Independent news and updates for South Durham, covering local development, government, health, and community life.

Durham's New Police Chief: Stephanie Mardis

The Greensboro assistant chief brings more than two decades of experience in investigations, accountability, training, and community engagement. Durham will be her first job leading a police department.

[Dispatches Received in Error Issue 18] Correction to the Star Maps

A weekly serial fiction project for paid subscribers, unfolding through a growing archive of documents from an alternate-universe Southpoint.

Help Tell South Durham's Stories

Southpoint Access should reflect the people who live here. I’d love to help you add your voice to it.

[SoDu Crime Watch] Vehicle-Related Thefts Increase in This Week's Reports

Vehicle-related theft accounted for 49 of the 109 South Durham police reports reviewed from July 31 through Aug. 6.

Revised Rocky Branch Project Plan Returns to Durham Planning Commission

The Virgil Road proposal now calls for up to 190 homes and stronger stormwater protections. Thompson Village and two annexation-related rezonings also are on the Aug. 11 agenda.

5 Takeaways from Durham's Gun Violence Recommendations

A city-county working group wants Durham to focus on the people and places at greatest risk, improve coordination, and reduce shootings by 10% each year. A detailed action plan is due Aug. 25.

Durham Public Schools Cafeteria Menu: What’s for Lunch Aug. 10-14, 2026

Turkey nachos, chicken sandwiches, sloppy joes, and pizza are among the Durham Public Schools lunch choices during the week of Aug. 10-14.

[Nerdspresso] Spider-Man Grows Up But Keeps His Sense of Fun

This movie jettisons the tricked-out nanotech suit from the previous sequels in favor of homemade togs, which creates a more authentic vibe.

[SoDu Stuff to Do] Your Weekend Ahead - Aug. 6, 2026

What's in the SoDu Events Calendar for this weekend? Southpoint Access provides a few highlights to consider!

[VIDEO] Dogs Save Veterans

Neighborhood News Guy Wes Platt hears from Matt Whitnack of Vets to Vets United about the upcoming 5K9 Dog Jog. Plus: Proposed data center moratorium, Andrews Chapel Townhomes, and North Carolina high school mental health report.

[SoDu Shopping Basket] Grocery Prices Hold Nearly Flat as Aldi Remains Cheapest

The average basket moves up just 1 cent this week, with Aldi ($50.85) lowest overall and Fresh Market ($103.33) highest - a $52.48 gap for the same 17 staples.

5 Takeaways from North Carolina's Latest Youth Risk Survey

High school students reported better mental health, lower substance use, and fewer safety problems in 2025, but sleep, school belonging, and unequal outcomes remain concerns.