SUMMARY: In his inaugural address on January 11, 2025, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein emphasized his commitment to rebuilding western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, calling for bipartisan cooperation with the Republican-led legislature. He outlined key priorities, including housing for survivors, business support, and infrastructure rebuilding. Stein, who succeeded Roy Cooper, highlighted the need for unity to address significant challenges, urging legislators to focus on collaboration rather than political disputes. While GOP leaders expressed optimism about working with him, the party’s communications director criticized Stein’s policies as outdated. The upcoming legislative session will test this spirit of cooperation.

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SUMMARY: As climate change intensifies, California faces increasingly severe wildfires, now marked by terms like “firenado” and “gigafire.” The state has 78 more annual “fire days” compared to 50 years ago, with fires occurring year-round. Recent blazes in Los Angeles County, including the destructive Palisades and Eaton Fires, have left thousands evacuated and resulted in over 1,000 destroyed homes and fatalities. The role of arson and downed power lines persists, while extreme weather adds pressure. Firefighting costs have escalated from $800 million in 2005 to $3.7 billion in 2022. California must adapt to this new reality—ushering in the “Pyrocene” era.

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SUMMARY: Mike Kernels has joined Carolina Public Press (CPP) as Managing Editor, overseeing statewide investigative reporting. A Virginia Beach native with over 30 years in journalism, he previously worked at the Greensboro News & Record and the Virginian-Pilot. Kernels replaces Frank Taylor, who became executive director after serving as CPP’s editor-in-chief. CPP has also relocated its headquarters from Durham to Raleigh to better serve its reporters, though it remains committed to statewide coverage, including Durham and Asheville. CPP continues to welcome news tips via email, as its physical address does not accommodate unscheduled visitors.

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