Stein Vetoes DEI and Gender Bills

Gov. Josh Stein vetoed several bills related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in various public institutions. He also vetoed a multifaceted bill aimed at preventing sexual exploitation of women and children online.

Two of the DEI-related bills dealt with college and K-12 education systems and would have eliminated DEI offices and staff. They also would have removed DEI-related curriculum.

Another vetoed bill, which was initially aimed at curbing sexual exploitation of women and children online, garnered resistance after several provisions were added that would have recognized only two genders and restricted gender-transition procedures using public funds.

Stein called the bills “mean-spirited” and said the Republican lawmakers behind the bills are “stoking culture wars that further divide us.”

Blueberries Recalled over Listeria

The Food and Drug Administration has issued a Class I recall on 12,000 pounds of organic blueberries shipped to the state.

The initial recall began on June 9, after routine testing at the production facility discovered listeria. The berries came from Alma Pak International in Alma, Georgia, and were delivered to one undisclosed location in North Carolina. It’s uncertain how many of the berries were purchased after delivery.

According to the CDC, listeria is a foodborne bacteria that can cause rare but serious and life-threatening infections. Pregnant women, adults over 65, newborns, and those with weak immune systems are particularly susceptible.

➤ Jacksonville: Two hundred Marines from Marine Wing Support Squadron 272 are headed to Florida to help ICE with administrative and logistical support. They’ll have no contact with people in ICE custody or involvement in custody operations. (More)

➤ Durham: A joint effort between the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force and Durham’s organized crime division seized 22 guns, drugs, and cash while issuing 97 charges in a three-day crackdown on violent crime. (More)

➤ Raleigh: A piece of a wing flap belonging to a Delta Airlines flight was discovered in a residential driveway Wednesday morning. The FAA is investigating, and no injuries or damage were reported. (More)

➤ NC State: Sean “Diddy” Combs’ former chief of staff, an NC State grad, is named in at least three civil lawsuits tied to alleged misconduct. Though not criminally charged, some of the allegations against her have been labeled “disturbing.” (More)

➤ Duke Health: The healthcare system revised its anti-racism pledge, now affirming a broader commitment to “civility, humanity, and compassion” following internal concerns and public scrutiny. (More)

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Did you, or do you, watch soap operas?

1. Yes
2. No
3. I used to
4. I may start

Yesterday’s Results:

Have you read the Declaration of Independence?

1. Only parts of it: 35%
2. Yes, from beginning to end: 31%
3. No, I confess: 18%
4. If I did, I can’t remember: 16%

What North Carolina-born actress starred on As the World Turns for 50 years?

Show me the answer