Ironweed: The resilient perennial transforming North Carolina landscapes
We all want resilient plants for our landscape. Frankly we want something that is cost effective. A plant which fulfills that description and expectation is “Ironweed” (Vernonia noveboracensis). This seems to be the most common variety grown in North Carolina. Anne Clapp used to say: “A weed is a plant you don’t want in your yard,” but you definitely will want Ironweed! It is a popular and hardy herbaceous perennial that you’ll find in a lot of landscapes in North Carolina. Herbaceous means it does not have a woody stem and dies back to the ground after it flowers. By the way, “Ironweed” was named for the English botanist William Vernon who traveled extensively in the late 1600’s and early 1700’s.… Continue Reading
Fursday: Meet Ziggy from Second Chance Pet Adoptions!
Ziggy is a 3-year-old poodle mix with a big heart and plenty of pep! He’s the best of both worlds—happy to go for walks and burn off his energy, then just as content to curl up on the couch, the bed, or even the floor for a cozy nap. While he may give a few…… Continue Reading
Hometown Hero of the Week: Michael Hill, October 8th, 2025
Our QDR Hometown Hero for 10/8/25 is Michael Hill, Veteran, Retired Sheriff’s Deputy, Current Firefighter. Mike was nominated by Laura Hill, who says, “Mike has dedicated his entire life to serving others. His 21 years with the USMC as a Corpsman, then served the Durham Co Sheriff’s Office for 19 years and has been a…… Continue Reading
Wine Down Wednesday
Join Abby Leigh every Wednesday from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. for Wine Down Wednesday. Each Wednesday, Abby will uncork the stories behind our state’s vineyards and winemakers. From mountain views to coastal breezes, North Carolina wine is at the intersection of Southern hospitality and global flavor—where authentic local ingredients meet a passion for innovation. Tune in each…… Continue Reading
Fursday: Meet Ronnie from APS of Durham!
Announcing Ronnie as our APS Pet of the Week! Ronnie is a big, lovable goofball. He’s an active boy who’ll make an amazing hiking and exploring buddy! As POTW, Ronnie’s adoption fee is waived through next Tuesday, October 7. If you have a treat for me, or a tennis ball to chase, we’ll be best…… Continue Reading
Gold Star Teacher of the Month: Skyler Lee, October 2025
Our QDR Gold Star Teacher of the month is Skyler Lee, Kindergarten Teacher at Doral Academy of North Carolina. Skyler was nominated by Allison Slominski, who says, “I’m nominating Ms. Lee because she is the kind of educator every parent hopes their child will have. She’s incredibly sweet, endlessly patient, and genuinely cares about the…… Continue Reading
Hometown Hero of the Week: Joseph “Joey” Pepoli, October 1st, 2025
Joey was nominated by Haley Bain, who says, “Joey deserves to be recognized because he does so much that often falls behind the scenes due to the nature of his job. Being a Wildlife Enforcement Officer has a stigma that surrounds it because everyone has the mindset that the “Game Warden was out to get…… Continue Reading
WINS-Day: See Eric Church in Greensboro
This Wins-day on QDR, we’re bringing you the sound of victory with the Carolina Secret Sound! We’ll play a mystery sound tied to the Carolinas — and if you can name it; you’re going to see Eric Church in Greensboro, March 6th! Listen and win at 6:30 am, 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 5:30 pm! It’s quick, it’s fun,…… Continue Reading
One year later, western North Carolina still recovers from Hurricane Helene
SPRUCE PINE, N.C. (NCN News) – One year after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, recovery continues across the mountains. The storm killed 108 people, caused more than 2,000 landslides and left businesses, roads and communities in ruins. While many restaurants, farms and attractions are reopening, most small businesses still have not returned to pre-Helene revenues. State officials say bipartisan support has brought new funding and infrastructure repairs, but rebuilding remains a long-term effort.… Continue Reading
Fursday: Meet Honeycutt from Saving Grace!
Honeycutt is a handsome black shepherd mix with excellent bat ears (the better to hear you with, my dear) and a strong desire to be close to his people. This happy pupper wakes up every day ready to play, especially with toys that keep him busy—bonus points if they involve treats! When playtime winds down,…… Continue Reading