DURHAM - David H. Murdock, founder of the North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis, chairman of Dole Food Company, Inc. and president of Castle & Cooke, Inc., announced a gift of $50 million to support the ongoing operational expenses of the David H. Murdock Research Institute (DHMRI).  

“I am committed to doing all I can to advance scientific research that will vastly improve the quality of life for mankind. My gift of $50 million to support the day-to-day operations of the David H. Murdock Research Institute over the next eight years will maintain the DHMRI as a critical engine for science, and that science will improve health in North Carolina and globally,” Murdock stated. 

Murdock established the non-profit DHMRI as the core laboratory for the NCRC.

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)- North Carolina lawmakers are moving closer to relaxing rules for selling beer to seated fans at stadiums.

The House on Monday gave initial approval to a bill permitting alcohol sales in the seating areas of professional ballparks with a capacity of at least 3,000. Current law allows for in-stand sales only at venues of at least 60,000 seats.

The bill passed narrowly and will have to return for another vote. Opponents argued the bill will encourage greater consumption.

Another bill allowing retailers to stock beer in larger, refillable containers passed with little debate. The bill is aimed at helping the state's craft brewers, who often package their product in containers of up to 64 ounces. The containers known as "growlers" are not allowed to be sold at grocery stores.

Copyright 2013 WBTV. All rights reserved.

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV)- A series of deadly storms that pummeled the Midwest combined with the recent rain in Charlotte and surrounding areas reminds us that hurricane season is here.

"It's not if you're going to have severe weather, it's when you're going to have severe weather," said WBTV meteorologist Al Conklin,

Getting the latest warnings when storms are headed your way, and knowing what to do before, during and after a disaster hits are all key to staying safe.

"You have to have a weather safety plan," said Conklin. 

"In other words know what your risk is."

First thing - keep up with the forecast.

"Stay on top of the situation by monitoring WBTV and if you can't, then mobile phone is the way to go," added Conklin.

The WBTV weather app is free.

It will give you warnings, alerts and keep you updated on information so you'll know what's going on.