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The Big Story

Therapist addresses wilderness therapy after camp shutdown last week

People from across the state have questions about the ethics and effectiveness of behavioral therapy camps following the temporary closure last week of Trails Carolina, a wilderness therapy camp.

Therapists say wilderness camps can be an effective therapy method for some kids, but it’s important to do research before choosing one. They said a camp should be transparent about its methods and work with families to find the most effective solutions.

For the past six years, Maddie Spear has been working with kids, teens and young adults in trauma care therapy. She is a master of social work and a North Carolina-licensed clinical social worker who started Flourish Wellness. She says kids can feel alone and isolated when growing up, and certain types of therapy work are often essential for mental health.

Your Weather Planner

We enjoyed more sunshine and temperatures that warmed up to near our averages for late February. Temperatures continue their upward climb, but more clouds are in store for us on Thursday. 

As a cold front approaches Thursday afternoon, southerly winds and lots of clouds are expected. Despite the cloudiness, temperatures will still rise well above average, into the low and mid-60s almost across the state. The cooler locations in the mountains and foothills will stay in the low to mid-50s. 

Rain is likely late Thursday and into early Friday as the front pushes through. Amounts look low as low-level dry air stays in place.

Get your full forecast:
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Around North Carolina

1. Manufacturing is growing in North Carolina. Here's what's coming

Five companies have announced new developments in the state this year. The most notable is Siemens Energy, a multi-billion dollar company based in Germany that operates in both the conventional and renewable energy fields.

2. Celebrating Black History: Burnett-Eaton Museum Foundation showcases region's rich history

In Wilmington, a city rich with Black history, one museum is dedicated to sharing that history every month of the year, not just in February. The Burnett-Eaton Museum Foundation is within the former home of physician and civil rights activist, Dr. Hubert Eaton Sr.

3. Republicans vie to replace outgoing Patrick McHenry

Rep. Patrick McHenry briefly served as acting Speaker of the House when Kevin McCarthy was ousted and he serves as chair of the House Financial Services Committee. McHenry has represented North Carolina’s 10th District for almost two decades but recently announced he would leave Congress after this term.

Around The Nation

1. In California, Biden announces $1.2 billion in new student loan debt relief

2. In response to Alabama ruling on IVF, Haley says 'embryos, to me, are babies'

3. Georgia Gov. Kemp says he was interviewed in Trump special counsel investigation

Editor's Pick - Foster parent says more investment needed in system

North Carolina needs more foster families, according to data from the state's health department. There are other areas in need of change, but the number of families and homes available has a cascading effect. Gaile Osborne, the executive director of Foster Family Alliance, says in 2019 there were around 7,400 foster families in the state. That number dropped to around 6,300 in 2023.