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

South Durham in Five: School consolidation, data centers, drought, and public accountability

Five questions from this week's Southpoint Access reporting, plus neighborhood news, a recall affecting families, and a look at what's ahead.

[SoDu Crime Watch] Vandalism climbs while total reports fall

South Durham's weekly incident total declined, but vandalism reports rose from four to 10. Police data also showed one in-area arrest involving a serious charge.

SoDu We Know What's Up? Friday, Nov. 6, 2026

Why Durham delayed a vote on a $474,405 school study

Durham Public Schools Cafeteria Menu: What’s for Lunch Nov. 9-13, 2026

Chicken cheesesteak nachos, honey chili Sriracha chicken, pork totchos, and pizza are on DPS menus during a week shortened by Veterans Day.

[Office Hours] Data Centers Near You

If a data center were proposed near your home, when would you get a say? This week on Office Hours, I look at where neighbors would fit into Durham’s approval process.

[SeeGov Enhanced] Durham school board delays consolidation study vote until Nov. 19

When should Durham families have a say in a study that could lead to school mergers or new attendance boundaries? Board members disagreed over whether families should’ve been heard before a consultant was chosen.

[Nerdspresso] Patrick Stewart made it so

Which Patrick Stewart role stayed with you? Jeff Stanford recalls a memorable convention encounter and celebrates the warmth, wit, and commanding presence behind Picard, Professor X, and a lifetime onstage.

APS of Durham says circulating shelter photos show past conditions, plans public tours

The nonprofit acknowledges longstanding problems and says leadership, staffing, and training changes have been underway since March.

Jordan jazz, South Durham school projects share in $102,419 in grants

Durham Public Schools Foundation’s latest awards will support 19 projects benefiting 26 schools, including Jordan, Githens, Southwest, and Hope Valley.

[SoDu Stuff to Do] Your Weekend Ahead - Nov. 5, 2026

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

[SoDu Shopping Basket] Walmart narrows Aldi’s lead

Walmart’s basket falls to $50.80 as Aldi holds first place at $45.79. The nine-store average edges up to $66.13.

[SeeGov Enhanced] Durham weighs tighter data center rules, with size limits still unsettled

City and county leaders favor public review but want more research on smaller facilities, hospital systems, and different limits inside city borders.