🌳 Lakewood DIY Skate Park Takes Shape

Good Morning Durham!

Our very own Green Room has been named one of the best dive bars in the U.S.

Some quick housekeeping:

• We’re hiring a part-time writer to help craft this newsletter. Apply here.

• Next week, we’re giving away one free ad spot to a local business. Apply here.

-Jordan

In this issue:

• Triangle Homelessness Up 15% This Year

• Lakewood DIY Skate Park Takes Shape

• Foushee Rejects AIPAC Money for 2026

Triangle Homelessness Up 15% This Year

The Triangle’s annual point-in-time count found 1,788 people experiencing homelessness in January. Up 15% from last year, with Wake County driving most of the increase. It’s the second consecutive annual rise, reflecting a broader national trend tied to rising rents and reduced pandemic-era safety nets.

• Wake County Surge: Wake’s homeless population jumped 27%, including more than double the number living unsheltered compared to last year.

• Durham & Orange Increases: Durham saw a 12% rise in unsheltered individuals, while Orange County’s number spiked 45%.

• Housing Shortage Impact: Local experts point to a shortage of affordable housing, the end of eviction moratoriums, and reduced aid as key drivers.

Read More >>

Lakewood DIY Skate Park Takes Shape

Durham skaters and community volunteers are repurposing old equipment from the defunct Wheels facility to build the city’s first public mini-ramp at Lakewood Shopping Center. The grassroots effort, led by Manifest Skate Shop owner Mike Johnston, aims to create a more inclusive space for skateboarders, roller skaters, and inline skaters.

• City Partnership: Durham donated unused skate park materials from Wheels to the Scrap Exchange for the project.

• First in the Triangle: The mini-ramp will be the first of its kind open to the public anywhere in the region.

• Nonprofit Launching: Johnston and partners are forming the Triangle Skate Club to manage the park and fundraise for site improvements.

Read More >>

Foushee Rejects AIPAC Money for 2026

U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-NC) announced she will not accept campaign contributions from the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) for her 2026 reelection bid. This is a major shift after the group was her largest donor in 2022. Speaking at a Carrboro town hall, she also detailed her 2024 AIPAC-sponsored trip to Israel, saying she used the meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu to press for a ceasefire.

• Past Support: AIPAC and affiliates gave over $2M to help Foushee win her 2022 primary.

• Policy Shift: She’s since called for a ceasefire, skipped Netanyahu’s 2024 address, and co-sponsored legislation restricting U.S. weapons sales to Israel.

• District Context: Her newly redrawn district still includes Durham and Orange counties, both of which passed ceasefire resolutions.

Read More >>

BOCC Talks Disaster Aid, Rail Trail Plans

At its August 11, 2025 regular session, the Durham Board of County Commissioners addressed disaster recovery efforts, major infrastructure planning, and community partnerships before unanimously approving all consent agenda items.

• Tropical Depression Shantel Recovery: Residents can access disaster aid, loans, and recovery services at the North Regional Library through Aug. 30.

• Rail Trail Planning: Three public workshops are set this month for the Durham–Roxboro Rail Trail project, which would transform an 18-mile inactive rail corridor into a multi-use path.

• Consent Agenda Approved: Included a Student U contract amendment requiring an annual report by May 29, 2026.

• New Duke Energy Liaison: Sarah Stevens was introduced as the company’s new district manager for Durham, Orange, Chatham, and Lee counties.

Watch the Full Discussion >> 

OUTSOUTH Queer Film Festival
Carolina Theatre
Aug. 15–23 | Times Vary
The Southeast’s longest-running LGBTQ+ film festival returns with nine days of groundbreaking cinema, filmmaker Q&As, and community events celebrating queer stories from around the world.
Details >>

The Rocket Man Show – Elton John Tribute
DPAC
Friday, Aug. 22 | 8 PM
A high-energy Elton John tribute led by Rus Anderson, Elton’s official body double, featuring the hits, costumes, and charisma of the rock legend.
Details >>

Durham Geek & Grub Market – Cottagecore Edition
Durham Armory
Sunday, Aug. 24
A free themed market where whimsical cottagecore vibes meet local artisan goods, food, and family-friendly fun.
Details >>

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