Appalachian State Founders Day: App State marked 127 years of educational leadership with its Sept. 18 Founders Day ceremony, honoring the school’s Watauga Academy roots and inducting new Bell Ringers. Local Arts & Schools: Arts for Schools grants are sending $57,800 in arts programming to Buncombe County K-12 students, with extra focus on resilience after Hurricane Helene. Health Access: Shore Medical Group-Pediatrics opened a new Chestertown pediatric location, expanding nearby primary care for kids and families. Education & Opportunity: Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness at App Well is gearing up for its Growing Well Conference (Oct. 4-6) to support children and youth with special healthcare needs. Community & Culture: Wilmington ranks fourth nationally for renters, driven by job growth and a surge in newer apartments. Faith & Housing: A Chapel Hill church is seeking town approval for a new campus that pairs worship space with up to 10 affordable homes for people transitioning out of homelessness. Policy Watch: Major Medicaid changes are set to roll out in North Carolina, including tighter rules for some noncitizens, work mandates, and twice-yearly renewals. Sports & Local Interest: UNC’s football investigation concluded with Steve Belichick’s resignation, adding another twist to the program’s culture probe.