Medicaid & SNAP Updates: Mecklenburg County is urging residents to check eligibility as federal rule changes add work requirements, increase Medicaid renewals for some people, and tighten rules affecting certain noncitizens—SNAP serves 132,000 and Medicaid 343,000 locally. College Access: NC College Connect expands direct admission for eligible high school seniors, now reaching more students regardless of GPA, with no essays or test scores required for community college offers. Early Childhood Debate: A new survey of early educators pushes back on proposed Head Start deregulation, warning that weakening staffing and performance rules could drive workers out of the field. Higher Ed Growth: The UNC System reports a record 260,199 students this fall, up 1.4%, as enrollment and transfers rise. AI Crossroads: North Carolina is in the middle of the national fight over AI “guardrails” versus faster rollout, with data centers and regulation both under pressure. Faith & Public Life: Faith groups back a bipartisan “Right to Worship” bill aimed at protecting houses of worship from protest disruptions. Local Culture: Caldwell JAM is enrolling 8–18-year-olds for 2026-27 to learn Appalachian instruments, with classes across Caldwell County. Sports & Community: Rowan-Cabarrus names its 2025-26 Excellence in Teaching Award recipients, spotlighting faculty who go beyond the classroom.