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U.S. to propose emergency AI notification system with China

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Watch the extended Scott Bessent interview on "The Axios Show"

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Trump talks 2028, midterms and media woes at Murdoch dinner

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Exclusive: Army creates autonomy command amid Hegseth's robo-warfare push

Technology

GOP groups retreat from North Carolina Senate race a month early

Major GOP groups are taking their ad dollars elsewhere as Michael Whatley trails Roy Cooper.

Politics

With one month until Election Day, some big GOP spenders are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="giving up on" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/25/gop-october-midterms-key-moment?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosam&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="5d6f297c-6d1b-4b75-8208-4dce5566032b" data-vars-headline="GOP groups retreat from North Carolina Senate race a month early" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/25/gop-october-midterms-key-moment?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axiosam&amp;stream=top" target="_self">giving up on</a> North Carolina and prioritizing other states. Why it matters: It&#x27;s a sign that Republicans believe Michael Whatley can&#x27;t win and that the seat will flip to Democrats, who need <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="four pickups" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/23/senate-ohio-alaska-iowa-texas-kansas-mississippi-nebraska" data-vars-content-id="5d6f297c-6d1b-4b75-8208-4dce5566032b" data-vars-headline="GOP groups retreat from North Carolina Senate race a month early" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/23/senate-ohio-alaska-iowa-texas-kansas-mississippi-nebraska" target="_self">four pickups</a> to regain control of the Senate.

Layoffs deepen at RTI International

The nonprofit is eliminating 200 positions after laying off a third of its workforce in 2025.

RTI International says it will cut another 200 positions this quarter.Why it matters: The Triangle-based research institute has already laid off hundreds of others as the U.S. cuts back on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="scientific and humanitarian research" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/21/blake-wilson-merkin-prize-million-cochlear-implants-rti" data-vars-content-id="141d9280-2057-42c4-a535-9ba9e780bfab" data-vars-headline="Layoffs deepen at RTI International" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/21/blake-wilson-merkin-prize-million-cochlear-implants-rti" target="_self">scientific and humanitarian research</a> under the second Trump administration.

The Triangle's most popular dog breed

A new report reveals the most popular and trending dog breeds in Raleigh and Durham.

Culture

Raleigh and Durham have the same favorite dog breed: the golden retriever.Why it matters: Golden retrievers are likely a familiar sight at the Triangle&#x27;s many <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="dog parks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/02/06/dix-park-big-year-play-plaza-record-attendance-trolls" data-vars-content-id="0bb21881-8430-4a2c-9182-35e64237cf71" data-vars-headline="The Triangle&#x27;s most popular dog breed" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/02/06/dix-park-big-year-play-plaza-record-attendance-trolls" target="_self">dog parks</a> (or <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Bark Bar in Cary" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/09/05/kid-friendly-activities-triangle-raleigh-durham-chapel-hill" data-vars-content-id="0bb21881-8430-4a2c-9182-35e64237cf71" data-vars-headline="The Triangle&#x27;s most popular dog breed" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/09/05/kid-friendly-activities-triangle-raleigh-durham-chapel-hill" target="_self">The Bark Bar in Cary</a>, perhaps).

The cost difference between renting and owning in Raleigh

The cost difference between owning and renting in Raleigh has grown.

Development

The average <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Raleigh renter" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/03/raleigh-new-apartments-get-smaller" data-vars-content-id="68d140aa-2c51-4afe-9231-d28115718ac8" data-vars-headline="The cost difference between renting and owning in Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/03/raleigh-new-apartments-get-smaller" target="_self">Raleigh renter</a> pays over $1,700 less a month than someone who owns a home in the region, per a new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Zillow report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.zillow.com/research/august-2026-rent-report/" data-vars-content-id="68d140aa-2c51-4afe-9231-d28115718ac8" data-vars-headline="The cost difference between renting and owning in Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.zillow.com/research/august-2026-rent-report/" target="_blank">Zillow report</a>.Why it matters: As Raleigh home prices remain sticky amid <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="high interest rates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/23/mortgage-interest-rates-7-percent" data-vars-content-id="68d140aa-2c51-4afe-9231-d28115718ac8" data-vars-headline="The cost difference between renting and owning in Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/23/mortgage-interest-rates-7-percent" target="_self">high interest rates</a>, it&#x27;s more evidence that renting might be the way to go for some people.

Wake County commissioners vote to back WakeMed-Atrium merger

WakeMed was founded by the county in 1961 and has operated as independent nonprofit since 1997.

The Wake County Board of Commissioners voted on Monday to give its backing to Atrium Health&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="proposed acquisition of WakeMed Health" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/05/01/wakemed-is-seeking-to-combine-with-atrium-health" data-vars-content-id="9fb8bd4c-b056-4f4a-a1d2-ca080a4a1f7a" data-vars-headline="Wake County commissioners vote to back WakeMed-Atrium merger" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/05/01/wakemed-is-seeking-to-combine-with-atrium-health" target="_self">proposed acquisition of WakeMed Health</a>. Why it matters: The acquisition of WakeMed — the third-largest provider of health care in the Triangle and an institution originally founded by the county — has become a political lightning rod since it was announced this spring.

Inside the finances of NC's 13th District candidates

Both candidates for North Carolina's 13th district call for a stock trading ban.

As Republican Rep. Brad Knott vies for another term representing North Carolina&#x27;s 13th District, he reports holding assets worth between $3.3 million and $13.4 million, according to a financial disclosure report filed in August.Why it matters: Financial disclosure reports are one of the key tools the public has for examining how policymakers in Washington make their money and whether they have potential conflicts of interest.<ul><li>They&#x27;ve <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="played a big role" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/05/29/whatley-and-cooper-both-back-congressional-stock-trading-ban" data-vars-content-id="a56d6f1b-d0df-43d5-8996-04c1f6d522f1" data-vars-headline="Inside the finances of NC&#x27;s 13th District candidates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/05/29/whatley-and-cooper-both-back-congressional-stock-trading-ban" target="_self">played a big role</a> in the Senate showdown between Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley.</li></ul>

What one family found after trading the Triangle for Greenville

One family passed on a paid move back to the Triangle after comparing life in Greenville.

Partners

When Bria and Adrian Williams had the chance to relocate in 2025, they could have moved back to the Triangle with the cost covered — but instead, they stayed in Greenville.The background: Bria&#x27;s career first brought the couple from the Triangle to Eastern North Carolina in 2021.<ul><li>They explored several communities before choosing Greenville, where they found a place that felt welcoming and left room to build the life they wanted.</li></ul>

Relay raises $36M from investors to fuel its growth 

The Raleigh-based company now has around 300 employees, mostly in Raleigh.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Relay" data-vars-click-url="https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=L&amp;pf=1&amp;ai=DChsSEwiNpYr84pGXAxVJUn8AHYwWLIwYACICCAEQABoCb2E&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwoOjVBhArEiwAUwDak7iu0BKp3vy2kOMo5RggSRfxgF1cLriAHd_luXjXdfuW_sIVH-5OJxoChY4QAvD_BwE&amp;cid=CAASZuRo8_lSUc4IMuEzHB6biQSIbptwbB7YUotaOnKyxcppX6AlmQ9CD4W-O3xHmAOse0xIFOm2PVj3KaBpGROOOKdqHChfXi_5Ggz79E3CM8zRgX6s1MB6UEgTLJfjKDe7VCc5wtu3mg&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_32&amp;sig=AOD64_0rR4psKAskkiyMtrFXAEeZ0aKg2g&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl=https://relaypro.com/?utm_source%3Dgoogle%26utm_medium%3Dcpc%26utm_campaign%3D1011129104%26utm_content%3D168631467046%26utm_term%3Drelay%2520pro%26utm_feeditemid%3D%26utm_device%3Dc%26utm_network%3Dg%26utm_adid%3D719869042713%26utm_matchtype%3De%26utm_targetid%3Dkwd-301914306682%26utm_term%3Drelay%2520pro%26utm_campaign%3DBrand%26utm_source%3Dadwords%26utm_medium%3Dppc%26utm_id%3D1011129104%26hsa_acc%3D4867147547%26hsa_cam%3D1011129104%26hsa_grp%3D168631467046%26hsa_ad%3D719869042713%26hsa_src%3Dg%26hsa_tgt%3Dkwd-301914306682%26hsa_kw%3Drelay%2520pro%26hsa_mt%3De%26hsa_net%3Dadwords%26hsa_ver%3D3%26gad_source%3D1%26gad_campaignid%3D1011129104%26gbraid%3D0AAAAADEqQBgEPsusVHaXrOgXrYf_mbgRN%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwoOjVBhArEiwAUwDak7iu0BKp3vy2kOMo5RggSRfxgF1cLriAHd_luXjXdfuW_sIVH-5OJxoChY4QAvD_BwE&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjFqoX84pGXAxUMGtAFHcE3M6UQ0Qx6BAgOEAE" data-vars-content-id="53e7198a-d111-4bf3-9867-998f05efe183" data-vars-headline="Relay raises $36M from investors to fuel its growth " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=L&amp;pf=1&amp;ai=DChsSEwiNpYr84pGXAxVJUn8AHYwWLIwYACICCAEQABoCb2E&amp;co=1&amp;ase=2&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwoOjVBhArEiwAUwDak7iu0BKp3vy2kOMo5RggSRfxgF1cLriAHd_luXjXdfuW_sIVH-5OJxoChY4QAvD_BwE&amp;cid=CAASZuRo8_lSUc4IMuEzHB6biQSIbptwbB7YUotaOnKyxcppX6AlmQ9CD4W-O3xHmAOse0xIFOm2PVj3KaBpGROOOKdqHChfXi_5Ggz79E3CM8zRgX6s1MB6UEgTLJfjKDe7VCc5wtu3mg&amp;cce=2&amp;category=acrcp_v1_32&amp;sig=AOD64_0rR4psKAskkiyMtrFXAEeZ0aKg2g&amp;q&amp;nis=4&amp;adurl=https://relaypro.com/?utm_source%3Dgoogle%26utm_medium%3Dcpc%26utm_campaign%3D1011129104%26utm_content%3D168631467046%26utm_term%3Drelay%2520pro%26utm_feeditemid%3D%26utm_device%3Dc%26utm_network%3Dg%26utm_adid%3D719869042713%26utm_matchtype%3De%26utm_targetid%3Dkwd-301914306682%26utm_term%3Drelay%2520pro%26utm_campaign%3DBrand%26utm_source%3Dadwords%26utm_medium%3Dppc%26utm_id%3D1011129104%26hsa_acc%3D4867147547%26hsa_cam%3D1011129104%26hsa_grp%3D168631467046%26hsa_ad%3D719869042713%26hsa_src%3Dg%26hsa_tgt%3Dkwd-301914306682%26hsa_kw%3Drelay%2520pro%26hsa_mt%3De%26hsa_net%3Dadwords%26hsa_ver%3D3%26gad_source%3D1%26gad_campaignid%3D1011129104%26gbraid%3D0AAAAADEqQBgEPsusVHaXrOgXrYf_mbgRN%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjwoOjVBhArEiwAUwDak7iu0BKp3vy2kOMo5RggSRfxgF1cLriAHd_luXjXdfuW_sIVH-5OJxoChY4QAvD_BwE&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjFqoX84pGXAxUMGtAFHcE3M6UQ0Qx6BAgOEAE" target="_blank">Relay</a>, a Raleigh-based startup <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="making smart communication tools" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/06/10/raleigh-smart-walkie-talkie-startup-relay-raises-35m-from-investors" data-vars-content-id="53e7198a-d111-4bf3-9867-998f05efe183" data-vars-headline="Relay raises $36M from investors to fuel its growth " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/06/10/raleigh-smart-walkie-talkie-startup-relay-raises-35m-from-investors" target="_self">making smart communication tools</a> for frontline workers, has raised $36 million from investors, the company told Axios.Why it matters: Relay, which spun out of fellow Raleigh tech company Bandwidth, has been one of the fastest-growing startups in the Triangle in recent years.<ul><li>The new funding will help it continue that growth, with plans to hire around 100 workers over the next year, according to Chris Chuang, the company&#x27;s CEO.</li></ul>

N.C. State leans into growth potential of battery technology 

It is working closely with Toyota to create a pipeline of battery engineers

N.C. State University is boosting its bet on teaching battery technology. Why it matters: With <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="demand rising for new-generation batteries " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/23/battery-storage-utilities-data-centers" data-vars-content-id="8024d0fd-2fba-4267-8a82-d51c5d663612" data-vars-headline="N.C. State leans into growth potential of battery technology " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/23/battery-storage-utilities-data-centers" target="_self">demand rising for new-generation batteries </a>for electric vehicles, hybrids smartphones and hosts of AI uses, N.C. State is trying to get more students to study the technology and fill the growing pipeline of battery jobs in North Carolina.

A potential boost for Raleigh's MLB bid comes from the Braves

The Braves have long enjoyed exclusive television rights across the Southeast.

Sports

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Atlanta Braves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/03/27/braves-2026-season-opening-day-60th-anniversary" data-vars-content-id="e167ccc3-96e9-428b-8615-b07b51465044" data-vars-headline="A potential boost for Raleigh&#x27;s MLB bid comes from the Braves" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2026/03/27/braves-2026-season-opening-day-60th-anniversary" target="_self">Atlanta Braves</a>, the juggernaut of Southeastern baseball, appear to be opposed to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nashville&#x27;s potential bid" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/23/salt-lake-city-nashville-major-league-baseball-expansion" data-vars-content-id="e167ccc3-96e9-428b-8615-b07b51465044" data-vars-headline="A potential boost for Raleigh&#x27;s MLB bid comes from the Braves" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2025/07/23/salt-lake-city-nashville-major-league-baseball-expansion" target="_self">Nashville&#x27;s potential bid</a> for a Major League Baseball team. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nashville" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville" data-vars-content-id="e167ccc3-96e9-428b-8615-b07b51465044" data-vars-headline="A potential boost for Raleigh&#x27;s MLB bid comes from the Braves" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville" target="_self">Nashville</a> is seen as one of the biggest rivals to Raleigh&#x27;s bid, and opposition in the form of the Braves could make the City of Oaks more attractive.

Charlotte

How to watch Hornets games this season

The Charlotte Hornets have completed an overhaul of how fans can watch games — from streaming to traditional broadcast.

The Charlotte Hornets have completed an overhaul of how fans can watch games — from streaming to traditional broadcast. Why it matters: Fans haven&#x27;t known how or where to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="watch games" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/08/nba-fans-illegal-streaming-survey" data-vars-content-id="ff8c4d76-a840-41e3-8cf8-8bb449af7143" data-vars-headline="How to watch Hornets games this season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/08/nba-fans-illegal-streaming-survey" target="_self">watch games</a> due to inconsistent distribution across the league. The Hornets are working to rectify that.

Scoop: After completing Hotel Indigo, New York developer eyes next project in Raleigh

The New York developer just completed a $36 million renovation of the former Holiday Inn.

Tidal Real Estate Partners, the New York developer that just completed a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$36 million renovation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/08/hotel-indigo-plots-october-opening-in-raleigh" data-vars-content-id="908a7b92-89c9-4713-aebc-f00b24b75573" data-vars-headline="Scoop: After completing Hotel Indigo, New York developer eyes next project in Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/08/hotel-indigo-plots-october-opening-in-raleigh" target="_self">$36 million renovation</a> of the former Holiday Inn, isn&#x27;t slowing down its work in downtown Raleigh. Why it matters: The real estate company plans to break ground as soon as the next 60 days on a 20-story tower at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="521 S. Wilmington St." data-vars-click-url="https://tidalrep.com/projects/residential/521-s.-wilmington" data-vars-content-id="908a7b92-89c9-4713-aebc-f00b24b75573" data-vars-headline="Scoop: After completing Hotel Indigo, New York developer eyes next project in Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tidalrep.com/projects/residential/521-s.-wilmington" target="_blank">521 S. Wilmington St.</a>, Tidal&#x27;s CEO Mick Walsdorf told Axios.

SAS to launch AI think tank at N.C. State 

SAS and N.C. State's relationship goes back to the company's origins.

SAS Institute, the multibillion-dollar analytics company born in the labs of N.C. State, will help launch a new AI think tank at the university, its CEO Jim Goodnight said Thursday. Why it matters: The partnership aims to improve health outcomes and agricultural practices and to create safety frameworks around the use of AI in those areas. <ul><li>SAS&#x27; analytical model was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="originally created at N.C. State" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/01/sas-institute-turns-50" data-vars-content-id="e9f05d4a-d979-477b-bde2-5639814f8024" data-vars-headline="SAS to launch AI think tank at N.C. State " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/01/sas-institute-turns-50" target="_self">originally created at N.C. State</a> to find a better way to analyze agricultural data. Since then, it has evolved into creating analytics software for myriad industries and in recent years has invested heavily in new AI capabilities. </li></ul>

Duke researcher lands "genius" grant for work on memory

Felipe De Brigard is one of 20 recipients of the MacArthur Foundation fellowship this year.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Felipe De Brigard" data-vars-click-url="https://scholars.duke.edu/person/felipe.debrigard" data-vars-content-id="0293f394-8854-42e0-8b4c-31150be15095" data-vars-headline="Duke researcher lands &quot;genius&quot; grant for work on memory" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://scholars.duke.edu/person/felipe.debrigard" target="_blank">Felipe De Brigard</a>, a cognitive scientist and philosopher at Duke University, has joined the ranks of geniuses. Why it matters: De Brigard is the latest researcher from the Triangle to win one of the MacArthur Foundation&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Genius Grants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.macfound.org/programs/awards/fellows/" data-vars-content-id="0293f394-8854-42e0-8b4c-31150be15095" data-vars-headline="Duke researcher lands &quot;genius&quot; grant for work on memory" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.macfound.org/programs/awards/fellows/" target="_blank">Genius Grants</a>, a prestigious award that comes with an $800,000 stipend that can be used without restrictions.

College offers land before North Carolina seniors apply 

More than 105,000 seniors can claim a community college spot without essays, SAT scores or recommendations.

Education

North Carolina&#x27;s 105,036 high school seniors on track to graduate in 2027 are all receiving letters offering <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="automatic acceptance" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cfnc.org/nc-college-connect/" data-vars-content-id="73dc6b67-6b38-4ac9-8876-8c9433644610" data-vars-headline="College offers land before North Carolina seniors apply " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cfnc.org/nc-college-connect/" target="_blank">automatic acceptance</a> to community college. Why it matters: Bringing in community colleges is a major leap in outreach for the state&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="College Connect" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cfnc.org/nc-college-connect/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=24207070071&amp;gbraid=0AAAAA-Ft7skA6irV1_aovxqvbB9ONimuR&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw8c3VBhCsARIsAA_xJ92tKN8Pl6dQ9eAiAMNaF_COo1KBKXM0sjIoeEYwkRGNsZJA7FmCDEAaAn_rEALw_wcB" data-vars-content-id="73dc6b67-6b38-4ac9-8876-8c9433644610" data-vars-headline="College offers land before North Carolina seniors apply " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cfnc.org/nc-college-connect/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=24207070071&amp;gbraid=0AAAAA-Ft7skA6irV1_aovxqvbB9ONimuR&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw8c3VBhCsARIsAA_xJ92tKN8Pl6dQ9eAiAMNaF_COo1KBKXM0sjIoeEYwkRGNsZJA7FmCDEAaAn_rEALw_wcB" target="_blank">College Connect</a> program, now in its third year offering automatic acceptance at most in-state colleges and universities.

Barnes & Noble joins Chapel Hill's revamped University Place

The 20,000-square-foot bookstore arrives as the mall adds more reasons for people to stick around.

University Place mall in Chapel Hill is continuing to evolve, with a new alcohol-friendly social district up and running and a Barnes &amp; Noble opening Wednesday. Why it matters: Malls had to change to survive online shopping&#x27;s takeover, and the ones that did are up 13% in value since last year, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Wall Street Journal reported" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/commercial/malls-were-left-for-dead-now-they-are-the-top-performer-in-commercial-real-estate-0bf6100f" data-vars-content-id="665f05fd-105a-4e7f-9969-3f8cd6648cd1" data-vars-headline="Barnes &amp; Noble joins Chapel Hill&#x27;s revamped University Place" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/commercial/malls-were-left-for-dead-now-they-are-the-top-performer-in-commercial-real-estate-0bf6100f" target="_blank">Wall Street Journal reported</a>.

Triangle research helped bring hearing to 1 million people

Duke's Blake Wilson says today's research cuts could put future medical advances at risk.

Duke Hearing Center director Blake Wilson was honored last week with the Merkin Prize in Biomedical Technology for his work decades ago developing the modern cochlear implant.Why it matters: The devices help more than <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="1 million" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/quick-statistics-hearing" data-vars-content-id="f2362c6e-ee9d-4787-bf29-e48eddd89149" data-vars-headline="Triangle research helped bring hearing to 1 million people" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/quick-statistics-hearing" target="_blank">1 million</a> deaf or nearly deaf people hear, and federal research grants helped spur their invention along.

Dolly-Durham and your other picks for renaming RDU

Sports icons, musicians and a former governor made the list of possible names for the airport.

This week, inspired by Nashville&#x27;s move to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rename its airport for Dolly Parton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/09/11/nashville-board-votes-in-favor-of-naming-airport-for-dolly-parton" data-vars-content-id="669b6ebb-679e-4651-9594-a181d42c187a" data-vars-headline="Dolly-Durham and your other picks for renaming RDU" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/09/11/nashville-board-votes-in-favor-of-naming-airport-for-dolly-parton" target="_self">rename its airport for Dolly Parton</a>, we asked which notable people could someday inspire a new name for Raleigh-Durham International Airport.The big picture: Readers leaned heavily toward North Carolina sports legends — with a few political and musical alternatives.

Raleigh is considering a six-month moratorium on data centers

The pause would last for six months while the city develops new rules around data center construction.

The Raleigh City Council will vote next month on whether to enact a moratorium on any new data center applications in the city while it develops new rules for their construction. Why it matters: Raleigh would join a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="wave of cities and counties" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/02/23/data-center-opposition-grows-across-north-carolina" data-vars-content-id="82f0a1e5-0e01-4925-b1ba-dc4131d0f9ad" data-vars-headline="Raleigh is considering a six-month moratorium on data centers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/02/23/data-center-opposition-grows-across-north-carolina" target="_self">wave of cities and counties</a> placing moratoriums on new data center development across the state, as an increasing number of residents express concerns over the electricity costs, water usage, noise levels and visual aesthetics of data centers. <ul><li>Durham and Charlotte have added similar pauses. </li></ul>

10 things to do in the Triangle this weekend

Durham Pride, free music, Canes hockey and Weezer headline a packed first weekend of October.

Things to Do

The Triangle will be bustling with activity this first weekend of October, with free downtown music in Raleigh, a Pride parade in Durham and the Canes on home ice. <ul><li>Here are 10 things to do.</li></ul>

Jooselord launches free Durham festival honoring his son

The free Oct. 30 event will fill eight downtown venues with 33 artists, all from North Carolina.

Rapper <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jooselord" data-vars-click-url="https://open.spotify.com/artist/6pUedNR8ypWdYTBeaa7FkO" data-vars-content-id="a44b1e19-f259-4f3d-ae54-8c620489dde3" data-vars-headline="Jooselord launches free Durham festival honoring his son" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/6pUedNR8ypWdYTBeaa7FkO" target="_blank">Jooselord</a> is bringing a new music festival to his hometown of Durham next month.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="All Onyx World" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZzg1VyR2nn/" data-vars-content-id="a44b1e19-f259-4f3d-ae54-8c620489dde3" data-vars-headline="Jooselord launches free Durham festival honoring his son" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZzg1VyR2nn/" target="_blank">All Onyx World</a> is designed to honor Jooselord&#x27;s son Onyx, who died this spring of brain cancer. Onyx was 5 years old.

Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Raleigh, Durham

Meet fellow locals over dinner at a restaurant we hand-picked.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" data-vars-content-id="82dbbb51-b1a3-435b-bcf9-11d3aef35ed0" data-vars-headline="Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Raleigh, Durham" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" target="_blank">Axios Social Club</a> is bringing readers together for dinner to downtown Durham and Raleigh&#x27;s Glenwood neighborhood on Tuesday, Oct. 6.Why it matters: Your city is full of interesting people you haven&#x27;t met yet. We&#x27;re making it easier to change that.

Your guide to Durham's weeklong Pride celebration

Markets, crafts, a picnic and more lead up to Durham's Saturday Pride parade along Ninth Street.

This year, Durham&#x27;s annual September celebration of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pride" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/09/25/durham-pride-september-explained" data-vars-content-id="c0cd72ec-31f2-4060-86d5-9e5eb6279aa0" data-vars-headline="Your guide to Durham&#x27;s weeklong Pride celebration" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/09/25/durham-pride-september-explained" target="_self">Pride</a> spans a full week.The big picture: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="LGBTQ Center of Durham" data-vars-click-url="https://www.lgbtqcenterofdurham.org/program/pride/" data-vars-content-id="c0cd72ec-31f2-4060-86d5-9e5eb6279aa0" data-vars-headline="Your guide to Durham&#x27;s weeklong Pride celebration" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.lgbtqcenterofdurham.org/program/pride/" target="_blank">LGBTQ Center of Durham</a> made &quot;Always Forward, Never Straight&quot; this year&#x27;s theme and planned a week&#x27;s worth of activities culminating with a parade.

What shows should you catch this fall in the Triangle

From Jonas Brothers to Beck, there are some great shows coming to the Triangle over the next few weeks.

Fall is a peak time for concerts in the Triangle, with outdoor concerts still going strong and big names coming through our many venues. Here are some of the top shows coming up:

Raleigh lands its first hotel on Michelin's Key list

Heights House earned one Key as Michelin added four North Carolina properties to its rankings.

The Michelin Guide just updated its hotel rankings for the U.S., bestowing &quot;key&quot; awards on standout properties in Raleigh, Pittsboro and the North Carolina mountains.Why it matters: Michelin Key Hotels are like starred restaurants — both are big international distinctions. U.S. hotels were first considered for keys in 2024. North Carolina restaurants weren&#x27;t added to the guide <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="until 2025." data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/04/michelin-guide-south-edition-carolina-restaurants-stars" data-vars-content-id="4df46a55-b1ab-43e4-b27d-f5f309c308ab" data-vars-headline="Raleigh lands its first hotel on Michelin&#x27;s Key list" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/04/michelin-guide-south-edition-carolina-restaurants-stars" target="_self">until 2025.</a>

Cary BBQ restaurant expands to Durham

Dampf has been attracting long lines to its truck on Phillips Farm of Cary since 2022.

Food and Drink

Dampf Good BBQ, a Texas-style barbecue restaurant that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="got a nod" data-vars-click-url="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/north-carolina/cary_2986745/restaurant/dampf-good-bbq" data-vars-content-id="89df5ce7-7152-4523-b981-d078583dd269" data-vars-headline="Cary BBQ restaurant expands to Durham" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://guide.michelin.com/us/en/north-carolina/cary_2986745/restaurant/dampf-good-bbq" target="_blank">got a nod</a> from the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/04/michelin-guide-south-edition-carolina-restaurants-stars" data-vars-content-id="89df5ce7-7152-4523-b981-d078583dd269" data-vars-headline="Cary BBQ restaurant expands to Durham" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/04/michelin-guide-south-edition-carolina-restaurants-stars" target="_self">Michelin guide</a>, is expanding to downtown Durham, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="its owners said" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/dampfgoodbbq/p/Ddgxw5jBqS6/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="89df5ce7-7152-4523-b981-d078583dd269" data-vars-headline="Cary BBQ restaurant expands to Durham" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/dampfgoodbbq/p/Ddgxw5jBqS6/?hl=en" target="_blank">its owners said</a>. Why it matters: Dampf plans to take over the former Pit Barbecue space on Geer Street, which has sat empty in the heart of Durham&#x27;s nightlife scene since the pandemic began.

North Hills set for its 1st standalone cocktail bar with Little Saint

Raleigh entrepreneur Patrick Shanahan is adding another bar to his cocktail empire.

Patrick Shanahan&#x27;s cocktail dominion continues to grow — this time in North Hills. Why it matters: The Raleigh artist-turned-nightlife entrepreneur will open his fifth project in two years when <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Little Saint Cocktail Co." data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/littlesaintraleigh/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="41058a74-cdd3-4937-afd4-d509e33e97eb" data-vars-headline="North Hills set for its 1st standalone cocktail bar with Little Saint" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/littlesaintraleigh/?hl=en" target="_blank">Little Saint Cocktail Co.</a> becomes North Hills&#x27; first standalone cocktail bar next spring.

Katsuji Tanabe's RTP restaurant empire takes shape

KatSushi is the chef's latest RTP opening, with a revival of acclaimed High Horse still to come.

The newest addition at Boxyard RTP opened its doors last month, bringing Japanese hand rolls and bowls to the outdoor food hall.Why it matters: KatSushi comes from chef Katsuji Tanabe, a &quot;Top Chef&quot; alum, and restaurateur Anthony Rapillo, who are betting big on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Research Triangle Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/29/research-triangle-park-3-redevelopment-rezoning-land-laws" data-vars-content-id="735490e8-03eb-4085-8d5e-ee487c7f522a" data-vars-headline="Katsuji Tanabe&#x27;s RTP restaurant empire takes shape" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/29/research-triangle-park-3-redevelopment-rezoning-land-laws" target="_self">Research Triangle Park</a>.

Two new Durham restaurants will share one home

A coffee and pastry shop will become a wine bar at night, alongside an upscale tasting menu.

Durham is set to get two new restaurants in the spring — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Vinter and The Baker" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/vintnerbaker/" data-vars-content-id="6b7c319b-0e08-4140-b1c7-78dfa16a2105" data-vars-headline="Two new Durham restaurants will share one home" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/vintnerbaker/" target="_blank">The Vinter and The Baker</a>, which will serve coffee and pastries by day and wine and small plates at night, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Restaurant Cornelia" data-vars-click-url="https://www.corneliadurham.com/" data-vars-content-id="6b7c319b-0e08-4140-b1c7-78dfa16a2105" data-vars-headline="Two new Durham restaurants will share one home" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.corneliadurham.com/" target="_blank">Restaurant Cornelia</a>, which will offer evening fine dining.Why it matters: The sister concepts will provide all-day food options in a neighborhood just north of downtown.

Hurricanes' Slavin invests in Prime Barbecue's expansion

Prime STQ is expected to open in Research Triangle Park next Spring.

Fresh off winning a Stanley Cup, Carolina Hurricanes star Jaccob Slavin&#x27;s next career move is to partner in one of the most hotly anticipated restaurant openings in the Triangle. Why it matters: Prieto&#x27;s beloved Knightdale restaurant, Prime Barbecue, is in the process of expanding to the Hub RTP development in Research Triangle Park. <ul><li>The new restaurant, called <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Prime STQ" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/11/18/prime-barbecue-founder-to-open-new-restaurant-in-research-triangle-park" data-vars-content-id="a829c80f-8114-48e3-bc9a-4c39a1676845" data-vars-headline="Hurricanes&#x27; Slavin invests in Prime Barbecue&#x27;s expansion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/11/18/prime-barbecue-founder-to-open-new-restaurant-in-research-triangle-park" target="_self">Prime STQ</a>, is being billed as a combination of a barbecue joint and a classic steakhouse. </li></ul>

The Triangle's 30 best restaurants, right now

Stanbury takes the top spot again as the Triangle's increasingly acclaimed food scene keeps growing.

Creating a list of the Triangle&#x27;s 30 best restaurants keeps getting harder for us here at Axios Raleigh. <ul><li>We see it as a sign of just how vibrant the region&#x27;s cuisine has gotten over the past decade, with longtime institutions going strong and an ever-growing list of exciting newcomers. </li></ul>

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