjoy," which provide tips on fish consumption. Additionally, you can find current advisories posted by the state of North Carolina and reports by county on fish consumption. For useful tips on making fish safer and healthier for consumption, renowned North Carolina Chef Keith Rhodes offers valuable advice.
Link to current advisories posted by the state of North Carolina.
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Hosted by Rend Smith
Featuring Claudia M. Rivera Cotto of Enlace Latino NC
Music by PenguinMusic – Better Day from Pixabay.
Data on the 'State of the Teaching Profession' shows significant arrival of international teachers to the state during 2022-23 in the state of North Carolina. With teachers leaving in increasing numbers districts are increasingly looking to international teachers as a valuable resource. Claudia M. Rivera Cotto dug into the data in a story she wrote International teachers fill gaps amid teacher attrition in North Carolina.
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Hosted by Rend Smith
Featuring Johanna F. Still of The Assembly
Music by PenguinMusic – Better Day from Pixabay.
For the coastal Carolina shrimping industry the challenges are mounting. The economics aren’t adding even when they bring home a good catch. Johanna F. Still, who covers the coastal region reflects on a recent story she wrote titled Shrimpin’ Ain’t Easy.
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This is the SHORESIDES Weekly News Roundup. We look at the top stories impacting the coastal region.
According to a recent release from the University of North Carolina Wilmington their ,Watson College will introduce a Bachelor of Science degree in Workforce Learning and Development.
The Port City Daily reports that North Carolina Works will host a multi-employer job fair this October 18th from 10- 2. in collaboration with the Cape Fear Workforce Development Board. The in-person event will be held at 1994 South 17th St in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Cape Fear Community College reports that they have received a 30,000-dollar donation from the Assistance League of Greater Wilmington. The support will provide vital aid for nursing students funding 1,000 dollar scholarships for 30 students, offering them the opportunity to further their education and embark on fulfilling careers in healthcare.
A film about the singer, Joan Baez, I Am A Noise will be screening this October 23rd to 25th at Thalian Hall. The film is an unusually intimate psychological portrait of a legendary folk singer and activist.
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**This is the Shoresides Weekly News Roundup for October 9th, 2023.
We look at the top stories impacting the coastal region.
According to a recent story in the News & Observer the insurance company Nationwide has recently decided not to renew 10,000 insurance policies in Eastern North Carolina.
The Port City Daily reported that Wilmington's rapid population growth is transforming various aspects of the region****, including housing, employment, and demographics. According to UNCW's regional economist, Professor Guettabi, the Cape Fear region is experiencing significant growth, with Brunswick County being the fastest-growing in the state, followed by Pender County as the third fastest and New Hanover County as the 14th fastest.
The Shoresides team was recently read a report by American Progress titled How To Fix Americans’ Diminishing Access to the Coasts****. The report highlights the need to protect Americans’ right to work and recreate on the coasts by requiring that publicly funded projects provide and improve public access.
North Carolina State University Profesor Emeritus Mike Walden has recently written about the our states manufacturing section**. He explains that North Carolina has witnessed a significant decline in manufacturing jobs, with almost half of the state's factory jobs disappearing since 1990, but offers some solutions to moving the dial.
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We speak with documentary filmmaker Chris Everett about his upcoming 3 Chambers festival. A festival that digs into the intersection of Black culture, hip-hop, martial arts, and anime through by presenting artistic events. It takes place in Wilmington, North Carolina in October.
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Loneliness is tough, and it has real consequences for our health and life span. The pandemic certainly didn’t help with social isolation and broken routines. We went out into New Hanover County, North Carolina to learn how people experience loneliness and what we can do about it. One thing we learned is that loneliness actually has a physical and neurological impact on your body. Take a listen and check out some of the helpful tips we share.
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"Here we are in 2022 and we're still hearing those milestones being made. Yes, it is sad that you still have the firsts still being done. But what's rejoiceful is that it's coming..." Shoresides does a day in the life of a mayor. In this episode, we follow Beaufort, North Carolina Mayor Sharon Harker as she does what she does best. Host Sheresa Elliot and Mayor Harker dig into what's top of mind for folks in Carteret County and what it means to Mayor Harker to be the first Black mayor of Beaufort.
Shoresides is a local news podcast by and for Carteret County, North Carolina. Serving the coastal region and beyond.
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In Carteret County, North Carolina finding affordable housing is getting tougher. Forty percent of renters and twenty-two percent of households report that they are having a tough time with the rising cost of housing. In this episode, we dig into why there is so little affordable housing in the coastal region and what the future of making a home here is going to look like. We chat with Lynne Griffin, a local realtor who recently helped accomplish the largest survey on housing in our county. And we hear from two county residents on how the shortage is affecting their lives. While the situation is tough there are steps we can take for affordable housing.
Sources: Carteret Housing Survey, North Carolina Housing Coalition: Carteret Profile
Solutions: County leaders can take the following actions: 1) Set a goal 2) Policy changes 3) Development assistance 4) Bonds for affordable housing and 5) A home repair and repair prevention program or first time buyer program.
Shoresides is a local news podcast by and for Carteret County, North Carolina. Serving the coastal region and beyond.
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As a mental health crisis surges nationwide, we examine how folks in the coastal North Carolina county of Carteret are affected. Three local therapists provide us with insights into handling the emotional challenges linked to the pandemic.
Shoresides is a local news podcast by and for Carteret County, North Carolina. Serving the coastal region and beyond.
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Today, producer Brea Hampton takes us back to a COVID-19 vaccine drive that happened in Tabor City, Columbus County in March. She speaks with Ashlei McFadden, who's been aiding vaccination efforts - like the drive in Tabor City. McFadden says that vaccines intended for Tabor City's Black community went to white folks from outside of the area.
In this episode of Shoresides News, Hampton talks to Black leaders across Columbus County - Ashlei McFadden, Curtis Hill, Jeremy Simmons, and Shawn Manor - to help us understand the barriers to equity in vaccination efforts and what they're doing to overcome them.
Produced by Brea Hampton and Laura Bratton in collaboration with Ashlei McFadden, Curtis Hill, Jeremy Simmons, Shawn Manor, and Wallyce Todd.
Music:
Where We Are by Ketsa
I Recall by Blue Dot Sessions
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Shoresides spoke with community organizer and Elizabeth City local Quentin Jackson about what is happening in Elizabeth City as the community responds to the police killing of Andrew Brown.
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Though unaffiliated with Gullah/Geechee culture, a number of restaurants and food brands in Charleston, South Carolina used their name for decades. This year, several of these businesses finally underwent rebranding.
In 2020, we've heard story after story on mainstream media outlets about businesses, music groups, and other institutions and entities renaming themselves in attempt to remediate the harms of cultural appropriation their brands inflicted. Across the nation, people bid farewell to Uncle Ben's boil-in-bag rice and Aunt Jemima syrup bottles. News cycles often see stories as neatly contained in plots with clear beginnings and ends, but this narrative has a long history rooted in systemic racism and continues to evolve.
In this episode of Shoresides News, producer Kayla Guilliams spoke with Queen Quet, Chieftess and Head-of-State for the Gullah/Geechee Nation, and Akuah Page, co-founder of Geechee Experience, a millennial led cultural movement that works to empower the Gullah Geechee community. Quet and Page discuss how they perceive recent efforts to reduce the harms of systemic racism in coastal South Carolina such as rebranding. And, in this era of remediation, demands for reparations, and calls for the removal of oppressive symbols like confederate monuments - they answer a critical question - does replacing symbols go far enough?
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The Shoresides Team spoke with first time voters ages 30, 18, and 41 at the polls in Brunswick County, North Carolina about why they voted this election season. Here's what they had to say...
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"Nos hemos ganado ese derecho a ser votantes y que es un privilegio ejercerlo, y así como ha sido una responsabilidad, es un privilegio que vale la pena ejercer."
Victoria Garcia Velazco es la fundadora de VIDA Familiar Latina Magazine y Vida Translations. Ella está estudiando para su maestría en trabajo social en la universidad de Carolina del Norte de Wilmington (UNCW). Ella nos dice por qué es importante votar y recursos con información de votante.
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Have you been convicted of a felony or currently incarcerated and want to learn about your eligibility to vote in North Carolina?
If you have been convicted of a felony or are currently incarcerated, you are eligible to register and vote under the following circumstances...
¿Has sido condenado por un delito grave o actualmente estás encarcelado y deseas conocer tu elegibilidad para votar en Carolina del Norte?
Si has sido condenado por un delito grave o estás actualmente encarcelado, eres elegible para registrarte y votar en las siguientes circunstancias ...
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Want to vote early in coastal North Carolina? Here's how.
¿Quieres votar temprano en la costa de Carolina del Norte? Escucha este anuncio.
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Amanda White, high school Chemistry teacher and president of New Hanover Association of Educators, lets us in on educator efforts to ensure a safe start to the school year. She also discusses the worries teachers have with schools being used as shelters from Hurricane Isaias, with sick or symptomatic people not being turned away, when they're being asked to teach from those same classrooms in a few days.
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Sheresa Elliot, 31, of Beaufort, NC speaks about how her job as a therapist is informing her work as she continues to organize for Black Lives Matter in Beaufort, NC. Elliot had never worked on social justice issues before she organized nearly 500 people for Black Lives Matter protests within her town of about 4,000 last month. Elliot now is facilitating virtual town hall discussions with the Beaufort Police Department.
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Lily Nicole and her fellow protesters in Wilmington, North Carolina are getting organized. They started an activist group called the lowercase leaders, and they've got a permit to protest on the steps of city hall every day, from 8 in the morning to 9 at night, until June 6th of 2021.
Nicole describes how the protests have evolved and lists some of the lowercase leaders' goals. She says they're staying motivated through the fatigue and emotion; they're harnessing their community's energy. And one thing is clear - the protesters are here for the long haul.
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"I used to not want to offend people. As a pastor, I want to be compassionate. I want to understand both sides, but I've found myself in the past few weeks, just really specifically in a clear and concise way, say, this is why I think this is racist." As the director of Walking Tall Wilmington, Randy Evans seeks to create interpersonal relationships with individuals experiencing poverty. After experiencing two very different protests, Evans speaks about how his thinking has changed.
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In the last 10 years, disasters like Matthew, Florence, and now COVID-19 have changed the fabric of Columbus County, North Carolina and its community.
Wallyce Todd and Gerry Lenahan work at Community CPR, a nonprofit focused on disaster relief in the city of Whiteville - its county's seat. They talk about how their county is faring through the pandemic, while still working to support hurricane survivors. Gerry voices concerns over the hurricane season ahead and how it will affect people whose income has been affected by COVID-19.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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This is an important message from the New Hanover Disaster Coalition: There is free testing for COVID-19 in New Hanover County. All you have to do is call 910-798-6800 to talk with a nurse to setup an appointment. That is 910-798-6800 to set up a free COVID-19 test in New Hanover County.
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It’s been nearly two years since Hurricane Florence flooded the Maple Hill neighborhood in Pender County, NC. But Arlisha Hill's home is still far from repaired. Hill was ready to resume life as normal. She moved back into her partially repaired home this March – thinking construction would continue and she'd be living in a fully repaired home soon. Then, COVID-19 came. Construction on her home was brought to a halt in order to protect the volunteers and workers.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Jacqueline Hand has been repairing her home in from Hurricane Florence since September 2018. During those two years she has stayed with family, gone through the FEMA trailer program and then bought a travel trailer of her own – all while her home was still being repaired. Now, because of Covid-19, the nearly two-year repair process is on further hold.
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Kelly Spivey speaks about how she has seen the food insecurity conversation change during COVID-19. Kelly's Community Pantry started to take the shame out of asking for help with groceries. The pantry is a public, unmanned neighborhood food cupboard providing free canned and boxed items. Now Spivey acts as a community organizer around food issues in her tight-knit town.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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The mayor of Atlantic Beach, Trace Cooper, is preparing for a summer unlike he’s ever seen before. Cooper speaks to how the pandemic could disrupt – or boost – his small beach town's tourism economy. Cooper describes COVID-19 as a "one-two punch" for a coastal town still recovering from Hurricane Florence.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Chris Lamoreaux is a grocery store cashier in Morehead City, NC. Lamoreaux lives with his mother, who has an autoimmune disease. After work, Lamoreaux now self-quarantines in his bedroom. The national PPE shortage means that no gloves are available to Lamoreaux for handling customer cash at his register.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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A fast food manager in coastal North Carolina discusses how her team has put their health and safety at risk during the coronavirus pandemic - to serve milkshakes and french fries. She says her team feels unsafe and scared, and their concerns aren't being taken seriously.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Jeff Mills, 72, talks about how the coronavirus pandemic compares with the HIV/AIDS outbreak in the 1980's and his life experiences as an activist. Mills has lived in Wilmington, North Carolina with his partner since 2013. Before moving to the southeastern U.S., Mills spent over fourty years in the San Francisco Bay Area. He's a living example of crucial moments in our history: he protested the Vietnam War, he was an activist during the HIV/AIDS outbreak, and he continues to fight for LGBTQ rights in coastal North Carolina.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Le'Shawna Brunson-Smith says the stimulus bill won't be much of a help making up for the incoming she's losing during the coronavirus.
Brunson-Smith is the owner of Ladies Hair Design on Castle Street in Wilmington, North Carolina. Since Governor Cooper ordered the shut-down of hair salons, she's been out of work. To make up for lost income, she's exhausting every avenue available to her. And little things - cooking with her daughters and seeing positive social media posts - are giving her hope.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Rebecca is normally a grade school teacher second, but with schools closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, she's delivering groceries for Instacart.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Michael Turner, 42, is a math teacher at West Carteret High School in Morehead City, North Carolina - a rural, coastal town of 9,000 people. He runs the food pantry which supplements free & reduced lunch with take-home groceries. Now his job is to find and fulfill the gaps or 'soft spots’ in school food delivery during COVID-19.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Diana Tootle, 58, lives in Morehead City, North Carolina. Tootle speaks to the intersection between Hurricane Florence and COVID-19 in her historically African American coastal community.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
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Yasmine is a single mother living in coastal North Carolina. Since her restaurant closed, she's been out of work - but she's making the most of her time with her daughter. She reflects on how her day-to-day has and will continue to change in lieu of the COVID-19 pandemic. She's changing up her routine at home and keeping busy. And she's thinking about how this pandemic will continue to affect her financially.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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Melvin Dunn, 41, is a shrimper in Beaufort, North Carolina. Dunn lost a shrimp season with Hurricane Dorian last September and now faces further impacts from COVID-19 on the seafood industry. Dunn is from the South River – a predominantly black coastal community in Beaufort, NC. With increasingly intense hurricanes affecting his catch, Dunn decided to transition to a seafood truck delivery service after Hurricane Dorian last September. Now COVID-19 might change that.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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James (Jim) Wall is 75 and currently in quarantine with his step-grandchildren. Wall is a retired attorney and disabled veteran who lives in Wilmington, North Carolina. He suffers from a heart condition and diabetes, and needless to say - he's part of the population most vulnerable to coronavirus. Still, he's staying positive, taking precautions, and making the most of the down time with family.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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Denny Best discusses how his work with the film industry in Wilmington, North Carolina is impacted by coronavirus. Best does trade work in the film industry in and is a member of The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States. He discusses how his livelihood and the industry itself are impacted by coronavirus.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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David at the Intergroup office in Wilmington, North Carolina describes how COVID-19 is affecting Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in the area. David explains how the coronavirus is impacting participants of Alcoholics Anonymous and how it may continue to affect groups and meetings in the near future. He talks about how the virus is different from natural disasters like hurricanes, which AA groups in coastal Carolina endure almost yearly.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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Bonnie Weeks, 36, is a labor and delivery nurse working at Carteret General Hospital in Morehead City, North Carolina, which is currently on semi-lockdown due to Coronavirus. Weeks has lived in Morehead City - a rural, coastal town of 9,000 people - all of her life. Most folks that come into the hospital work on the water or are in the military. Weeks speaks to how Coronavirus is affecting the local hospital in this tight-knit community.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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Emmanuel (Manny) Ngardinga (Gar-din-ga) is stressed about the changes to his school schedule as a result of coronavirus. Ngardinga is a student at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, North Carolina. Last week, he learned he will be taking his classes online for the rest of the semester.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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Chris Lamoreaux speaks to toilet paper mayhem and other patterns happening in this small-town grocery store during the coronavirus pandemic. Lamoreaux, 47, is a cashier at the local Food Lion in Morehead City, North Carolina. Morehead is a small, coastal town that has seen and prepared for deadly hurricane seasons – but nothing like this. Gloves and masks are on, toilet paper is mysteriously scarce and neighbors are shopping for the elderly.
Broadcast from the Working Narratives studio, this series compiles community stories about COVID-19 from coastal North Carolina.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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Marsha Corbett discusses what's going on in her head during the first news of coronavirus in North Carolina. She talks about how she's dealing with stress - both financial and emotional - and how the virus is changing the way she does business.
Music by Ketsa. Editing by Working Narratives team.
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