Greensboro Chronicle

Where journalism and community come together

Where investigative journalism comes together with the community to find viable solutions to the issues.

About Us

Greensboro Chronicle, we believe journalism is more than reporting the news—it’s about uncovering the truth, amplifying community voices, and working toward real solutions.

We are an independent investigative news platform dedicated to shining a light on issues that matter most to the people of Greensboro. From housing and local governance to public safety, business, and neighborhood life, our mission is to hold power accountable while fostering meaningful dialogue among residents.

The Chronicle isn’t just a newsroom—it’s a community hub. We invite readers to not only stay informed, but also to participate in the conversation, share perspectives, and collaborate on solutions that strengthen our city.

Together, we can confront challenges, celebrate resilience, and shape a more transparent, just, and thriving Greensboro.

Greensboro Chronicle Investigative Staff and Volunteers

Here at the Greensboro Chronicle we do more than just reporting on the situations. We facilitate holding the hard, tough, and uncomfortable conversations. The end goal is to always act with integrity and encourage unity.

  • ABOUT THE INVESTIGATION

    Millions of consumers rely on Spectrum for essential services like internet and mobile access. Yet buried inside Spectrum’s Residential Terms is a sweeping indemnification clause requiring customers to defend and protect Charter Communications and its affiliates from liability.

    This investigation explores:

    Whether the clause is overly broad or unfair Whether branding obscures the true legal service provider Whether consumers lack meaningful choice Whether these practices raise concerns under North Carolina consumer protection law

    This is journalism, not litigation.

    🔹 KEY FINDINGS (SUMMARY PAGE)

    What We’ve Found So Far

    “Spectrum” is a brand, not a standalone legal entity Customers contract under non-negotiable terms The indemnification clause applies to “any and all” claims Liability may survive cancellation of service Consumer communications rarely identify the actual responsible entity Individual complaints show repeating patterns

    Patterns—not isolated stories—are what trigger accountability.

    🔹 SERIES INDEX

    The Investigative Series

    Part I: Spectrum Isn’t a Company

    Part II: The Fine Print That Makes Customers Pay

    Part III: What North Carolina Law Says About Unfair Contracts

    Part IV: Real Consumers, Real Harm

    Part V: Is This How Class Actions Begin?

    Part VI: Regulators Are Watching

    🔹 KNOW YOUR RIGHTS (CONSUMER TOOLKIT)

    What Every Spectrum Customer Should Know

    A contract does not override the law Essential services receive heightened scrutiny Unfair or deceptive practices may violate NC law You cannot be forced to waive statutory protections Branding does not erase responsibility

    [ Download the Consumer Toolkit (PDF) ]

    🔹 SUBMIT YOUR STORY (INTAKE PAGE)

    Tell Us What Happened

    If you are a current or former Spectrum customer and experienced billing issues, service disruptions, or responsibility being shifted to you unfairly, we want to hear from you.

    ✔ Confidential

    ✔ Optional anonymity

    ✔ No obligation

    ✔ Journalistic purposes only

    [ SUBMISSION FORM ]

    (Includes disclaimer + upload section)

    🔹 WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU SUBMIT

    Your submission is reviewed for:

    Repeated contract language Common consumer experiences Geographic clustering Public-interest significance

    We do not provide legal advice.

    We do not initiate lawsuits.

    We investigate patterns.

    🔹 REGULATORY ACTION HUB

    Concerned? You Can File a Complaint

    If you believe Spectrum’s contract or practices were unfair or deceptive, you may file complaints with:

    North Carolina Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

    Templates are provided for your convenience.

    [ FILE A COMPLAINT – TEMPLATES ]

    🔹 LEGAL & ETHICAL DISCLAIMERS (FOOTER)

    Greensboro Chronicle Investigates is a journalistic publication.

    This site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation.

  • The Impact of the Shutdown on the Most Vulnerable People

    By John Lee– for Greensboro Chronicle Investigates

    When a government shutdown looms — or when it actually occurs — the story often centers on headlines like “federal employees furloughed” or “air traffic delays.” But beneath these visible ripples lies a deeper, more insidious effect: the disproportionate burden borne by society’s most vulnerable people.

    Who are the vulnerable?

    “Vulnerable” is a broad term, but in this context it includes those who — by virtue of income, health status, age, disability, racial or ethnic background, or dependency on public services — have fewer buffers when crisis hits. These are low-income families, children, seniors, people with disabilities, immigrants, and others who rely heavily on programs funded or regulated by the government.

    Shutdowns don’t affect everyone equally

    A government shutdown may be framed as a budget stalemate or bureaucratic impasse, but the consequences fall unevenly. For example:

    Programs like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) — critical for food assistance to millions — can be jeopardized when funding lapses or staff are furloughed.  Agencies responsible for public‐health inspections, environmental oversight, and safety monitoring face disruptions, reducing protections for communities already at higher risk.  Research, social services, contract workers, immigrant support systems, and community‐based programmes often rely on federal funding or authorization that may be paused or uncertain. 

    Effects in real life

    Here are some key ways vulnerable individuals face heightened risks during a shutdown:

    1. Food insecurity and child development

    Low‐income families frequently depend on nutrition programmes and early‐childhood education that are funded by the federal government. When a shutdown halts or delays these programmes, children lose more than meals — they lose critical developmental supports. One policy brief noted that early childhood services such as Head Start were immediately impacted. 

    The stress of economic uncertainty also hits parents’ well‐being, which in turn affects children’s emotional and educational outcomes.

    2. Health care and safety net disruptions

    While core benefits like Social Security or Medicare may continue, many ancillary or prevention‐oriented services can be scaled back. For example, during previous shutdowns the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspended many inspections, and the Indian Health Service faced major funding uncertainties. 

    For people with disabilities or chronic illnesses, interruptions in research funding and programme continuity are more than inconvenient — they can mean lost progress, delayed treatments, and compounded disadvantage. 

    3. Economic shock and ripple effects

    Even if an individual is not a federal employee, a shutdown trickles through the economy: contractors lose work, local economies around federal facilities slow, aid to non‐profits is delayed, and states may feel budget strain. The groups least able to absorb these shocks tend to be already marginalized. 

    Why the impact is so acute

    Several factors combine to make vulnerable populations especially at danger:

    Low buffers: Little savings, fewer alternative income sources, and higher dependency on public services. Systemic inequity: Vulnerable groups often face more obstacles — health disparities, discrimination, fewer private resources, less social capital — so any setback has magnified effect. Timing and compounding stress: A shutdown often comes without warning, so the suddenness exacerbates stress. When other stresses (illness, job loss, caregiving) are already present, this is one more shock added to a fragile system. Delayed recovery: For many services (education, health, social support), losing three weeks or even a month may set back a child’s learning, a patient’s treatment plan, or a programme’s effectiveness for the year.

    (more…)

  • Episode 1 – Introduction: The Pro Se Challenge

    1.1 The Rise of Self-Representation in Civil Courts

    1.2 Common Obstacles for Pro Se Litigants

    1.3 How ChatGPT Fits Into the Legal Journey

    1.4 Limits and Disclaimers: Tool, Not Counsel

  • Greensboro Chronicle

    The Power of a Simple Card: Why Medical and Awareness IDs Save Lives

    Seconds Matter in Emergencies

    When a medical emergency happens, every second counts. First responders need quick, accurate information—yet many patients can’t speak for themselves in that moment. A medical information card bridges that gap, giving EMTs, doctors, or even bystanders the details they need to act fast.

    “A single card can speak when you can’t.”

    For Every Age, Every Stage

    Children: Allergies, asthma, or rare conditions aren’t always visible. A card makes sure nothing is missed. Teens & Adults: From diabetes to epilepsy, quick access to medical history prevents dangerous delays. Seniors: Medications, chronic conditions, and emergency contacts can all be listed in one place.

    “From the youngest child to the oldest grandparent, every life deserves fast protection.”

    Autism & Awareness Cards

    For individuals with autism or sensory needs, awareness cards are especially powerful. They alert responders to communication styles or sensitivities, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring care is compassionate and effective.

    Sidebar: Quick Facts 📊

    Did You Know?

    Medical IDs reduce emergency treatment delays by up to 80%. 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a chronic health condition that may require emergency info. Children with severe allergies are 5x more likely to experience life-threatening reactions without clear documentation.

    A Small Tool, Big Impact

    Something as simple as a wallet card can literally save a life when minutes—or seconds—make the difference.

    “Don’t wait for a crisis—prepare today.”

    Call to Action 🚨

    Don’t wait for a crisis. Create a medical or awareness card today—for yourself, your children, your parents, or anyone you care for. It’s simple, affordable, and potentially lifesaving. One card could change everything.

    The Phoenix Store Online offers free Medical Cards, Emergency Medical Cards, and Autism Awareness Cards.

    Simply go to the website and place your order today:

    Medical Information Cards
    Phoenix_Store_Online.com

  • The Greensboro Chronicle is an independent voice dedicated to telling the stories that shape life in Greensboro, North Carolina. We go beyond the headlines, investigating the decisions, disputes, and developments that impact everyday residents.

    Our team is committed to fairness, accuracy, and accountability. We follow the paper trail, ask tough questions, and highlight perspectives often left out of traditional news coverage. Whether it’s housing, public safety, neighborhood change, or local government, our reporting seeks to uncover the truth and amplify community voices.

    The Chronicle exists because Greensboro deserves journalism that digs deeper—journalism that belongs to the people, not to corporate interests.

    We are here to serve you & provide service with integrity to you!