Here's a look at today's top headlines.

But first, see today's News & Observer and newsobserver.com for the latest on the UNC athletics/academic scandal and for details about a Chapel Hill house fire yesterday.

TEACHERS TRANSFERRED: Chapel Hill High biology teacher Bert Wartski (left, with students' painted ceiling tiles)) has publicly criticized policies he disagrees with. Now he, English teacher Anne Thompson and possibly others are being transferred by Superintendent Thomas Forcella. Tamy Grubb has our story.

FIREWORKS DONATIONS: Some 27,000 people came out for the Chapel Hill fireworks show. The town suggested a buck a head, but came up short, at $8,000. Find out what local businesses stepped in to help.

TRASH TALK: More strong words from Town Council member Gene Pease, this time on sending Chapel Hill's garbage to Durham. Find out what the ruckus is all about in Katelyn Ferral's story (and tell us whether you agree with him and fellow Councilman Matt Czajkowski at editor@newsobserver.com)

More pics from Kenan and Carrboro's July Fourth, letters on CH2020, studies abroad and sixth-grade sports (too young? not too young?) and the week's political cartoon by Mark Dubowski are all in today's issue.

Check out the ArtsCenter's 10 by 10 festival. Act 2 is a hoot, and see if you don't spot a young Melissa McCarthy type in the talented cast.

Stay cool, and thanks for reading,

Mark