The Coronavirus crisis has not left many sectors of the economy alone in its destruction – with the possible exception of manufacturers of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, face masks, ventilators and other items in short supply right now.

Since last week, Governor Roy Cooper has handed down a statewide Stay At Home Order. Some counties and municipalities have gone even further with stay-at-home guidance. For example, New Hanover County has defined specific businesses that must close such as auto dealerships and hotels and motels. When there are discrepancies between the state and local orders, the more restrictive version takes precedence.

Coronavirus Edition #2. So much has changed in a week. Many more people are working from home – or not working at all. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has lowered the threshold for mass gatherings from 100 to 50. He’s ordered more business closures – gyms, movie theaters, salons. He’s extended public school closures to May 15 th .

The unprecedented move, just days ago, to cancel events that might draw more than 100 people came from an Executive Order out of the North Carolina Governor’s office. This statewide mandate is now enforceable, yet it’s hardly the most extreme measure officials have taken to slow the spread of the new coronavirus – known as COVID-19.

Women make up only a third of state legislators in the United States. On Capitol Hill, the numbers are lower – with women holding only about 24% of Congressional seats. But according to a recent UN Study , the number of female heads of government around the world is down by a third compared to five years ago.

Joe Biden is now the clear front-runner for the Democratic Presidential nomination after Super Tuesday. Michael Bloomberg dropped out Wednesday morning and endorsed Biden – and North Carolina has proven to be an important state in this development.

New Hanover Regional Medical Center is exploring whether to sell, create a partnership, reorganize, or remain independent.

North Carolina’s primary election is underway. This is the chance for voters to decide which party nominees compete in the November election. Early Voting runs through February 29 th and Election Day is March 3 rd .

Nativism and white supremacy, the battle over slavery, and the public adoration of explorers were critical elements of mid-19 th century. Two of the key players from that era, Jessie and John Fremont, were also America’s first big celebrities.

Is the water that comes out of your tap safe to drink?