Our Stories
At Beacon Media, we focus on telling the stories that truly matter to our communities. Beacon Media is built around the people who are preserving and strengthening democracy in North Carolina communities. From healthcare and education to housing and justice, our stories are crafted to inform, inspire, and spark meaningful change. It is these community leaders and trusted messengers who will shift our collective narrative and show us what is possible — and then they are the ones who will make it a reality. We share their words and voices far and wide. That’s why all of our commentary is free to republish. We encourage you to use and share our work to help amplify the voices and issues that need attention across our state.
Read The Latest Stories
Episode 12 – Finding the Joy in Politics with Hendersonville’s Gina Baxter
This week, the guys are back with a new guest! Dalton and Preston sit down with current Hendersonville City Councilmember, and friend of the show, Gina Baxter to growing up in WNC as a transplant, Appalachian identity, and her ongoing campaign for re-election this...
Opinion: experience taught me to prepare for climate disasters
The author writes about her experience with the N.C. League of Conservation Voters Foundation and the events that led her to urge others to prepare.
Shannon Moretz: Why we need to tell the stories of rural North Carolina
The writer reflects on why she’s committed to telling stories of struggle, hope and progress in rural North Carolina.
Martin Henson: Let’s talk about HIV — and getting tested
The author, who leads discussion groups with Black men, writes about why he’s pushing himself and others to talk about HIV and take away the stigma from getting regularly tested.
Opinion: High Duke Energy bills and rate hikes force difficult choices
Anita Yates, a retiree living in Mt. Airy, N.C., argues that Duke Energy’s plans cost people like her too much every month.
Rose Hoban: Considering Artificial Intelligence for local news reporting
The Editor-in-Chief at the local newsroom N.C. Health News considers the ethical use of AI in a local newsroom — and finds AI won’t soon replace humans in many respects.
Preston Blakely: My grandmothers couldn’t vote freely. I’m now the Mayor.
Mayor Preston Blakely of Fletcher, N.C., reflects on his legacy and the struggle for Civil Rights that he inherited from his family.
Kimberly Jones: Public education is a sacred obligation
In a column based on a speech given as the outgoing N.C. Teacher of the Year, educator Kimberly Jones reflects on the importance of public schools.
Crystal Barnes: N.C. does not need massive, expensive Duke Energy pipelines
The writer raises concerns about a proposed pipeline planned for central North Carolina, particularly high costs passed onto ratepayers.