Lake Lure Reopens; $221M Helene Aid; Lawmakers Return to Raleigh

Lake Lure is set to reopen 19 months after Hurricane Helene, marking a major milestone in recovery as the region continues to rebuild. The USDA is also making $221 million in timber relief funding available starting April 20 to support impacted landowners. In Raleigh, Senate leader Phil Berger is outlining priorities and calling for unity ahead of the 2026 short session, which is set to begin this week. On the legal front, the U.S. Supreme Court will review a North Carolina drone licensing dispute, a case that could have broader implications for regulation and property rights.