Kate Sheppard
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Articles by Kate Sheppard
Cunningham Loses In State House Primary Focused on Immigration Policy
After more than a decade in office, state Rep. Carla Cunningham appeared to lose her Democratic primary on Tuesday by a significant margin. Her main opponent was the Rev. Rodney Sadler, a 58-year-old Biblical scholar and political newcomer. With all precincts reporting Tuesday night, Sadler was just shy of 70% to Cunningham’s 22%. Vermanno Bowman, finished third with just over 8%. Sign up for our free newsletter.
Columbus County Can Do the Right Thing
Back in October 2022, our team began chasing a story about federal and state investigations into alleged abuses of power at the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office under Jody Greene. Over the next 12 months, reporters Carli Brosseau and Sarah Nagem requested a number of public records, including correspondence between the sheriff’s office and county leaders, as well as letters and legal complaints from citizens.
Celebrating Our Wins As They Come
I think I am supposed to be humble and tell you that we don’t work for awards here at The Assembly. That we don’t need validation. That we let the work speak for itself. But we do appreciate external approval. And we are overjoyed when people beyond our newsroom, loyal readers, and even our state see the impact and value of our journalism. Which is why we were recently thrilled to learn that we won two national Edward R. Murrow Awards, among the highest honors in digital journalism.
Career Or Kids? Why It Doesn't Have to Be a Choice
Balancing a career and starting a family often seems impossible, especially for women facing societal pressures and workplace challenges. Yet, with the right mindset, which includes being flexible and adaptable, open communication, which involves discussing your needs and concerns with your employer and family, and support systems, such as reliable childcare and understanding colleagues, pursuing professional success while raising a family doesn't have to be an either-or decision.
The Hunt Legacy Appears to Live On
Rachel Hunt, the daughter of four-term Democratic Gov. Jim Hunt, looks likely to become the state’s next lieutenant governor. Hunt defeated Republican Hal Weatherman, a longtime political operative but first-time candidate. With all precincts reporting as of Wednesday morning, Hunt had 49.44 percent of the vote to Weatherman’s 47.75. North Carolina is among just 17 states where the governor and lieutenant governor are elected separately, rather than via a shared ticket.
Democrat Mo Green Defeats Michele Morrow to Lead N.C. Public Schools
Michele Morrow surprised nearly everyone in North Carolina last March when she pulled off a primary win over the Republican incumbent Superintendent of Public Instruction, Catherine Truitt. But she could not defeat Democrat Mo Green, who had 51 percent of the vote to Morrow’s 49 as of early Wednesday morning.
Democrat Mo Green Defeats Michele Morrow to Lead N.C. Public Schools
Michele Morrow surprised nearly everyone in North Carolina last March when she pulled off a primary win over the Republican incumbent Superintendent of Public Instruction, Catherine Truitt. But she could not defeat Democrat Mo Green, who had 51 percent of the vote to Morrow’s 49 as of early Wednesday morning.
Courts: Treatment Delays For Defendants and a Bad Day for Dale
After a judge ruled that he was mentally incapable of standing trial, Adam Anderson, 46, spent another nine months in Columbus County Jail before he was admitted to a state psychiatric hospital for treatment. Anderson’s experience isn’t the exception; it’s the rule, according to a federal lawsuit that the ACLU of North Carolina Legal Foundation, Disability Rights North Carolina, and law firm Arnold & Porter filed on April 18.
The eCourt of Public Opinion
The introduction of eCourts was supposed to make life easier for both courthouse officials and the public. Instead, there’s a fight brewing about the transition from paper to electronic filings throughout the state court system as some places that are not yet on eCourts call for a pause on rollout. And an updated lawsuit filed in federal court alleges that people were jailed in Mecklenburg County longer than they should have been because of problems with the rollout there.
How Australia’s hospitality industry is using tech to attract tourism
As we move into 2024, hospitality’s use of tech is only going to evolve, especially considering that 76% of respondents in a recent study claimed they would be willing to pay a premium for technology features that are important to them. From sophisticated booking systems to virtual reality experiences, we have an exciting year ahead of us. Let’s take a look at how the hospitality industry in Australia is using tech to attract tourism.
Overcoming Hurdles Towards a Recycling-Inclusive Workplace
By Kate Sheppard Scientists are predicting that if nothing is done about our plastic consumption habits, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish by 2025. Businesses and their employees play a vital role in sustainability and keeping waste out of landfills and the environment. In this article, we discuss the common hurdles to effective office recycling efforts and the best ways you can overcome them. If you want to get the most out of your workplace recycling scheme, you’re not alone.
On Our Nice List In 2023
It’s that time of year again, when I’m supposed to pick my favorite Assembly stories of 2023 and tell you why you should read them, if you haven’t already. (And if you haven’t … the end of the year is a great time to do that.) I’ll have a separate list next week about our most-read stories this year. But these are the ones I kept thinking about, long after I’d hit “publish.” For a variety of reasons, they remind me why we do this work. But before I get to the list, I have a request.
Everything you need to know to plan a luxury expedition to Antarctica
Antarctica is one of the last true frontiers left to us. It’s a vast continent that spends most of the year buried by ice deep enough to cover mountain ranges and plays host to some of the planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems. An Antarctic expedition is said to be the adventure to end all adventures, and even the most well-travelled often tout it as their most memorable and life-changing trip.
The ultimate walking holiday: tips and tricks for exploring Australia on foot
There can be no doubt that Australia is one of the most beautiful and naturally diverse countries on the face of the planet. It is home to a huge array of unique wildlife, breathtaking geographic features, and vibrant environments. Amidst the dust of the outback, the striking mountainous silhouettes, lush rainforests, vibrant oceans, and 34,000 kilometres of golden sand beaches, there is an ethereal beauty to be found.
Recycling in the UK: Facts, Figures, Issues, and Initiatives
By Kate Sheppard The United Kingdom has been making significant changes to their recycling system over the past few years. However, despite their efforts, the UK is still one of the worst countries at recycling, lagging far behind countries like South Korea, Germany, and Austria which recycle up to 70% of their household waste. The UK government has set the target to recycle 65% of municipal waste by 2035. However, whether they reach that goal is still up for debate.
'Geriatric Pregnancy' Stigma: How Does It Affect Women?
Over the past few decades, the age when women have their first child has steadily increased.
Discovering Sydney in 7 Unique Ways as a Couple – The Western Weekender
Sydney is one of the most visited places in Australia, and when you consider its stunning coastal location on the south east coast of Australia’s New South Wales, it should come as no surprise. There are more beaches than you can shake a stick at, there’s a wicked surf culture, stunningly good grub and world beating coffee around every turn, and the city itself is a real pleasure to explore.
Guide to Exploring Australia's Iconic Cities as a Family – The Western Weekender
Australia is one of the most magical continents on earth. It is rife with incredible and extremely unique wildlife endemic to the country; it’s rich with stunning scenery, packed with wonderful people, and bordered by a seemingly endless stretch of pristine beaches that meet the warm and inviting seas. It would stand to reason then the cities developed by this breathtaking country would be just as wonderful, and indeed they are.
The Aftermath of UNC's Shooting
Like many of you, I’ve been unable to stop thinking about the deadly violence on UNC’s campus this week. “We’re all Tar Heels” is a bit of a cliche, but it’s also true around here–a majority of Assembly staffers have deep UNC connections, and had loved ones caught up in the chaos and confusion on Monday. We’ve learned a few things since those first hours.
Tell Us What You Think
This week’s Dive is short! We mostly just want to thank you for being an early reader these first few weeks. And we wanted to let you know we’re taking a little summer break. The break will help us think about what we’ve learned so far, and what we’d like to do with this newsletter going forward. To that end, we’d love it if you’d take a 5-minute survey to let us know what you think so far. We will be back on August 10. See you then! Find today’s newsletter online here.
How Technology Is Revolutionizing Teaching and Learning
0 From interactive whiteboards to laptops, the digital age has well and truly made its mark on the education sector. Gone are the days of chalk and a blackboard! Technology is pushing schools into the modern age, helping kids stay ahead of the technological curve and revolutionizing teaching. But how exactly has to introduce digital tools shaken up the classroom experience? Advanced Technological Literacy Over 90% of jobs now require digital skills, making technological literacy necessary.
Wilmington, Triangle, and Publishing Schedules - Oh My!
Today’s a big day of Assembly announcements. Four in fact! In the Triangle, we’re announcing a new partnership with the 40-year-old INDY Week, designed to bring more local reporting to Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh. In Wilmington, we’re announcing a new partnership with the NPR station WHQR, designed to bring our style of deep investigative reporting to the Cape Fear region. And to accommodate it all, we’re moving to a new publishing schedule starting this week.
Kate Sheppard's Page
The Press Photo History Project Mapping the photo agencies and photographers of Fleet Street and the UK UAL Photography and Photography and the Archive Research Centre Royal Photographic Society's Historical Group www.londonstereo.com London Stereoscopic Company / T. R. Williams www.earlyphotography.co.uk British camera makers and companies Fox Talbot Museum, Lacock. National Portrait Gallery, London http://www.freewebs.com/jb3d/ Alfred Seaman and the Photographic Convention Frederick Scott Archer
Understanding the Issues Around Inflation in the Education Sector
In the UK, inflation may as well have been the word of 2022. As prices soared around the country, with everything from your loaf of bread to your energy bills affected, it felt as though it was going to be the most expensive year on record. Enter: 2023. This year, inflation continues to push prices up, and a pretty brutal recession is predicted, with a shrink in the economy of . In other words, get ready for more. But what do these soaring prices mean for the education sector?
AOE Creative - Where Your Visions Are Forged
Building a successful company is no easy feat. It takes determination, passion, creativity, and hard work - a lot of it. AOE Creative’s Co-Founder and CCO, Markel Lee, understands this all too well. Warm, friendly, and down-to-earth, Lee radiates a quiet confidence that can be seen in meetings with clients and staff members. He’s extremely good at his craft, though he isn’t one to boast about it.
Behind the State's Big Insurance Change
Last week, State Treasurer Dale Folwell shook up the state’s health care scene with the announcement that Aetna would be taking over as the administrator of the State Health Plan in 2025. Around 740,000 people in the state are on the plan and Blue Cross Blue Shield has administered it for more than 40 years. Folwell’s office says the change “focuses on transparency and lower costs” and could save $140 million over the three-year contract. A lot of people are eager to see how this plays out.
Our 12 Favorite Stories of 2022
Asking us to pick our favorite stories of 2022 is like asking us to pick a favorite child. We like them all for different reasons! But forced to choose, we came up with our top 12. Before we get to that, we have an ask. If you’re enjoying the deep reporting on power and place that The Assembly brings you each week, please consider becoming a subscriber.
Before The Lights Went Out
When someone deliberately shot two electrical substations in Moore County last Saturday and took out power for 45,000 people, the Downtown Divas drag show was underway at the Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines. The show had attracted protests, leading many to speculate that the two events were related. Law enforcement has offered few details on leads or motives, but the overlapping events have certainly impacted the performers and their fans.
In The Dark
The power is back on in Moore County, but residents are still largely in the dark about who was behind an attack on two electrical substations last weekend. County Sheriff Ronnie Fields didn’t provide an investigative update on Wednesday; as the Southern Pines Pilot reported, his office has said releasing information on the status of the investigation could “jeopardize” potential arrests. In lieu of concrete information, confusion and speculation have reigned.
What To Watch On Election Day 2022
The last few days before Election Day 2022 always seem like some kind of political purgatory. Candidates are wrapping up their last appeal. A number of voters have already cast ballots. Any chance of an October surprise has already passed. So while we bide our time, we asked a few smart election-watchers what exactly they are watching for on Tuesday. Their answers have been lightly edited. Chris Cooper, professor and director of the Public Policy Institute, Western Carolina University Kerry L.
Behind the Scenes: The Dallas Morning News' UNC Story
Last week, The Dallas Morning News published an in-depth investigation into how universities are using outside companies to surveil students’ social media – specifically, how UNC-Chapel Hill monitored the protests about the campus confederate monument. Their reporting found that North Carolina State, East Carolina, North Carolina A&T, UNC-Asheville, Duke and Wake Forest also used these services.
Behind the Scenes on The New Yorker's TRU Colors Story
Another piece of journalism that’s gotten a lot of attention this week is The New Yorker’s long look at Wilmington’s TRU Colors. Founded by white entrepreneur George William Bagby Taylor Jr., the brewery got national attention for employing active gang members as a means of decreasing violence. TRU also attracted a notable investment from beer giant Molson Coors. Then a double homicide last summer at the home of Taylor’s son cast its role in the city into question.
Health Anxieties in Children - How to Spot Early Signs
By Kate Sheppard As human beings, it is normal for us to feel an amount of anxiety. This is also true for children. Many children are afraid of the dark or nervous about meeting new people and making new friends. This is normal. However, sometimes, what begins as normal anxiety levels in children can increase into something more substantial. Pupils in any year group can develop anxiety disorder. What you need to know is how to spot the early signs.
What Can Teachers Learn About Recycling From Their Pupils?
Today’s generation of children are being brought up on understanding the effects of climate change and how it could affect their own futures, meaning they are particularly engaged in it – perhaps more so than their parent and teacher generation, who have often thus far been less receptive to recycling.
Times reports on vegan fashion
The Times reports on cruelty-free fashion today. Not that any of us can afford this stuff. But still. Just saying. It’s there. And we’re glad of it. But could this bring eco-fashion to the fashion-conscious masses? And could it signal the end of Summer Rayne Oakes’ unchallenged hegemony in the sphere of eco-fashion?
And other adventures in touching celebrities
Published Jan 20, 2007 I thought my closest brush with fame this week would be nearly taking out James Redford with a boom mic last night. But then I accidentally touched him inappropriately, and later, cornered his father. Son Redford presented Everything’s Cool at the special pre-screening last night, giving a glowing account of the film and announcing the family’s plan to protect 2,000 additional acres of land in the beautiful area known as the Sundance Preserve.
Good one, Google
I’ll admit it. Google’s Gmail Paper April Fools Day gag got me late last night when I was all tired and groggy and indignant: “Everyone loves Gmail. But not everyone loves email, or the digital era. What ever happened to stamps, filing cabinets, and the mailman? Well, you asked for it, and it’s here. We’re bringing it back.” Paper made from post-consumer organic soybean sputum? Genius.
The 9 Benefits Of Teaching Your Children A Musical Instrument
By Kate Sheppard Many parents put their children through music lessons because they provide so many benefits to their development. Throughout history, children who learn how to play an instrument have often become extremely accomplished – whether it be academically, socially or creatively – and this is because they are extremely beneficial to development. Join us as we run through some of the extraordinary benefits learning an instrument as a child can provide. As humans, we love to learn.
How To Recognise If Your Child Is Being Bullied Online
By Kate Sheppard Following the government’s decision to impose a third lockdown, schools across the country have been forced to close, leading parents with no choice but to home school their children. This, in turn, has raised numerous concerns over the mental health and welfare of pupils nationwide who, once again, must turn to online resources to maintain their education.
Surreal Photos Show DC In Lockdown As Inauguration Approaches
As Washington, DC, still reels from the January 6 insurrection at the US Capitol, it also prepares for the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Photos this week show the city mounting unprecedented preparations against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest. In a city usually known for its open space and abundance of tourists, many of the scenes are shocking, revealing a capital on edge. The National Guard expects to send 20,000 members in for Inauguration Day.
Surreal Photos Show D.C. In Lockdown As Inauguration Approaches
As Washington, D.C., still reels from the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, it also prepares for the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Photos this week show the city mounting unprecedented preparations against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest. In a city usually known for its open space and abundance of tourists, many of the scenes are shocking, revealing a capital on edge. The National Guard expects to send 20,000 members in for Inauguration Day.
Climate Bill Coming Next Wednesday
Let our journalists help you make sense of the noise: Subscribe to the Mother Jones Daily newsletter and get a recap of news that matters. It appears we have an answer to the “with or without Graham” question. Sens. John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) just issued a statement announcing that they plan to unveil their much-anticipated climate and energy legislation next Wednesday without their Republican ally, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina.
What Pfizer’s Vaccine News Means For The Fight Against COVID-19
The big COVID-19 news from Monday is Pfizer’s announcement that its experimental vaccine looks to be highly effective at preventing the disease, with no apparent safety problems ― although, to be clear, that’s all based on the company’s own preliminary data. The announcement got attention around the world, sending financial markets up on hopes that a proven vaccine would soon be available.
Chart of the Day: Global Abortion Rates
For indispensable reporting on the coronavirus crisis, the election, and more, subscribe to the Mother Jones Daily newsletter. To mark the 39th anniversary of Roe v. Wade this week, the Guttmacher Institute has released some insightful data visualizations on abortion rates around the world.
The Gulf Gets Oiled, Again
For indispensable reporting on the coronavirus crisis, the election, and more, subscribe to the Mother Jones Daily newsletter. Today is the 22nd anniversary of the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska’s Prince William Sound, which until last summer’s BP disaster was the worst oil spill in US history. And to mark it, this week we have another oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico. The slick reportedly stretched for 30 miles, with oil washing ashore along Louisiana’s Grand Isle.
Obama and Graham Call for a Full-Assed Senate Climate Bill
For indispensable reporting on the coronavirus crisis, the election, and more, subscribe to the Mother Jones Daily newsletter. Over on Blue Marble, you can find the latest on environmental politics. The highlights: Obama, Graham Warn Dems Not to Settle For “Half-Assed” Climate Bill After seeming to make room for Democrats who want to drop cap-and-trade in remarks at a town hall in New Hampshire, Barack Obama on Wednesday called on his party not to take “the easy way out” on legislation.
The Final Decision on the Keystone XL Pipeline is Coming Soon
Photo by Kate Sheppard. For indispensable reporting on the coronavirus crisis, the election, and more, subscribe to the Mother Jones Daily newsletter. Friday’s public listening session on the Keystone XL pipeline was an unusual scene, a packed room of environmentalists and union members who were, in an unusual twist, mostly on opposite sides of the dispute.
Are the Swift Boaters Mounting a Stealth Climate Attack?
For indispensable reporting on the coronavirus crisis, the election, and more, subscribe to the Mother Jones Daily newsletter. Creative Response Concepts, the public relations firm behind the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth smear campaign, appears to be mounting an under-the-radar attack on climate action via Twitter. They just don’t want me to know what they’re up to.
Eldercare And COVID: How To Help Seniors And The People Who Care For Them
HuffPost will host a virtual event on eldercare and COVID-19 on Thursday, Sept. 24. (Photo: HuffPost) Eldercare has too often been left out of our national health care discussion. Now, as COVID-19 tears through long-term care facilities, the need for high-quality care has never been more clear. The disproportionate impact on seniors in long-term care facilities is stark, accounting for 8% of all COVID-19 cases but 40% of deaths.
The Way Green Groups Are Swooning, You’d Think Ed Markey Is Justin Bieber
For indispensable reporting on the coronavirus crisis and more, subscribe to Mother Jones' newsletters. Environmental groups are starting the push to get Rep. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) elected to fill the vacant Senate seat should John Kerry be confirmed as the next secretary of state. Green advocates are convinced that a Sen. Markey would be their dream come true—no matter who the other contenders for the seat turn out to be.
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