Latest news with #NorthCarolina
Associated Press
22 minutes ago
- Associated Press
Uncharted Japan Celebrates First Anniversary with Over 5,000 Subscribers and Hundreds of Thousands of Views
06/27/2025, Black Mountain, North Carolina // PRODIGY: Feature Story // John and Josephine Haynes on their travels (source: Uncharted Japan) Uncharted Japan, an independent travel storytelling venture, has announced major milestones. Following its first anniversary, its YouTube channel has crossed 5,000 subscribers and accumulated hundreds of thousands of views. Uncharted Japan's growth, especially within the niche category of culturally rich, off-the-beaten-path Japanese travel, reflects a growing demand for authentic, meaningful travel content and the channel's distinct voice. 'We never imagined this would resonate the way it has. I'm in my 60s, and before we started, I had never uploaded a video, never used editing software, and certainly had no experience running a YouTube channel,' says John Haynes, co-founder of Uncharted Japan. 'Most creators on this platform are half our age, and yet here we are, a couple with zero production background, reaching thousands and being recognized in Japan by viewers who've changed their travel plans because of us.' Founded by John and his wife, Josephine, Uncharted Japan began as a passion project inspired by a decades-long love affair with Japan's culture, countryside, and people. John, a former top-producing real estate professional in the US, left a successful career of nearly four decades to launch this channel alongside Josephine, whose ties to Japan run generations deep. Born in Japan, Josephine represents the fourth generation of her American family to have lived there. In 1861, her great-great-grandparents arrived as some of the earliest missionaries permitted into the country after centuries of isolation. That legacy, as well as their frequent visits to the family home near Nagano, gives the Hayneses a unique perspective in the online travel space. Uncharted Japan isn't a typical travel channel. It doesn't showcase the same viral hotspots found on every influencer's itinerary, from Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing to Kyoto's Fushimi Inari or Osaka's Dotonbori. The channel delves into quiet villages, forgotten temples, mom-and-pop eateries, and historic neighborhoods that rarely, if ever, appear on travel blogs or Instagram feeds. Uncharted Japan's content is carefully curated for an older, more discerning audience who value substance over spectacle. 'We avoid clickbait thumbnails or outrageous challenges,' says John. 'We offer in-depth storytelling to travelers who want a slower pace and a genuine connection with Japan's culture and communities.' This focus on depth and discovery distinguishes Uncharted Japan. It has always been dedicated to revealing the side of Japan that most visitors and even some locals overlook. Uncharted Japan's impact is evident in the comments across its videos. Viewers praise its sincere approach and the richness of its recommendations. For instance, its episode on the Osaka Expo 2025 has drawn over 185,000 views, providing viewers with a comprehensive guide to one of Japan's largest events in decades. The Hayneses also receive heartfelt emails and comments almost daily, not only from viewers but also from the Japanese locals whose stories they help amplify. Remote innkeepers and small-town restaurateurs express deep gratitude for the exposure Uncharted Japan provides. Viral travel content usually chases clicks over connection. Uncharted Japan represents a return to what travel is supposed to be about: discovery, understanding, and storytelling. 'Our passion is to show people that there's so much more to Japan than neon lights and cherry blossoms,' John says. 'It's a country of astonishing diversity, history, and quiet beauty, especially in the places most tourists never go. If we can help people experience that, then we've done something worthwhile.' This is what Uncharted Japan remains committed to doing as it moves into its second year. Media Contact Name: John Haynes Email: [email protected]
Associated Press
22 minutes ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Top Family Lawyers Raleigh NC Emerges as Raleigh's Leading Family Law Firm with Compassionate, Results-Driven Representation
Top Family Lawyers Raleigh NC, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, proudly claims its position as the premier family law firm serving Wake County. With a focus on delivering exceptional legal support in emotionally complex matters, the firm is redefining the standard for family law services in the region. In an area of law where trust, communication, and empathy are vital, Top Family Lawyers Raleigh NC stands out by offering personalized legal counsel backed by a deep understanding of North Carolina family law. Their dedication to clarity, strategy, and advocacy makes them a trusted ally for families navigating divorce, custody, and support challenges. The firm provides a full range of family law services, including divorce representation, child custody advocacy, child support enforcement and negotiation, and alimony disputes. Whether clients are facing high-conflict custody battles or seeking a fair and peaceful resolution, the legal team tailors strategies that align with both short- and long-term goals. Top Family Lawyers Raleigh NC is committed to ensuring every client receives honest advice, prompt communication, and unwavering representation inside and outside the courtroom. Their approach balances compassion with assertiveness, helping clients make informed decisions while protecting what matters most. With a growing reputation for success in both settlements and trials, the firm's attorneys bring the experience and focus required to handle even the most sensitive family law cases. They work closely with clients to reduce stress, preserve relationships when possible, and secure favorable outcomes. For those in need of trusted family law services in Raleigh, Top Family Lawyers Raleigh NC is ready to help. Their team is available to answer questions, provide consultations, and stand by your side through every step of the legal process. To explore their services, request a consultation, or get support with a family law matter, individuals are encouraged to contact the firm directly or visit their website. BUSINESS INFORMATION Top Family Lawyers Raleigh, NC (828) 761-6225 [email protected] Raleigh, North Carolina Media Contact Company Name: Top Family Lawyers Raleigh Contact Person: Yvan Email: Send Email Phone: (828) 761-6225 City: Raleigh State: North Carolina Country: United States Website: Press Release Distributed by To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Top Family Lawyers Raleigh NC Emerges as Raleigh's Leading Family Law Firm with Compassionate, Results-Driven Representation
Al Jazeera
an hour ago
- Sport
- Al Jazeera
Chelsea given CWC headache ahead of Porto test
Who: Chelsea vs Benfica What: FIFA Club World Cup round of 16 Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina, United States When: Saturday, June 28 at 4pm (21:00 GMT) How to follow: We'll have all the build-up on Al Jazeera Sport from 1pm local (18:00 GMT) ahead of our live text commentary stream. Chelsea and Benfica meet in the second round of 16 tie at the FIFA Club World Cup in an all-European affair, which could easily have been a fixture straight from the UEFA Champions League. Between them, the clubs have lifted Europe's premier club competition on nine occasions, with seven of those titles going to Portuguese giants, Benfica. Al Jazeera Sport looks ahead to the match that comes with a significant headache for the English club following their late slip-up in the group stage. What is Chelsea's annoyance heading into the Benfica tie? Chelsea are facing a logistical headache at the Club World Cup after finishing second in their group, forcing an unexpected trip to Charlotte for their last 16 match instead of staying in Miami, where the club thought they would be based for the knockout stage. Travel, accommodation and training arrangements were, a source told the news agency Reuters, all made with the assumption that the West Londoners would top Group D and play their round of 16 match at Hard Rock Stadium. The detour to Charlotte means reorganising bookings and schedules at short notice, but the club still intends to return to its Miami base after the match, adding more miles to an already hectic itinerary. What happened to Chelsea in the group stage? The Blue opened their Club World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win against Los Angeles. After a 3-1 loss to Brazil's Flamengo, Chelsea only managed second place despite a 3-0 win over Esperance Tunis in their final group stage fixture in Philadelphia. How did Benfica fare in the group stage? Benfica were held to a 2-2 draw in their opening match at the FIFA Club World Cup by Boca Juniors. The Lisbon-based club then won their final two games against New Zealand's Auckland City (6-0) and Germany's Bayern Munich (1-0). Who awaits Chelsea or Benfica in the quarter-finals? The winner of Saturday's tie will return to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia to face the winner of the all-Brazilian clash between Palmeiras and Botafogo. The #FIFACWC Round of 16 fixtures. 🔢 — FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 27, 2025 Have Chelsea ever won a Club World Cup? Yes. Chelsea, who have twice lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy in Europe, have lifted the Club World Cup once. The Blues lifted the title in 2021 with a 2-1 win against Brazil's Palmeiras. Romelu Lukaku and Kai Havertz scored the Blues' goals, with the winner netted by the latter in extra time. What happened the last time between Chelsea and Benfica? The teams competed for the UEFA Europa League title in 2013, with the Blues securing a 2-1 win. Fernando Torres opened the scoring on the stroke of the hour mark for the Blues with Oscar Cardozo equalising from the spot in the 69th minute. Branislav Ivanovic settled matters with a 90th-minute winner for Chelsea. Chelsea team news Wesley Fofana has joined the squad at the tournament, but the defender continues to recover from a long-term thigh injury and will miss out once again. Striker Nicolas Jackson serves the second and final game of a two-match suspension for a straight red card in the match against Flamengo. Reece James, Levi Colwill and Marc Cucurella are all in line for a return. Benfica team news Alexander Bah and Manu Silva remain long-term absentees, but midfielder Florentino Luis is in line for a comeback from a shoulder injury, having missed the last two games. Forward Andrea Belotti returns from suspension. Benfica possible starting lineup: Trubin; Aursnes, Silva, Otamendi, Carreras; Barreiro, Sanches; Di Maria, Prestianni, Schjelderup; Pavlidis Chelsea possible starting lineup: Sanchez; James, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Madueke; Delap Head-to-head This is the third meeting between the sides, with Chelsea winning all of the encounters. Along with their Europa League success against Benfica, the Blues won both Champions League ties in 2011-2012. Form guides Benfica form (all competitions): D-L-D-W-W Chelsea form (all competitions): W-W-W-L-W
Boston Globe
2 hours ago
- Sport
- Boston Globe
Brockton's AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cameron Boozer headline list of top lottery candidates for 2026 NBA Draft
1. AJ Dybantsa, BYU The 6-foot-9-inch forward chose the Cougars over Kansas, North Carolina, and Alabama. Athleticism and versatility shine through his rangy scoring skillset, notably when he attacks off the dribble and finishes at the rim. The Brockton native spent last year with Utah Prep and is on this summer's USA Basketball Under-19 national team for the FIBA World Cup. Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Advertisement 2. Darryn Peterson, Kansas The 6-5 guard from Ohio offers perimeter size with ability to play on or off the ball. He can attack off the dribble or step outside, offering potential to overwhelm smaller guards and impact games defensively. Peterson played last season with Prolific Prep in California and was co-MVP of the McDonald's All-American game. 3. Cameron Boozer, Duke The 6-9 forward joined twin Cayden in winning a high school national title and fourth straight Florida state title. The son of former Duke and NBA forward Carlos Boozer showed his inside-out game (22 points, 16 rebounds, 6 assists) leading the US past the World team in the Nike Hoop Summit. He joined Peterson as the McDonald's game co-MVP. Advertisement 4. Nate Ament, Tennessee The 6-9 forward is a McDonald's All-American and Gatorade player of the year for Virginia with versatile skills. He'll improve as he adds strength to his lean frame, though he stands out with ballhandling and shooting range. Related : 5. Caleb Wilson, North Carolina The 6-9 forward from Atlanta and McDonald's All-American offers two-way potential with his athleticism and length, including as a shot blocker. The McDonald's All-American announced his UNC commitment on TNT's 'Inside The NBA' show alongside former NBA players Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith. 6. Chris Cenac Jr., Houston ESPN and 247Sports rank Cenac as the nation's top center, offering rangy skills and outside shooting that made him the MVP of the NBPA Top 100 camp in summer 2024. 7. Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers (Australia) The versatile 6-8 wing from Mexico is part of the National Basketball League's 'Next Stars' program designed to develop high-end prospects, averaging 9.6 points and 4.7 assists in his 2024-25 debut season. He turns 18 in December. 8. Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky The 6-9 forward was a top-10 recruit last year entering Arizona State, where he averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks. He later transferred to join the Wildcats. 9. Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville The 6-3 McDonald's All-American is big signee for Pat Kelsey entering Year 2 of his tenure with the Cardinals, ranking as the No. 1 point guard prospect for Rivals. He joined Dybantsa in making the US U-19 team. Related : 10. Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas The 6-2 Acuff is the top point guard prospect for 247Sports (No. 5 overall) and ESPN (No. 7). The McDonald's All-American operates smoothly in the pick-and-roll with the ability to attack defenders off the dribble and from 3-point range. Advertisement 11. Tounde Yessoufou, Baylor ESPN's ninth-ranked recruit offers a sturdy frame (roughly 6-5 and 210 pounds) and versatile athleticism while being known for a high-motor style. He had 24 points for the World team against the US in the Nike Hoop Summit in April. 12. Dash Daniels, Melbourne United (Australia) Like Lopez, the younger brother of Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels is will play for the NBL's 'Next Stars' program. Dash is a 6-6 point guard who has been through NBA Academy Australia. 13. Isaiah Evans, Duke The 6-6 guard withdrew from this year's draft and must add strength to a 175-pound frame. But there's clear upside with his explosive scoring potential, such as hitting six first-half 3-pointers out of nowhere against Auburn in December. Related : 14. Labaron Philon, Alabama The 6-4 freshman point guard was a last-minute draft withdrawal. He averaged 10.6 points and 3.8 assists for an Elite Eight team that just lost Associated Press first-team All-American Mark Sears from the backcourt. Others to watch: ⋅ Alijah Arenas — The son of former NBA guard Gilbert Arenas is a McDonald's All-American known for scoring and court vision, but the 6-6 guard's status is unclear as he's still working back from an April truck accident that had him placed in a medically induced coma. Arenas avoided major injury and said this week he works out daily, with the plan of soon joining USC summer workouts. ⋅ Miles Byrd — The 6-7 guard from San Diego State withdrew from the draft after averaging 12.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists as a redshirt sophomore. ⋅ Ian Jackson — The 6-4 guard averaged 11.9 points while shooting 39.5 percent from 3-point range at North Carolina as a five-star freshman before transferring to St. John's. Advertisement ⋅ Yaxel Lendeborg — The 6-9, 240-pound forward has gone from junior college to UAB and now Michigan. He withdrew from the draft after averaging 15.8 points and 11.0 rebounds in two seasons with the Blazers. ⋅ Tahaad Pettiford — The 6-1 freshman averaged 11.6 points and shot 36.6 percent on threes for Auburn's Final Four team. He's set for a leading role after withdrawing from the draft. ⋅ Meleek Thomas — The 6-4 guard averaged 33.5 points per 40 minutes with Overtime Elite. He's a McDonald's All-American who signed with Arkansas.
Washington Post
2 hours ago
- Climate
- Washington Post
Home to North Carolina iconic attraction reopens after Hurricane Helene's devastation
CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. — An iconic tourist attraction in an area of western North Carolina among the hardest hit by Hurricane Helene reopened to the public on Friday, nine months after the storm brought historic flooding, destruction and loss of life. North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein and other officials attended a reopening ceremony at Chimney Rock State Park, which is about 25 miles (40.2 kilometers) southeast of Asheville. The main portion of the park will now be open again from Fridays to Mondays to visitors who make reservations, Stein's office said.
