Autism-Friendly Hospitality: JH Adams Inn in High Point renewed its Certified Autism Center™ designation for a fourth year, expanding sensory supports like quiet areas and tactile tools. Workforce & Training: With a looming worker shortage, North Carolina is leaning on community college initiatives to close a gap toward its 2 million credentialed adults by 2030, especially for rural healthcare and manufacturing needs. Food Access Tech: Food Bank of the Albemarle unveiled a “smart food locker” system that lets people order groceries online and pick them up discreetly from climate-controlled compartments. UTI Treatment Update: A new JAMA Network Open study found many women taking gepotidacin reported symptom improvement within 24 hours, with most improving by 48 hours, though researchers caution against assuming it’s faster than other antibiotics. Diabetic Nerve Pain: A Wake Forest-led study reports spinal cord stimulation can blunt pain and improve sensation for people with painful diabetic neuropathy. Public Health Recognition: Catawba County Public Health was named North Carolina’s Health Department of the Year for community-focused programs, including mental health resources and a public health farmers market. Food Safety Alert: Salata Salad Kitchen Jalapeño Avocado Dressing was recalled at the FDA’s highest Class I risk level due to potential Salmonella contamination, with distribution including North Carolina. Environment & Health Costs: Cities and states, including North Carolina, sued the EPA over power plant emissions rollback, arguing it will mean dirtier air and higher bills.