North State Journal Vol. 8, Issue 37

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 37

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WWW.NSJONLINE.COM

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023

PHOTO COURTESY OF RANIA PEET

Northern Lights over the Outer Banks

An aurora visible from Hatteras Village on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023 is shown. The aurora borealis, a geomagnetic storm, is rarely visible from North Carolina.

the

BRIEF this week

NC Dept of Military and Veterans Affairs encourages green light initiative Raleigh The North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (NCDMVA) is taking part in a statewide initiative for the week of Veterans Day (Nov. 6-12), urging everyone to display or turn their exterior lights green in honor of North Carolina’s servicemen and women.

Operation Green Light encourages everyone to light up their homes and public spaces with green light bulbs in support of North Carolina’s veterans. The initiative will also raise awareness about the challenges faced by those who have selflessly served our state and nation.

Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11th.

“Our veterans deserve honor and recognition every day.

Operation Green Light offers everyone an opportunity to demonstrate our support for our veterans and their families for their sacrifices,” said Lt. Gen. Walter E. Gaskin, USMC (Ret.), Secretary of NCDMVA. NSJ STAFF

NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Members of the N.C. House Oversight and Government Reform Committee hold a meeting regarding unemployment benefits on Nov. 1, 2023.

North Carolina’s continued history of late unemployment payments probed by lawmakers The vote to review the case was 5-2 down partisan lines

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal On Nov. 1, the North Carolina General Assembly House Oversight Committee held a hearing to examine accuracy and delay issues with the state’s unemployment insurance (UI) payments.

“The pandemic highlighted flaws in the ability to make timely first-time payments and to ensure the right amount goes to the right per-

son,” Committee co-chair Rep. Jake Johnson (R-Polk) said in a statement prior to the hearing.

“Federal pandemic unemployment benefits were particularly vulnerable to fraud and mistakes. North Carolinians need to know the unemployment system is fair, fast, and free of fraud.”

The Committee heard testimony on the issue from Division of Employment Security (DES) Assistant Secretary Antwon Keith and State Auditor Beth Wood.

Keith told the committee that the sharp increase in filSee UNEMPLOYMENT, page A8

Dark money pass-though Arabella Advisors tied to anti-Israel protests Durham-area group promoted Samidoun protests in Raleigh

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Arabella Advisors, a dark money charity pass-through group, recently cut ties with Alliance for Global Justice, a group that has been funding and organizing anti-Israel protests across the country.

According to a recent report by the Washington Examiner, Arabella Advisor’s New Venture Fund and Windward Fund “steered $473,000 between 2020 and 2021 to Alliance for Global Justice, according to tax forms.”

Arabella Advisors has a presence in North Carolina. The group opened an office in Durham in 2022 and a report issued by Arabella this past February showed heavy grant-making activity in North Carolina.

Global Justice Alliance has provided financial backing to the Samidoun Palestinian

Prisoner Solidarity Network, which the Washington Examiner has reported is “an Israeli-designated terror group that has shared staffers with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine.”

Samidoun was designated

by Israel as a terrorist organization in February 2021 and has been banned from operating in Germany as of Oct. 12, 2023.

Per the Samidoun website, the group is a “sponsored project of the Alliance for Global Justice, a 501(c)(3) Organization,” however Alliance for Global Justice has been cut off on various online platforms from accepting donations such as PayPal and the Democrat’s preferred fundraising site ActBlue and now refers individuals to “write paper checks” addressed to its Arizona office location.

Alliance for Global Justice reported over $56.4 million in total revenue and $54,150,882 in total expenses on Form 990 tax returns covering Apr. 1, See ARABELLA, page A2

Three-judge panel temporarily blocks part of law-altering board appointments NCDPI says the auditor’s office wasted $350,000 producing a report useless to legislators

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Gov. Roy Cooper saw mixed success in his

lawsuit, Cooper v. Berger, challenging two laws changing certain board and commission appointments.

A three-judge panel heard oral arguments on Nov. 1 and gave the governor a partial win by temporarily blocking appointment changes made by the legislature in Senate Bill 512 for the State Board of

Transportation, the Economic Investment Commission, and the Commission for Public Health.

However, the panel left in place the changes to appointments in place for the Environmental Management Commission or the Coastal Resources See PANEL, page A2

$2.00

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

A2 WEDNESDAY

THE WORD: THREE EXAMPLES OF LOVE

11.8.23

“Still-life with Lemons, Oranges and Rose” (1633) is a painting by Francisco de Zurbarán in the collection of the Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena, California.

#409

“One of One” Visit us online nsjonline.com

North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Cory Lavalette Managing/Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Griffin Daughtry Business/Features Editor Jordan Golson Locals Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday

by North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 or online at nsjonline.com

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“I tell you the truth — anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.”

Mark 9:41

Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

ARABELLA from page 1

2020, through Mar. 31, 2021.

According to 2021 tax filings, Alliance for Global Justice, the organization gave $292,257 as a “racial justice grant” to Blueprint North Carolina, the leader of a coalition of progressive and left-leaning groups in the state. Blueprint North Carolina gained attention in 2013 after a memo to its members was leaked to the media that called for them to “cripple” and “eviscerate” Republican leaders.

Samidoun describes itself as an “international network of activists building solidarity with Palestinian prisoners,” and has been cited as a main group behind anti-Israel and pro-Palestine protests in recent weeks around the world following the terror attack on Israel by Hamas that took the lives of over 1,400 Israelis.

Samidoun-promoted protests have occurred across the United

Jesus set up three monuments in His Gospels.

One was to the widow who gave the two mites. A widow put two copper coins in an offerings box.

For her donation, Jesus told his

States and in North Carolina in cities like Raleigh. The Raleigh protests were circulated and promoted by an organization called “Migrant Roots Media” (MRM) on social media platforms including Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter.

Accounts initially tagged by MRM on social media posts for the protests included the NC Party of Socialism and Liberation, Triangle Jewish Voices for Peace, Muslim for Women, Refund Raleigh, and Samidoun. In some posts, such as on MRM’s Instagram, the tags were later removed.

Per its website, Migrant Roots Media (MRM) says it is a “multilingual, multimedia platform that seeks to unearth the root causes of planetary migration through the voices of migrants, children of migrants, and those struggling to stay and thrive in their homelands.”

“We strategically position intersectional voices so they can

disciples: “Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.” Mark 12:43-44 Another was to the woman who anointed His head and feet, the story of whose deed is enshrined in the Gospels. “And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and

aid in advancing narratives and socio-political analyses concerning migration and other social issues,” the MRM website says.

MRM is registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)3 charity and is based in Durham.

Staff for the organization includes Founder and Executive Director Roxana Bendezú, a native of Peru with ties to Duke University’s Franklin Humanities Institute’s Social Movements Lab. According to Bendezú’s bio, she has also participated in left-leaning organizations such as Charlotte’s local Sierra Club executive committee, Democracy North Carolina board of directors and the School of the Americas Watch national council.

Bendezú is also a member of an anti-Israel group known as Durham2Palestine and in the past helped that group to organize protests and has served as

PANEL from page 1

Commission and did not decide on the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission and the State Building Council.

The three Superior Court judges in the case are John Dunlow and Paul Holcombe, who are both Republicans, and Dawn Layton, a Democrat. Cooper appointed Layton to the District 16A Superior Court seat in August 2019 to replace a retiring judge.

During oral arguments, one of Cooper’s attorneys claimed the legislature had gone too far.

“They seek to make the law and enforce the law,” said Cooper attorney Jim Phillips, adding that those who wrote our state constitution had warned against such moves.

“Each of these boards is housed in an executive branch agency that is controlled by the governor,” argued Phillips.

“Each of these boards has final executive decision-making authority. They make rules. They enact policies. They levy fines, they issue permits. In short, they are charged with executing and enforcing the laws of the state of North Carolina.”

According to Matthew Tilley, the attorney representing the Republican majority in the legislature, the case demands that judges carefully examine each of the boards implicated in the lawsuit individually.

This is necessary, he explained, due to variations in the gover-

N.C. DEPT. OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) speaks as House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain) and Gov. Roy Cooper look on during a briefing on May 4, 2020 in Raleigh. nor’s authority across the different boards and the distinct manners in which the legislature shaped each board.

“There is no bright-line rule for when a separation-of-powers violation occurs in the appointments to boards and commissions,” Tilley said, adding, “They require a case-by-case analysis.”` ` Tilley emphasized that it falls upon the legislature to oversee and restrict the governor’s powers. “The governor cannot unilaterally dictate policies,” he asserted during oral arguments.

The lawsuit was filed just hours after the legislature overrode Cooper’s veto of Senate

Bill 512 on Oct. 10 and asserts that the changes to the boards and commissions appointment structure are a violation of the Separation of Powers and Faithful Execution Clauses of the North Carolina Constitution.

Senate Bill 512 alters the appointment makeup for the state’s Economic Investment Committee, Environmental Management Commission, Commission for Public Health, Board of Transportation, Coastal Resources Commission, Wildlife Resources Commission, North Carolina Railroad Board of Directors, UNC Health Care Board of Directors, Utilities Commission,

did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment..”

Luke 7:37-38, ESV The other is the one referred to above — the person who gives the cup of cold water to a disciple in the Master’s name.

It is not great things which make men great in God’s sight — it is the love that is in what they do.

The least act of kindness done in Christ’s name, is greater than the building of a city for personal glory.

J.R. Miller was a pastor and former editorial superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication from 1880 to 1911. His works are now in the public domain.

the program director for Pax Christi USA, during which she was part of the “National March for Palestine” that took place in Washington, D.C. in March 2021 where 67 anti-Israel groups called for the U.S. government to stop supporting Israel.

In May 2021, Bendezú published a “joint statement” on the MRM website calling on the Biden Administration to “Condemn Israeli government plans to Forcibly Displace Palestinians in Occupied East Jerusalem.”

The statement was signed by 140 anti-Israel groups.

Other staffers also reside in the Durham and Chapel Hill area, such as MRM’s Chief Editor Alejandra Mejía, whose bio says she is “currently an assistant editor at Duke University Press.”

MRM’s board of directors includes Loan Tran, a far-left activist known for her LGBT activism and role in the destruction of a Confederate statue in Durham by the Communist World Work-

ers Party in 2017.

Other organizations Tran has been linked to include the Black Lives Matter protest groups Charlotte Uprising, Do It Like Durham, and Defend Durham.

Tran was also a member of the Southern Vision Alliance, a member of Blueprint NC that supports other progressive organizations and social justice causes.

Over the years, the Southern Vision Alliance has been run by sitting Durham Councilwoman Jillian Johnson and was a co-founder of the group alongside by Elena Everett, a long-time triangle area activist. Everett has served as a board member for Blueprint NC, as did N.C. Associate Justice Anita Earls who left the board prior to her successful run for the state’s high court.

North State Journal reached out to MRM about its promotion of Samidoun organized protests in the Raleigh area but received no response.

UNC Board of Governors, and UNC Chapel Hill and NC State University boards of trustees.

The governor’s lawsuit only challenged the appointment changes to six of the boards.

Aside from the Economic Investment Committee, which was a new creation in the law, the governor had unilaterally controlled the majority of the appointments to the other boards prior to the changes by the legislature.

Two of the governor’s nine appointees to the 15-member Environmental Management Commission were given to the state’s commissioner of agriculture.

Cooper previously appointed nine of the Commission for Public Health’s 13-member board. Under the new law, four of those positions would go to the legislature. The other four were and continue to be appointed by the North Carolina Medical Society.

The Commission for Public Health became a public focal point during the pandemic for its ability to alter vaccination schedules for school children when North State Journal uncovered the commission had been pressured to require the COVID-19 shot for students 17 and older in K-12 public schools and who might enter a public post-secondary institution. The commission ultimately dropped the idea following North State Journal’s reporting.

Additionally, North State Journal found that several of Cooper’s appointees were Democrats who had donated to his campaigns for governor and that one of those donors was a real estate developer with no apparent medical or public health experience.

For the Board of Transportation, all 14 of the governor’s appointments would be made by the legislature. Also, the board would select the chair and vice chair instead of the governor.

The 13-member Coastal Resources Commission’s nine appointments by the governor dropped to six, with four of those appointments now being made by lawmakers and one being made by the state’s commissioner of insurance.

The number of Wildlife Resources Commission members appointed by the General Assembly increased from eight to 10, but the governor’s appointments remained at 11.

Cooper’s lawsuit also opposed part of House Bill 488, which rearranged the State Building Council and established the Residential Code Council.

The lawsuit specifically objects to Sections 1.(a) and 1.(b) of that law. The first section created a 13-member Residential Code Council of which the governor would make seven appointments to the legislature’s six. The second section deals with the term length of the members.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

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New Atrium prescription delivery service policy blocks parental access

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A new policy for Atrium Health Care’s prescription delivery service CarolinaCARE is blocking parental access once a child turns 12 years old.

“Beginning Nov. 1, 2023, children ages 12-17 will need to create a new account on the CarolinaCARE website in order to see or order their prescription medications,” the policy change notice states. “Parents will no longer be able to view or manage their child’s prescriptions. If you have a child who will turn 12 after this date, this change will automatically take place on their 12th birthday.”

The Frequently Asked Questions section for the new policy confirms that “On the child’s 12th birthday, parental access is automatically blocked and parents will no longer see their child’s prescriptions.”

Atrium responded in an emailed statement to questions posed by North State Journal.

“CarolinaCARE is Atrium Health’s home delivery pharmacy that provides prescription services specifically to our teammates and their family members who are enrolled in our health benefits plan,” the Atrium statement reads.

“In order to ensure compliance with North Carolina General Statutes §§ 90-21.4(b) and

AP PHOTO

Bottles of medicine ride on a belt at a mail-in pharmacy warehouse 90-21.5(a) pertaining to medical consent and privacy rights for teenagers, we recently notified subscribers to CarolinaCARE that enrolled minors would need to create their own, separate digital account.”

The Atrium statement went on to say the change “pertains to prescription medications and mirrors what already exists for their medical records,” and that “Allowing unrestrict-

ed parental access to medications would be contrary to statutory prohibitions on parental notification in circumstances where the minor has sought and consented to their own care.”

The statutes cited by Atrium refer to a provision called “Minor’s consent sufficient for certain medical health services.”

Under that statute, a minor “may give effective consent to

a physician licensed to practice medicine in North Carolina for medical health services for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of (i) venereal disease and other diseases reportable under G.S. 130A-135, (ii) pregnancy, (iii) abuse of controlled substances or alcohol, and (iv) emotional disturbance.”

The statute, combined with Atrium’s new policy, could

mean that minor children as young as 12 would have access to prescriptions for abortion drugs as well as hormone and puberty blocking medications without parental knowledge or consent.

Due to the statute citations, as worded, the new Atrium policy does not appear to immediately run afoul of the recent law enacted by the North Carolina General Assembly; however, based on the law’s language, it could in the future.

House Bill 808 (Session Law 2023-111), which blocks gender transition surgeries and the prescribing of hormone and puberty blockers to minors, contains an exception for minors who have started treatments before August 1, 2023, and those treatments are required to be “active” as of August 1, 2023.

Other exceptions to the law include a reasonable medical judgement by a doctor that continuance and/or completion of treatment is in the “best interest of the minor.” Additionally, the minor’s parent or guardian has to give consent for continuation or completion of the treatment.

Atrium’s policy change does not appear to violate the health and well-being provisions in the new Parents’ Rights law as that law leaves intact the statutes Atrium cites in its statement.

Twelve northeastern counties to transition to eCourts in February 2024 North State Journal Staff RALEIGH — Courts in twelve northeastern North Carolina counties will make the move to digital case management on Feb. 5, 2024, according to the N.C. Administrative Office of the Courts.

The 12 counties in Track 3 of the eCourts transition comprise District Court Districts 1 and 2 – Beaufort, Chowan, Currituck, Camden, Dare, Gates, Hyde, Martin, Pasquotank, Perquim-

ans, Tyrrell, and Washington counties. Currently, five counties are live on the eCourts system – Harnett, Johnston, Lee, Mecklenburg, and Wake counties.

The digital case management system will make court records searchable online and at no cost to the public. Attorneys and self-represented parties can also electronically file court documents.

“This transition of North Carolina’s court system is long

overdue and empowers the public with free online records searches, remote electronic filings, and digital access to justice that aligns with our constitutional mandate that the courts ‘shall be open,’” said NCAOC Director Ryan Boyce in a statement.

The NCAOC estimates more than 1.8 million sheets of paper have been saved by eCourts since the platform’s pilot project began in February 2023.

Roughly 30 million pieces of

paper are added to court files each year in North Carolina, according to statistics provided by the agency.

The transition from paper court records to online files is also shifting data storage from old mainframes to the cloud, allowing NCAOC to retire outdated infrastructure and improve digital accessibility to the public, attorneys and courts employees.

Court official trainings and walkthroughs will begin next

Republicans to intervene in lawsuits over election reforms

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — The North Carolina Republican Party (NCGOP), along with the Republican National Committee (RNC), has filed court documents to intervene in three lawsuits against election law changes enacted by the General Assembly during the 2023 Long Session.

Per a press release, the NCGOP said the intervention was to combat “Democrats’ baseless ‘Sue til Blue’ attack on Senate Bill 747 and to defend election integrity in North Carolina.”

“Only Democrats would oppose legislation that prevents non-citizens from voting, protects bipartisan poll watchers, and eliminates dark money in elections—all measures that are strongly supported by the People of North Carolina,” NCGOP Chairman and General Counsel for the RNC Michael Whatley said in a press release.

“We are proud to stand with North Carolinians in court by intervening in this case and ensuring our elections are secure.”

The three cases where the NCGOP and RNC have filed

motions include those brought by the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and the N.C. Democratic Party (NCDP); Voto Latino, the Watauga County Voting Rights Task Force, and Down Home North Carolina; as well as one filed by Democracy NC, N.C. Black Alliance, and the League of Women Voters of North Carolina.

Senate Bill 747 became law on Oct. 10 following successful veto override votes in both chambers of the legislature.

The new elections law takes effect as of Jan. 1, 2024, and key provisions include changes to absentee ballot return times as well as barring outside money sources.

The NCGOP and RNC’s motion filings mention N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein’s public objections to Senate Bill 747 and that because of those statements, he likely won’t “vigorously defend” the state in the cases.

“The Democratic Attorney General whose office is responsible for representing the majority of Defendants (who are also mostly Democrats) has publicly opposed S.B. 747,” the Republican complaints contend. “It is unlikely that Dem-

“We are proud to stand with North Carolinians in court by intervening in this case and ensuring our elections are secure.”

NCGOP chairman and RNC general counsel Michael Whatley ocratic Party officials will vigorously defend laws they have publicly opposed from challenges by eight Democratic Party-affiliated (or allied) organizations.”

Stein, who is running to replace Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper in 2024, urged lawmakers to uphold the governor’s veto of the bill on his campaign website in an Aug. 24 post.

In the post on his campaign website, Stein prefaced his support for the governor’s veto by writing, “Dangerous lies and conspiracy theories about the 2020 election, including false

claims perpetuated by far-right extremists like Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, threaten our democracy and have given rise to voter suppression efforts like Senate Bill 747.”

N.C. Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton said the law was an “all out attack on democracy itself.”

Democracy NC along with the other plaintiffs in that lawsuit are being represented by attorneys with the Southern Coalition for Social Justice which was co-founded by N.C. Associate Justice Anita Earls and recent N.C. Supreme Court appointee Allison Riggs.

“There is indeed a long and troubling history in North Carolina of lawmakers making blatant attempts to restrict voting access for young voters. Yet those leading such efforts forget what has always followed — a series of champions challenging such suppression across the political spectrum,” Democracy NC’s Co-Executive Director Cheryl Carter said in a statement on the lawsuit.

Former Hillary Clinton campaign attorney Marc Elias will be representing the plaintiffs in the case brought by Voto Latino through his self-run organi-

week for the Track 3 counties.

The NCAOC will offer virtual eFiling trainings for attorneys and members of the public in Track 3 beginning in December 2023, and in-person eFiling trainings for the public in early January 2024.

The eCourts project, one of the largest projects within North Carolina’s court system in history, seeks to provide an integrated, cloud-based suite of applications in all 100 counties by the end of 2025.

zation, Democracy Docket.

“The plaintiffs allege that the Undeliverable Mail Provision violates the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment and places an undue burden on the right to vote in violation of the First and 14th Amendments,” according to a statement by Elias at the time the lawsuit was filed. “The plaintiffs request that the court declare the provision unconstitutional and prevent its enforcement.”

On Oct. 6, Elias had posted to X that if the General Assembly overrode Gov. Cooper’s veto of Senate Bill 747, he and his team would sue, adding, “As they know, I don’t bluff and my team usually wins.”

In an Oct. 11 post to X, Elias cited his prior Oct. 6 post and stated, “I warned the GOP, I don’t bluff. Now, we will win.”

Elias was previously an attorney with the D.C.-based firm Perkins Coie which he left in summer 2021. Earlier that year, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled to keep “unprecedented” sanctions on Elias in place that pertained to a case involving straight-ticket voting in Texas.

According to Reuters, the sanctions came after Elias and his team had “filed a supplemental motion in February that was nearly identical to one filed in September that was denied, without disclosing the previous denial.”

In 2020, Elias led lawsuits in a number of states, including North Carolina, in an effort to loosen absentee ballot rules.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

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OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

What Obama’s ‘change’ hath wrought Can there be a worse Strangelovian nightmare horror show than fundamental Islamic terrorists with tactical nuclear missiles in the Middle East?

“FIFTEEN YEARS AGO, I asked you to believe in the change we could create together ― and you did. I am so proud of our Obama alumni for carrying that mission forward” ― Former President Barack Obama, Nov. 4, 2023.

In the aftermath of the horrific Hamas attack on innocent Israeli citizens, President Obama bragged about how great of a job his former VP Joe Biden and national security advisors Antony Blinken and Jake Sullivan were doing handling a problem they themselves fostered and created.

Obama congratulating his team for abysmal results brings to mind the lament of legendary Clemson football Coach Frank Howard when asked about their prospects with most of their starters returning from a 1-9 team.

“Yeah, we’ve got a lot of experience coming back ― all of it bad.”

It is hard to look back fifteen years to election night, 2008 and honestly say: “You know, things in America really started to get a lot better after Obama and Biden got elected!”

Race relations are at an all-time low since 1965. President Obama could have been a truly transformational national healer in racial animosity in the mold of Abraham Lincoln. Instead, Obama, Eric Holder and his team chose to make him the Divider-in-Chief, pitting blacks against whites; blacks against Asians and Muslims as aggrieved parties versus everyone.

Americans saw downtown cities burned and looted during the BLM riots of 2020. Liberal city mayors encourage rampant looting of downtown stores by promising no prosecution of anyone who steals up to $999 worth of stolen property. Liberal judges appointed by Obama and Biden and supported by George Soros fail to sentence leftists who do commit crimes ― but they sentence citizens with whom they disagree politically to long extended prison sentences.

Thousands of virulently antisemitic, pro-Palestinian marchers shout “Death to Israel” and “Kill the Jews” in the streets today ― no doubt aided and abetted by the same paid organizers and agitators who organized the BLM riots.

If you are looking for evidence of the “change” President Obama said he wanted for America, look no further than the chaos in our streets and what his judicial appointees have said and done.

In the wake of the October 7 Hamas massacre, the Obama team stills wants to help Iran become a nuclear power, if you can believe it. There is

a special unexplained love, admiration and respect for the ayatollahs of Iran by Presidents Obama and Biden and their chief advisors. The Obama Team has lifted sanctions against Iran; sent them tens of billions of dollars and allowed them to double oil revenue, all of which has emboldened the ayatollahs and mullahs to export more death and destruction as they did in Israel.

Can there be a worse Strangelovian nightmare horror show than fundamental Islamic terrorists with tactical nuclear missiles in the Middle East?

The Obama Team has crippled U.S. oil production in the name of climate change ― right at the time when America needs to be energy independent of Iran, OPEC and Russia. The Obama Team failed to support the 2010 and 2022 Green Revolutions of young Iranians who wanted freedom from strict medieval 13th century caliphate rule ― both of which could have replaced the fundamentalist Islamists in control of Iran.

The Obama Team has allowed six million illegal immigrants to cross into U.S. territory since Biden took office. The Obama Team tore the U.S. healthcare system apart in 2010 — and no U.S. family is saving the $2,000 per year President Obama promised along with keeping their own doctor if they wanted.

The Obama Team has consistently failed in the one area which affects every American ― economic growth and job creation. GDP growth under Obama for eight long years barely averaged 2% per year when the norm has historically been 3%, especially when coming out of a deep recession.

Under Team Obama’s backup, Joe Biden, economic growth has been even worse, an average of just over 1% per year since 2021. The Joint Economic Committee estimates the desultory economic results under Obama and Biden will mean GDP will be at least 21% smaller in the future than it would have otherwise been had neither been elected.

And don’t forget high inflation and resultant higher interest rates. All brought to you proudly by The Obama Team.

“It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this date in this election at this defining moment, change has come to America” ― President-elect Barack Obama, Nov. 4, 2008.

As Frank Howard would say: “Yeah, and it has all been bad.”

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

The power of one It only takes one person to show some bottle. Then the avalanche can begin.

OVER THE LAST MONTH since the start of the Hamas-instigated war against Israel, a lot of ugly has revealed itself in myriad ways, most noticeably in the anti-Israel demonstrations that have been held in iconic cities in America, Europe, and elsewhere across the world.

Protesters, many of who are openly displaying their antisemitism, have taken to the streets, with the overriding theme being that Hamas terrorists were justified in their barbaric attacks on Israeli civilians which saw over 1,400 murdered, with some of them being raped and mutilated while other victims were taken hostage.

Understandably, people want to help get the 242 hostages released unharmed and returned safely back to their families. So in cities like New York, flyers with the words “Kidnapped” at the top are being put up with the images of those who are missing, which include children and the elderly.

The idea is to raise awareness of what’s happening and find more information that could lead to their release.

Sadly, in some instances, the posters are being ripped down by those who believe the hostages had it coming to them. In others, the word “Kidnapped” is being changed to “Occupier.”

It’s a disgusting display and one that was too much for one unidentified New York City man, who was seen in a video widely shared to social media last month going off on another man who allegedly had ripped down some of the hostage posters that had been put on a light pole.

In the clip, which has been viewed nearly a million times, a man in a flannel shirt speaks up as two people who are apparently in agreement with him look on. The flannel-shirted man, who said he wasn’t Jewish, proceeds to give an epic New York-style lecture to the poster thief about how this is not just America where people have the right to express their opinions, but it’s also New York City, where nonsense like the brazen theft of hostage posters is not going to be tolerated by the citizenry.

The man who allegedly ripped down the posters and threw them into the street is left stammering, with his only comeback to the flannel-shirted man being “don’t touch,” because he was afraid the man was going to physically attack him which thankfully didn’t happen.

“This is the way,” one Twitter/X user responded, while another wrote, “Good on my dude for totally explaining the #1stAmendment in the most NYC way possible!”

Some even extended dinner invites, while others suggested “Flannel Man” should run for mayor.

Another video shared to Twitter/X with a similar message went even

more viral, being watched 6.5 million times as of this writing.

In it, British actor Laurence Fox, who is also the founder and leader of the Reclaim Party, is seen climbing on top of London’s Boadicea and Her Daughters statue, where pro-Palestinian protesters had draped a Palestinian flag the previous day.

Fox proceeded to remove the signage brought by the radicals, kicking it to the ground. But when he got to the Palestinian flag, he untied it, balled it up, and tossed it off to the side while looking straight into the camera, saying “Get your sh*t off my statue.”

A Twitter/X user by the name of Steven chimed in after watching the video, noting that “It only takes one person to show some bottle. Then the avalanche can begin.”

I agree, and this is exactly what we need to see more of in America and other parts of the world where the anti-Semitic nature of individuals is being put out there for all to see.

Not physical fights but just no-nonsense people being willing to call out the evil standing before us for exactly what it is. Because if not now, when?

North Carolina native Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah and is a media analyst and regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

COLUMN

Is a Trump renomination really inevitable?

If current numbers hold up, it may be that Bragg, elected after leading a June 2021 Democratic primary by just 8,828 votes, will have propelled Trump to another term in the White House.

Is it inevitable that Donald Trump will be the second person in history — Richard Nixon was the first — to win the Republican Party’s nomination for president three times?

Many thoughtful observers, and others as well, think so.

They have some solid evidence. Polling has been showing majorities of Republicans favoring Trump since Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg indicted him March 30 on charges that seemed both trivial and invalid. The day before that, Trump led Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-Fla.) by just 44%-29% in the RealClearPolitics average. By April 6, Trump’s lead rose to 51%-25% and 54%-22% on April 19.

Trump’s national numbers have risen slowly since, while DeSantis’ have sagged.

If current numbers hold up, it may be that Bragg, elected after leading a June 2021 Democratic primary by just 8,828 votes, will have propelled Trump to another term in the White House.

But will the polling hold up? I think there’s a possibility — not a certainty, not a probability but a possibility — that it won’t.

Evidence comes from the Oct. 22-26 NBC News-Des Moines Register poll of potential Republican caucus-goers in Iowa. Des Moines Register pollster J. Ann Selzer’s record of accuracy, and in particular of spotting shifts in voter opinion, commands respect and attention.

Like other recent polls of early-voting Iowa and New Hampshire, this poll showed Trump below 50%, at 43% of the vote. The big headline was that former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley jumped into second place, tied at 16% with DeSantis. This follows her jump into second place in New Hampshire last month.

Taken together, in the Des Moines Register poll, Haley, DeSantis and fourth-place Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) have 39%, just below Trump’s 43%. But winnowing down the field won’t necessarily mean that all the nonTrump votes go to his opponents, as my Washington Examiner colleagues Tim Carney and Byron York note.

As Carney points out, when the Des Moines Register poll asked voters for their second choices, nearly half, 41%, of DeSantis voters said Trump. So a DeSantis withdrawal would put the former president at around 50%, far ahead of Haley.

And as York points out, only 19% of Haley’s voters, about 3% of the total, say they’re “very enthusiastic” about supporting her. She may have momentum, but the ratio of those favorable to those unfavorable about her (59%-29%) is behind not only Trump’s (66%32%) but also DeSantis’ (69%-26%).

But this static analysis doesn’t take into account other possible dynamic effects.

Some 37% of Trump supporters say their

minds aren’t made up, which suggests a f loor for Trump of 27% — a beatable number, as National Review’s Rich Lowry notes.

And when you aggregate the first-choice and second-choice votes, plus those who are saying they are actively considering DeSantis, his total comes out to 69%, actually a tick more than Trump’s 67%. The corresponding number for Haley is 55%, suggesting either lower name identification or some resistance on the part of Trump voters and thus a lower potential ceiling.

The history of presidential caucus and primary voting is full of examples of large numbers of voters changing their minds in very short periods of time. Those who insist that current poll numbers will hold fast seem to be ignoring those examples.

The most vivid example in my mind is the Iowa Democratic caucuses in 2004.

Vermont Gov. Howard Dean, brandishing his consistent opposition to military engagement in Iraq, had built up a strong lead — and in a state with a heritage of dovish/isolationist/ pacifist leanings.

He was well-organized, too, and I remember watching the hordes of orangestocking-capped Dean volunteers buzzing around Des Moines on caucus day. But the big news that night was a big victory for John Kerry, who had voted for the Iraq War. Very large numbers of voters, in a thought process I’m not sure anyone fully understood, just changed their minds.

Something similar could conceivably happen in Iowa next year’s Republican contest. Large numbers of Trump voters could decide, for reasons not yet apparent, to switch to DeSantis or to Haley. Sure, Trump voters surely are more attached to him than Dean voters were to their candidate in 2004, but there’s no big difference this time on an issue as prominent as Iraq was back then.

Will something like this happen? Unlikely, I think, and maybe the wish is the father of the thought. But I think it’s possible. The alternative, given President Joe Biden’s f lagging numbers, is that the Manhattan district attorney will have paved the way for Trump to become the 47th president of the United States.

Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime co-author of The Almanac of American Politics. His new book, “Mental Maps of the Founders: How Geographic Imagination Guided America’s Revolutionary Leaders,” will be released Nov. 28.

Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime co-author of The Almanac of American Politics.

COLUMN | MAGDALENE HORZEMPA

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict sheds light on campus cancel culture THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN conflict, with the involvement of Hamas, has drawn widespread attention. However, it is sad that it took an international crisis to bring into focus an issue that has long persisted on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) ― cancel culture.

Cancel culture has been used to describe the censorship or exclusion of individuals with dissenting views and has been present for years in academic institutions. The recent confluence of events highlights the administration’s long-overdue acknowledgment of this issue and its impact on the campus environment.

On Friday, Oct. 13, 2023, UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz released a statement condemning the acts of terror in Israel by Hamas and offering resources to the Carolina community.

A few paragraphs into his statement, he said “Let me be clear ― we will not stand for acts of violence on our campus,” pointing to his commitment to allow groups to express their opinions under the First Amendment without suppression to engage in civil discourse and educated debate. The same day, UNC’s Students for Justice in Palestine held a protest on the steps of Wilson Library which was met by a counter protest from pro-Israel students.

During this protest, Israeli counterprotestor and Associate Professor in the UNC Department of Religious Studies, Evyatar Marienburg, clashed with pro-Palestinian demonstrators and was pushed and had a drink thrown on him. He was the only known individual to be escorted away from the protest, not any of the proPalestinian protestors proving that cancel culture thrives on violence, not the exploration of truth and freedom of thought.

Cancel culture is not a novel phenomenon; it has been prevalent on college campuses across the United

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States for some time now. It often involves the doxing of conservative and religious students, creating an atmosphere where these individuals are marginalized and silenced.

The situation in Chapel Hill is no exception, as students who dare to express dissenting opinions or embrace conservative or religious beliefs often face harassment, threats, and social ostracization. This climate, fueled by an intolerance for opposing viewpoints, has only intensified with the recent events in the Middle East.

This isn’t the first time UNC has had a problem with protests turning violent. On Aug. 20, 2018, a group of UNC students and community members toppled the Confederate statue of Silent Sam on UNC’s campus.

They resorted to mob rule and, using ropes, they crowded the statue and took matters into their own hands.

The statue had long been a target of students and community members, a symbol of history that they wanted to destroy. The fact that the statue is still in an unknown location and not returned to campus or displayed elsewhere signaled to this group of students that violence not only grabs attention but leads to desired results.

Free speech ceases to exist when violence and destruction or degradation of property is present. University presidents and administration should establish a bright line and expel any student or faculty member who engages in bodily contact with another individual during such demonstrations. It is one thing to shout, whether respectful or not, but it is absolutely unacceptable and contradictory to free speech when physical intimidation is utilized.

The connection between the IsraeliPalestinian conflict and cancel culture might seem tenuous at first, but it underscores the extent to which the stifling of free speech has permeated UNC and many other institutions.

When a campus community becomes

hostile to any form of dialogue or debate, the consequences can be severe. This situation has created a tense environment that stifles free and unfettered speech and ignores civility.

When students are afraid to express their views, when open dialogue is stifled, and when individuals are targeted for their beliefs, the core values of academic institutions are undermined. Universities should be places of intellectual exploration and free expression, where diverse perspectives are welcomed and debated. When cancel culture is allowed to thrive, it runs counter to these fundamental principles.

Moreover, cancel culture creates division and polarization. Rather than fostering a spirit of unity and understanding, it pits students against each other based on their beliefs.

This divisiveness can have longlasting negative effects on the campus community and its ability to tackle important social and academic issues collectively.

It is indeed a sad state of affairs that it took an international crisis like this to prompt UNC administration to address the presence of cancel culture on their campus. This issue has persisted for years, and its impact is deeply concerning. The question of whether cancel culture has gone too far is not a matter of opinion; it is a clear threat to the values of free speech and open debate that universities are supposed to uphold.

It is time for academic institutions, including UNC, to actively work to reverse the stifling effects of cancel culture and restore the principles of free and unfettered speech.

Only through open dialogue and constructive engagement can we hope to create a more intellectually vibrant campus environment.

Maggie Horzempa is an alum of UNC Chapel Hill and a board member of UNC AFSA

NEWT GINGRICH

Joe Biden: a $200,000 wire transfer, 82,000 pages, and a $40,000 check PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and the entire propaganda media of the left are now facing three big facts: a $200,000 wire transfer, 82,000 pages, and a $40,000 check.

It will be interesting to see how long they can avoid addressing recent revelations that President Biden has, indeed, received money from foreign sources. It will ultimately be the biggest presidential scandal in American history, involving money from at least five foreign countries including China, Russia, Romania, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan.

President Biden’s repeated lies about his and his family’s behavior will turn out to be the most mendacious performance by any president in the history of the republic.

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) is doing an incredibly effective job of breaking down resistance. He and his team are working through legal barriers and providing important information to the American people. There is every reason to believe Comer will be releasing even more about Biden family corruption soon.

But for now, consider these three big facts.

First: the $200,000 wire transfer. The Oversight and Accountability Committee reported: “In 2018, James Biden [the President’s brother] received $600,000 in loans from, Americore — a financially distressed and failing rural hospital operator. According to bankruptcy court documents, James Biden received these loans “based upon representations that his last name, ‘Biden,’ could ‘open doors’ and that he could obtain a large investment from the Middle East based on his political connections…

“On March 1, 2018, Americore wired a $200,000 loan into James and Sara Biden’s personal bank account — not their business bank account. On the same day, James Biden wrote a $200,000 check from this same personal bank account to Joe Biden.”

The Bidens claimed this was repayment for a loan. However, Chairman Comer is now demanding proof that there was a loan in the first place. It is also telling that James Biden could get $600,000 from a financially distressed company that would eventually go bankrupt. Exactly what did they think the Bidens could deliver that was worth that kind of money?

Now, on to the 82,000 pages. This refers to the amount of material sent from fake email accounts by then-Vice President Biden that are now held by the National Archives.

This is two-and-a-half times more material than Hillary Clinton deleted from her secret account. The Barack Obama administration seemed to be filled with people who liked to hide what they were doing (apparently including President Obama himself).

Now, the $40,000 check is the most recent report of money flowing directly to President Joe Biden. It seems to confirm the information we learned from the Hunter Biden laptop — that 10% goes to “the big guy.”

As the Oversight and Accountability Committee reported: “On August 8, 2017, Northern International Capital, a Chinese company affiliated with CEFC, sent $5 million to Hudson West III, a joint venture established

by Hunter Biden and CEFC associate Gongwen Dong.

“That same day, Hudson West III sent $400,000 to Owasco, P.C., an entity owned and controlled by Hunter Biden. On August 14, 2017, Hunter Biden wired $150,000 to Lion Hall Group, a company owned by President Biden’s brother James and sisterin-law Sara Biden. On August 28, 2017, Sara Biden withdrew $50,000 in cash from Lion Hall Group.

“Later the same day, she deposited it into her and James Biden’s personal checking account. On September 3, 2017, Sara Biden cut a check to Joe Biden for $40,000 for a ‘loan repayment.’

“The $40,000 check to ‘the Big Guy’ amounts to a 10 percent cut of the $400,000 payment to Hunter’s shell company Owasco.”

Of course, President Biden continues to claim that he knew nothing, received no money from foreign sources, and had no idea what his son Hunter was doing.

How dumb does he think we are?

How many more discoveries is it going to take for the New York Times, the Washington Post, and the major networks to decide they must really start covering all the questions that are coming up about the Bidens’ business dealings? At what point will their atrophied journalistic curiosity stir?

At some point, the information will reach critical mass and the entire media system will be forced to confront the reality that it has been covering up for the most corrupt administration in American history.

These three facts are a big step toward that day.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Murphy to Manteo

Jones & Blount Moore makes long anticipated announcement of run for Congress

Honoring veterans in NC RALEIGH MEMORIAL PARK

Each year, November 11 is set aside to celebrate and thank our nation’s veterans. Veterans Day can be celebrated in a variety of ways, from parades to patriotic ceremonies and celebrations. You can mark the holiday by visiting one of the state’s official veterans’ cemeteries or the veterans’ section in your local cemetery, some of which are listed on this map. Also, veterans organizations encourage people to donate time or money this time of year, volunteer at a local VA hospital or wounded warrior chapter, talk to children about duty, honor and sacrifice of our service men and women, support a veteran-owned business, and share your thanks and support with a veteran in person or via social media.

NC CEMETERY COMMISSION

ROCKY MT CEMETERIES

HISTORIC OAKWOOD CEMETERY

ROCKY MOUNT

RALEIGH NATIONAL CEMETERY

North State Journal Staff

RALEIGH

EASTERN CAROLINA STATE VETERANS CEMETERY VETERANS MEMORIAL SANDHILLS STATE VETERANS CEMETERY

WESTERN CAROLINA STATE VETERANS CEMETERY

GOLDSBORO

FORT LIBERTY

BLACK MOUNTAIN

COASTAL CAROLINA STATE VETERAN'S CEMETERY

LAFAYETTE MEMORIAL PARK & MAUSOLEUM

JACKSONVILLE

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EAST

PIEDMONT Mountain wildfire doubles in size as new ones threaten to grow

USGS reports earthquake activity near Bryson City Swain County The United States Geological Survey has reported that a 2.5 magnitude earthquake struck a little over four miles southwest of Bryson City on Saturday.

Swain County residents may have felt a rumbling, although only 21 “felt report” responses were collected by Monday, Nov. 6, according to the USGS website. One of the last earthquakes reported in the same area in North Carolina happened on June 16, 2023 near Canton. The USGS reported about eight earthquakes had occurred near Canton in the span of about four weeks. Although Western North Carolina is not on a major fault line, earthquakes are not uncommon in the area, experts previously said.

Buncombe County Area fire crews are watching fast moving wildfires near Asheville and Hendersonville. A two-week old wildfire doubled in one day and is now up to 1,335 acres, while two more broke out over the weekend, threatening homes and farms in nearby areas, prompting a burn ban to be issued for 14 counties in the mountains. On Sunday, four homes in west Asheville were evacuated and two homes in Henderson were lost to fire, officials reported. Fairview Fire Department in Buncombe County said Sunday “intense operations” continued against the Hendersonville wildfire and “the public not residing in the immediate (area) should avoid the area.”

NSJ

Greensboro mayor addresses violent crime spike

Meet-up to sell items turns violent

WNCN

Randolph County The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office is reporting that two men are facing charges after a meet-up to sell some items ended in gunshots. Asheboro resident Michael Lee Russell told police that a man came to his home to buy some items that had been listed for sale. The buyer then began firing gunshots, and Russell said he fired back with a shotgun.

Investigators found about seven bullet holes in the side of the house and one shotgun shell on the ground outside. The buyer, Robert Allen Beane, Jr. called in the incident as well, saying he was involved and surrendered himself and his gun. Beane was charged with felony discharging a weapon into an occupied dwelling and misdemeanor assault.

WGHP

Guilford County Greensboro mayor Nancy Vaughan is calling for vigilance and patience after a shooting outside a nightclub Friday night. Police continue to search for the suspect who fired dozens of shots outside Electric Tequila, injuring two women.

According to reports, Mayor Nancy Vaughan was on a police ride-along when the call came in about the shooting that left two women with gunshot wounds to their legs. Electric Tequila reopened Sunday afternoon, and the Greensboro Police Department had to remove hundreds of people because the building was over capacity. The city is looking to file a civil nuisance abatement lawsuit against the club, and Vaughan told press outlets that the city is taking the situation very seriously and that they’d “taken it as far as we can go.”

WGHP

Man held on $1M bond for child exploitation Caldwell County Investigators on Caldwell County say an employee at a church in Granite Falls is facing child exploitation charges, as they seized items to be forensically examined for material depicting child exploitation.

Officials launched an investigation following a tip that was received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding 51-yearold Ashley Crouse of New Vision Baptist Church. Mr. Crouse faces multiple charges of second-degree sexual exploitation of a child, with more charges expected. The FBI, North Carolina SBI, and the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office were among the departments involved in the investigation. Crouse is being held under a $1 million secured bond at the Caldwell County Detention Center.

WGHP

Carowinds and Six Flags to merge Mecklenburg County Carowinds’ parent company, Cedar Fair, and Six Flags announced their official merger Thursday, creating a leading amusement park operator. According to a press release from Six Flags and Cedar Fair, the two companies came to a $2 billion deal, making a powerhouse in the theme park industry. Together, the company will own 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and nine resorts across 17 states, Canada, and Mexico. According to the release, the combined company will be headquartered in Charlotte.

According to company officials, the newly merged company expects to see about $200 million in benefits from the deal.

NSJ

Casino proposal spurs lawsuit from area residents Rockingham County Several Rockingham County residents, including nearby special needs Camp Carefree, have filed a lawsuit over the rezoning of nearly 200 acres of property to build a casino. According to the lawsuit, the plaintiffs allege that the Rockingham County Board of Commissioners ignored “basic legal requirements” when it approved the rezoning application, which was submitted by N.C. Development Holdings, alleging affiliate political ties to Senate Leader Phil Berger and his son Kevin, who is a commissioner.

Rockingham County responded in a news release last week, stating that they believed the rezoning is “error-free” and that the court will agree and dismiss the lawsuit.

NSJ

Winston-Salem opioid disposal company faces DEA charges Forsyth County The DEA announced that it is taking action against several companies over improper handling of opioids, including a Winston-Salem-based company. The agency detailed “Operation Bottleneck” last week, serving multiple orders to companies billed as “reverse distributors,” which are supposed to handle the return and disposal of medications. According to a DEA press release, “The company failed to comply with its obligation to maintain effective controls against the diversion of controlled substances. These violations include the persistent failure to properly report theft or significant loss, to timely destroy or promptly return controlled substances, and to maintain complete and accurate records.”

NSJ

Couple found dead in boat wreckage

New Apex park features 35-foot slide Wake County Apex has unveiled a new park that features acres of family fun. Pleasant Park opened Saturday morning, and spans 92 acres, with amenities for kids and adults alike. The “enchanted forest” themed playground was the main draw on opening day, with a giant 35-footslide. “We saw that there was going to be a huge slide, and we have two fans of big slides. So, we couldn’t wait to come,” dad Justin Herrmann-Pait, who was at Pleasant Park with his two sons, told local news outlets. Pleasant Park also boasts six pickleball courts, four tennis courts, and two basketball courts, in addition to multi-use fields.

RALEIGH — North Carolina House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain) is running for Congress, confirming his long-awaited plans for 2024.

Moore, who is currently in a record fifth two-year term as state house speaker, already had announced that he wouldn’t seek reelection to his state House seat in 2024 and was considering a bid for Washington. His political consultant Paul Shumaker told the Associated Press he was running via text message.

Following October’s redistricting session, the new 14th Congressional District covers six counties, centered in Moore’s home of Cleveland County. The other counties in the district are Burke, Gaston, Rutherford, and parts of Mecklenburg and Polk.

Candidate filing for the March 5, 2024 primary begins in December.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson, who defeated Republican Pat Harrigan in the current iteration of the 14th District, announced that he would run for NC attorney general next year instead of seeking reelection.

Harrigan, had previously announced his plan to run again in the reconfigured 14th.

Following the news of Moore’s entry to the race, he ‘22 nominee launched a broadside against Moore, labeling him a “casino activist” and referencing a lawsuit filed against him that was subsequently settled.

“Let’s be clear: Tim Moore carries a legacy of corruption, from being bought and paid for by the casino and gambling bosses, to taxpayer-funded sexual escapades. Such a man does not carry NC14’s values, nor does he deserve our trust,” Harrigan said in a fiery statement.

Moore, 53, is an attorney who was first elected to the N.C. House of Representatives in 2002. He became the House Rules Committee chairman in 2011 when Republicans took over the chamber and succeeded now-U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis as speaker in 2015.

Moore has said he would serve out the remainder of his term through the end of next year and be speaker during next year’s short session in April.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Beaufort County Multiple agencies responded to an area near Dinah’s Landing in Beaufort County on Sunday morning after receiving reports of an overdue boater in Bath.

According to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, responding personnel quickly located the crashed vessel in a wooded shoreline, where both occupants were found deceased at the scene. N.C. Wildlife is currently investigating this single-vessel accident with assistance from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, and officials say the two deceased in the boating accident have been identified as Charles Bailey, 59, and his wife, Suzanne Bailey, 58, both of Bath, who were traveling alone.

WCTI

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Food hall opens holiday-themed tavern

New District Court Judge appointed for Eastern NC

Johnston County Old North State Food Hall is officially kicking off the holiday season with a pop-up food bar called Blitzen’s Tavern.

The Christmas-themed space opens Wednesday and will be open through early January. The tavern is located in the former JR Cigar humidor, at 67 JR Road in Selma. It will have a seasonal beverage menu that includes hand-crafted holiday cocktails and mocktails. Professional kayak angler and musician Chris “Abby” Abbondanza will perform country, pop, and holiday favorites from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday and from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday to celebrate the grand opening.

There is a $7 cover/bar minimum.

Advance tickets are not required.

Washington County On Friday, Nov. 3 Governor Roy Cooper made the announcement for three judicial appointments to N.C. District Courts. Attorney M. Jason Williams was appointed as the District Court Judge in Judicial District 2 by Governor Cooper.

The counties within Judicial District 2 are Beaufort, Hyde, Martin, Tyrell and Washington. Mr. Williams is currently an independent practitioner within Washington, N.C., and an undergraduate alum of ECU and the University of Florida College of Law. He was previously in Greenville as an Assistant Public Defender in Judicial District 3A. This position was previously filled by retired Honorable Christopher B. McLendon.

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PHOTO VIA AP

House Speaker Tim Moore looks over the calendar for the afternoon session of the North Carolina House on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 in Raleigh.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

NATION & WORLD Qualification markers grow even tougher for next month’s 4th GOP presidential debate

AP PHOTO/LEO CORREA

People react next to candles lit in memory of the 1,400 victims who were killed in the bloody Oct. 7 cross-border attack by Hamas militants, in front of the Western Wall, the holiest site where Jews can pray, in Jerusalem’s Old City, Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. The militants also kidnapped 240 people, mostly Israeli citizens, triggering a war that has raged for the past month.

Israeli forces cut off north Gaza to isolate Hamas as advance on urban center looms The Associated Press KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip — The Israeli army severed northern Gaza from the rest of the besieged territory and pounded it with airstrikes Monday, preparing for expected ground battles with Hamas militants in Gaza’s largest city and an even bloodier phase of the month-old war.

Already, the Palestinian death toll surpassed 10,000, Hamas officials claimed Monday. They do not distinguish between fighters and civilians. Some 1,400 Israelis have died, mostly civilians killed in the Oct. 7 incursion by Hamas that started the war.

The war has quickly become the deadliest Israeli-Palestinian violence since Israel’s establishment 75 years ago, with no end in sight as Israel vows to remove Hamas from power and crush its military capabilities.

Casualties are likely to rise sharply as the war turns to close urban combat. Troops are expected to enter Gaza City soon, Israeli media reported, and Palestinian militants who have had years to prepare are likely to

UNEMPLOYMENT from page 1 ings during the COVID-19 pandemic was significant and said during that period the state “went from 2,500 claims a week to a max of 54,000 in one day.”

The data emphasized in Keith and Wood’s presentations to the committee sheds light on the scope and challenges faced in administering a total of eight unemployment benefit programs during the pandemic.

Across the eight programs, three state and five federal, 3.8 million claims were handled from March 2020 to September 2021 and the state paid out $14 billion in benefits to over 1 million people.

Wood said a historical analysis of North Carolina’s unemployment program found late payment issues had persisted for nine years before the onset of the pandemic.

According to Wood’s presentation, federal guidelines mandate that 87% of initial payments must be disbursed within 21 days. However, during the period from April 4, 2020, to Sept.

4, 2021, only about 60% of the

fight street by street, launching ambushes from a vast network of tunnels.

“We’re closing in on them,” said Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, an Israeli military spokesman.

“We’ve completed our encirclement, separating Hamas strongholds in the north from the south.”

Around 70% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have fled their homes since the war began.

Food, medicine, fuel and water are running low, and U.N.-run schools-turned-shelters are beyond capacity. Many people are sleeping on the streets outside.

Mobile phone and internet service went down overnight, the third territory-wide outage since the start of the war, but was gradually restored on Monday.

U.S. President Joe Biden raised the need for humanitarian pauses directly with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on a call, but there was no agreement reached, the White House said.

So far, Israel has rejected Biden administration suggestions for a pause, aimed at facili-

tating humanitarian aid deliveries and the release of some of the estimated 240 hostages seized

by Hamas in its raid. Israel has also dismissed calls for a broader cease-fire from Arab countries.

After days of intense diplomacy around the Middle East, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken wrapped up his tour of the region Monday. He said efforts to secure a pause, negotiate the hostages’ release and plan for a post-Hamas Gaza were still “a work in progress” without pointing to any concrete achievements.

The war has also stoked wider tensions, with Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group trading fire along the border. In another sign of growing unrest, a Palestinian man stabbed two members of Israel’s Border Police in east Jerusalem before being shot dead, according to police and an AP reporter at the scene. Police said one of the officers, a 20-year-old woman, was later pronounced dead.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces shot to death four Palestinian men in a vehicle in the city of Tulkarem, the Palestinian

Health Ministry said. The military said two of the men were high-ranking militants.

In northern Gaza, a Jordanian military cargo plane airdropped medical aid to a field hospital, King Abdullah II said early Monday. It appeared to be the first such airdrop of the war, raising the possibility of another avenue for aid delivery besides Egypt’s Rafah crossing.

Over 450 trucks carrying aid have been allowed to enter Gaza from Egypt since Oct. 21.

Some 800,000 people have heeded Israeli military orders to flee to southern Gaza. But continued Israeli strikes in central and southern Gaza — the purported safe zone — killed dozens of people on Sunday.

The Israeli army said 30 Israeli troops have been killed since the ground offensive began over a week ago. Hamas and other militants have continued firing rockets into Israel, disrupting daily life even as most are intercepted or fall in open areas. Tens of thousands of Israelis have evacuated from communities near the volatile borders with Gaza and Lebanon.

first payments, $2.2 million out of $3.6 million, met the federal requirement.

During that period, approximately $1.2 billion was disbursed, with $438 million, or 36% of the total payments, being delayed. Only two out of the eight programs managed to adhere to the federal requirement.

Keith’s presentation also showed the state had been out of compliance since 2010 when it came to “First Pay” promptness and that North Carolina’s rate for that pay is currently at 59.2% and has been trending downward since 2021.

While Keith was unable to provide a definitive timeline to lawmakers on correcting late UI payment issues, Wood pointed to House Bill 471 that stalled in the Senate.

Under House Bill 471, the state auditor is granted more expansive powers to compel audits and issue deficiency correction recommendations. State agencies would be required to submit progress reports on fulfillment of the correction recommendations to the state auditor and General Assembly.

“It’s not something that will naturally happen unless you, gentlemen, and ladies, intervene,” Wood told the committee, adding that they needed to “legislatively mandate some of these actions.”

Wood had conducted past audits on pandemic UI payments and her findings were similar to the data she provided to the Committee, including $166 million in improper payments because they exceeded the federal limit of 10%.

Between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2021, roughly 18% of payments were categorized as improper, either exceeding or falling below the intended benefit amounts. In 2020, the improper payment rate was 15.3%, and it increased slightly to 15.8% in 2021.

These improper payments amounted to more than $366 million and Wood indicated 94% of them could be attributed to issues of non-compliance with work search requirements, discrepancies in benefit year earnings, and errors in separation information. Wood also cited lack of monitoring and that

manual reviews were not set up to meet federal requirements.

The main theme in Keith’s presentation included issues following the pandemic, with an emphasis on fraud perpetrated during the pandemic.

The presentation showed that since April 1, 2020, the state had recuperated $65 million in funds paid out through both fraudulent and nonfraudulent activities. Approximately $36 million of that total represents payments to claim filers.

Keith said DES has taken steps to combat the issue such as a “Benefits Integrity Alert Visualization Tool,” as well as banking verification processes and improved claim screening.

As a result of the steps taken, DES identified 56,407 suspicious identity issues in 2022 and 28,396 in 2023.

Keith told the committee DES “prevented $64 million from going out of the coffers this year.”

In the two years prior, DES successfully stopped $264 million in fraudulent payments in 2021 and $142 million in 2022, per Keith’s presentation.

Columbia, S.C. A fourth Republican presidential debate has been set for next month, with heightened polling requirements that could make the stage less crowded than before.

To make the stage, candidates must garner at least 6% in two approved national polls, or 6% in one poll from two separate early-voting states: Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina. Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel said the fourth debate would take place Dec. 6 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Participants also need to amass at least 80,000 unique donors, with at least 200 unique donors per state or territory, in 20 or more states.

Candidates have until 48 hours before the debate to satisfy the requirements.

The RNC has increased the necessary markers with each debate, an effort intended to winnow the once sprawling field. Meeting some of the qualifications has been tough for some candidates, including former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who participated in the debut debate but hasn’t met subsequent qualifications.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, on stage for the first two debates, suspended his campaign after it appeared likely that he wouldn’t qualify for the third.

The third GOP debate, taking place Wednesday in Miami, requires campaigns to meet 4% in polls and notch 70,000 unique donors.

As he did for the first two debates, former President Donald Trump — the GOP field’s current frontrunner — is skipping next week’s gathering, instead counterprogramming with a rally in Hialeah, Florida, about a half-hour drive from the debate site. Trump’s campaign has called for primary debates to be canceled.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Russia says it test-fired an intercontinental ballistic missile from a new nuclear submarine Moscow The Russian military on Sunday reported a successful test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile designed to carry nuclear warheads from a new nuclear submarine.

The report comes as tensions are soaring between Russia and the West over the fighting in Ukraine. Adding to those tensions, President Vladimir Putin last week signed a bill revoking Russia’s ratification of a global nuclear test ban in a move that Moscow said was needed to establish parity with the United States.

The Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement that the Imperator Alexander III strategic missile cruiser fired the Bulava missile from an underwater position in Russia’s northern White Sea, and hit a target in the far-eastern region of Kamchatka. It wasn’t immediately clear from the statement when the test launch occurred.

The Imperator Alexander III is one of the new Boreiclass nuclear submarines that carry 16 Bulava missiles each and are intended to serve as the core naval component of the nation’s nuclear forces in the coming decades. According to the Defense Ministry, launching a ballistic missile is the final test for the vessel, after which a decision should be made on its induction into the fleet.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

A7

normal

The comfo How China will payThe for this can 3 bigCOVID-19 questions

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-h hina lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after thisthanks COVID-19 virus cavalierofmanner in orders to local ordissipates state governments,The a majority America WEEK, virus, according to members ied to tell the world there were only “THIS ISof around the globe and in the United will to pay forTHIS this covered up its spre areStates, havingChina to adjust what is being called the “new normal.” and state and local governments, America rldwide panic, economic collapse and (Psalm catastrophe one way or another.

3,341 related has Some of these orders extend at least through the endindeaths ofit”this mon ce or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the need the curve in the novel coronavirus outbrea being thrown out of work.

I know In order to put the crisis causedVirginia’s

by Chinastay-at-home in perspective, zero go into June. millions of Americans th ne orders ty of at Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask — after all, trends canhas easily ayer least $2.4 trillion in added working from worldwide pandemics can trace their source to theCarolina, Unitedmuted States over costrever the Here in North Democratic Gov.The Roycrisis Cooper stated dur normal.” questions back tohistory. At least four in the 20th century alone have abided by recommendations and ord Reserve backup liquidity to the about the data, and when things can start getting be glad” t our 231-year be that debt plus trillions more a recent coronavirus press can briefing “we just don’t know yet”asifin nd of this month. are treated in some circles with contempt. to stay at home; they’ve practiced social d he U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve and dad, the directly traced to China: flu,” 1968 “Hong orders Kong flu,” markets state’s stay-at-home will 1977 extend into May. and financial ou Since when1957 did “Asian They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept flu” without they’ve donned masks. fund any of these emergency have tonot beth th “Russian and the 2002 SARS outbreak.

There is evidence that the currency, would b Perhaps If he does decide to extend it, questions should bewe asked as to We need WALTER E. WILLIAMS questioning per stated during question what the government tells us about when it’s massive safe to begin the The result: a reduction in expected hosp Lenten and of rampant inflation and currency pandemic.

1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins in China. measures without immed justification for it.

And the answers should not be vague ones like “ COVID-19 t know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy.

According to theseasons University of Washingto For me, m government There is 100% agreement, outside oftransparency China, thatofCOVID-19 depreciation. must do this out an abundance Easter of caution.” is China’s No. The government works for us, and we have the right to askin those Metrics and Evaluation model most oftAs ci ant ways and decisions through and honesty originated Wuhan Province probably from the has to pay for th provide a China at all levels It will need tocompletely be explained in detail to the people ofmaking. this state w asked as to the And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the Trump administration, the expected need plomacy has obviouslyquestions. not worked Corinthians Chernobyl. unregulated and unsanitary wet markets.

Some believe it came out of a economic and financial m from our are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined message of become a gue likecentury “we health, country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, peak outbreak was revised down by over 1 orldones of 21st hygiene affliction, so biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to bring China into the ci scientific experts amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of c hope that we13,000 will and bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly the num unist regimes never take blame affliction, wi Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade. Totalitaria are reliable.

— we need to again enjoy sincere of this state who when will demand August byonce nearly 12,000. orse, because that is not whatthey can get back to providing for their families,their God.” That is what food safety and health protocols, American business has nowhat other or express To know date, what I’ve gone along with the state has asked andregret then they answers.

Here’s the problem: We still don’t know sporting events, yndetermined take advantage of every weakness If you are choice than tofree build redundant manufacturing totalitarian citizens mandated thatplants we do,elsewhere but alongpurely the way I’ve also had governments questions abo housands of cases at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they know, what they questions that will allow the economy tothar pushing until they win orLeaders the reflect on concerts, family for national security and safety reasons as well as supply and delivery they find in adversaries the data.

State Republican leaders have, too. living in a free can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but concerns. answer First, what is the true coronavirus fatal God’sback. examp don’t and when reliability adversaries gatherings, Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get push asked, there AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with society were kedhappens and then with details that give their statements believability. important because it determines whether ent such as the Chernobyl this difficult The most direct way to make China “pay”hope for this is to offer That is, unless an exog they to disaster corruption. The financial squeeze resulting sometimes a disturbing tendency among people to treat thos church some services questions about We should families, be open or closed,meltdown whether we oughtSome to we pu believe that event, not the Star Warsall continue confident supposed from COVID-19 offers opportunities for a to do what we can to keep our U.S. tax credits to companies whosimply willknow source at least halfdata of their in 1986. what they questioning the and asking when we can start getting and many more that presumes Sponsored

by Union and our communities safe. But we still continue more liberalized society wi Sponsored by should also o the dissolution of theourselves, Soviet In this sam bit of remediation.

Let’s first examine what production back in the States.

There is though approximately programor of are Reagan, led d to do, lastUnited I to normal they are$120 conspiracy theorists people wh don’t.as afterdown our own asked, there to of ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home ought to lock further. neighbors he mightisbe the root academic corruption, billion worth checked. of American direct investment in plants and equipment inor1989. otherwise don’t care if they get themselves others sick. title of a recent study, ehernobyl. to treatsuggested those by the measures are understandable, they should also have an date. direct investment in the U.S. is about $65We’ve seen rates — Concor the num temporary In inexpiration China. Chinese billion by case fatality Perhaps COVID-19 C Since when did questioning government at all levels become aisba “Academic Grievance Studies and theAmericans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2 starttalking gettingabout back the possibility This is all new to the number of identified COVID-19 cases eady money to bu sacrifices are comparison.

Senators in Washingto thing?

That is what free citizens living in a free society were suppo Corruption of Scholarship.”

The study was are people who shape, safe, at and in theChina denominator are likely wrong.

We debt we owe them as one wayor toform. get So while we should remain vigilant and stay health care An investment tax credit of 30% U.S. investment forgiving $1.2 trw over. of China toon do,half lastof I checked. done

by Areo, an opinion and analysis North Carolina sick. the same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “new people have actually died of coronavirus. y have caused the US. Don’t hold your today, or $60 billion, applied to repatriated China to “pay”isfor dam digital magazine. By the way, Areo is short My first American concern asmanufacturing we go along in all this, of course, mythe famil opens office for ls become aAreopagitica, badbutfirst number beenbreath overestimated, given th lee” to happen ask normal.” your elected for a speech delivered by investment to the U.S. would costworried the U.S.about Treasury billion in has waiting Ifor a Chin them$18 catching the virus, and I’m worried will.

Afte ty were supposed Not one little bit. of death, particularly among elderly patie ountable in tangible financial ways for John Milton in defense of free speech. economic development tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion lost revenue hold C suffering fromin the H1N1 virusis(swine flu) representatives during the 2009topandem Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. sources suggest the number is dramatical decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Marshall Plan extra we areprecautions, now this disaster. been trying to take because all of this brings in Taiwan Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say has that also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah e, to is my family.

Stacey Matthews manyas people are dying home. ed operate as I’m responsible citizens of undertaking to save our own economy, notmany of defeated enemies in the It is at about timenot they way too memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer to ar re something drastically wrong ied I will.

After has gone and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

Even more importantly, we have no clue ation. past. the world like any other But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone hm in academia, especially within certain In partnership with the 2009 pandemic, actually have coronavirus. Some scientist China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American fields within the humanities.

They call Economic l of this brings up Development of identified business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that theycases could be an order of ma these fields “grievance studies,” where Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,coronavir senior Partnership North Carolina refer notscholarship to repeat. isof number of people who have had not so much based upon intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and (EPDNC), N.C. ost everyone hastruth finding butDepartment upon attending to replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. social grievances.

Grievance scholars of Commerce Secretary bully students, administrators and other Machelle Baker Sanders departments into adhering to their officially announced on worldview. The worldview they promote is Jason Monday that North Carolina Grievance neither scientific nor rigorous.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS has officially its firstsuch as studies consistopened of disciplines sociology, anthropology, gender studies, Taiwan investments office.

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, sexuality and critical race Located in Taipei, the new studies. office opened on October In 2017 and 2018, authors5.Pluckrose, AP PHOTO/JOSE LUIS MAGANA, FILE It aims to secure investment Lindsay and Boghossian started submitting bogus papers to Google and Alphabet Inc. CEO Sundar Pichai arrives at the federal courthouse in Washington, Monday, Oct. 30, 2023. Google partnerships withacademic Southeast academic journals in cultural, queer, on Monday, Nov. 6, will try to protect a lucrative piece of its internet empire at the same time it’s still entangled in the biggest U.S. Asian companies and race, gender, fat and sexuality studies antitrust trial in a quarter century. The latest threat will unfold in a San Francisco federal court, where a 10-person jury will decide organizations, including to determine if they wouldthose pass peer whether Google’s digital payment processing system in the Play Store that distributes apps for phones running on its Android prices for consumers and developers.. in Taiwan China.

“THIS IS THEfallen DAYinto the lord has made seriousness of and theand virus and the review be accepted for need publication.software has been illegally driving upWITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home place.

I unders Acceptance ofan dubious in it” (Psalm 118:24). y with how people who simply “Opening officeresearch inask that orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but I editors found sympathetic to their this challenging tim n thingsjournal can start getting back to Taiwan solidifies North are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”I know that during questions about the data, intersectional or postmodern leftist vision working from home or losing a job, it may with contempt.

Carolina’s to problem of Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated in som of the worldcommitment would prove the be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. as Howev a societylow simply must accept without Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.

They’re treated thou fostering global partnerships, academic standards. and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded ls us about when it’s safe to begin the Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what the govern Several of the international fake research papers strengthening and of hopeful for, even alcy. were accepted for publication. The Fat a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t knowhave yet”to if be thethankful process returning back ties and promoting economic Lenten and pandemic. us, and we have journal the right to ask those Studies published a hoax paper state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government w Since when did growth,” said because Google in September For made within an app. part ofmy thefaith ruling to important the U.S. part o that argued theSanders. term wasThe Associated Press me, is an home orders are in place all bodybuilding over the Easter seasons If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the questions.

And the longer became immersed in the big“The result of what Google Supreme Court, where Epic is “The statesuch has seen more questioning andas should be replaced making.

As I celebrated Easter my f hem get exclusionary in states, Michigan, for it.

And lower the answers should notabe vague country, and thewith stricter provide gest U.S. antitrust trial inones a like doing is higher prices, also“we challenging most elements SAN FRANCISCO — Goo- isjustification with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive than $5.1 billion invested government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our eeling isolated and/or anxious about must do this outchoice of anfor abundance of caution.” the more people, sittingLo a century —of a case large- of the case that and less ev- quarter it lost. message politicized performance.”

One reviewergle on Monday confronted the quality from Southeast Asian affliction, so that we may be able toback comfo ng for their families, will demand ly centered on payments that erybody,” Epic attorney Gary second major U.S. antitrust Epic is now taking aim at at all levels It will need to be explained in detailhope to the people of this state who when they can get t said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this that we will companies since 2013, affliction, with the comfort which we our Apple during to cast the Bornstein Google’s commission system, are beingsaid toldMonday to remain joblessthe andcompany at homemakes for an to undetermined answers. article and believe it has an important trial in two months become a once again enjoysearch to ensure its dominant 45-minute opening statement internet powerhouse as a bra- aamount even though Android software andbe weaswill continue toas God.” vels should forthcoming contribution to make to thethey field and this of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases Leaders at the local an fields que- Ifisyou zen bully thatbad usesthing? its immense before the 10-person jury that engine automatically already set up to allow sporting events, are celebrating the other Easter season again, not vague answers, but answer build bridges connecting journal.” are reliable. can be with those answer ries made on iPhones. will decide the case. wealth and people’s dependence stores, such as Samsung’s in“OurCarolina Struggle to Is My That is what reflect on this message and be comforted ents believability. concerts, family North theStruggle: world, Solidarity To date, I’ve gone along with what the allegations state has asked and then with details that give the Epic’s against Google attorney Glenn stalled on its phones, distribute Feminism anfamilies, Intersectional Reply toon one of its main products to God’s example andon comfort allallthose in n hat we can to keep as our enhancing opportunities free citizens mandated attempted that we do,to butdealongGoogle the way I’ve also had leveled questions about We should continue gatherings, mirror those Pomerantz stifle competition at consumers’ apps that work the operating Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was this difficult time.

Through faith and by h afe. But we should also still continue the data.

State Republican have, too. in ourselves, and our comm against Apple a case that system. Even so, bunk the portrait of the compa-leaders Epic maintains for trade,for innovations church services living in a free accepted publicationand

by Affilia, a expense. confident we will emerge out of this pand ecause while reasonable stay-at-home went to trial in May 2021. ny having a stranglehold on AnThe trial that opened in a that Google still maintains a Unfortunately, when certain types ofand questions get asked, there is to ask questions about th partnerships.” feminist journal for social workers. The many more society were this same spirit, I continue to be ins y shouldpaper also have an expiration a federal judge apps bya outlining a wide stranglehold on the Android sometimes disturbing tendencyAlthough among some people to sidtreatInthose measures are understand consisted in part of adate. rewritten San Francisco federal court tar- droid Taiwanese companies after our own fronts in ed with Apple on most of competition from rival Play Store that gamut app ecosystem and the payment supposed neighbors helping neighbors. nd it is not normal.

Not in any way,Two other gets the Google passage from Mein Kampf. simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back This is all new to Amer who have made investments the outcome opened Insystem for the com- mobile and video game console that trial, attached to itschool — andsenior has name temporary Concord, a shape, high d remainhoax vigilant and stay safe, at including distributes apps papers were published, to do, last I to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who or form.ofSo while in North Carolina, including one potential crack in the digstores, as well as Apple’s store pany’s Android software that paid hundreds of millions “Rape and Queer Performativity to buy a 3-D same printer andwe plastic to mfortable withCulture this so-called “new sacrifices are sick. money otherwise care they getital themselves or others time should checked. fortress that the company apps thatdon’t run on itsifiPhone powers virtually all the world’s for dollars to stiflethe competition.

Anderson Group, HTC Global at Urban Dog Parks.”

This paper’s subject health care workers out of his own home.

Since when did questioning government at all become a In badhis opening normal.” has builtover. around thelevels iPhone. statement, was dog-on-dog rape.

But the dog rape smartphones that aren’t made software.

Services, Everest Textiles, thing?

That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed Not one littleofbit.

The judge and an appeals “Because Google faces strong by Apple.

Bornstein accused Google paper forced Boghossian, Delta eventually Electronics and more, Apple and court both determined Apple deploying a “bribe and block” to do, last I from checked.

Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely outThe case, stemming from competition have pledged more than $52 writer under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah should allow to provide cannot be and not a lawsuit filed by video game others, strategy to discourage competi- has also My it first concern asiswe goa along in all this,apps of course, is my family.

I’m Stacey Matthews themselves.

A Wall Street Journal links to other payment options, Pomerantz asserttion and then make it too cum- contribu dState and Legal million in Insurrection. investments and had figured out what they were doing. maker Epic Games, alleges monopolist,” worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After and is a regular a change that could undermine bersome or worrisome for conin his opening statement.

Some papers accepted for publicationGoogle has created an illegal ed 846 jobs in North Carolina suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) during the 2009 pandemic, Google’s strategy to lean on the commissions that both Ap- sumers to download Android monopoly on Android apps priin academic since 2013.journals The Tar advocated Heel statetraining I’ve beencompetition trying to take because of this brings ple and Google collect all on digital Android’s withextra Ap- precautions, marily so it can boost its profits apps up from other distribution men like dogs and punishing white male way too many memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer not to repeat. exported $372.6 million in purchases made within a mople and the iPhone in its trial through commissions ranging college students for historical slavery by But what also makes me losebile sleep isApple how easily most that everyone app. is appealing Epic is tinged irony. That’s See has EPIC GAMES, page A11 trade and to silence Taiwanon the floorfrom asking themgoods to sit in in 15% to 30% on purchases with chains during class and to be expected to in 2022 and imported $1.68 learn from the discomfort.

Other papers billion.

According to the U.S. y celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life Department of State, Taiwan choice and advocated treating privately is one of the world’s topas20 conducted masturbation a form of economies in terms gross Typically, sexual violence againstofwomen. s academic editors send domesticjournal product (GDP) andsubmitted papers out to referees for review. In serves as the United States’ recommending acceptance for publication, ninth-largest partner. many reviewerstrading gave these papers glowing The Associated Press “Taiwanese companies praise.

Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran are increasing foreign direct WASHINGTON — The certain grievance concepts through investment in thestudies U.S., notably World Bank reported on Monthe Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often led by the microelectronic andthe years. day that oil prices could be they appeared in our press over clean energy sectors,” said He found huge increases in the usages pushed into “unomniet aut am, of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,”con rehentur autem rec Christopher Chung, CEO of NEW YORK — WeWork has “critical race theory” and “whiteness.” the Economic Development All of this is being taught to college filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Partnership of of North Carolina. protection, marking a stunning students, many whom become primary fall for the office sharing com“North Carolina recognizes the and secondary school teachers who then pany once seen as a Wall Street indoctrinate our young people. resiliency of Taiwan business darling that promised to upend I doubt whether the coronavirusacross many sectors and the way people went to work caused financial crunch will give college values a stronger partnershipwho arearound the world. and university administrators, a In a late Monday announcebuilt on our commitment crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, ment, WeWork said it entered the guts and backbone to restore academic to innovation, collaboration into a restructuring support respectability.

Far too often, they get much and continued growth. As a of their political support from campus agreement with the majority of Taiwanese American whose its stakeholders to “drasticalgrievance people who are members of the parents immigrated from the faculty and diversity and multiculturally reduce” the company’s debt AP PHOTO /MARK LENNIHAN, FILE while further evaluating Wecountry, I am thrilled administrative offices. North Work’s commercial office lease WeWork offices are shown, Thursday, Jan. 16, 2020 in New York. WeWork has filed for Chapter 11 The best lies with Carolina is hope furthering its boards of portfolio. bankruptcy protection, marking a stunning fall for the office sharing company once seen as a Wall trustees, though many serve as yes-men relationship with Taiwan. The Street darling that promised to upend the way people went to work around the world. for the university president. I think that aWeWork is also requesting the “ability to reject the leasEDPNC and I look to or 1960s good start would beforward to find 1950s es of certain locations,” which establishing Taiwan office catalogs.

Lookour at the course offerings at the company says are largely new category of working, and early years. The company went ficial announcement, Neumann atotime when college graduates knew how connect with Taiwanese to read, write and compute, and make non-operational, as part of the these steps will enable us to re- public in October 2021 after its called the bankruptcy filing and other regional businesses them today’s curricula. Another helpfulfiling. Specific estimates of to- main the global leader in flexi- first attempt to do so two years disappointing and said it’s been andwould stakeholders tocareful promote tal impacted locations were not ble work.” earlier collapsed spectacular- challenging for him “to watch tool be to give consideration disclosed Monday, but all afThe specter of bankruptcy ly. The debacle led to the oust- from the sidelines since 2019 North Carolina as an ideal to eliminating all classes/majors/minors fected members have received has hovered over WeWork for er of founder and CEO Adam as WeWork has failed to take containing the word “studies,” such as business location.” advanced notice, the company some time. In August, the New Neumann, whose erratic be- advantage of a product that is women, Asian, black or queer studies.

The Taiwan office will York company sounded the havior and exorbitant spending more relevant today than ever I’d bet that by restoring the traditionalsaid. be Northmission Carolina’s ninth they would“Now is the time for us to alarm over its ability to remain spooked early investors. before.” academic to colleges, Japan’s SoftBank stepped in Still, he added, a strong reorinternational location, put a serious dent into the COVID-19 pull the future forward by ag- in business. But cracks had begressively addressing our leggun to emerge several years ago, to keep WeWork afloat, acquirganization could allow WeWork budget shortfall. following offices in Canada, acy leases and dramatically not long after the company was ing majority control over the to emerge successfully.

Japan, Mexico, Singapore, company.

Despite efforts to turn the Walter E. Williams is a professor of improving our balance sheet,” valued as high as $47 billion.

Germany,atPoland, Belgium CEO David Tolley said in a preWeWork is paying the price In a prepared statement economics George Mason University. pared statement. “We defined a for aggressive expansion in its Monday ahead of WeWork’s of- See WEWORK, page A10 and Dubai.

business & economy Fixingn.c. college corruption FAST

FACTS

A6

Approved Logos

north STA

VISUAL VOICES

It’s okay to ask questions about when The comfort and ho we begin to get back to normal

Epic Games accuses Google of bullying and bribing to block competition to its Android app store

WeWork seeks bankruptcy protection in stunning fall for a firm once valued at close to $50 billion

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

A10 NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING OCT 29

Total Cash & Bond Proceeds

$2,355,959,672 Add Receipts

$107,187,103 Less Disbursements

$112,753,158 Reserved Cash

$125,000,000 Unreserved Cash Balance Total

$6,312,010,266 Loan Balance

$0

WEWORK from page A9

company around since Neumann’s departure — including significant cuts to operating costs and rising revenue — WeWork has struggled in a commercial real estate market that has been rocked by the rising cost of borrowing money, as well as a shifting dynamic for millions of office workers now checking into their offices remotely.

In Monday’s filing, WeWork listed about $18.7 million in debts and $15.1 million in assets as of June 30.

In September, when WeWork announced plans to renegotiate nearly all of its leases, Tolley noted that the company’s lease liabilities accounted for more than two-thirds of its operating expenses for the second quarter of this year — remaining “too high” and “dramatically out of step with current market conditions.”

At the time, WeWork also said it could exit more underperforming locations. As of June 30, the latest date with property numbers disclosed in securities filings, WeWork had 777 locations in 39 countries.

Beyond real estate costs, WeWork has pointed to increased member churn and other financial losses. In August, the company said that its ability to stay in operation was contingent upon improving its liquidity and profitability overall in the next year.

WeWork’s bankruptcy filing arrives at a time when leasing demand for office space is weak overall. The COVID-19 pandemic notably led to rising vacancies in office space as working from home became increasingly popular — and major U.S. markets, from New York to San Francisco, are still struggling to recover.

In the U.S., experts note that WeWork’s 18 million square feet is a small fraction of total office inventory in the country — but on a building-by-building level, landlords with exposure to WeWork could take significant hits if their leases are terminated.

The shuttering of select WeWork locations to cut costs isn’t new. In some past cases, landlords’ building loans moved to special servicing after losing WeWork as a tenant, credit rating and research firm Morningstar Credit previously told The Associated Press.

While the full impact of this week’s bankruptcy filing on WeWork’s real estate footprint is still uncertain, the company sounded an optimistic note Monday night.

“Our spaces are open and there will be no change to the way we operate,” a WeWork spokesperson said in a statement to The Associated Press.

“We plan to stay in the vast majority of markets as we move into the future and remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience and innovative flexible workspace solutions for our members.”

WeWork and certain entities filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in U.S. District Court in New Jersey, with plans to also file recognition proceedings in Canada, according to Monday’s announcement.

AP PHOTO/ ERIK VERDUZCO

Blackhawk Hardware employee Palma Gonyea stocks holiday products at the retail store, Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023, in Charlotte, N.C. Entertaining during the holidays is back this year, and the store is seeing an influx of shoppers buying place settings, ornaments and indoor decorations.

Small biz owners are both hopeful and anxious about the holidays, taking a cue from their customers The Associated Press NEW YORK — All signs point to a relatively solid holiday season for America’s small businesses.

Yet, owners of these businesses appear to have a collective anxiety about the months ahead.

They have their customers to thank on both counts.

American kept up their spending over the summer, witness the government’s estimate that the economy grew by 4.9% in the third quarter. Yet even as they open their wallets, consumers seem pessimistic about their finances. A recent AP-NORC poll found that many Americans are concerned about their financial future.

In turn, after two years of a COVID-fueled sales boost, owners fear consumers have run through their pandemic savings and might cut back this holiday season or shop online again after getting out and supporting local businesses. Inflation is still a concern and interest rates are higher. And there’s no predicting the weather.

“When we talk to retailers there’s a lot of uncertainty,” said

Max Rhodes, CEO of Faire, an online wholesale marketplace many small retailers use to buy inventory. “The combination of higher inflation and rising interest rates are making consumers nervous which in turn makes retailers nervous. It continues to be a weird economy. The data looks good, but nobody feels good about it.”

Rhodes said his customers started to search for “Christmas” items starting in mid-August, compared with mid-September last year. Buying early can relieve the stress of supply-chain bottlenecks and gives owners a chance to restock if something sells out early in the season.

For many retailers, the holidays can account for more than half their annual sales. Holiday retail sales are expected to increase between 3% and 4% in 2023, according to trade group the National Retail Federation.

But the total value of those sales will grow more slowly because inflation has moderated. In 2022, sales jumped 5.3%, according to the NRF. Early indications are that sales have kept pace with prior holiday

seasons, with consumers making purchases that help them temporarily put aside their financial concerns.

Shop owners are seeing “comfort” items sell well: high-end candles, plush stuffed animals for adults, particularly the brand Jellycat, all things sparkly (like disco balls), and anything Barbie- and Taylor Swift-related.

“We’re calling it a ‘bright future’ (trend) right now because there’s so much heaviness in the world,” said Rick Haase, owner of eight Patina gift shops in St. Paul and Minneapolis in Minnesota. “Bright and happy is really the trend that we’re seeing as a whole, this kind of happy escapism and things that make you feel good about life.”

Higher-priced candles are in demand at Measure Twice, a card and gift store in Brooklyn, New York. Owner Kimberley Yurkiewicz said the store had strong sales in 2021 and 2022 and sales are up again so far this year. She said people are paying $45 to $65 for candles, up from a range of $25 to $45 last year.

But she said it’s hard to gauge numbers when it feels like things

are constantly being disrupted, be it COVID, up and down tourism, or recession fears.

“We still don’t feel like we’re operating under ‘true’ or ‘regular’ or ‘normal’ numbers,” she said.

“Any kind of accurate analysis has been a real challenge the last few years in that you can overthink it all. …It’s hard to know what crisis-free sales reporting should look like.”

Andy Wilkerson, co-owner of Blackhawk Hardware in Charlotte, North Carolina, got a sales boost in 2021 and 2022 as holiday shoppers focused on outdoor holiday decorations for their home in lieu of celebrating with guests. But entertaining is back this year, and the store is seeing an influx of shoppers buying place settings, ornaments and indoor decorations.

So far, sales are on par with last year, which is “pretty remarkable, especially considering the last couple of years were unnaturally inflated because so many people were staying home or changing holiday traditions,” he said. “The fact that we have See HOLIDAYS, page A12

More fruit pouches for kids are being recalled because of illnesses that are linked to lead The Associated Press Federal health officials are expanding an investigation into potentially lead-tainted pouches of apple cinnamon fruit puree marketed for children amid reports of more illnesses and additional product recalls.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Friday it has received reports of seven illnesses in at least five states possibly linked to contaminated puree.

Two new companies, Schnucks Markets of St. Louis and Weis Markets of Sunbury, Pennsylvania, announced recalls of certain cinnamon applesauce products because they may contain high levels of lead.

WanaBana of Coral Gables, Florida, previously recalled of all lots and expiration dates of its apple cinnamon fruit puree.

Eating the contaminated products could result in “acute toxicity,” FDA officials said.

Parents and caregivers should not buy or serve the cinnamon applesauce products, which are sold through multiple retailers, including Amazon, Dollar Tree and at Schnucks and Eatwell Markets grocery stores.

Children and others who have consumed the products should be tested for possible lead poisoning, the agency said.

The investigation began in North Carolina, where health officials are looking into reports of four children with elevated blood levels linked to the WanaBana product. State health officials analyzed multiple lots of the product and detected “ex-

FDA VIA AP PHOTO

This photo provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Oct. 28, 2023, shows a WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouch. The FDA is warning parents and caregivers not to buy or serve certain pureed fruit pouches marketed to toddlers and young children because the food might contain dangerous levels of lead. Children who have eaten WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches should be tested for possible lead poisoning, the agency said. tremely high” concentrations of lead. The FDA confirmed the results.

The FDA’s Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation Network is leading the investigation in cooperation with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state and local health officials.

Lead is toxic to people of all

ages, but can be especially harmful to children. Most children have no obvious symptoms, so it’s important that kids who are exposed get tested to check levels of lead in their blood. Shortterm exposure to lead can result in symptoms that include headache, abdominal pain, vomiting and anemia, the FDA said.

Heavy metals like lead can

get into food products from soil, air, water or industrial processes, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Lead exposure can seriously harm children’s health, causing damage to the brain and nervous system and slowed growth and development. There is no known safe level of lead exposure, the AAP said.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

A11

Amazon used an algorithm to essentially raise prices on other sites, the FTC says The Associated Press WASHINGTON – Amazon used a secret algorithm to essentially help raise prices on other online sites and also “destroyed” internal communications as the Federal Trade Commission undertook an antitrust investigation against it, according to newly unredacted portions of the agency’s lawsuit.

The new excerpts unveiled last Thursday allege executives at the e-commerce giant intentionally deleted communication by using a feature on the popular app Signal that makes messages disappear.

By doing this, the FTC said Amazon “destroyed more than two years” worth of communications from June 2019 to “at least early 2022” despite instructions it gave Amazon not to do so.

In a prepared statement Amazon spokesperson Tim Doyle called the FTC’s claim “baseless and irresponsible.”

“Amazon voluntarily disclosed employee Signal use to the FTC, painstakingly collected Signal conversations from its employees’ phones, and allowed agency staff to inspect those conversations even when they had nothing to do with the FTC’s investigation,” Doyle said.

The FTC and 17 states sued Amazon in September alleging the company was abusing its position in the marketplace to inflate prices on and off its platform, overcharge sellers and stifle

AP PHOTO

The Federal Trade Commission building is seen, Jan. 28, 2015, in Washington. competition. Amazon is accused of violating federal and state antitrust laws, but the company has responded with a full-throated defense of its business practices.

The antitrust case is the most aggressive move the government has taken to tame the market power of Seattle-based Amazon and comes as the FTC has been taking big swings against tech companies.

The unredacted excerpts of the lawsuit disclosed on Thursday provided more details on a talked-about algorithm, which was previously reported by The Wall Street Journal and former Vox reporter Jason Del Ray. The FTC’s excerpts say the tool — codenamed “Project Nessie” — has been used by Amazon to pinpoint products that will allow it to rake in more cash. The company

used it to predict where it can raise prices and have other shopping sites follow suit. Amazon activated the algorithm to raise prices on some products, and when others followed its lead, it kept the elevated prices in place, the agency said.

Using Nessie has generated more than $1 billion in excess profits for Amazon, according to the FTC. The agency said Amazon deployed Project Nessie in 2014 and

has turned it on and off at least eight times between 2015 and 2019.

Regulators said though Amazon claims the algorithm is “currently paused,” the company has thought about running experiments in 2020 and 2021 to improve its effectiveness.

Doyle, of Amazon, called Nessie an “old” pricing algorithm that’s being “grossly” mischaracterized by the agency. He said Nessie was used to stop Amazon’s “price matching from resulting in unusual outcomes where prices became so low that they were unsustainable.” And that Amazon scrapped it several years ago because it didn’t work as intended.

The unredacted portions of the lawsuit also shed more light on Amazon’s advertising business.

The agency claimed then-CEO Jeff Bezos instructed executives to accept more junk ads — internally called “defects” — because the company could earn more money through increased advertising despite their presence being a headache for consumers. Amazon called the claims “grossly misleading and taken out of context.”

Meanwhile, another unredacted portion of the lawsuit provided more details on the government’s allegations that Amazon is essentially compelling sellers to use its logistics service called Fulfillment

by Amazon, or FBA. The agency said in early 2019, the company turned against a program that allows sellers to display a Prime badge on their listings without using FBA when it learned other fulfillment providers were advertising their services to sellers. Amazon suspendSee AMAZON, page A12

Starbucks increases US hourly wages and adds other benefits for non-union workers The Associated Press

AP PHOTO /GENE J. PUSKAR, FILE

The Starbucks logo is seen on a shop, March 14, 2017, in downtown Pittsburgh. Starbucks is increasing pay and benefits for most of its U.S. hourly workers after ending its fiscal year with record sales. But the company said Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, that unionized workers won’t be eligible for some of those perks, a sign of the continuing tension between the Seattle coffee giant and the union trying to organize its U.S. stores.

SEATTLE – Starbucks is increasing pay and benefits for most of its U.S. hourly workers after ending its fiscal year with record sales.

But the company said Monday that unionized workers won’t be eligible for some of those perks, a sign of the continuing tension between the Seattle coffee giant and the union trying to organize its U.S. stores.

At least 366 U.S. Starbucks stores have voted to unionize since 2021, according to the National Labor Relations Board.

But Starbucks and the Workers United union have yet to reach a labor agreement at any of those

NCDOT TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING REGARDING PROPOSED CLOSURE AND GRADE SEPARATION OF TRINITY ROAD AND THE NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD IN WAKE COUNTY STIP Project No. P-5734 CARY - The public is invited to a meeting with the N.C. Department of Transportation to discuss proposed improvements to Trinity Road where it crosses the North Carolina Railroad in Cary.

The project would replace the existing at-grade crossing with a bridge to carry Trinity Road over the railroad tracks.

The meeting will be held Nov. 20 at Herbert Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary. The public is invited to attend at any time between 5-7 p.m.

Project details, including maps can be found on the NCDOT project web page: https://publicinput.com/TrinityRoad-Rail-Improvement. The information will be presented at the meeting, allowing for one-on-one discussions with engineers. There will not be a formal presentation.

People may also submit comments by phone at 984-205-6615 (project code 4495), email at US274-IntersectionImprovements@publicinput.com, or mail at the address shown below by Dec. 3.

By Mail:

Tamara Njegovan NCDOT Rail Division - Senior Rail Project Development Engineer 1 S. Wilmington St. Raleigh NC 27601

NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled people who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Alecia Hardy, Environmental Analysis Unit, at 1598 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1598, 919-707-6072 or ext-arhardy@ncdot.gov as early as possible so arrangements can be made.

Those who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior by calling 1-800-4816494.

Aquellas personas no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés, podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan llamando al 1-800-481-6494.

stores. Starbucks has 9,600 company-operated stores in the U.S. Starbucks said Monday it will increase wages — which currently average $17.50 per hour — starting Jan. 1. Employees at both union and non-union stores who have worked four years or less will get raises of 3% or 4% depending on years of service.

Employees who have worked five years or more will be eligible for a 5% increase, but since that’s a new benefit, it must be negotiated with Workers United and is therefore not available to unionized stores, the company said.

Workers United rejected that claim and said it will file unfair labor practice charges against Starbucks with the NLRB. “Withholding benefits from unionized stores is against the law,” the union said.

Starbucks said it is also

shortening the time hourly employees must work before accruing vacation days from one year to 90 days. That benefit is also only available to workers at non-unionized stores.

The company also announced a new North American barista championship open to employees in the U.S. and Canada.

The company said program also won’t be available to employees at unionized stores since it involves prize money and travel.

Starbucks’ actions go against a September ruling by an administrative law judge for the NLRB, who ruled that the company acted illegally last fall when it raised pay only for non-union workers. Starbucks has appealed that ruling, saying NLRB’s standards don’t allow employers to make unilateral changes in the wages or benefits of unionized employees.

EPIC GAMES from page A9

The trial before U.S. District Judge James Donato is scheduled to last until just before Christmas and include testimony from longtime Google executive Sundar Pichai, who is now CEO of the company’s parent, Alphabet Inc. Pichai recently took the witness stand in Washington D.C. during an antitrust trial that is expected to wrap up later this month, but the judge in that case isn’t likely to rule until next year.

Google initially was going to have to defend itself against multiple foes in the Play Store trial, but in September it settled antitrust allegations that had been brought by state attorneys general and just last week resolved a case being pursued

by Match Group, the owner of Tinder and other online dating services.

The Match settlement prompted Google to switch from its original request for a jury trial to a proceeding to be decided by the judge, but Donato rebuffed the bid.

Match is receiving a refund of $40 million in fees that had been placed in an escrow account earlier this year and adopting Google’s “user choice billing” system in its settlement. The terms of the resolution with the state attorneys general is expected to be revealed during Google’s trial with Epic.

Epic CEO Tim Sweeney skewered the “user choice billing” option as a sham in a social media post vowing to fight Google in court. Sweeney is also expected to take the witness stand during the trial.

outlets than the Play Store.

That is why, Bornstein said, the Play Store handles more than 90 percent of all Android download apps and resulted in the commission store generating more than $12 billion in operating profit. That figure represented about 13% of the roughly $92 in Google Services operating profit — most of which came from digital ads — during 2021, according to the financial statements of its corporate parent, Alphabet Inc. “Google makes it a challenge to put a competitor on the phone (powered by Android),” Bornstein said. “If a competition were a race, it’s like Google gets to run on a nice smooth track and everyone else has to run on quicksand.”

Pomerantz depicted Google’s tactics as way to make sure Android apps are safe to use and its commission system as a way to defray the costs for an operating system that powers billions of smartphones around the world.

The arguments also echoed the defense that Apple successfully used in its 2021 trial with Epic.

As Apple’s lawyers did, Pomerantz suggested Epic is primarily interested in finding a way to boost its own profit by evading a payment system that siphons revenue away from its popular Fortnite title and other video games.

“They want to take all the benefits of Android and all the benefits of the Play Store and not pay for them,” Pomerantz said of Epic.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

A12

FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried convicted of defrauding cryptocurrency customers The Associated Press NEW YORK — FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried’s spectacular rise and fall in the cryptocurrency industry — a journey that included his testimony before Congress, a Super Bowl advertisement and dreams of a future run for president — hit rock bottom Thursday when a New York jury convicted him of fraud for stealing at least $10 billion from customers and investors.

After the monthlong trial, jurors rejected Bankman-Fried’s claim during testimony in Manhattan federal court that he never committed fraud or meant to cheat customers before FTX, once the world’s second-largest crypto exchange, collapsed into bankruptcy a year ago.

“Mr. Bankman-Fried. Please rise and face the jury,” Judge Lewis A. Kaplan commanded just before a jury forewoman responded “guilty” seven times to two counts of wire fraud, two counts of wire fraud conspiracy and three other conspiracy charges, which carry potential penalties adding up to 110 years in prison. Bankman-Fried is likely to face far less than the maximum at a sentencing set for March 28.

As the verdict was read, Bankman-Fried seemed stunned, appearing stone-faced, his hands clasped before him, as his lawyers remained sitting beside him.

When he sat down, he looked down for several minutes.

His lawyer, Mark Cohen, later read a statement outside court to say they “respect the jury’s decision. But we are very disappointed with the result.”

“Mr. Bankman Fried maintains his innocence and will continue to vigorously fight the charges against him,” Cohen said.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, who sat in the front row of the spectator section during the verdict, stood before cameras outside the courthouse and said Bankman-Fried “perpetrated one of the biggest financial frauds in American history, a multibillion-dollar scheme designed to make him the king of crypto.”

“But here’s the thing: The cryptocurrency industry might be new. The players like Sam Bankman-Fried might be new. This kind of fraud, this kind of corruption is as old as time and we have no patience for it,” he said.

He said the case should serve as a warning to every other fraudster

AP PHOTO /BEBETO MATTHEWS, FILE

FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried arrives at Manhattan federal court, Friday, Aug. 11, 2023, in New York. who “thinks they’re untouchable, that their crimes are too complex,” that they are too powerful to prosecute or can talk their way out of their crimes because “I promise we’ll have enough handcuffs for all of them.”

The jury rejected Bankman-Fried’s insistence during three days of testimony that he never committed fraud or plotted to steal from customers, investors and lenders and didn’t realize his companies were at least $10 billion in debt until October 2022.

After the jury left the room, Bankman-Fried’s parents, both Stanford University law professors, moved to the front row behind him. His father put his arm around his wife. As Bankman-Fried was led out of the courtroom, he looked back and nodded toward his mother, who nodded back and then became emotional, wiping her hand over her face after he left the room.

The trial attracted intense interest with its focus on a fraud on a scale not seen since the 2009 prosecution of Bernard Madoff, whose Ponzi scheme over decades cheated thousands of investors out of about $20 billion. Madoff pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 150 years in prison, where he died in 2021.

The prosecution of Bankman-Fried, 31, put a spotlight on the emerging industry of cryptocurrency and a group of young executives in their 20s who lived together in a $30 million luxury

apartment in the Bahamas as they dreamed of becoming the most powerful player in a new financial field.

Prosecutors made sure jurors knew that the defendant they saw in court with short hair and a suit was not the man with big messy hair and shorts that became his trademark appearance after he started his cryptocurrency hedge fund, Alameda Research, in 2017 and FTX, his cryptocurrency exchange, two years later.

They showed the jury pictures of Bankman-Fried sleeping on a private jet, sitting with a deck of cards and mingling at the Super Bowl with celebrities including the singer Katy Perry. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicolas Roos called Bankman-Fried someone who liked “celebrity chasing.”

In a closing argument, Cohen said prosecutors were trying to turn “Sam into some sort of villain, some sort of monster.”

“It’s both wrong and unfair, and I hope and believe that you have seen that it’s simply not true,” he said. “According to the government, everything Sam ever touched and said was fraudulent.”

The government relied heavily on the testimony of three former members of Bankman-Fried’s inner circle, his top executives including his former girlfriend, Caroline Ellison, to explain how Bankman-Fried used Alameda Research to siphon billions of dollars from customer accounts at FTX.

With that money, prosecutors said, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate gained influence and power through investments, contributions, tens of millions of dollars in political contributions, Congressional testimony and a publicity campaign that enlisted celebrities like comedian Larry David and football quarterback Tom Brady.

Ellison, 28, testified that Bankman-Fried directed her while she was chief executive of Alameda Research to commit fraud as he pursued ambitions to lead huge companies, spend money influentially and run for U.S. president someday. She said he thought he had a 5% chance to eventually be U.S. president.

Becoming tearful as she described the collapse of the cryptocurrency empire last November, Ellison said the revelations that caused customers collectively to demand their money back, exposing the fraud, brought a “relief that I didn’t have to lie anymore.”

FTX cofounder Gary Wang, who was FTX’s chief technology officer, revealed in his testimony that Bankman-Fried directed him to insert code into FTX’s operations so that Alameda Research could make unlimited withdrawals from FTX and have a credit line up to $65 billion. Wang said the money came from customers.

Nishad Singh, the former head of engineering at FTX, testified that he felt “blindsided and horrified” at the result of the actions

HOLIDAYS from page A10

NCDOT TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS REGARDING MULTIPLE PROJECTS ALONG N.C. 73 MECKLENBURG COUNTY STIP Project Nos: R-5721/U-5765/R-2632AB/R-5706A/i-5715 Charlotte –The public is invited to attend either of two open house meetings with the N.C. Department of Transportation to view updated information on 5 projects proposed to widen a section of N.C. 73 to a four-lane divided roadway and to improve the I-77/N.C. 73 interchange.

7KH OLPLWV IRU WKHVH ¿YH VHSDUDWH SURMHFWV LQFOXGH R-5721B – Beatties Ford Rd to West Catawba U-5765 – West Catawba Ave. to Northcross Drive I-5715 – Upgrade existing interchange to split diamond R-2632AB – Old Statesville Rd to Davidson-Concord Rd R-5706 – Davidson-Concord Rd to U.S. 29 The public meetings will be held on Nov 14, 2023, at Lake Norman Baptist Church located at 7921 Sam Furr Road in Huntersville. The open house meetings will be held from 2-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. The public is invited to attend either open house.

3URMHFW GHWDLOV LQFOXGLQJ PDSV FDQ EH IRXQG RQ WKH 1&'27 SURMHFW ZHESDJHV https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/nc-73-improvements-lincoln-mecklenburg/ Pages/default.aspx https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/nc-73-mecklenburg-cabarrus/Pages/ default.aspx NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled people who wish to participate in this virtual hearing.

Anyone requiring special services should contact Diane Wilson, Environmental Analysis Unit, at 1598 Mail Service Center in Raleigh; 919-707-6073; or pdwilson1@ncdot.gov as early as possible so that arrangements can be made.

Those who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior by calling 1-800-4816494.

Aquellas personas no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés, podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan llamando al 1-800-481-6494.

stayed steady this year is a good sign.”

Some owners still bear the scars of supply-chain driven shortages during the pandemic.

Heather Haynie, co-owner of Rock Paper Scissors stationary store in Charlottesville, Va., had inventory shipped in sooner and put out holiday items earlier this year – at the beginning of October rather than mid-month. She says customers have learned to “buy something when they see it.”

Haynie also said that after having her best two holiday seasons in 2021 and 2022, she’s worried that customers might be lured by deals from bigger online players such as Amazon.

“Now that we are a bit more removed from the COVID years when our amazing customers felt strongly about getting out and supporting local, I fear that as life gets busy again, they fall prey to the convenience of online shopping,” she said. The NRF expects online and other non-store sales to rise 7% to 9% this year.

The figure rose 9.5% during the holiday period in 2022, according to the NRF. AMAZON from page A11

ed enrollment in the program a few years ago, saying it wasn’t delivering the same high-quality experience customers expect from Prime. But the agency said in 2018, sellers enrolled in the program had met a “delivery estimate” requirement set by Amazon more than 95% of the time.

NetChoice, an industry group backed by Amazon, said Thursday the FTC was being mislead-

of a man he once admired when he saw the extent of the fraud. He said the collapse last November left him suicidal.

Ellison, Wang and Singh all pleaded guilty to fraud charges and testified against Bankman-Fried in the hopes of leniency at sentencing.

Bankman-Fried was arrested in the Bahamas last December and extradited to the United States, where he was freed on a $250 million personal recognizance bond with electronic monitoring and a requirement that he remain at the home of his parents in Palo Alto, California.

His communications, including hundreds of phone calls with journalists and internet influencers, along with emails and texts, eventually got him in trouble when the judge concluded he was trying to influence prospective trial witnesses and ordered him jailed in August.

During the trial, prosecutors used Bankman-Fried’s public statements, online announcements and his Congressional testimony against him, showing how the entrepreneur repeatedly promised customers that their deposits were safe and secure as late as last Nov. 7 when he tweeted “FTX is fine. Assets are fine” as customers furiously tried to withdraw their money. He deleted the tweet the next day. FTX filed for bankruptcy four days later.

In his closing, Roos mocked Bankman-Fried’s testimony, saying that under questioning from his lawyer, the defendant’s words were “smooth, like it had been rehearsed a bunch of times?”

But under cross examination, “he was a different person,” the prosecutor said. “Suddenly on cross-examination he couldn’t remember a single detail about his company or what he said publicly. It was uncomfortable to hear.

He never said he couldn’t recall during his direct examination, but it happened over 140 times during his cross-examination.”

Former federal prosecutors said the quick verdict — after only half a day of deliberation — showed how well the government tried the case.

“The government tried the case as we expected,” said Joshua A. Naftalis, a partner at Pallas Partners LLP and a former Manhattan prosecutor. “It was a massive fraud, but that doesn’t mean it had to be a complicated fraud, and I think the jury understood that argument.”

Sierra Wallis, owner of Sq/Ft gift shop in Decatur, Ga., who had her best sales years in 2021 and 2022, said her sales are up again so far this year, but spending per customer is down. Instead of one customer spending $200, 10 customers are spending $20 each.

“It’s kind of like we’re chasing our own tail,” Wallis said. “It’s like we’re busier, but we’re having to work harder for it.”

The holidays are essential to her business because they account for two-thirds of her annual sales. Wallis said she won’t be doing much reordering during the holiday season because that can be unpredictable. She’s already ordered all of her holiday inventory and hopes to sell through that by mid-December. Then she’ll restock with gift items that can sell not only during the holidays but in January and beyond.

“We’re just crossing our fingers, we feel good about it,” she said. “But, you know, I look at the numbers (every year) and it just always feels impossible, like, how are we going to sell that much in the next two months? But then it happens.”

ing and the delivery estimates noted in the complaint were set by sellers, not Amazon. Doyle, of Amazon, also said in 2018, sellers using the program were “promising deliveries within two days less than 16% of the time— far worse than the performance of sellers using Fulfillment by Amazon.”

The company reopened enrollment into the program a few months ago, while under the glare of regulators.

The man behind KenPom, B3

AP PHOTO

Quarterback Drake Maye and the Tar Heels will look to maintain possession of the Victory Bell when UNC faces Chandler Rivers and Duke on Saturday night in Chapel Hill.

NHL

With Andersen out, Hurricanes recall Kochetkov, sign Halak to PTO New York The Hurricanes announced Monday that goaltender Frederik Andersen is suffering from “a blood clotting issue” and there is “no timetable for his return.”

Andersen, 34, is 4-1-0 with a 2.87 goals-against average and .894 save percentage in six appearances for the Hurricanes this season.

The Andersen news led to two corresponding moves, with Carolina recalling Pyotr Kochetkov and also signing veteran netminder Jaroslav Halak to a professional tryout. The 38-year-old Halak has played for seven teams in his 17-season NHL career, most recently serving as the backup goalie for the Rangers last season. Halak has compiled a 295-189-69 record with a .915 save percentage, 2.50 goals-against average and 53 shutouts. The Hurricanes would need to sign Halak to an NHL contract for him to join the roster, and he would have to clear waivers to be assigned to the AHL.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

UNC reenters rankings at No. 24 New York The Tar Heels took care of business with a 59-7 home win over Campbell on Saturday. They then they got some help getting back into the top 25 of The Associated Press college football poll.

UNC reentered the rankings after one week out, coming in at No. 24 after improving to 7-2 on the season. The top nine teams in the rankings stayed the same this week, led by Georgia, Michigan, Ohio State and Florida State, which all received first-place votes. After beating Wake Forest 24-21 on Saturday, Duke received four votes, while NC State beat Miami and appeared on one ballot with a 25th-place vote.

UNC, Duke in agreement: Victory Bell a big deal The rivals prepare for an emotional showdown on Saturday

By Shawn Krest North State Journal MACK BROWN remembers a Carolina-Duke game early in his first tenure as head coach of the Tar Heels. It was 1992, and UNC was on the verge of returning to a bowl game, Brown’s first since suffering through twin 1-10 seasons in his first two years with the team.

“I had just married Sally,” he recalled, “and they said, ‘If you lose to Duke, you’ll play in Hawaii, at the Hula Bowl. If you beat Duke, you’ll go to play in the Peach Bowl.’ Sally said to me, ‘Oh my gosh, I hope we lose!

We’d get to go to Hawaii!’”

Brown had to quickly give his new bride her first lesson in the rivalry game.

“I said, ‘No, sweetie. That’s not the way this works. If you beat Duke, you’ll have enough money to go to Hawaii. If you lose to Duke, you’ll probably get fired.’”

Brown and the Tar Heels beat Duke that year, and each of the five following seasons before he left to coach Texas. Since returning to the sidelines in Chapel Hill, he’s beaten Duke all four times they’ve played. It’s safe to say that streak of victories has helped him and Sally afford to make the trip to Hawaii a few times.

While most coaches tend to downplay what the rest of us think of as “big games,” the coachspeak goes out the window when it’s Carolina-Duke week. It’s a must-win or, to be more accurate, a mustn’t-lose, and everyone on both sides knows it.

“Carolina-Duke is bigger than anything else,” Brown said. “The

“Carolina-Duke is bigger than anything else.”

Mack Brown, UNC coach rivalry game this week is bigger than what happens at the end of the year with the postseason … any of that stuff. This is a fun game that’s been played for so long, that’s really important to both schools. So I would say this game overrides everything else.”

Duke coach Mike Elko also wasn’t pulling out any “it’s important because it’s our next game” cliches.

“Everybody knows what this game means and what this game is about around here,” he said. “It’s an opportunity for our seniors to go and compete and try to get the bell and bring it the hell back here to Durham,

Obscure rule change has college players putting up big numbers For the first time in 70 years, it’s legal to wear the digits 6, 7, 8 and 9

By Shawn Krest North State Journal PAXSON WOJCIK made history in his first few seconds as a North Carolina Tar Heel.

The transfer from Brown got the start in UNC’s season opener, and as the ball was tipped off, Wojcik became the first Tar Heels player to wear jersey No. 8 in more than 70 years.

For the record, Dick Patterson was the last Carolina player to wear 8, back in 1951, two years before the birth of the ACC. When Seth Trimble came off the bench about 10 minutes in, he became the first Heel to wear No. 7 since Simon Terrell in 1950.

“Eight’s always been my lucky number,” Wojcik, who wore 0 with Brown last year, explained. “I was born 8/8, Au-

AP PHOTO

UNC’s Paxson Wojcik, who transferred to the Tar Heels from Brown for his final year of eligibility, is one player taking advantage of the NCAA’s new rule that allows players to wear numbers higher than five. gust 8th.”

Good news for Cancers, Leos and Virgos — for the first time in seven decades, college basketball players can wear digits

greater than 5 on their uniforms. The NCAA decided to change one of the oddest rules in sports over the offseason despite the fact that there was not

and so that’s not something that we take lightly. We understand how important that is to our fans, our alumni and all the people associated with Duke football.”

As if the game needed any more heat applied to it, both Carolina and Duke are still fighting for position in the second tier of the ACC (defined as “all the bowl teams after Florida State”) and hold out hopes of making it to the conference championship game next month.

It will also be homecoming at UNC, as well as Senior Day. And if the final home game for the senior class wasn’t emotional enough, there’s a good chance it will include a notable junior as well.

“I love Drake Maye like a son,” Brown said of his star quarterback, who is likely playing his last home game with the Tar Heels. “We will ask him if he wants to (participate in the pregame senior ceremony). It’s not my place to tell him to. … He’s so humble and doesn’t want attention brought to himself, but I think it would be cool for him to walk out there, for everybody to say thank you.”

While UNC knows who will See UNC-DUKE, page B4

much of an outcry to do so. Yet here we are, with a new look for this college basketball season.

The rule in question can be found in the official NCAA officiating rulebook at rule 1, section 22, article 7, clause b.2. It read, “The following numbers are legal: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 00, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, and 55. Team rosters can include 0 or 00, but not both.”

That’s a long-winded way of saying that no digits greater than 5 can be used, in either the tens place or the ones place on a college jersey. The reasoning was that referees needed to be able to signal fouls to the scorer’s table, using one hand for each digit on the jersey.

The original rule was the solution to something that wasn’t really that big of a problem. The NBA has always allowed numbers over 5 on jerseys.

George Mikan wore 99 in the late 1940s. Bill Russell wore 6 in the ’60s, and Dr. J wore 6 in the ’70s. Dennis Rodman wore 91 in the ’90s. More recently, Kobe Bryant (8) and LeBron James (6) have worn numbers that would be illegal in college.

See NUMBERS, page B3

B2 WEDNESDAY

11.8.23

TRENDING

Yoshinobu Yamamoto: The Japanese ace will be allowed to move to a Major League Baseball team, the Orix Buffaloes announced after the team lost Game 7 of the Japan Series to the Hanshin Tigers. Yamamoto, expected to be a top target, pitched two games during the Japan Series.

He allowed seven earned runs in Game 1 but came back in Game 6 and struck out 14 — a series record.

Alex Grinch: The Southern California defensive coordinator was fired with two games left in the Trojans’ regular season. Head coach Lincoln Riley dropped his longtime top assistant one day after USC gave up 572 yards and 52 points to No. 5 Washington in the Trojans’ third loss in four games.

Grinch first became Riley’s defensive coordinator at Oklahoma in 2019.

Daniel Dhers: The Venezuelan BMX freestyle legend said he planned on “incinerating” his bicycle after he failed to reach the podium at the Pan American Games in Chile.

The 38-year-old Olympic silver medalist, who plans to retire after next year’s Paris Olympics, fell twice during his runs.

Argentina’s José Torres, an X-Games champion, won the gold medal in Santiago.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 1, 2023

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

BASKETBALL

Walter Davis, a five-time NBA All-Star and standout at UNC, died of natural causes in Charlotte at age 69, the school announced. Davis helped UNC to the NCAA title game in 1977 before losing to Marquette. He was drafted by the Suns and became NBA rookie of the year, playing 11 of his 16 pro seasons in Phoenix.

He was the uncle of current Tar Heels coach Hubert Davis.

JACOB KUPFERMAN | AP PHOTO

“I have to manage risk-reward.”

Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young after two of his three interceptions were returned for touchdowns in Sunday’s 27-13 loss to the Colts.

ROBERT WILLETT | THE NEWS & OBSERVER VIA AP

SOCCER

NFL

PAUL SANCYA | AP PHOTO

“Tough one to swallow.”

East Carolina coach Mike Houston after the Pirates came up short in an upset bid against No. 24 Tulsa in a 13-10 loss in Greenville.

PRIME NUMBER

10,000 Career points for Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, who eclipsed the mark in Boston’s win over the Nets on Saturday. The 25-year-old Tatum, who played one season at Duke and was the third overall pick by the Celtics in 2017, is the youngest player in franchise history to score 10,000 points.

The previous record holder was Antoine Walker, who was 26.

ADAM DAVY | AP PHOTO

JOHN LOCHER | AP PHOTO

U.S. Soccer is closing in on naming Chelsea’s Emma Hayes as the new coach of the women’s national team, The Associated Press reported. Hayes has won 14 major trophies at Chelsea, including six WSL titles, two domestic league and cup doubles, and one trophy treble since taking over the team in 2012.

Giants quarterback Daniel Jones has a torn ACL in his right knee and is going to miss the rest of the season, the team announced Monday. The No. 6 overall pick in 2019 out of Duke has met with team doctors, but a date for surgery has not yet been set. Undrafted free agent Tommy DeVito will likely start for New York this weekend.

NASCAR

MATT KELLEY | AP PHOTO

Cole Custer pulled away from Justin Allgaier during a two-lap overtime shootout to win his first Xfinity Series championship on Saturday at Phoenix Raceway.

The 25-year-old Custer had driven in the Cup Series for Stewart-Haas Racing the past three seasons before being demoted to the Xfinity Series.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

B3

Doeren becomes winningest football coach in NC State history The Wolfpack’s 20-6 win over Miami was the coach’s 78th with the school

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RALEIGH — With a 20-6 win over the Miami Hurricanes Saturday night, NC State football coach Dave Doeren became the winningest coach in school history.

The victory gave Doeren his 78th win in his 11th season leading the Wolfpack. The win over Miami also gave him a victory over every current ACC school.

The NC State win record was previously held by Earle Edwards, who is the longest-tenured coach in school history, leading the Wolfpack from 1954-70. During 17 seasons in Raleigh, Edwards had a 77-88-8 record and led the Pack to five ACC titles.

Doeren tied Edwards’ record the week before in his team’s 24-17 win over Clemson, and he didn’t need long to move into sole possession of the record, doing it in 45 games fewer than Edwards.

“There was a time where there were some other schools trying to get me to leave here and we decided to stay,” Doeren said. “When I came back and met with the team, met with the staff, one of the things I said was that I’m here and I want to win the record. I want to be the winningest coach in NC State football history. That mattered to me. It’s something that I dug in on, and all those coaches and staff have helped me through this.”

AP PHOTO

NC State coach Dave Doeren reacts during the Wolfpack’s win Oct. 28 against Clemson.

Doeren was named Wolfpack head coach on Dec. 1, 2012, replacing Tom O’Brien.

His highlights at NC State include three nine-win seasons, eight bowl appearances and eight winning seasons. He has coached four consensus All-Americans (Chris Dunn, Ikem Ekwonu, Garrett Bradbury and Bradley Chubb) and had 27 players drafted into the NFL, including three who were first round selections.

Doeren’s teams have always been hard-nosed and blue-collar, taking on the personality of head coach.

“I always feel like everything starts with my attitude and my energy,” Doeren said. “I think if

“No matter how tough it is, I’m going to keep fighting it. And because I do that, I think it wears off on people in the program.”

Dave Doeren, NC State coach there’s one thing that I am proud of about myself it’s that I don’t quit. I’m very persistent. No matter how tough it is, I’m going to keep fighting it. And because I do that, I think it wears off on people in the program. The DNA of this

place, which is one of the things that I love about NC State, is to never, never quit.”

And his players have always rallied to that energy.

“Coach Doeren’s very straightforward,” said graduate linebacker Payton Wilson. “He’s a very blunt person. He’s never going to tell you anything that he doesn’t think, and even if you don’t want to hear it, he’s going to tell you.

He’s just a very honest person.

We love the way he coaches and we love the enthusiasm that he brings. He’s also really vulnerable with us. Being vulnerable in front of your team really helps just understand that we have his trust and he has our trust.

“We love Coach Doeren. He’s an amazing coach, an amazing player’s coach and we’d fight for him till the end of the day. So him getting that record probably meant more to us than it did to him.”

The journey hasn’t always been easy for Doeren, but the coach has been able to rely on his faith, family and those close to him for support along the way.

“I came in here very successful from Northern Illinois, but I didn’t know enough at that time,” Doeren said. “I’ve learned a lot along the way. I’ve learned through failure and I’ve learned through success, and I think as a head coach, who’s in that circle of trust with you really matters.

“I can’t say enough about having Ruffin McNeill here with me.

Having Ruff on my side has been a pivotal point for me to be able to sit in that chair in his office and sometimes laugh but oftentimes just to talk about the day. It’s great to have a sounding board like that.

For any young coach out there I would tell you to find somebody like that that can work with you and give you that mentorship.”

While the record is nice, Doeren’s attention is still focused on the job at hand. The Wolfpack is 6-3 overall and 3-2 in the ACC with three regular season games remaining, starting with a trip to Wake Forest on Saturday.

Doeren is 5-5 all-time against the Demon Deacons and will be hoping to add another win to his total.

“I’m very proud and thankful,” Doeren said. “I’m proud of the team, thankful to the team, to the staff and to the fans. It’s great to own that record. I’m very proud of all of the coaches that have been here with me throughout this and the players that have been here with me throughout us. It’s an 11year thing. It’s not me, it’s everybody. Very thankful and looking forward to what’s next.”

The godfather of college basketball analytics: Ken Pomeroy A look at the man who created KenPom

“I definitely feel more responsible. When it was a hobby, it was like, ‘Hey, all this is for fun.’”

By Shawn Krest North State Journal LAST SEASON, the North Carolina Tar Heels became the first team in college basketball history to go from preseason No. 1 to missing the NCAA Tournament. But don’t blame Ken Pomeroy.

“I think North Carolina was ninth in my rankings,” said Pomeroy, the namesake of KenPom. “If you look at all the mathematical ratings out there, I don’t think anybody had Carolina at 1.

It was kind of a runaway snowball situation in the offseason.

It went from everybody thought they’d be top 10 to everybody agreed they’d be No. 1. It’s kind of odd. You saw what could happen.

The worst-case scenario played out for them.”

The entire point of Pomeroy’s website is to ignore the type of hot-take groupthink that put the Tar Heels atop the polls. Since its creation in 2004, KenPom has become the college basketball analytics bible, with everyone from radio announcers to fans to team officials checking in on what the numbers say about their program. Pomeroy realized his site had jumped into the establishment mainstream when he fielded his first angry call from a head coach.

“I used to have pace of play on the site,” Pomeroy remembers.

“But there were definitely differ-

NUMBERS from page B1

Referees never seemed to struggle to identify any of them when they committed fouls.

The new digits are part of an overall loosening of uniform restrictions. Teams can now get more creative with the layout of logos and text as they come up with new jersey designs. Players no longer need special permission to wear religious headgear during games. And rule 1-22-7b-2 has gotten edited down.

“The following numbers are legal: 0-99,” it now reads. “Team rosters can include 0 or 00, but not both.”

There has not exactly been a

Ken Pomeroy

ences about how that pace comes about — how fast a team plays on offense or defense can have an effect on pace. Then I had a coach complain to me about just looking at pace.

“You have us playing at a slow pace, but we actually play pretty fast,” Pomeroy remembers the coach saying. “I’m not running down the shot clock every time or anything like that.”

Pomeroy started explaining how pace was calculated, and the coach cut in.

“I’m trying to get recruits here,” the coach said. “And they’re looking at pace and thinking we play slow down.”

Pomeroy looked into the numbers and determined that the

coach was right. His team did have a brisk offensive pace. “His defense was slowing him down,” Pomeroy said. So he ended up breaking the statistic into separate numbers for offensive and defensive pace of play.

Pomeroy started KenPom as a hobby while working as a meteorologist, but the angry coach was just one of several signs that what once had been a side gig had quickly grown into an industry for him.

“I definitely feel more responsible,” he said. “That’s one of the drawbacks of doing this as a job.

When it was a hobby, it was like, ‘Hey, all this is for fun.’ If there was bad data on the site, who cares? I remember one summer

the site was down for three days, and I didn’t even know it.”

“That was obviously pre-Twitter,” he added.

It’s a different world for Ken Pomeroy, and KenPom, now.

“A lot of times, I would get creative ideas, things I want to try,” he said. “That’s always a fun part of this enterprise, to just throw silly stuff on the site and see what happens, how people react.

That’s the part of the creative side of me I need to exercise. But I can do that less and less, now. It’s most critical that the site works.

I don’t want to put something up and jeopardize the site functioning.”

Still, with the start of a new season, Pomeroy remembers what lured him away from the weather and onto the hardwood — the joy of coming up with preseason ratings.

“This is one of my favorite times of the year as an intellectual exercise,” he said. “Once the season starts, all the ratings converge, since we’re all using the same data. But preseason ratings, there are a lot of different methodologies, and we’re all

run on the newly legal numbers.

In fact, the change seems to have been met with a collective shrug by college players. Including Trimble and Wojcik, a total of 43 players from teams in power conferences will be wearing previously illegal numbers this season. Among ACC teams from the state, only UNC opted to take any old numbers out of mothballs. Duke, Wake Forest and NC State remain old school, perhaps looking to gain favor with ACC referees by making their lives easier.

USC’s Bronny James, wearing the 6 jersey his dad donned in Miami, is probably the biggest name to take advantage of the

new rule. Of the 43 power conference players wearing numbers with 6, 7, 8 or 9, 39 players opted for single digit numbers: 7 was the most popular, with 12 players choosing it. The least popular single-digit number was 6, with just a half-dozen players wearing it.

Only four players put the new numbers into double-digit jersey numbers: Xavier’s Lazar Djokovic (17) and UCLA’s Jan Vide (27) both freshmen, Arizona’s Keshad Johnson (16), a transfer who wore 0 with San Diego State, and Missouri’s Connor Vanover, the only power conference player to choose a number greater than the previ-

ous maximum, 55. Vanover will wear 75 this year.

Among non-power conference teams in the state, roughly half have players taking advantage of the rule change. Eight — App State, Elon, Davidson, UNC Asheville, NC Central, Western Carolina, UNC Wilmington and UNC Greensboro — are only using digits 0-5. The other seven teams have a combined 16 players with new digits. East Carolina, Queens, High Point and Gardner-Webb have three each.

Just like the power conferences across the nation, in-state players prefer single digits to double, with 15 of the 18 (includ-

SHAWN KREST | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Ken Pomeroy, the founder of KenPom.com, has turned a hobby into one of the most important websites in college basketball.

trying to come up with the most accurate rating. It’s a really fun challenge.”

As the Tar Heels showed last season, however, even if Pomeroy has a team ranked ninth, it doesn’t mean they’re destined for greatness.

“Preseason rankings can only be so accurate,” he cautioned.

“Just because we ranked somebody 12, it’s not set in stone they’ll be that team over the course of the year. UConn won it all. They were around 25 in my preseason ratings. FAU had a run. They were in the 90s. That stuff happens. It’s just a testament to the sport. Preseason ratings are an estimate of what we think you’ll do based on a history of all the teams that look like you. The error bars associated with those are pretty large. Carolina is the first 1 to not make the tournament, but reasonable error bars for the top team — half the time, they’d finish out of the top five, or maybe worse — top seven or eight.”

The good news is, he doesn’t have to worry about getting nasty calls from coaches about where their team is ranked to start the year.

“Preseason rankings, fans get a little offended by them sometimes,” he said. “I haven’t heard complaints from coaches. In my own experience, when coaches disagree, I can usually have mature conversations with them. A lot of them don’t pay attention to them. They don’t know where they’re ranked.”

After all, this whole thing was supposed to be just a hobby.

ing Wojcik and Trimble) choosing one-digit numbers. Seven is again the most popular, with six players in North Carolina wearing it. High Point’s Liam Carney will wear 16, as will NC A&T’s Nikolaos Chitikoudis. Charlotte’s Iaroslav Niagu will wear the largest number in college basketball this season, No. 99.

International players and transfers are the most likely to test out the new rule, the former perhaps unfamiliar with the jersey number restrictions in the first place and the latter looking to make a new start.

“It’s the first year we can do it, and it’s my last year,” Wojcik said. “So I said, ‘Why not?’”

B4

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Ryan Blaney wins 1st career Cup Series title Team Penske earned back-to-back championships The Associated Press AVONDALE, Ariz. — Ryan Blaney raced to his first career NASCAR Cup Series championship on Sunday by banging his way past contender Kyle Larson in the closing laps at Phoenix Raceway to give Team Penske back-to-back Cup titles.

The third-generation racer is the first Ohio-born driver to win the Cup title and followed teammate Joey Logano, who won for Roger Penske a year ago. It was an amazing finish for Ford, which struggled most of the season but came on late with Blaney, who won two of the final six playoff races.

The title was the fourth in the Cup Series for Penske, but this is the first time “The Captain” has consecutive Cups. His IndyCar program won back-to-back championships in 2016 and 2017 with Simon Pagenaud and Josef Newgarden, and Penske has 44 total championships across motorsports.

“What a year,” a tearful Blaney said after finishing second to Ross Chastain. “Congrats, RP. Thanks for giving me a shot.”

He then noted how important it was to win for Penske; the 86-year-old was recently hospitalized with shingles and missed Blaney’s win at Martinsville Speedway last Sunday. Penske was in Phoenix and calmly watched the race from a suite, but he made his way to the frontstretch to congratulate his 29-year-old driver.

Team Penske has won three Cup titles in the last six seasons.

“I thought the captain had to stay cool. He’s the coolest guy on the ship,” Penske said of watching the race with a headset he used frequently to calm Blaney over the radio. “I would say I probably was cool, but inside I was turning over. I told him before the race, ‘Win, lose or draw, you’re a champion.’”

Blaney has driven for Penske since 2013 when he was 19 years old.

“It was definitely on my mind to give him consecutive titles because he’s done everything in motorsports and we had a chance to go back-to-back on the Cup side with him,” Blaney said.

“We couldn’t pass up that opportunity. So everyone worked really hard to make it happen and I’m so proud of the effort.”

Blaney is the son of former

AP PHOTO

Ryan Blaney receives the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Cup from NASCAR president Steve Phelps on Sunday at Phoenix Raceway.

Cup driver Dave Blaney, who made 473 Cup starts over 17 seasons. Dave Blaney was a World of Outlaws champion, his brother, Dale, was a sprint car champion, and their father, Lou, was credited with multiple Midwest titles.

“Obviously I come from a family of racers, my grandfather, dad and uncle,” Blaney said. “Dad is obviously who I grew up watching and admiring, wanted to be like. To be able to do what he did, because as a kid I just wanted to do what dad did, so to be able to race and let alone compete for wins and championships, still have my parents around, people that you look up to that are still around, it makes it even more special.”

Chastain won the race in a Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing and is the first driver to win the season finale while not racing for the championship since Denny Hamlin in 2013, one year before this current elimination format began.

“I am beside myself that we were able to do that,” Chastain said. “Everybody came up with a way to make this thing turn, and we drove off into the sunset.”

Larson and William Byron finished third and fourth for Hendrick Motorsports, while Christopher Bell of Joe Gibbs Racing finished last in the 36car field with a broken brake rotor. They were the only four drivers eligible for the title Sunday and the championship was guaranteed to the highest finisher of the group.

Kevin Harvick finished seventh in the final race of his Cup career.

Blaney had to earn the win as he was clearly racing for the victory and went hard after Chastain, even growing annoyed with how hard the rival Chevy driver was racing a title contender. With 53 laps remaining, Blaney ran into the back of Chastain, which allowed Larson to get past Blaney.

Local vessel’s tagged marlin wins 2022-23 Great Marlin Race

UNC-DUKE from page B1

be starting at quarterback in the game, Duke’s quarterback situation is still fluid. Riley Leonard has been battling an ankle injury and missed last week’s game, as did freshman backup Henry Belin IV. Grayson Loftis got the start and became just the third true freshman in Duke history

Blaney lost four spots and was sixth on the last restart. Blaney made up some quick ground and eventually caught Larson, but he had to race door-to-door for several laps against the 2021 champion before finally clearing him with 20 laps remaining.

“Blaney had to work for it. He really had to work for it,” Larson said. “And guys around him that were not in the final four racing him really hard. He definitely deserved it and earned it.”

Larson was the only previous champion in the final four, while Blaney, Bell and Byron were racing for their first title.

Bell was the first driver eliminated after a brake rotor failure caused him to hit the wall 109 laps into the race. Bell was able to get the car back to pit road, but his afternoon was over.

“That’s the first time I’ve exploded a rotor in my career,” Bell said. “It stinks to not have the shot at the end of it. We were all four close.”

ond-place fish, which was also a Big Rock 2022 tag, traveled through a blue marlin hotspot, an area between the equator and 10 degrees north where blue marlins tagged in other locations, such as Bermuda and the Bahamas, have also traveled to. The hotspot is potentially a warm water area for feeding in the winter months.”

The IGFA Great Marlin Race is a research and conservation initiative that supplies recreational fishermen with satellite tags that can be used to tag caught billfish. Those tags then transmit data to Stanford University where researchers try to answer questions regarding billfish behaviors, migratory patterns and more.

“The IGFA Great Marlin Race was established to involve the angling community in citizen science,” said IGFA President Jason Schratwieser in a press release. “By coupling competitive spirit with conservation, we’re able to gather invaluable data that helps ensure the survival of these magnificent species. This year’s winners exemplify the heart of this program: a deep commitment to conservation and the betterment of sport fishing.”

take a full 60 minutes’ worth of playmaking and maybe even more for somebody to walk out of there with the bell.”

It reflected an attitude that the coach on the other side of the field could certainly appreciate.

“Mike was new last year,” Brown said of his Duke counterpart. “He’ll understand that he wants that bell.

IGFA Conservation Director Bruce Pohlot. “Just north of the equator, the blue marlin slow-

ly moved west towards Brazil and then turned south again, crossing the equator. The fish

then followed the coast south for another month before the tag popped off near the southern border of Brazil, off Sao Paulo.”

According to Pohlot, Waste Knot’s tag surfaced on April 7, 2023, after reaching the full programmed deployment period of 240 days.

Over those 240 days, the fish traveled a total estimated distance of 7,819 nautical miles.

It spent approximately 60% of the deployment within 33 feet of the surface where the water temperature ranged from 75 to 84 degrees. Deeper dives ranged between 82 to 492 feet where the water temperature varied from 57 to 84 degrees.

The deepest dive recorded occurred in mid-January to a depth of 1,070 feet where the water temperature was 54 degrees, the coldest water encountered during the deployment.

Waste Knot’s marlin also helped shed new light on ongoing research, specifically on unprecedented migration patterns.

“Waste Knot’s fish reached 25 degrees south in the South Atlantic, the farthest south recorded by the IGMR for a blue marlin tagged in the North Atlantic,” Pohlot said. “Both the winning fish and the sec-

to win his first start and the first since 1976.

“We don’t want to be surprised,” Brown said of preparing for all three Duke quarterbacks. The UNC coach, however, wouldn’t be surprised to see Leonard take the first snap of the game. “In a game like this one, most guys play if there’s any way they could possibly play.”

The winner of the game will get possession of the Victory Bell, which has been in Chapel Hill for the last four years, the longest stretch it has remained in one place since Carolina won eight in a row from 2004 to 2011.

“At the end of the day, this game means an awful lot,” Elko said. “It means an awful lot to us.

It means an awful lot to them.

Any time that’s the case and there’s such proximity between the schools, that just adds a level of intensity to it.

“So I think going through it you recognize the intensity, you recognize that neither program is going to give an inch. You recognize that both programs and teams are going to fight all the way to the end, and it’s going

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal A LOCAL VESSEL has made International Game Fish Association Great Marlin Race history thanks to the blue marlin it tagged in 2022.

Waste Knot, a 67-foot sportfisher owned by the Poole family, tagged the marlin as part of the 2022 Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, and the fish ended up swimming a straight-line distance of 4,149 nautical miles from the East Coast of the U.S. to the coast of Brazil.

This marked not only the longest journey for the 2022-23 Great Marlin Race, but it was also the fifth-longest recorded distance traveled by a billfish in the program’s history and third longest by a blue marlin.

“Following deployment, the marlin traveled east into the North Atlantic and then turned south traveling in a directed path towards the equator,” said

Blaney was furious on his radio and the message was delivered to Byron, who dates Blaney’s youngest sister, Erin.

“The 12 is melting down,” Byron was told over the radio. Byron, who won a Cup Series high six races this year, started from the pole and led 96 laps early.

“Once the track rubbered in, we got really tight. Especially when we lost the lead on track, we just had a big balance shift and got tight,” Byron said. “Just couldn’t gain a lot of speed.”

But there was still a final round of pit stops to come when a Kyle Busch spin brought out the final caution of the race with 37 laps remaining. Blaney was second when he headed to pit road, but it was Larson and the No. 5 Hendrick team that had the fastest pit stop.

“Let’s do this, guys,” Larson told his crew as he headed in for the stop.

Larson was the first of the title contenders off pit road, while

PHOTO COURTESY WASTE KNOT

This blue marlin caught by the crew of the Waste Knot during the 2022 Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament traveled more than 4,000 nautical miles after being tagged and released, earning the boat top honors in the 2022-23 Great Marlin Race.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

B5

Cedar Fair and Six Flags will merge to create a playtime powerhouse in North America The Associated Press Cedar Fair and Six Flags are merging to create an expansive amusement park operator with operations spread across 17 U.S. states and three countries.

The combined company, worth more than $3.5 billion, will boast 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks and nine resort properties in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. It will also have entertainment partnerships and a portfolio of intellectual property including Looney Tunes, DC Comics and Peanuts.

Amusement parks have seen an uptick in revenue but have struggled to raise attendance since the pandemic, even as other entertainment sectors have bounced back. A tie-up between two huge players is expected to at least lower costs.

Cedar Fair reported an attendance of 12.4 million guests in its third quarter, a 1% increase from a year earlier. Six Flags announced a 16% rise in its third-quarter attendance, which totaled 9.3 million guests.

But amusement parks, including Six Flags, has struggled to get people through the gates, said James Hardiman at Citi Investment Research.

“Whereas the theme park industry as a whole has been under significant pressure since the start of the pandemic, Six Flags has created additional pressure of its own, with a volatile new attendance and pricing strategy that has struggled to take root, alienating its core customers and leading to dramatic drops in

AP PHOTO /JAE C. HONG, FILE

Visitors ride on a roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain on its first day of reopening to members and pass holders in Valencia, Calif., on April 1, 2021. Cedar Fair and Six Flags Entertainment Corp. are merging, creating an expansive amusement park operator with operations spread across 17 states and three countries. visitation along the way,” Hardiman wrote.

Six Flags and Cedar Fair, which have little geographical overlap, anticipate $120 million in cost savings within two years of closing the deal.

Six Flags and Cedar Fair have talked about potential deals before, with Six Flags previously making an offer for Cedar Fair

in 2019, but it was turned down.

SeaWorld approached Cedar Fair with a bid last year, but that proposal was also rejected.

Under the agreement announced Thursday, Cedar Fair unitholders will receive one share of common stock in the combined company for each unit owned, while Six Flags shareholders will receive 0.5800

shares of stock in the combined company for each share owned.

Cedar Fair unitholders will own approximately 51.2% of the combined company, while Six Flags shareholders will own about 48.8%.

“Our merger with Six Flags will bring together two of North America’s iconic amusement park companies to establish a

highly diversified footprint and a more robust operating model to enhance park offerings and performance,” Cedar Fair CEO Richard Zimmerman said in a prepared statement.

Zimmerman will be president and CEO of the combined company. Selim Bassoul, president and CEO of Six Flags, will become executive chairman.

The companies said that given their broader geographic footprint as a single company, seasonal volatility should moderate.

The company’s newly formed board will include six directors from Cedar Fair and six directors from Six Flags.

The company will be headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, and will keep significant finance and administrative operations in Sandusky, Ohio, where Cedar Fair is based.

Six Flags is now based in Arlington, Texas.

Once the deal closes, the combined company will operate under the name Six Flags and trade under the ticker symbol “FUN” on the New York Stock Exchange.

The transaction, which was approved by both companies’ boards, is targeted to close in the first half of next year. It still needs approval from Six Flags shareholders.

Shares of Six Flags Entertainment Corp. and Cedar Fair LP were essentially flat before the opening bell Thursday, but both are up more than 9% this week after rumors of a deal began to spread.

Ricky Bell, from left, Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe of New Edition pose in the press room during the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at Barclays Center in New York.

PHOTO BY EVAN AGOSTINI/INVISION/AP

New Edition announces Las Vegas residency dates starting in late February after touring for 2 years The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — R&B group New Edition will bring their New Jack Swing tunes to Las Vegas early next year.

The Grammy-nominated sextet announced Monday that New Edition: Las Vegas will kick off Feb. 28. The group confirmed six residency shows at the Wynn Las Vegas’ Encore Theater, where acts like Diana Ross, Duran Duran, Lionel Richie and Brad Paisley have taken the stage.

“We just caught lightning in a bottle,” said Ronnie DeVoe, a founding member of New Edition — which includes Michael Bivins, Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant and Ricky Bell. Monday’s announcement

came after days after the group performed a tightly choreographed tribute to the Spinners at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in New York.

DeVoe said the band heard fans countless requests — particularly through social media — for them to perform in Sin City.

“We’re looking to touch that stage and continue on with the legacy,” he said.

After two consecutive North American tours, New Edition has planned for a more intimate setting at Encore, which seats 1,480.

“This is going to more theatrical than our Legacy and Culture tours,” Brown said. “This will be a lot more intimate. We wanted it to be up, close and personal for our fans.”

New Edition was founded by childhood friends in a Boston housing project and became one of the originators of the modern-day boy band. The group released their debut album “Candy Girl” in 1983 and rejuvenated the teen music scene in the mold of The Jackson Five with hit singles like “Candy Girl,” “Mr. Telephone Man” and “Cool It Now.” The group maintained success after puberty and laid the foundation for groups such as New Kids on the Block, the Backstreet Boys and Boyz II Men. But then, New Edition faced plenty of conflict — which included Brown’s erratic behavior during a concert tour, resulting in him being kicked out the group.

Tensions grew after Brown was

replaced by Gill.

Brown found success as a solo artist with the 1988 hit “Don’t Be Cruel.” Gill and Tresvant had their own solo careers, while Bell, Bivins and DeVoe created their own group, Bell Biv DeVoe, and soared with their 1990 debut album, “Poison,” which went quadruple platinum.

But eventually, all six members reconciled, reuniting for their sixth studio album “Home Again” in 1996. The group has toured the past couple of years.

Bell said the tours helped build cohesiveness and created more of an opportunity to appreciate each other. He’s grateful for the group’s longevity: “We have each other, we have our health, we have our families. Everybody’s

still here.”

Bivins said the same authentic brotherhood shown during New Edition’s recent tours will be on display in Las Vegas.

“Our audience got a chance to see growth, bond, brotherhood,” he said. “Sometimes that’s bigger than any record because people come to look for separation. But I think we’ll give them the glue.”

New Edition hasn’t released an album since 2004, but DeVoe said there’s a good chance the group will release new music leading up to their residency stint.

“It makes sense,” he said. “I think it’ll be a great time to get in the studio and put our vocals on something new and fresh.”

B6

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

‘Doc’ Antle of Netflix’s ‘Tiger King’ pleads guilty to wildlife trafficking and money laundering The Associated Press CONWAY, S.C. – An exotic wildlife preserve owner who gained notoriety on the popular Netflix series “Tiger King” plead guilty Monday to animal trafficking and money laundering, the U.S. Justice Department announced.

Bhagavan “Doc” Antle oversaw the sale or purchase of cheetah cubs, lion cubs, tigers and a juvenile chimpanzee that were all protected as endangered species, according to a Justice Department release. Officials said the 63-year-old man featured in a documentary miniseries about the tiger trade tried to hide animal payments as “donations” to his nonprofit organization.

“The defendant held himself out as a conservationist, yet repeatedly violated laws protecting endangered animals and then tried to cover up those violations,” Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division said in a statement.

Antle faces a maximum of five years’ imprisonment, fines up to $250,000 and three years of su-

pervised release for each count.

He operates Myrtle Beach Safari in South Carolina and is the founder of a nonprofit registered in the state called the Rare Species Fund.

Investigators found evidence that Antle and a coconspirator had also used cash acquired through the transportation and harboring of immigrants who illegally entered the country.

A jury this June acquitted Antle of five counts of animal cruelty. The judge in that case dismissed four more animal cruelty charges facing Antle and all charges against his two adult daughters.

It’s the latest fallout for the subjects of “Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness.” Joe Exotic, the show’s star, is serving a 21-year prison sentence for trying to hire two different men to kill animal welfare activist Carol Baskin. The ongoing feud between Joe Exotic — whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage — and Baskin featured prominently in the show.

Maldonado-Passage had one year shaved off his penalty last year as he began treatment for early-stage cancer.

This image provided by the Horry County Sheriff’s Office in Conway, S.C., shows Bhagavan “Doc” Antle.

The exotic wildlife preserve owner who gained notoriety on the popular Netflix series “Tiger King” plead guilty Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, to animal trafficking and money laundering, the U.S. Justice Department announced.

HORRY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP

Co-directors Jimmy Chin, left, and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi attend the New York Premiere of National Geographic Documentary Films’ “The Rescue” on, Oct. 5, 2021.

The pair, who won an Oscar for their documentary “Free Solo,” co-direct the film “Nyad.”

AP PHOTO

‘Free Solo’ filmmakers dive into narrative with thrilling swim drama ‘Nyad’ The Associated Press Filmmakers Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin have given audiences thrilling and sometimes terrifying front-row seats to incredible feats of human ambition in their documentary work.

From Alex Honnold’s white-knuckle climb up Yosemite’s El Capitan in the Oscar-winning “ Free Solo “ to the claustrophobic blackness awaiting the cave divers who rescued the trapped soccer team in Northern Thailand in “ The Rescue,” their understanding of the personalities capable of such impossible accomplishments is almost unparalleled in filmed storytelling.

It is not surprising, then, that they’d be interested and uniquely equipped to tell the story of Diana Nyad and her treacherous 110-mile (177-kilometer) swim from Cuba to Key West at age 64 for their first narrative film, “ Nyad,” now available to watch on Netflix.

But there would be at least one big difference in bringing “Nyad” to life: actors.

“In nonfiction, you observe.

You’re like the closest listener,” Vasarhelyi told The Associated Press in a recent interview.

In fictionalized narrative, she

found creative collaborators in their decorated core cast: Annette Bening, who plays Nyad, Jodie Foster as her friend and coach Bonnie Stoll, and Rhys Ifans as the ship’s navigator.

“It felt like a super-sizing of something,” she said. “Like, suddenly your creativity can go further because you have these resources and partners.”

Both Chin and Vasarhelyi, who are married and have two children, had been exploring opportunities in fiction when the script for “Nyad” came their way. Always drawn to characters with impossible dreams, they loved that this was wrapped in a female experience.

Vasarhelyi wasn’t without any experience working with actors, either, and in fact learned from the best. Twenty years ago, she was Mike Nichols’ assistant while he was making “Closer.”

“I thought everybody rehearsed for a month with Julia Roberts in the room and Jude Law and Clive Owen and Natalie Portman, and that everyone gets a private screening room in Covent Garden to watch the dailies every day and that Tom Stoppard stopped by all the time afterwards,” she said with a knowing laugh. “But what I took away from it was that rehearsal

is everything and the text is everything.”

Thanks to a nine-month postponement, they were able to really dig into the story with their cast and their screenwriter, Julia Cox. And, it turns out, aside from things like blocking and scheduling, their experience filming top athletes also applied to performers.

“Really, our job has been to create the space and the environment for them to perform at their best and bring a certain vibe on set as well,” Chin said.

“But it was an extraordinary experience working with some of the greatest actors of our time.”

Some of the lessons were hard learned, though. Chin recalled that on their first day of filming their first scene, Foster was out on the boat. They didn’t have enough time to shuttle a boat out in between shots, so the first notes they gave to their two-time Oscar winner were over a megaphone in front of the entire crew.

“It’s 450 people on set, everyone’s highly conscious that we’re first-time directors. We’re conscious that we’re first-time directors. The actors are conscious of it,” Chin said.

Though perhaps not ideal, they realized it was the only way to stay on schedule and a com-

promise they needed to make.

“There’s just different challenges,” he said.

Bening and Foster dove into their preparation, both intellectually and physically, spending time with their real-life counterparts and transforming their bodies. Bening spent a year training to swim and perfecting the strokes, getting comfortable with the five-hour stretches in the water that would be pivotal on set.

“What was amazing about Annette is she made her own Diana,” Vasarhelyi said. “She did the work to know and anticipate what her body would feel like and how would she walk after 55 hours. And she was not afraid of playing a complicated, 360 (degree) woman who is sometimes unlikable.”

Some in the small community of marathon swimmers have cast doubts on Nyad’s swim, which has not been officially ratified, but Nyad and her team have always maintained that she did what she said in 2013 — swim the distance unassisted and without a shark cage. The film casts her in a complex light, prickly and egotistical, but also repeatedly shows her adherence to rules.

“Diana Nyad was not afraid to

pursue her dreams, to be ambitious, to be hungry and fight for what she wants,” said Vasarhelyi.

“This opportunity to create two very rich roles for two pretty remarkable women that you don’t normally get to see, I think that was the reason why we did this.”

They got some of the best in the business to help, as well, including Oscar-winning cinematographer Claudio Miranda, who had plenty of experience in the water shooting Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi.” The resources on “Nyad” were a little different, though. Vasarhelyi laughed that if “Life of Pi” gave Miranda a Formula One racecar, their film could only get him roller skates.

“Everything just takes so much longer,” Chin said. “Even the prosthetics, it’d be four hours in the chair and then you only get a few takes. Or you’d get a perfect take, but the wave machine wasn’t working. So you have to reset, move the boat all the way back. It was a lot.”

But then sometimes everything would come together on the first take, like Nyad’s triumphant moment stepping on the beach.

“We didn’t know what Annette was going to bring in that See SWIM DRAMA, page B7

ty

age B7

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

SWIM DRAMA from page 6

moment, you know? Even in a table read, you’re not sure what you’re going to get,” Chin said. “But she nailed it on the first take. Everyone was crying. We’re not so much proud for us, but proud for our cast and crew.”

The ongoing actors strike, in which Hollywood’s film and television actors are fighting for fair contracts with major entertainment companies like Netflix has made the rollout of “Nyad” a little bittersweet.

With their other films, the filmmakers had loved watching their subjects get to see audiences respond to them and their work.

“We respect the fight that’s happening now. It is really important and urgent,” Vasarhelyi said. “But we haven’t had that sharing of that experience with the people who gave the most to the film.”

And, she said, “I really wish that Annette could be present so people will see how people celebrate her performance.”

B7

Japan’s Nintendo profits jump as its game sales get a boost from the hit Super Mario movie The Associated Press TOKYO — Nintendo reported an 18% rise in net profit for its first fiscal half on Tuesday, as sales continued to get a boost from its hit Super Mario movie, and the popularity of its software for various new video games.

April-September profit at Nintendo Co., which didn’t break down quarterly results, totaled nearly 271.3 billion yen ($1.8 billion), up from 230 billion yen a year earlier. Sales surged 21% to 796 billion yen ($5.3 billion).

Demand remained strong for Nintendo Switch game software, which got a healthy lift from the film starring the jumping plumber, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie.”

Among the games that sold well as a result of the film was “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe,” which sold 3.2 million units during the period, for cumulative sales of 57 million games, Nintendo said.

This year’s Super Mario movie is one of the top-selling animation films on record, second only to “Frozen II,” and the top ani-

mation film based on a video game.

Also helping lift results was the popularity of “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” game, released in May. The latest in the hit action-adventure series, it sold 19.5 million units worldwide.

Hardware sales climbed to 6.84 million machines, including various Switch models, from 6.68 million the previous year, for total cumulative sales of 132.5 million.

Nintendo expects to sell 15 million machines for the fiscal year through March 2024, including sales over the crucial Christmas and New Year’s shopping season.

Ahead of the holidays, Nintendo is planning to release the “Super Mario RPG” game software and Pokemon games.

Nintendo’s software sales grew in the fiscal half to 97 million games from 95 million.

Also popular in its recent game lineup was “Pikimin 4,” which went on sale in July.

Nintendo is urging every household to buy several Switch consoles, not just one, so family and friends can play together.

Nintendo, based in Kyoto, started selling

“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” last month, as the first totally new Super Mario series game played in side-scrolling mode in more than a decade.

It’s hoping to get a boost from other software makers releasing games for Nintendo machines. “We will work to invigorate the platform by supplementing existing titles with a continuous stream of new titles and add-on content,” said Nintendo.

Nintendo raised its full fiscal year profit forecast to 420 billion yen ($2.8 billion) from the 340 billion yen ($2.3 billion) estimate it gave in May. The new projection is still 3% lower than what was recorded the previous fiscal year, when at-home entertainment companies like Nintendo benefited from people staying home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The weak yen, which boosts the overseas earnings of Japanese exporters, is another plus for a company like Nintendo. It said it’s expecting the U.S. dollar to trade at 140 Japanese yen, up from 130 yen. The U.S. dollar has recently been trading at about 150 yen.

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND

NEW HANOVER

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 22 – E – 2123 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Roosevelt Creel, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before January 18, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 18th day of October, 2023.

Nancy Creel, Executor of the Estate of Roosevelt Creel NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 23E1663 State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Alex H. Culbreth, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 262 Rockhill Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28312, on or before January 18, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 18th day of October, 2023.

Alex Christopher Culbreth Executor of the Estate of Alex H. Culbreth, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 10/18/23, 10/25/23, 11/1/23 and 11/8/23

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF BRIAN M LINDSAY, DECEASED SEPTEMBER 27, 2023 The undersigned having qualified as Administrator of the estate of Brian M Lindsay, deceased, late of New Hanover County, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 24nd day of January 2024, or be barred from their recovery.

All persons indebted to said estate are asked to please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

Clyde M Lindsay, Jr. Administrator P. O. Box 1887 Lumberton, NC 28359

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE BEFORE THE CLERK FILE # 23 E 1413 Having qualified as EXECUTOR of the Estate of Ian R. Moseley, deceased, the undersigned does hereby give notice to all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the said Estate to present them by giving evidence of same to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of February, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the deceased or said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This, the 1st day of November, 2023.

Justin Smith, Executor of the Estate of Ian R. Moseley c/o PAUL A. NEWTON, ATTORNEY P.O. Box 1807 Wilmington, North Carolina 28402 910-769-2896

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned having qualified as Executors of the Estate of Audrey M. Morse, deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, Estate File Number 2021 E 01429, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present such claims to the undersigned at 247 Charlotte Street, Suite 205, Asheville, North Carolina on or before the 24th day of January, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment.

This the 25th day of October, 2023.

Jennifer Carol McCullough & Becky Lynne McClure, Executors c/o John C. Frue, Attorney 247 Charlotte Street, Suite 205 Asheville, NC 28801 (828)255-0309

CUMBERLAND

Having qualified as EXECUTRIX of the Estate of Joan Murphy Vayo, deceased, the undersigned does hereby give notice to all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the said Estate to present them by giving evidence of same to the undersigned on or before the 14th day of February, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the deceased or said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This, the 8th day of November, 2023.

Ann Vayo Geraci, Executrix of the Estate of Joan Murphy Vayo c/o PAUL A. NEWTON, ATTORNEY P.O. Box 1807 Wilmington, North Carolina 28402 910-769-2896

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 23sp810 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY WILLIAM L. CLAYTON, II AND TYRONNIA T. CLAYTON DATED SEPTEMBER 22, 2011 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8730 AT PAGE 750 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 2021E000084 In the matter of the Estate of Paul Edward Hankins Sr. Deceased The undersigned,qualified as Executor of the Estate of Paul Edward Hankins, deceased.

Notify all creditors of said estate to file their claim against same on or before January 31,2024, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of same all persons indebted to said Estate will please make payment of such indebtedness at once.

All claims against said Estate are to be paid to the undersigned : Paul Edward Hankins Jr., Executor of the Estate of Paul Edward Hankins Sr. of 104 Berry Rd Castle Hayne NC 28429 This is 25th day of October,2023 PAUL EDWARD HANKINS JR. Executor of the Estate of Paul Edward Hankins Sr. Deceased 843-670-7810 5323 Hunt Course lane Hollywood SC 29449

Having qualified as executor on the estate of Hazel Marie Metz, deceased, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at 4546 Riveroaks Drive, Randleman, NC 27317, on or before February 10, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment.

This 8th day of November, 2023.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23E 1231 Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of James Thompson Sidbury, deceased, late of New Hanover, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of said James Thompson Sidbury to present them to the undersigned on or before the 27th day of January, 2024 (which date is at least three (3) months from the first publication of this notice) or same will be pleaded bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment.

This the 25th day of October, 2023 Christopher Ray Sidbury 505 Wendover Court Wilmington, NC 28411 Executor of the Estate of James Thompson Sidbury Oct 25, Nov 1,8,15 2023

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE BEFORE THE CLERK

State of North Carolina New Hanover In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Having Qualified as Executrix of The Estate of Wanda Blanton Wells Deceased 10/7/2023 of New Hanover County, this is to notify all persons, firms, corporations ,having claims against the Estate of said Wanda Blanton Wells to present them to the undersigned on or before January 16, 2024 This is October 16th,2023 Terri Sellars Carr 432 Bayshore Drive Wilmington,NC 28411 Executrix of the Estate of Wanda Blanton Wells

Denise M. Saunders Executor of the Estate of Hazel Marie Metz

WAKE NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Estate of Samuel J. Davis, late of Wake County (23E004953-910), North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 22nd day of January 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 18th day of October 2023.

Lillian Annette D. Israel Kathryn Dell D. Tims Co-Executors of the Estate of Samuel J. Davis c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/8/2023)

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Sandra Lee Sessoms, late of Wake County (23E004987-910), North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 22nd day of January 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 18th day of October 2023.

Doris Holland Gilbert Executor of the Estate of Sandra Lee Sessoms c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/8/2023)

FILE # 23 E 1472 Having qualified as EXECUTRIX of the Estate of Robert Leodore Hamel, deceased, the undersigned does hereby give notice to all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the said Estate to present them by giving evidence of same to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of February, 2024, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the deceased or said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This, the 1st day of November, 2023.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on November 20, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed William L. Clayton, II and Tyronnia T. Clayton, dated September 22, 2011 to secure the original principal amount of $262,604.00, and recorded in Book 8730 at Page 750 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the estate of Betty Jean Hossfeld deceased of New Hanover County, North Carolina, this is notify all persons, firms, corporations, having claims against the Estate of Betty Jean Hossfeld to present to the undersigned on or before January 25, 2024.

This is the 25th day of October, 2023.

Leslie Hossfeld, Executor of the Estate of Betty Jean Hossfeld 110 Crestwood Drive Clemson, SC 29631

RANDOLPH

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

BEFORE THE CLERK FILE # 23 E 1486

Having qualified as Personal Representative of the Estate of Gregory Mark Griffith, deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned, care of their attorney, on or before January 26, 2024 (which date is at least three (3) months from the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned, care of their attorney.

This the 25th day of October, 2023.

Emily Ware Griffith, Administratrix of the Estate of Gregory Mark Griffith, Deceased c/o Addison T. Palanza Atlantic Coast Law 314 Walnut Street, Suite 100 Wilmington, NC 28401-4160 Please publish 10/25, 11/01, 11/08, 11/15

NEW HANOVER

Martha Lynn Hamel, Executrix of the Estate of Robert Leodore Hamel c/o PAUL A. NEWTON, ATTORNEY P.O. Box 1807 Wilmington, North Carolina 28402 910-769-2896

RANDOLPH

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Alison Woodruff Bewley (23E005424-910), late of Wake County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 11th day of February 2024 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 8th day of November 2023.

Emily Beth Bewley Melton Executor of the Estate of Alison Woodruff Bewley c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 11/8, 11/15, 11/22, 11/29/2023)

NOTICE TO CREDITORS File Number 23 CR 612 NORTH CAROLINA RANDOLPH COUNTY The undersigned, Andrew W Davis, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Eddie W Davis, deceased, late of RANDOLPH County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the date of January 31, 2024, or this notice will be plead in bar of their recovery.

All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 27th Days of October, 2023.

Andrew W Davis Title: Executor 200-J Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Run Dates: 11/01/2023, 11/08/2022, 11/15/2023, 11/22/2023.

Address of property: 6013 Pink Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28314 Tax Parcel ID: 9477-402169 Present Record Owners: William L. Clayton, II and Tyronnia T. Clayton The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are William L. Clayton, II and Tyronnia T. Clayton.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition

expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for

Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 31, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By: 23-116285

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

B8 TAKE NOTICE

Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the

officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential

this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after

receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after

receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of

and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on November 16, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Constance Curtis and Christopher Curtis, dated March 6, 2020 to secure the original principal amount of $292,429.00, and recorded in Book 10715 at Page 123 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 3 8 1 6 Shire St, Hope Mills, NC 28348 Tax Parcel ID: 0404-14-

8931 Present Record Owners: Christopher Curtis and Constance Curtis The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Christopher Curtis and Constance Curtis.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and

assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of

the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is September 18, 2023. _________ ____________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22 SP 555

at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 2:00PM on November 14, 2023, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit:

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Gregory A. Dean and Angela D. Dean, in the original amount of $136,600.00, payable to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., dated January 6, 2012 and recorded on January 11, 2012 in Book 08807, Page 0020, Cumberland County Registry.

Being all of Lot Number 100 in a subdivision known as KINWOOD, SECTION 8 and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 57, at page 17, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Parcel ID: 0540-15-0709

($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale.

This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owners of the property are Gregory A. Dean and Angela D. Dean.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser

and against the party or parties in possession by the Clerk of Superior Court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the

knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

CUMBERLAND AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 342 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Cora J. McMillian and Agatha McMillian (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Agatha McMillian and Cora J. McMillian, Heirs of Cora J. McMillian: Agatha McMillian, Maggie McMillian, Alta Kamara, James McMillian, Rosalind McAllister, Linda Faye Hill, Jennings McMillian; Heirs of Agatha McMillian: Maggie McMillian, Alta Kamara, James McMillian, Rosalind McAllister, Linda Faye Hill, Jennings McMillian; Heirs of Maggie McMillian: Frederic McMillian, Cedric McMillian; Heirs of Alta Kamara: Jennings McMillian; Heirs of James McMillian: Uyonda Lovett, Courtney Jones, Marcel Williams a/k/a Henry Marcel Williams, Termona Williams a/k/a Tyrone Termona Williams, Darryl Maurice McMillian; Heirs of Rosalind McAllister: Marcus McAllister, Tavaris McAllister, Marcus L. McAllister, Dameka Godard; Heirs of Marcus McAllister: Tavaris McAllister, Marcus L. McAllister, Dameka Godard; Heirs of Linda Faye Hill: Barry Anthony Hill, Michael Anthony Hill, Carla Antonia Hill) to Brian L. Bazar, Trustee(s), dated May 27, 1998, and recorded in Book No. 4871, at Page 588

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 225 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Karen J. Hurst (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Karen J. Hurst) to Jennifer Grant, Trustee(s), dated February 24, 2014, and recorded in Book No. 09382, at Page 0615 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 965 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Shaponica M. Griddine and Michael Griddine (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Shaponica M. Griddine) to Trustee Services of Carolina, Trustee(s), dated June 26, 2010, and recorded in Book No. 08435, at Page 0695 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on November 13, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 19 SP 1373 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Sandra Johnson (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Sandra D. Johnson) to A. Grant Whitney, Trustee(s), dated October 3, 2014, and recorded in Book No. 09520, at Page 0128 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on July 31, 2017, in Book No. 10140, at Page 0388 A Loan Modification recorded on September 28, 2018, in Book No. 10381, at Page 835, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed,

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22SP499 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY CONSTANCE CURTIS AND CHRISTOPHER CURTIS DATED MARCH 6, 2020 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 10715 AT PAGE 123 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein

Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale

22 SP 1050 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Mark Derrico and Nicole Derrico to West Title Agency, LLC, Trustee(s), which was dated May 23, 2017 and recorded on May 23, 2017 in Book 10096 at Page 504, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located,

DAVIDSON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION DAVIDSON COUNTY 23sp496 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MARJORIE D. CARVER DATED JULY 23, 2007 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1811 AT PAGE 1596 IN THE DAVIDSON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and

in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on September 5, 2018, in Book No. 10373, at Page 681 , default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on November 20, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that piece, parcel or lot of land situate, lying and being in Cumberland County, NC and known and designated as Lot No. 31, in a Subdivision known as Emerald Gardens, Section IV, Part I, recorded in Book of Plats 38, at Page 21 of the Cumberland County, NC Public Land Records, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 6575 Stillwater Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

November 13, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 8, Block E as shown on that certain plat entitled “GREENWOOD HOMES, SECTION 4” dated November 1954, prepared by Guy Hudgins, Registered Engineer and recorded in Plat Book 16, Page 44, Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1801 Catawba Street, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to

Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Situate in the County of Cumberland, State of North Carolina; Being all of Lot Number 42 in a Subdivision known as Three Lakes, Section 1, Part “B” and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 89, Page 147, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1114 Whisker Lake Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Tax I. D. No: 0456-00-0157 Being the same property conveyed by North Carolina General Warranty Deed Grantor: Christopher P. Curlee and wife, Jennifer L. Curlee Grantee: Shaponica Griddine Dated 5/15/2007 Recorded: 5/18/2007 DOC#/ Book-Page: 7592-0024 Note: For Street numbering purposes known as: 1114 Whikerlake Dr., Fayetteville, North Carolina 28312

the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on November 13, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Hope Mills in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 109, in a subdivision known as WORTHINGTON, SECTION TWO, PART TWO, according to a plat of the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 109, Page 181, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 514 Sunpointe Drive, Hope Mills, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 237 Lofton Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311. Tax ID: 0540-15-0709 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on November 15, 2023 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 18, in a subdivision known as Correction Map Braxton Village, Section Two, Phase Two, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 135, Page 84, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 320 Wishaw Court, Hope Mills, NC 28348.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration

because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Davidson County courthouse at 10:00AM on November 20, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Davidson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Marjorie D. Carver, dated July 23, 2007 to secure the original principal amount of $58,092.00, and recorded in Book 1811 at Page 1596 of the Davidson County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 2 7 2 Jeanette Dr, Lexington, NC 27295

Being that parcel of land conveyed to William J. McMillian and wife, Cora J McMillian from Fayetteville Wholesale Building Supply, Inc. by that deed dated 05/17/72 and recorded 06/07/72 in Deed Book 2324, at Page 430 of the Cumberland County, NC Public Registry.

NOTE: William J. McMillian, Deceased; Date of Death: 03/15/93 Being that parcel of land conveyed to Cora J. McMillian, unmarried and Agatha McMillian, unmarried, Tenants in Common from Cora J. McMillian, unmarried by that deed dated 05/08/98 and recorded 05/13/98 in Deed Book 4860, at Page 744 of the Cumberland County, NC Public Registry.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable

7A-308(a)(1).

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale.

This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Mark Derrico and wife, Nicole Derrico.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of

Tax Parcel ID: 1800400000049A Present Record Owners: Marjorie D. Carver The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Marjorie D. Carver.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and

assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 10300 - 43117

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 12000 - 51741

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 12757 - 55699

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1287451 - 11438

22-113424

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee By: ________________________________________ David W. Neill, Bar #23396 Brian L. Campbell, Bar #27739 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) dneill@mtglaw.com bcampbell@mtglaw.com

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 18-11422-FC02

on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 31, 2023. _________ ____________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By: 23-116389

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

B9

TAKE NOTICE

DAVIDSON NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 23 SP 490 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed by MEREDITH EZZELLE THOMAS AND BRIAN THOMAS payable to BLUE RIDGE BANK, N.A., A NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, lender, to BRIAN K. PLUM,A NATIONALASSOCIATION, Trustee, dated July 20, 2022, and recorded in Book 2557, Page 2382 of the Davidson County Public Registry by Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Davidson County, North Carolina, in Book 2617, Page 910, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 12:00pm, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

DURHAM IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 22SP946 NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF DURHAM IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY GRETCHEN WALTON AND MICHAEL WALTON DATED OCTOBER 11, 2018 RECORDED IN BOOK 8525 AT PAGE 963 IN THE DURHAM COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and

FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 422 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Marion R. Davis (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Marion R. Davis and Taurin Eli Davis) to Margaret C. England, Trustee(s), dated December 10, 1993, and recorded in Book No. 1807, at Page 4733 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 1122 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Daniel Smith (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Daniel Smith) to Michael Lyon, Trustee(s), dated July 13, 2017, and recorded in Book No. RE 3357, at Page 3057 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated

IREDELL IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IREDELL COUNTY 23sp253 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MICHAEL R BRYAN AND YVONNE L BRYAN DATED FEBRUARY 2, 2004 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1529 AT PAGE 855 IN THE IREDELL COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IREDELL COUNTY 23sp171 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MARVIN V. RICE, JR. DATED SEPTEMBER 27, 2021 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2855 AT PAGE 1078 IN THE IREDELL COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 12 SP 797 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Shawn E. Collins and Sheila Morris Collins (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Shawn Everett Collins and Sheila Jo Collins) to Jan G. Griffin, Patricia M. Vogel or Ronnie D. Blanton, Trustee(s), dated March 11, 2005, and recorded in Book No. 1629, at Page 1654 in Iredell County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Iredell County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse

JOHNSTON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23SP001474-500 NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF JOHNSTON IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JONATHAN BOSCH RIVERA DATED JUNE 1, 2021 RECORDED IN BOOK 5948 AT PAGE 622 IN THE JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust

real estate situated in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 01-010-0000-0109 ADDRESS: 1759 WALLBURG HIGH PT RD., HIGH POINT, NC 27265 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): MEREDITH EZZELLE THOMAS, BRIAN THOMAS THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF DAVIDSON, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 2557, PAGE 2382 AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT AN EXISTING IRON LYING IN THE NORTH RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE OF WALLBURG-HIGH POINT ROAD, SAID IRON MARKING THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE PROPERTY CONVEYED TO COLON CHEEK IN BOOK 1760, PAGE 32, DAVIDSON COUNTY REGISTRY; RUNNING THENCE WITH THE NORTH RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE OF WALLBURG-HIGH POINT ROAD AS IT CURVES TO THE LEFT NORTH 64°58’ 10” EAST A CHORD DISTANCE OF 132.15 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON (R=932.38 FEET, ARC = 132.26 FEET); CONTINUING WITH THE NORTH RIGHT-OFWAY LINE OF WALLBURG-HIGH POINT ROAD AS IT CURVES TO THE LEFT NORTH 59°20’41” EAST 50.79 FEET TO A NEW IRON (R=932.38 FEET, ARC — 50.80 FEET); RUNNING THENCE ON A NEW LINE NORTH 28°25’52” WEST 110.05 FEET TO A NEW IRON; RUNNING THENCE NORTH 69°23’35” WEST 183.98 FEET TO A NEW IRON; RUNNING THENCE

SOUTH 64’11 ‘46” WEST 96.15 FEET TO A NEW IRON LYING IN THE EAST LINE OF THE CHEEK PROPERTY; RUNNING THENCE WITH THE EAST LINE OF THE CHEEK PROPERTY SOUTH 36°15’00” EAST 249.84 FEET TO THE POINT AND PLACE OF BEGINNING, CONTAINING 0.950 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, ACCORDING TO A SURVEY FOR PERRY DRIGGERS

BY DAVID BRADLEY COE DATED AUGUST 24, 2009.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold

subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that

the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection.

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANK-RUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.

because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Durham County courthouse at 10:00 AM on November 22, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Durham County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Gretchen Walton; Michael Walton, dated October 11, 2018 to secure the original principal amount of $243,016.00, and recorded in Book 8525 at Page 963 of the Durham County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Bellmeade Bay Dr, Durham, NC 27703 Tax Parcel ID: Present Record Owners: Walton; Michael Walton

expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law.

After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Address of property:

4

0

5

undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on November 22, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING KNOWN and designated as lot no. 87 as shown on the Map of STONEWALL, Section 2, which is recorded in Plat book 23 at page 140 in the office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, to which map further reference is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3733 Appomattox Drive, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

166051 Gretchen

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Gretchen Walton and Michael Walton.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS

Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 110 Frederick St, Suite 200 Greenville, South Carolina 29607 Phone: (470) 321-7112, Ext. 204 Fax: 1-919-800-3528 RAS File Number: [23-141699]

The date of this Notice is 9th day of October, 2023.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 15061-21159

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of

the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as

well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars

contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Iredell County courthouse at 12:00PM on November 14, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Iredell County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Michael R Bryan and Yvonne L Bryan, dated February 2, 2004 to secure the original principal amount of $186,200.00, and recorded in Book 1529 at Page 855 of the Iredell County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 1 1 0

Wildflower Ln, Statesville, NC 28625 Tax Parcel ID: 4765415514.000 & 4765416544.000 Present Record Owners: T h e Estate of Michael R. Bryan The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Michael R. Bryan.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all

prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of

the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 25, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Iredell County courthouse at 10:00AM on November 14, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Iredell County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Marvin V. Rice, Jr., dated September 27, 2021 to secure the original principal amount of $165,300.00, and recorded in Book 2855 at Page 1078 of the Iredell County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 1 1 0 Luangthep Ln, Statesville, NC 28625 Tax Parcel ID: 4776-155351.000 Present Record Owners: Marvin V.

Rice, Jr. The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Marvin V. Rice, Jr. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%)

of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may

terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 25, 2023. _________ ________________ ____________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

door in Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:30 PM on November 16, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Mooresville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 547, Phase 5 of THE POINT Subdivision as shown on a map thereof recorded in Map Book 33 at Page 98 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Iredell County, North Carolina, reference to which map is hereby made for a more complete description of the property. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 108 Wescoe Court, Mooresville, North Carolina. Parcel ID 4625754233.000

well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars

($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Address of property: Ghost St, Benson, NC 27504 Tax Parcel ID: 13E04014Z

way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law.

After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Also being known and designated as block 3645 lot 87, Forsyth County Tax Maps.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on November 22, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED as Lot 60 of Bethabara Trace, Phase I, as shown on the map recorded in Plat Book 48, Page 16, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4987 Brian Center Lane, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

4987 Brian Center Lane, Winston Salem, NC 27106 Parcel ID: 6817-78-3900.00 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as

and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Johnston County courthouse at 12:00 PM on November 14, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Johnston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Jonathan Bosch Rivera, dated June 1, 2021 to secure the original principal amount of $200,000.00, and recorded in Book 5948 at Page 622 of the Johnston County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record.

Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

219 Gray

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Jonathan Bosch Rivera.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 13428 - 58878

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 12102 - 52281

23-116319

23-115821

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1081538 - 10185

The date of this Notice is 17th day of October, 2023.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 11190-31209

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

B10 TAKE NOTICE

JOHNSTON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23SP001391-500 NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF JOHNSTON IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MICHAEL NEWCOMBE DATED JULY 28, 2022 RECORDED IN BOOK 6310 AT PAGE 947 IN THE JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust

NEW HANOVER AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 16 SP 29 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Angela Powell (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Angela Powell) to W. J. Kellam, Jr., Trustee(s), dated October 5, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 5240, at Page 891 in New Hanover County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds New Hanover County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on November 14, 2023 and will sell to the highest

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 576 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Kurt Michael Frank and Deanna Lynn Frank (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Kurt Michael Frank and Deanna Lynn Frank) to The Law Firm of Hutches, Senter & Britton, P.A., Trustee(s), dated August 16, 2016, and recorded in Book No. RB 5995, at Page 110 in New Hanover County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds New Hanover County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 205 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Juan M. Valentine and Darlene M. Valentine (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Juan M. Valentine and Darlene M. Valentine) to Netco, Inc., Trustee(s), dated January 5, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 4400, at Page 369 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 514 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Nicole S. Moncada (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Nicole S. Moncada) to Pamela S. Cox, Trustee(s), dated May 26, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 4458, at Page 97 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on November 22, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Midway Park in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at an iron stake in the eastern boundary line of Avery Street (40 foot right of way) as shown on a plat entitled “Wynns Country Acres Subdivision No. 1” dated December 1958 and recorded in Map Book 6, Page 47, Onslow County Registry, said iron

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 486 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jersen George (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jersen George) to Investor Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated December 14, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 5643, at Page 439 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on November 22, 2023 and

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 299 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Soheedia Alfa Taylor (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Soheedia T. Carthon) to Karen Lamm, Trustee(s), dated March 21, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 2620, at Page 964 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on November 22, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Hubert in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Onslow County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: All of my right, title, and interest in and to the

and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Johnston County courthouse at 12:00 PM on November 14, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Johnston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Michael Newcombe, dated July 28, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $264,127.00, and recorded in Book 6310 at Page 947 of the Johnston County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record.

Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: Silverado Ct, Kenly, NC 27542 Tax Parcel ID: 11N04018K

bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at a point in the Western edge of South Fourth Street, 35 feet 6 inches South from the Southwestern intersection of Dawson and Fourth Street and running thence from said Beginning point Westerwardly and parallel with Dawson Street 32 feet; thence South 42 degrees West 56 feet 9 inches more or less to an iron pipe situated 66 feet Westwardly from the Western edge of South Fourth Street, thence Eastwardly parallel with Dawson Street 66 feet to an iron pipe in the Western edge of South Fourth Street, thence Northwardly along the Western edge of South Fourth Street 44 feet 6 inches to the point of BEGINNING, together with a right of way and easement in, on, to and trough and over a strip of land immediately adjoining the within property on the North, the same having a frontage of 4 feet on South Fourth Street and running back parallel with Dawson Street 32 feet, but, subject, however, to a right of way and easement to the owners of the Tract of land immediately, adjoining the within tract on the North of the within tract, the same having a frontage of 4 feet on South Fourth Street and running Westwardly parallel with Dawson Street 32 feet for the common use of the owners of

119

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way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law.

After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

the within property and the owners of the property immediately North and to their heirs and assigns the same being part of Lot 1, Block 33, according to the official plan of the City of Wilmington, North Carolina.

Together with improvements thereon, said property located at 904 South 4th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any

such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of

the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on November 14, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in New Hanover County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 103 of Abbington Dale at Victoria Place as shown on a Map recorded in Map Book 33 at Page 155 in the New Hanover County Registry, reference to which map is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4146 Abbington Terrace, Wilmington, North Carolina.

Subject to the Declaration of Restrictions and Covenants of Abbington Dale at Victoria Place recorded in Book 1698 at Page 1216 in the New Hanover County Registry; all easements rights of way and restrictions of record; all government regulations including zoning, subdivision and building regulations and other encumbrances of record.

Commonly known as: 4146 ABBINGTON, Wilmington, NC 28403 Parcel ID: R06110-003-048-000

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and

State laws.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

sales, at 10:00 AM on November 22, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at all iron stake in the eastern edge of Stratford Road, which point lies South 47 degrees 32 minutes West 1460.0 feet from the southern edge of a 20 foot unpaved alley at the point where said alley intersects Stratford Road, running thence South 42 degrees 28 minutes East 149.44 feet to an iron stake; thence South 48 degrees 25 minutes West 7.84 feet; thence South 35 degrees 12 minutes West 66.5 feet to an iron stake; thence North 41 degrees 45 minutes West 164.97 feet to an iron stake located in the eastern edge of the curve of Stratford Road; thence along and with the eastern edge of the curve of Stratford Road, which curve has a radius of 506.5 feet, 24.71 feet to the end of said curve; thence North 47 degrees 32 minutes East 45.29 feet to the beginning, and being all of Lot 22 in Block 3, as shown on a map of Bayshore Estates Subdivision, which map is recorded in Map Book 2, Page 55, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 108 Stratford Road, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Being the same property or a portion of the same property conveyed to Juan M. Valentine and wife,

Darlene M. Valentine by Instrument dated April 20, 2007 from Jesus F. Huerto filed on May 11, 2007 in Book 2872 at Page 81 in the Onslow County records.

Commonly known as: 108 Stratford Road, Jacksonville, NC 28540 Parcel Number: 421-25 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special

assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the

county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

stake being at the common corner of Lots 21 and 23 as shown on the aforesaid plat; thence along and with the eastern right of way of Avery Street North 16 degrees 05 minutes 25 seconds East 99.92 feet to an iron stake, the terminus of Avery Street on said plat; thence North 16 degrees 13 minutes 37 seconds East 50.10 feet to an iron pipe; thence North 16 degrees 01 minutes 17 seconds East 49.72 feet, a common corner with property either now or formerly owned by Jacksonville Onslow Ltd., LLC as described in Deed Book 3298, Page 302, Onslow County Registry; thence cornering and running along the southern of said Jacksonville Onslow Ltd., LLC property South 74 degrees 21 minutes 14 seconds East 299.84 feet to an iron pipe; thence cornering and continuing along said Jacksonville Onslow Ltd., LLC property South 15 degrees 52 minutes 33 seconds West 128.35 feet to an iron pipe, a common corner with the northwesternmost corner of Lot 22 and the southeasternmost corner of Lot 23 as shown on the aforesaid plat; thence continuing along the common line of Lot 22 and Lot 23 as shown on the aforesaid plat South 15 degrees 45 minutes 12 seconds West 71.29 feet to an iron stake, the southeastern corner of Lot 23 and the northeastern corner of Lot 19 as shown on the aforesaid plat; thence along and with the common line between said Lot 23 and Lot 18 North 74 degrees 21 minutes 21 seconds West 99.57 feet to an iron stake, the common corner between Lot 18, Lot 19 and the southern line of Lot 23 as shown on the

aforesaid plat; thence North 74 degrees 33 minutes 13 seconds West 101.45 feet to an iron stake, the common corner between Lot 20, Lot 21 and the southern line of Lot 23 as shown on the aforesaid plat; thence along the common line of Lot 21 and 23 North 74 degrees 12 minutes 04 seconds West 99.78 feet to an iron stake, the point and place of beginning and containing 1.38 acres according to a survey by Gairy Canady Surveying dated August 11, 2010, said property includes all of Lot 23 as shown on the aforesaid plat and addition acreage located north of said lot. Together with improvements loated thereon; said property being located at 212 Avery Street, Midway Park, North Carolina.

BEING the same property described in that deed recorded in Deed Book 1905, Page 647, Onslow County Registry.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys,

employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with

Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 23 as shown on a plat entitled, “Final Plat, BEECH CREST, a Planned Residential Development,” dated 08/13/12, prepared by Parker & Associates, Inc. and recorded in Map Book 65, Pages 137 - 137A, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Onslow County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 492 Old 30 Road, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Subject to Restrictive and Protective Covenants recorded in Book 4010, Page 298, Onslow County Registry.

A.P.N #:157107 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by

N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the

time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may

after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

following described tract of land; beginning at a point where Clear Branch intersects with the Northwestern side of the Hubert to Silverdale Public Road, being County Road No. 1432; thence running North 44 degrees West 1.60 chains to the James Taylor corner, formerly Martin Mattox corner thence running with the James Taylor line, formerly Martin Mattox, South 83 degrees 30 minutes West 6.96 chains to a corner of the former Mattox line; thence running due North with the James Taylor (Mattox) line 4.88 chains to Clear Branch; thence running with Clear Branch, its various courses, to a chopped tree at the end of a line of chopped trees on this branch; thence running South 9 degrees East 12.60 chains to a lightwood stake, said stake being North 9 degrees West 17 feet from a blazed pine, said pine being a corner of the late W.J. Taylor tract of land; thence running North 46 degrees East 16.24 chains to the point of beginning, containing 10 acres, more or less, and being the same tract as recorded in Book 343, Page 122, Onslow County Registry. Together with that 9.33 acres Parkertown Road, Parcel ID 026377, Map Number 1146-39, Hubert, North Carolina.

Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at Parkertown Road, Map # 1146-39, Parcel 026377,Hubert, North Carolina.

There is herewith excepted from the above described tract of land the following tract: Beginning at a stake in the northerly right of way line of State Road No. 1432, said beginning point being located 30.0 feet from a point in the centerline of State Road No. 1432

when measured at right angles to said centerline, said point in centerline being located 320.6 feet from the centerline of a 30” concrete culvert understate Road No. 1432; thence with the right of way line of State Road No. 1432 South 51 degrees 45 minutes West 75.0 feet to a stake; thence North 22 degrees 20 minutes West 100 feet to a stake; thence North 51 degrees 45 minutes East 75.0 feet to a stake; thence North 22 degrees 20 minutes West 100 feet to a stake, thence North 51 degrees 45 minutes East 75.0 feet to a stake, thence South 22 degrees 20 minutes East 100.0 feet to the point of beginning.

Tax ID# 1146-39 Parcel ID #: 026377 Property Address: Parkertown Road SR 1432, Hubert, NC, 28539 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of

either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family

Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Michael Newcombe.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

The date of this Notice is 18th day of October, 2023.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 20185-30102

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1173353 - 12375

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 9665 - 38802

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 13480 - 59199

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 13803 - 60586

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 16382 - 75984

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 3482 - 60055

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

B11

TAKE NOTICE

RANDOLPH AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 236 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made

by Michael A. Hornyak (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Michael A. Hornyak) to Neuse, Incorporated, Trustee(s), dated January 27, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 2478, at Page 686 in Randolph County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Randolph County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 23sp296 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY CHARLES S. BASS AND MARGARET S. BASS DATED APRIL 30, 2003 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1815 AT PAGE 1166 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 21SP245 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JANET MYERS AND WILLIAM PROCTOR DATED MAY 27, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1923 AT PAGE 130 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23 SP 223 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Mark Scheutzow (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Mark Scheutzow, Heirs of Mark Scheutzow a/k/a Mark Howard Scheutzow: Jean Scheutzow; Heirs of Jean Scheutzow: Walter Kania; Heirs of Walter Kania: Jill Kania; Heirs of Jill Kania: Scott Kania) to Hutchens, Senter, Kellam & Pettit, PA dba Hutchens Law Firm, Trustee(s), dated September 16, 2016, and recorded in Document No. 20028493, in Book No. 2512, at Page 469 in Randolph County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Randolph County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Asheboro, Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on November 21, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate

ROBESON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 23SP294 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF ROBESON IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY RUFUS HUNT AND ELOISE HUNT DATED JULY 19, 2007 RECORDED IN BOOK 1618 AT PAGE 110 IN THE ROBESON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ROBESON COUNTY 23sp36 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY EDWARD L. JOHNSON AND LINDA JOHNSON DATED AUGUST 17, 2006 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1554 AT PAGE 425 IN THE ROBESON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained

STANLY 23 SP 119 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Glenn D. Stipe Jr and Virginia L. Snyder to David A. Beaver, Trustee(s), which was dated August 20, 2021 and recorded on August 25, 2021 in Book 1754 at Page 598, Stanly County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said

WAKE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP002956-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Luanne Tesoriero (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Luanne Tesoriero as Trustee of the Luanna Pemble Tesoriero Family Trust, dated November 7th, 2015) to United General Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated September 26, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 012186, at Page 02017 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said

indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Asheboro, Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on November 21, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Trinity in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Lot 29 of Forest Manor Subdivision, as recorded in Plat Book 17 at Page 72 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Randolph County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4302 Forest Manor Drive, Trinity, North Carolina.

must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered

into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45)

per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and

the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 10:00AM on November 21, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Charles S. Bass and Margaret S. Bass, dated April 30, 2003 to secure the original principal amount of $93,100.00, and recorded in Book 1815 at Page 1166 of the Randolph County Public Registry.

The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record.

Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 6 5 2 1 Whites Chapel Rd, Staley, NC 27355 Tax Parcel ID: 8724-332101 / 76225

Present Record Owners: Charles Shannon Bass and Margaret Stanley Bass The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Charles Shannon Bass and Margaret Stanley Bass.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the

foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or

was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is November 2, 2023. _________ ____________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 10:00AM on November 21, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Janet Myers and William Proctor, dated May 27, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $123,068.00, and recorded in Book 1923 at Page 130 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record.

Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 3 1 9 Aldridge Road, Archdale, NC 27263 Tax Parcel ID: 7718961896

Present Record Owners: Janet Myers and William Proctor The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Janet Myers and William Proctor.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the

foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or

was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is November 2, 2023. _________ ____________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

situated in Asheboro in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The following described property:

Asheboro, North Carolina.

to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of

the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

All that certain parcel of land situated in County of Randolph, State of North Carolina., being known and designated as follows: Beginning at a right of way monument located at the junction of the southern right of way of SR 2817 (Croomcrest Street) with the western right of way of SR 2816 (Bray Blvd.); thence with the western right of way of Bray Blvd. South 23 degrees 39’ West 104.69 feet to an existing iron pipe, the northeast corner of Lot 26; thence with the northern line of Lot 26 North 83 degrees 48’ 40” West 155.67 feet to an existing iron pipe; thence a new line in Lot 25 North 17 degrees 40’ 29” East 101.94 feet to an existing iron pipe in the southern right of way of Croomcrest Street; thence with the southern right of way of Croomcrest Street South 83 degrees 48’ East 166.78 feet to the point of beginning, containing .370 acre, and being a part of Lot 25 of Eastview Subdivision as per plat recorded in Plat Book 7, Page 80, the same being according to a plat by Henley Surveying dated May 6, 1996 and entitled “Survey for Michael D. Carpenter & Tabitha L. Dixon.” Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 900 Bray Boulevard,

Being the same property conveyed from Yvette Scheutzow a/k/a Yvette Becksted, separated to Mark Scheutzow, separated, warranty Deed Book 2188 Page 1824 dated 03/13/2010 recorded 07/02/2010, in Randolph County Records.

Assessor’s Parcel No: 0012970 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 5397 - 21278

23-116832

06-82307

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 15456 - 69662

and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Robeson County courthouse at 11:00 AM on November 16, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Robeson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Rufus Hunt; Eloise Hunt, dated July 19, 2007 to secure the original principal amount of $48,534.00, and recorded in Book 1618 at Page 110 of the Robeson County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record.

Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 233 N 2nd St, Saint Pauls, NC 28384 Tax Parcel ID: 38100302301 The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Eloise Hunt.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are

disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law.

After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is 24th day of October, 2023.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 19720-29300

therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Robeson County courthouse at 11:00AM on November 15, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Robeson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Edward L. Johnson and Linda Johnson, dated August 17, 2006 to secure the original principal amount of $86,782.00, and recorded in Book 1554 at Page 425 of the Robeson County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 225 Pinto Dr, Lumberton, NC 28360

Tax Parcel ID: 201305053 Present Record Owners: T h e Estate of Edward L. Johnson The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Edward L. Johnson.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are

disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is October 27, 2023. _________ ____________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com

default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on November 14, 2023 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Stanly County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot No. 1 in Section 1 of HIDDENHURST SUBDIVISION as shown on a map thereof recorded in Plat Book 6, Page 48, Stanly County Registry, to which reference is hereby made for a complete description of said lot by metes and bounds.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record.

To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property

is/are GLENN DAVID STIPE, JR. AND VIRGINIA L. SNYDER AS JOINT TENANTS WITH RIGHT OF SURVIVORSHIP. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit.

The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 23-18871-FC01

required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed.

Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit.

The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to

be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination.

Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Less and except that portion conveyed out by deed recorded in Book 522 at Page 812 of the Stanly County, North Carolina Public Registry.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 8032 Fork Rd, Norwood, NC 28128.

indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on November 20, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 14, Gresham Hills Subdivision, as shown in Book of Maps 2001, Pages 16741675, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 7655 Greshamm Hills Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00)

23-115280

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 14941 - 66689

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

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Special teams success Albemarle defensive back Jaylen Pinkney recovers a South Davidson kickoff fumble for a touchdown as teammate Tyquan McDonald points toward the end zone during the Bulldogs’ 49-0 home playoff win over the Wildcats on Friday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Stanly County’s unemployment drops slightly The county’s unemployment rate decreased for the month of September, both from the previous month and from the same time period last year.

Stanly’s 2.9% unemployment rate for September — 21st across all 100 NC counties — was down 0.3% from a year ago, and 0.3% from the prior month.

That translates to an estimated 926 of the county’s 31,591-strong total workforce being unemployed during the month.

The unemployment rates, which are not seasonally adjusted for hiring trends like farming or holidays, decreased in 98 of North Carolina’s counties in September 2023 and increased in two.

Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 5.6% while Swain and Buncombe Counties each had the lowest at 2.5%.

The number of workers employed statewide increased in September by 53,039 to 5,134,777, while those unemployed decreased by 18,714 to 170,391. Since September 2022, the number of workers employed statewide increased by 142,319, while those unemployed decreased by 7,967.

The county-level unemployment rates were released Nov. 1.

Stanly County commissioners name new members to local health board Appointments include diverse professionals; depart from CHS recommendations

By Jesse Deal North State Journal ALBEMARLE — At their Nov. 6 meeting, the Stanly County Board of Commissioners voted on appointments to the county’s Consolidated Human Services (CHS) board, which originated six years ago with the merger of the Stanly County Health Department and

Department of Social Services boards into a single 21-member entity.

The terms of five general public members and one social worker were set to expire, and together with recent resignations by Dr. Amy Jordan and Kenneth Chambers, the commissioners faced eight vacancies to fill.

Out of 20 applicants, Seena Koohestani was appointed as a Consumer of Human Services member, Dr. James Link as a Veterinarian member, and Beth Thomas as a Social Worker member. Kenny Kendall, Dr.

Mark Speight, Shaun Morgan, Kristi Small, and Victoria Ramos were selected for the General Public membership seats.

The selection process involved multiple tie-breaking rounds, resulting in 4-3 split votes.

These appointments departed from the CHS’s own recommendations, which included Thomas, Small, Sherry Poplin, Georgette Edgerton, and Larry Gibson for terms ending in 2027.

Commissioner Peter Asciutto reflected on the board’s overhaul, noting the recent recog-

Western N.C. officials declare state of emergency as wildfires burn The Associated Press HENDERSONVILLE — Officials have declared a state of emergency in a western North Carolina community where a wildfire has burned hundreds of acres, some structures and now is threatening dozens of homes.

Crews are fighting several separate blazes in forested areas of Virginia, Tennessee and Kentucky as wide swaths of those states face moderate to severe drought condition s and warmer than normal temperatures.

The 431-acre (174-hectare) fire in Henderson County, North Carolina, has destroyed two homes, a cabin and an outbuilding, county officials said in a social media post Sunday that declared a state of emergency.

Officials have identified 75 other structures that are threatened and said fire departments are

focusing on structure protection while North Carolina Forest Services is focusing on putting in fire lines.

Meanwhile, crews are fighting a blaze in Cherokee County that has grown to more than 2,100 acres (850 hectares), but is not threatening structures, the U.S. Forest Service said.

The North Carolina Forest Service issued a burn ban Sunday for 14 counties in the western part of the state due to hazardous forest fire conditions and said it would stay in effect until further notice.

“Several counties in Western North Carolina are currently in a severe drought, and we are seeing wildfire activity increase due to dry conditions. Because dry conditions are expected to continue this burn ban is necessary to reduce the risk of fires starting and spreading quickly,”

the statement said.

In Virginia, the state Department of Forestry said a wildfire near Madison County has led officials to encourage some residents to evacuate as crews work to stop the blaze from spreading. That fire had burned nearly 2,500 acres (1,012 hectares) on Sunday, but no structures have been affected and firefighters were installing additional fire lines to maintain that, the agency said.

In eastern Kentucky, where conditions were also dry, the top official in Harlan County issued a burn ban and a state of emergency on Sunday, saying there had been six forest fires in the last three days “that has caused a significant strain on first responder agencies.”

Two firefighters were injured “while attempting to protect life and property,” Harlan County

nition of the CHS as the North Carolina Board of Health of the Year by the Association of NC Boards of Health in October for its role in opioid overdose and death prevention efforts.

“It looks like the North Carolina Board of Health of the Year is replacing six of the eight people that were currently on there,” he said.

County Manager Andy Lucas confirmed that among the eight positions, only Beth Thomas and Kristi Small were reappointed.

See COMMISSIONERS, page 2

Judge-Executive Dan Mosley said.

In West Virginia, wildfires estimated to be at least 500 acres burned Monday in the Cabin Creek area, southeast of the state capital of Charleston. The Kanawha County Commission requested that the state issue a complete burn ban for the county. Currently outdoor burning is allowed statewide between 5 p.m. and 7 a.m. Dry conditions in the state were expected to continue through Thursday.

Crews were fighting two fires in East Tennessee including one in Rocky Top, but no injuries have been reported and no structures are in danger, Anderson County officials told news See WILDFIRES, page 2

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Stanly County Journal ISSN: 2575-2278 Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor

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ASHEBORO — The John Locke Foundation held a screening of “In the Pines,” a short film about the Wilmington Massacre of 1898, at the Asheboro Public Library on November 2.

Directed by Dugan Bridges, “In the Pines” is a piece of historical fiction following Scarlett Manning, played by Pandora Broadwater, as she shares her memories of the events leading up to the massacre. The younger Scarlett, portrayed by Amara Ayler, navigates the challenges of the time with her friends Ashleigh, played by Corrinne Mica, and Ashleigh’s love interest, Sam, played by John Potvin.

The film provides a narrative framework for understanding the often-overlooked Wilmington Massacre. “The purpose was not to be a historical documentary,” explained Greg de Deugd, the creative director of the John Locke Foundation. “It was to get people interested.”

In 1898, Wilmington, N.C., had a racially integrated government, with several black men in office. But following a White Supremacist propaganda campaign, the Democratic Party orchestrated the only successful coup d’état in U.S. history. On November 10, 1898, they killed numerous black citizens and officials, seizing control of what was then North Carolina’s largest city. The exact death toll remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from 60 to 250.

Potvin, who portrays Sam, emphasized the importance of recognizing these historical events:

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outlets.

Clinton Fire Department Lt. Daniel Adams said the area is very dry and that combined with leaves covering the ground create ripe conditions for brush fires.

“Anything as simple as a cigarette being flicked out your window or disregarding some ashes — stuff we wouldn’t be as concerned about right now — we are tremendously concerned about because of the dryness,” Adams told WBIRTV. Other parts of the U.S. are seeing unseasonably warmer temperatures and dry conditions this week. The Dallas-Fort Worth area saw highs in the 80s, about 10 degrees warmer than average. Milder weather also stretched into the Midwest, where Wichita, Kansas, was seeing temperatures stretch toward 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). A cold front creeping into the Central and Southern Plains later in the week was expected to push highs down to normal for this time of year.

COMMISSIONERS from page 1

“Correct. You had eight up and it looks like Beth Thomas and Kristi Small are two of the eight that were re-appointed,” Lucas said to Asciutto.

Asciutto later expressed gratitude to exiting CHS board members for their service, acknowledging the board’s recommendations were not fully heeded, and wished the new appointees success.

“I just want to firstly thank those that served on the combined health board. They’ve done a fantastic job. We don’t have to always listen to the board, but I think we’ve not really listened to them from time to time,” he remarked.

“They had recommended that five of them be reappointed but now they’re going to have three new people.”

He continued: “I appreciate and thank the ones that are coming on and I wish them the best of luck.”

The commissioners are set to convene again on Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.

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“In the Pines” uses historical fiction to explore the events and impact of the 1898 racial conflict

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Attendees participate in a Q&A session about “In the Pines” at the Asheboro Public Library on Nov. 2.

“It’s an important part of American history, and too often these stories get swept under the rug for no good reason. So to help shine a light on these events, it became about having a responsibility to bring this history forward.”

The John Locke Foundation, a nonprofit think tank, strives to promote truth, freedom, and the future of North Carolina, including raising awareness

of the state’s history. Through initiatives like the North Carolina History Project and productions like “In the Pines,” the foundation seeks to educate and engage the public.

The Asheboro community gathered to view the film and discuss the historical significance of the 1898 events. De Deugd and Dr. Troy Kickler, Senior Fellow and Managing Director of the John Locke Foun-

dation, introduced the film and facilitated a Q&A session afterward. De Deugd noted, “It’s a fictional story, but it’s an honest story.”

The 19-minute film has received significant recognition, earning more than 10 awards at film festivals across the nation and globally, including Best Short Drama and Best Period Film. For additional details, visit inthepinesfilm.com.

North Carolina State Auditor Beth Wood says she won’t seek reelection in 2024, in a reversal The Associated Press RALEIGH — North Carolina State Auditor Beth Wood, who received unwanted attention earlier this year with a traffic-related court plea, announced on Wednesday that she won’t seek reelection in 2024 after all.

Wood, a Democrat who was first elected as auditor in 2008, revealed her decision publicly during testimony before an oversight committee at the Legislative Building, citing in part her age and “some circumstances that are in my life.” Wood told reporters after the meeting that she wanted to start a public speaking career and another term would delay that.

“I have loved this job and am proud of the work we have done to bring accountability to State Government,” Wood said in a separate written statement.

“My heart is filled with gratitude to the voters who put their confidence in me for four terms.

But I will be 70 in April and so it will be time to say farewell at the end of my current term.”

Wood had said in June that she would be seeking reelection.

Three months earlier she pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor for

AP PHOTO

North Carolina State Auditor Beth Wood makes an appearance in Wake County Court, March 23, 2023, in Raleigh. leaving the scene of a December 2022 crash in which she drove her state-owned vehicle into a parked car. A judge sentenced her to pay fines and court costs.

No one was hurt in the accident, which occurred after Wood left a holiday party in downtown Raleigh. Her citation became public in January.

Wood apologized, saying she had made a “grave mistake” and should have waited to let the accident play out.

Without specifically men-

tioning the crash in her statement Wednesday, Wood said: “I know that I have made mistakes along the way, but I have acknowledged them and have learned from them.”

A Craven County native, Wood is a certified public accountant who worked in the State Auditor’s Office for nearly 10 years before she defeated incumbent Auditor Les Merritt in the 2008 election.

For years Wood was among the Republicans’ favorite Dem-

ocrats as her office issued audits critical of state government operations and looking at ways to halt fiscal waste. But she sometimes came to loggerheads with officials who were the subject of negative reports.

Wood cited successes Wednesday including audits that identified unemployment benefit checks totaling hundreds of millions of dollars that were sent late and that determined more than 20 physicians with revoked or suspended licenses were regularly treating Medicaid patients.

Wood told House members she still has plenty of work left: “We’ve got 14 months to kick some butt, so we will get it done in the next 14 months.”

Her announcement creates another open seat on the Council of State, which is composed of 10 statewide elected officials.

Six current council members — Gov. Roy Cooper and Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson among them — are either not seeking reelection or running for a different office. Candidate filing begins in December, with primary elections to follow in March.

Several Republicans previously announced that they were running for auditor.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

3

OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Understand evil or perish by its hand

Reality is ugly.

Reality is unpleasant.

Last week, the Metropolitan Police in London were videotaped removing posters with pictures of hostages taken by Hamas. The posters were being removed from Cullimore Chemist in Edgware. The chemist’s CEO, Hassan Khan, recently retweeted posts branding Israel and the IDF “filthy animals” and encouraging Iran and Hezbollah to attack Israel.

This naturally caused some properly earned angst. After all, the removal of such posters has become the domain of antisemites across the world. What was the police’s excuse for removing the posters?

They explained, “We do not wish to limit the rights of anyone to protest or to raise awareness of the plight of those kidnapped and the terrible impact on their families.

But we do have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to stop issues escalating and to avoid any further increase in community tension.”

Stop the escalation.

Prevent the community tension.

That’s the important thing.

This week, the Metropolitan Police also reportedly arrested a man for posting a video criticizing people for putting up Palestinian flags around his neighborhood.

The British police didn’t touch the flags, in the name of relieving community tension.

Instead, they arrested the man who wondered why Britain would import the

kinds of people who would post Palestinian flags on the street poles while Hamas is holding babies hostage.

Remember, the tensions must be reduced.

There are two ways to reduce tension in a community. The first is to cave to those who are the most dangerous and the most radical — in this case, the Hamas supporters. Criminalize anyone who would ask just why a community in the West should be expected to contain people who support Hamas. Take them to jail for asking the question on tape.

The second way to lower community tensions is to recognize that those very people who defend Hamas are a danger to your community — that the problem isn’t community quiescence, but the constituency of the community itself.

That there can be no community with people who root for Hamas.

This should be obvious. But it isn’t. It isn’t because the West simply refuses to look reality in the face. Better to arrest those who speak it than to look reality in the face.

Reality is ugly. Reality is unpleasant. And reality might require you to recognize that importation of millions of people who hate the West was an awful idea, and that means should be taken to reverse that process.

And so, instead, a way must be found to pretend away the threat.

Blame it on Israel.

Jabber about the two-state solution.

Talk about Islamophobia.

Whatever you do, don’t look the realities of multiculturalism’s dramatic failure directly in the face. This, of course, plays directly into the hands of Hamas. They now understand that they can say and do literally anything, and that much of the West will cover for them in order to maintain the fiction that multiculturalism works. They don’t even bother to hide the ball. Hamas officials have spent the last weeks explaining that they wish to murder every Jew, and that they wish for their own civilians to die.

They say it all out loud. On camera.

Repeatedly. But the West won’t look Hamas in the face because then it might have to look Hamas’ supporters in the face. And while Hamas is in Gaza, Hamas’ supporters are located in our own towns. They work in our stores. They go to our schools. They staff our press and our academic institutions.

That’s too ugly and it’s too frightening.

So, look away. In the name of relieving community tension.

As the community dies.

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

‘Canceling’ people who celebrate the wanton murder of women and children is also free expression

People who walk around ripping down posters of kidnapped children and women aren’t pondering the future of a “two-state solution” or the Gazan refugee situation; they are moral degenerates

“CANCELING” people who disagree with you over ordinary political issues is bad for civil society. Ruining someone’s life because he wore a MAGA cap or tweeted something stupid or supported the wrong initiative creates an oppressive environment for open discourse.

“Canceling” people who sign petitions and hold up signs that openly celebrate or justify the targeted, brutal murders of women and babies, on the other hand, is good for civil society. Stopping malevolent ideas from being normalized is good. Exercising your First Amendment right to free speech and free association to shun and call out people who spread odious ideas in public life is a moral imperative.

Because people who walk around ripping down posters of kidnapped children and women aren’t pondering the future of a “twostate solution” or the Gazan refugee situation; they are moral degenerates.

In the same way you wouldn’t hire the guy who stands in front of Disney World waving around a swastika flag, you shouldn’t hire someone who marches with a sign that reads “from the river to the sea.” Both convey the same sentiment. The ethical line is bright and obvious. If you don’t see it, something is broken in you.

Yet, a bunch of Hamas apologists are calling out conservatives for their alleged hypocrisy on “cancel culture” when it comes to “pro-Palestinian” advocates.

Though I’m not a fan of mobs, I’ve never been a big critic of cancel culture, either.

Looking back, I could find only one piece I’ve written on the topic — and it concerned itself with double standards. It’s a slippery term.

And there is a facet to the debate that’s often overlooked. Americans have no obligation to associate with those who attack their deep-

seated values. To hire someone who signs a pro-Hamas petition can be an endorsement of that outlook. Your company is not an open social media platform that exists as a forum for debate; it has a reputation and customers.

(Not that I believe the state should be able to compel social media companies to host opinions, either.)

And it’s not as if you asked these people to give you their opinion on genocide. They did so by their own volition. The Harvard petitions blaming Jews for their own murders were signed and released for public consumption. They were released before Israel had even counted the dead, much less invaded Gaza. If law students were celebrating 9/11 on 9/12, would New York firms have a responsibility to provide them with gainful employment? No, they would be rejected in the real world and compelled to get jobs in academia, where such views are welcome.

Of course, the contention that “proPalestinian” advocates, or even those who talk about Israel as if it was some authoritarian proto-Nazi state, are being mass canceled is a myth, anyway. They fill the op-ed pages of major newspapers and cable news. They dominate campuses. They aren’t canceled.

They are rewarded. When someone like “porn star” Mia Khalifa was “canceled,” it is because she was quite literally rejoicing in the murder of innocent people in real time.

Ibrahim Bharmal, who one suspects is dumber than the average internet prostitute, is the editor of the Harvard Law Review, not some rando trying to wind people up on the internet. He is out there physically and verbally abusing a Jewish student during a pro-Hamas rally on campus like some kind of brownshirt. Does Harvard have a responsibility to have him on campus? Why should a firm with Jewish partners — or any

decent people — hire him?

Harvard, by the way, has assembled a special task force to help students who signed pro-Hamas statements deal with the blowback. Apparently, some people are under the impression they’re the only ones allowed to speak.

The notion that anti-Israel pundits are concerned about double standards, by the way, is risible. You might recall that Harvard rescinded its offer to pro-Second Amendment Parkland kid Kyle Kashuv, ostensibly over things he tweeted as a 16-year-old. No one cared. Today, Georgetown thinks it’s fine to cancel Ilya Shapiro for a single inarticulate tweet, but it will not cancel a professor who complains online about “Zio bitches.” The New York Times cancels an editor for running a column from a sitting senator but hires a writer who praises Hitler. (He’s on the Israel beat. True story.)

I’m a free-speech absolutist. The state should do absolutely nothing to inhibit or censor pro-Hamas Americans from expressing their opinions. Free speech isn’t contingent on your position. Hate speech is free speech. The government has no business prodding or even suggesting limitations on our rhetorical interactions. Even outside state intervention, we should be upholding the values that promote free expression. We can peacefully coexist with colleagues, neighbors and friends who hold contradictory opinions within the normal parameters of political debate.

Likewise, Americans have a right to use their freedom to call out and disassociate themselves from people who take the side with nihilistic murder cults.

David Harsanyi is a senior editor at The Federalist.

4 SIDELINE REPORT

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

SPORTS

NHL

Another former Blackhawk accuses coach of sexual assault Chicago A former hockey player in the Chicago Blackhawks organization has alleged in a lawsuit the team’s former video coach Brad Aldrich sexually assaulted him during the 2009-10 season.

He says the Blackhawks took no action when he complained because it didn’t want a disruption during its run to the Stanley Cup. The Chicago Tribune reported the plaintiff was a teammate of Kyle Beach, who reached a settlement with the Blackhawks in December 2021 after alleging he was sexually assaulted by Aldrich. The Blackhawks declined to comment on the specifics of the latest lawsuit in a statement to the Tribune.

MLB

Chapman, Kiermaier win 4th Gold Gloves St. Louis Toronto third baseman Matt Chapman and outfielder Kevin Kiermaier won their fourth Gold Gloves, while New York Yankees rookie shortstop Anthony Volpe and Colorado rookie center fielder Brenton Doyle were among 13 first-time winners. Toronto, Texas and the Chicago Cubs tied for the high among clubs with three winners each.

Cleveland second baseman Andrés Giménez and left fielder Steven Kwan won their second Gold Gloves, along with Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson and left fielder Ian Happ and Arizona first baseman Christian Walker.

SOCCER

Liverpool’s Diaz appeals for the release of his kidnapped father Luton, England Luis Diaz has returned to Liverpool’s squad and scored a late equalizer for its Premier League soccer match against Luton with his father still missing after being kidnapped by a guerrilla group in Colombia.

Diaz had missed Liverpool’s last two games but trained since Thursday and was selected on the bench for the match at Kenilworth Road.

He entered the game in the 83rd and scored in the fifth minute of stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw for his team. He revealed a T-shirt with the words “Libertad Para Papa” or “Freedom For Papa” after the goal.

NBA

Pelicans’ McCollum diagnosed with partially collapsed lung New Orleans The New Orleans Pelicans say guard CJ McCollum has been diagnosed with a partially collapsed lung.

The announcement on Sunday afternoon came after McCullom scored 13 points in a 123-105 Pelicans loss to Atlanta on Saturday night. The Pelicans play next on Monday night in Denver and it is unclear how much time McCollum might be sidelined. The Pelicans say “additional examination will be performed in the next 48 hours to determine the progress of healing” and that more information will be provided after that. The 32-year-old McCollum has averaged 21.7 points, 5.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds in six games this season.

MIKE MEADOWS | FORD PERFORMANCE VIA AP

Ford Performance said last week it will use the new Mustang Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.

Ford to use Mustang Dark Horse for Cup Series in 2024 The high-end muscle car was unveiled last year The Associated Press AVONDALE, Ariz. —Ford Performance said Wednesday it will use its top-of-the-line Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.

The Dark Horse is considered the blue-ribbon model of the Mustang lineup, with a starting price tag for consumers close to $60,000.

Joey Logano won the Cup title last year in the Mustang and Ryan Blaney clinched a second straight title for Ford and Team Penske on Sunday at Phoenix Raceway. The Dark Horse will make its Cup debut in the February exhibition opener at the Los

Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Ford won nine of 35 races in the current Mustang this season, and although Ford qualified six drivers for the 16-driver playoff field, defending champion Logano and Kevin Harvick were eliminated in the first round and Stewart-Haas Racing was winless this season.

“We think we’ve got a great road car lineup with the Mustang, but also took the decision to commit to a seventh-generation Mustang on the road and also race it around the world,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “Now to be on the cusp of showing the new Mustang Dark Horse for NASCAR Cup racing is exciting, and we want to compete and win around the world with Mustang and most

of the versions around the world are the Dark Horse.”

The Mustang will be eligible to race on six continents next season, from Bathurst to Le Mans and Daytona to Silverstone.

The Dark Horse was unveiled just over a year ago as the first new performance nameplate for Mustang since 2001. It is the most track-capable 5.0-liter V8 street-legal Mustang ever and was the inspiration for the Mustangs racing this year in Australia and the Formula Drift series.

The Dark Horse will be eligible to compete in GT3 and GT4 classes globally next year, and the Dark Horse R will compete in the Mustang Challenge Series and many grassroots racing events.

“If she gallops as fast as she

looks, it’s going to be a good year,” said Brad Keselowski, driver and co-owner of RFK Racing. “Mustang is an iconic American car made famous around the world. I think of how Mustang has evolved over the years and how NASCAR has evolved along with it and they’re just two brands that go together.

I’m proud to get to drive it and proud to be able to compete for the win in this car.”

The Mustang has competed in NASCAR since it entered Xfinity Series competition in 2011 and entered Cup in 2019.

In 2021, when NASCAR introduced the Next Gen car, Ford’s design was widely regarded as the sleekest of the muscle cars.

The current Mustang has won a manufacturer’s championship, a series-best 18 races in 2020 and a driver’s championship with Logano in 2022.

The Mustang has twice won the Daytona 500 and has wins in the Southern 500 and Brickyard 400. It also won the inaugural Clash at the Coliseum in the debut of the current Next Gen era.

World Series viewership averaged record-low 9.11M The matchup between the Rangers and Diamondbakcs was the least-watched Fall Classic in TV history

The Associated Press THE TEXAS RANGERS 5-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks for their first championship on Wednesday night drew the largest audience of this World Series. It was not enough, however, to prevent the fivegame series from being the leastwatched Fall Classic in recorded TV history.

Nielsen and Fox said Thursday the World Series averaged 9.11 million viewers, less than the 9.79 million average from the 2020 series when the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Tampa Bay Rays in six games.

It was a 23% decline from last year’s series, when the Houston Astros beat the Philadelphia Phillies in six games and averaged 11.78 million.

Wednesday night’s game averaged 11.48 million on Fox, a jump of 3 million compared to Tuesday night’s audience. The total audience across Fox, Fox Deportes and Fox streaming platforms was 11.64 million.

It was the first audience of more than 10 million for this year’s series. Monday night’s Game 3 set the record for the least-watched World Series game

AP PHOTO

Rangers catcher Jonah Heim, left, and relief pitcher Josh Sborz celebrate after Texas won Game 5 to clinch the World Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday in Phoenix. on record at 8.13 million.

The audience peaked with 14.27 million viewers for the final three outs.

Baseball and network executives figured this year’s series might face a tough audience because of two teams that don’t have much national appeal. The expanded playoffs also meant it was a series matching the teams with the seventh- and 11th-best records.

However, the Rangers being the ninth champion since 2013 and 14 teams qualifying for the Fall Classic in the same span

does have some appeal for Fox executives.

“I think it’s a good thing for the health of baseball to have new pennant winners and new champions, new teams playing in the World Series. You don’t want it to be the same market and the same brands every year,” Fox EVP, Head of Strategy and Analytics Mike Mulvihill said. “But I admit it is difficult for ratings in the short term when you’ve got some brands paired up that don’t really have traditional national boards.”

Bob Thompson, the retired

president of Fox Sports Networks who runs his own consulting group, also saw scheduling and a short series as factors in the low audience numbers.

“I think the Friday night start probably is something baseball might want to look at. It is usually the poorest-viewed night of the week. Then you had a couple games that were blowouts where people probably tuned out early,” he said. “Whenever there’s a chance for somebody to clinch, the numbers are usually high.”

The World Series also continues to outperform every entertainment program. This was the eighth straight year that has happened.

It was the most-watched event four of the five nights. The only thing to beat it was “Monday Night Football,” when the Detroit Lions beat the Las Vegas Raiders.

“Our two hopes and expectations are to beat everything in entertainment, and to have a long series. We didn’t really get a long series, but we did still beat everything in entertainment,” Mulvihill said. “As long as the series continues to do that, it’ll always be powerful in prime time.”

With the addition of the pitch clock and shorter games, ratings on regional sports network were up 7% for the regular season, with 16 of the 29 U.S.-based teams showing improvement.

National regular-season ratings were up for Fox/FS1 and TBS, but flat for ESPN.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Kaine McLendon

Albemarle shuts out South Davidson in state playoff opener North Stanly also advanced to the second round

By Jesse Deal North State Journal

SETH MABRY | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Albemarle, football Kaine McLendon is a junior running back and linebacker on the Albemarle football team.

The 6-seed Bulldogs won their 1A state playoff opener, blowing out South Davidson, 49-0. McLendon led the way with 9 carries for 106 yards and a touchdown. He also returned a punt 36 yards.

On defense, McLendon was the Bulldogs’ leading tackler with 13, 7 solo. He also had three tackles for loss and defended a pass.

5

ALBEMARLE coasted to a 49-0 home shutout win over South Davidson in the opening round of the state football playoffs.

The No. 6 Bulldogs (6-5), the Yadkin Valley Conference champions, entered the NCHSAA 1A bracket on a winning streak and extended it to four games with a dominant win over the No. 27 Wildcats (4-7).

Albemarle got ahead early with a 21-point first quarter and extended that lead to 28 by halftime.

Senior quarterback Ander Artis completed 8 of 13 passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns, and backup quarterback Dre Davis added a passing score of his own. Wideouts Ja’Zyion Geiger, Jason Wall and Christian Harris each had a touchdown reception.

The Bulldogs also excelled on the ground with running backs Malik Watkins and Kaine McLendon combining for 155 yards and three touchdowns on 15 carries.

Albemarle safety Jaylen Pinkney added a fumble recovery for a touchdown early in the game.

The Bulldogs will stay at home for the second round of the playoffs when they host No. 11 Thomasville (8-3), which defeated No. 22 Andrews (4-7) 49-6 on Friday.

North Stanly 34, T.W. Andrews 32 Ninth-seeded North Stanly used a last-minute touchdown to overcome No. 24 T.W. Andrews in New London and move on to the second round of the 2A bracket.

With North down 32-27 with under a minute to play, wide receiver Jaylon McKoy hauled in the game-winning pass from quarterback Chance Blake to give the Comets (8-3) a twopoint win over the Red Raiders (6-5).

The Comets will now hit the road to face No. 8 Brevard (9-2).

The Blue Devils took down No. 25 Trinity (5-6) 44-13 in the first round, extending their winning streak to nine games.

Randleman 43, West Stanly 0 West Stanly’s season came to an end Friday night as the No. 27 Colts were shut out 43-0 at No. 6 Randleman (10-1) in the first round of the 2A bracket.

Randleman (10-1) now moves on to host No. 11 Forest Hills (101).

Playing on their home field, the Tigers got two touchdown passes from John Kirkpatrick and four rushing touchdowns — including three from Edison Hernandez — to blow past the Colts (5-6).

West Stanly opened its season with three wins before losing six of the next eight games.

Bessemer City 52, South Stanly 32 In the 1A bracket, No. 25 South Stanly suffered a 52-32 road loss to No. 8 Bessemer City.

The Rowdy Rebel Bulls (4-7) were outgained 391-266 in total yardage, allowing 340 yards on the ground despite holding the Yellow Jackets (6-5) to just 51 passing yards.

After a scoreless first quarter, the Rowdy Rebel Bulls led Bessemer City briefly in the second quarter before the Yellow Jackets jumped to an 18-12 halftime lead and pulled away in the second half. The Yellow Jackets will host No. 9 Swain County (10-1) in the second round.

Tamirat Tola crosses the finish line to win the men’s division of the New York City Marathon on Sunday.

AP PHOTO

Tola sets course record, Obiri takes women’s title at NYC Marathon The Ethiopian topped the men’s race in 2:04:58 The Associated Press NEW YORK — Tamirat Tola wasn’t thinking about breaking the New York City Marathon course record as he was running by himself in Central Park for the last few miles of the race.

He just was focused on trying to win.

The Ethiopian runner broke the 12-year-old mark, finishing the 26.2-mile race in 2 hours, 4 minutes and 58 seconds on Sunday — eight seconds faster than Geoffrey Mutai in 2011.

“The people of New York is amazing to give me moral support every kilometer,” Tola said.

“I’m happy for them. Thank you all people. It’s a long kilometers to do alone. ... I’m not thinking about a lot. I’m thinking to win.

So this is nice.”

Tola, who finished fourth in the race in 2018 and 2019, pulled away from countrymate Jemal Yimer when the pair were heading toward the Bronx at mile 20. By the time Tola headed back into Manhattan a mile later he was up by 19 seconds and left only chasing Mutai’s mark.

The 32-year-old was a late add to the field, joining three weeks ago.

Albert Korir of Kenya, who won the 2021 NYC Marathon, finished second nearly two minutes behind Tola.

While there wasn’t much drama in the men’s race after Tola pulled away, the women’s competition came down to the final stretch. Hellen Obiri of Kenya pulled away in the final 400 meters to take the women’s title.

The 33-year-old Obiri ran New York for the first time last year and finished sixth.

“My first debut here was terrible for me, and I say like I don’t want to come back here next year,” Obiri said. “After that, I said, wow, I’m here again. So you know sometimes you learn

from your mistakes, so I did a lot of mistakes last year, so I said I want to try to do my best.”

She sure did.

Obiri, Letesenbet Gidey of Ethiopia and defending champion Sharon Lokedi were all running together exchanging the lead. Obiri made a move as the trio headed back into Central Park for the final half-mile pulling away. She finished in 2:27:23. Gidey finished second, six seconds behind.

Lokedi was 10 seconds behind Obiri, who won the Boston Marathon in April. She’s the first woman to win those two marathons in the same year since Norwegian Ingrid Kristiansen

did it in 1989.

Marcel Hug won the men’s wheelchair race, finishing a few seconds short of his own course record by finishing in 1:25:29. It was the Swiss star’s record-extending sixth NYC Marathon victory.

“It’s incredible. I think it takes some time to realize what happened,” Hug said. “I’m so happy as well.”

Catherine Debrunner of Switzerland won her New York debut, shattering the course record in the women’s wheelchair race.

She finished in 1:39:32, besting the previous mark by over 3 minutes, which was held by American Susannah Scaroni.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

6

Supreme Court will rule on Trump-era ban on rapid-fire gun bump stocks The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court agreed on Friday to decide whether a Trump era-ban on bump stocks, the gun attachments that allow semi-automatic weapons to fire more rapidly, violates federal law.

The justices will hear arguments early next year over a regulation put in place by the Justice Department after a mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017.

Federal appeals courts have come to different decisions about whether the regulation defining a bump stock as a machine gun comports with federal law.

The justices said they will review the Biden administration’s appeal of a ruling by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans that invalidated the ban.

The Supreme Court already is weighing a challenge to another federal law that seeks to keep guns away from people under domestic violence restraining orders, a case that stems from the landmark decision in 2022 in which the six-justice conservative majority expanded gun rights.

The new case is not about the Second Amendment right to “keep and bear arms,” but rather whether the Trump adminis-

Te

AP PHOTO

In this Oct. 4, 2017, file photo, a device called a “bump stock” is attached to a semi-automatic rifle at the Gun Vault store and shooting range in South Jordan, Utah. tration followed federal law in changing the bump stock regulation.

The ban on bump stocks took effect in 2019. It stemmed from the Las Vegas shooting in which the gunman, a 64-year-old retired postal service worker and high-stakes gambler, used as-

sault-style rifles to fire more than 1,000 rounds in 11 minutes into a crowd of 22,000 music fans.

Most of the rifles were fitted with bump stock devices and high-capacity magazines. A total of 58 people were killed in the shooting, and two died later.

Hundreds were injured.

The Trump administration’s ban on bump stocks was an about-face for the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. In 2010, under the Obama administration, the agency found that a bump stock should not be clas-

5 strategies for navigating today’s digital tipping culture

By Kimberly Palmer NerdWallet THE NEARLY universal experience of finding yourself face-to-face with a checkout counter screen asking you to select an amount to tip for service can prompt a cascade of awkward questions: How much should you tip on a $5 coffee if anything? How can you decide before the cup has even been poured? Is it rude to select “no tip,” then slink away with your drink?

The answers to those questions vary depending on whom you ask, but tipping experts agree on one thing: We get prompted to tip much more frequently these days, largely because of the explosion of cashless payment methods with automated tipping options. Another thing they agree on: You don’t always have to say “yes.”

“During the pandemic and post-pandemic, we’ve seen a dramatic shift in the way tips are given. Suddenly, you see tablets where you are prompted to give specific tip amounts at points of purchase where never before would anyone have dreamed of giving a tip,” says Thomas Farley, also known as “Mister Manners,” a New Yorkbased etiquette expert and keynote speaker.

“Consumers want to be dutiful, good consumers, so many play along, but still feel confused,” Farley adds.

To sort out that confusion, consider following these five strategies for navigating current tipping culture:

sified as a machine gun and therefore should not be banned under federal law.

Following the Las Vegas shooting, officials revisited that determination and found it incorrect.

Bump stocks harness the recoil energy of a semi-automatic firearm so that a trigger “resets and continues firing without additional physical manipulation of the trigger by the shooter,” according to the ATF. A shooter must maintain constant forward pressure on the weapon with the non-shooting hand and constant pressure on the trigger with the trigger finger, according to court records.

The full U.S. 5th Circuit ruled 13-3 in January that Congress would have to change federal law to ban bump stocks.

“The definition of ‘machinegun’ as set forth in the Nation- Novembe al Firearms Act and Gun Control Act does not apply to bump stocks,” Judge Jennifer Walker Legend Elrod wrote for the 5th Circuit. maker Te But a panel of three judgesfinal driv on the federal appeals court inshort batt Washington looked at the same Tex Pow language and came to a differ-Novembe TX to Wi ent conclusion.

Judge Robert Wilkins wrotePauline A for the U.S. Court of Appeals foraway pea the District of Columbia CircuitNovembe that “under the best interpreta- He is s tion of the statute, a bump stockwife of 35 is a self-regulating mechanismMcGriff P that allows a shooter to shoot(Marlene) more than one shot throughand Mike a single pull of the trigger. AsNC; bonu such, it is a machine gun underof Seabro the National Firearms Act anddaughter Portland, Gun Control Act.” A decision is expected by ear-Powell (S ly summer in Garland v. Cargill,brother-in (Pam); sis 22-976.

Bown (Ch law Hersh (Shelly); s Stallard ( Hershel M TRADITIONAL TIPPING and nume Lisa Mirza Grotts, an eti-nieces, ne quette expert, says that whilefriends. many consumers no longer carry much cash, it’s still useful to have some on hand in certain situations, such as when tipping a hotel housekeeper or valet. She suggests keeping $5 and $10 bills handy, especially when you travel.

There’s also a time for larger bills. When you’re tipping on a big-ticket service, such as a $5,000 house move, Farley recommends having a few $100 bills on hand to pass out to the workers at the end. “There’s no need to tip 20%, but $100 would go a long way,” he says.

At the end of the year, Farley suggests tipping each service provider, such as a hairstylist, barber or nail technician, the equivalent of the cost of one visit, whether it’s $30 or $300. “Cash is king,” he says, adding that you can include a notecard with the tip.

CONSIDER YOUR BUDGET Ellie Austin-Williams, author of the forthcoming book “Money Talks: A Lifestyle Guide for Financial Wellbeing,” encourages consumers to protect their budget from tipping-creep. “Just because the option is there to tip, don’t always feel you have to take it. Businesses are there to encourage us to spend more money, and it’s on you to manage your money.

You’ve got to look after your own finances,” she says.

AP PHOTO

In this Feb. 2, 2011, file photo, a wallet containing cash and a Visa card is displayed.

BRUSH OFF ANY AWKWARDNESS While you might feel put on the spot with the sudden appearance of the tipping screen at a checkout counter, Farley says you should feel justified in taking your time and making the best decision for you and your budget.

“Most servers I witness try to give you your space while you decide. Own your decision knowing you are fully supported by good etiquette guidelines either way,” he says.

“We are living through inflationary times when everything costs more. Unless you have

tons of disposable income, you shouldn’t feel guilty about not tipping” at a checkout counter, even if an iPad tells you to, Farley adds.

AIM TO TIP 20% FOR MOST SERVICES While tipping isn’t traditional at a coffee shop or convenience store counter, it is expected when you’re being served at a restaurant, where 20% is customary. Hairstylists, salon assistants, food delivery drivers and other service workers generally rely on similar percentage tips as a significant portion

of their income.

Blake Hammerton, Dallas-based founder of The Sharp Gentleman, a coaching and lifestyle website for men, suggests adding 20% or rounding up to an even dollar amount for most services. As a former pizza delivery worker, he says he always appreciated tips based on the amount of effort he had to put into the job, including distance driven and the amount of food delivered. “Five dollars is great if it’s close by and a small amount, but if it’s eight pizzas for a party, you’ll want to tip more,” he says.

CARRY SOME CASH FOR

EMBRACE THE JOY OF TIPPING When you’ve received excellent service and you want to reward the people who provided it, tipping can be a positive experience — and no one leaves feeling awkward.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

obituaries obituaries

Barbara Jean Tex Powell (Taylor) Drye November 3, 1938 — November

2023 14, 2023 April 17, 1936 ~1,January

Dwight Farmer Cherlye Anne January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, Deese 2023

August 9, 1969 - October 21, Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, 2023 Legendary NASCAR Barbara Jean Taylor Drye,car 86, of Norwood died Sunday morning, Tex Powell hasSaturday, taken his January 15, 2023 at Forrest Oakes. ofmaker Oakboro, passed away Cheryle Anne Deese, 54, final drive to Heaven after a January 14, 2023 at her home.

Dwight was born of Albemarle, NCJanuary passed24, short battle lung 17, cancer.

Barbara was with born April 1936 1939 in Stanly County to the late away Saturday, October 21, in North to the late on Robert Tex Carolina Powell was born Walter Virgil and Martha Adkins 2023 in Atrium Health Main, Lee Taylor and3,the late Eva Belle November 1938, in Houston, Farmer. He was a 1957 graduate NC. Watts Taylor.

TX to William Lane Powell and of Charlotte, Norwood High School and 9, was She was born She was Allen also preceded death Pauline Powell.inHe passed a United States ArmyAugust Veteran.

1969 in Stanly County, NC to byaway husband of 61 years, Furr peacefully on Keith Wednesday, He was a member of Cedar Grove Kay Leonard Deese and the Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee November 1, 2023.

United Methodist Church where he late Douglas Deese. Cheryle Taylor, Georgeby Kenneth HeJr.isand survived his beloved had served as church treasurer and was a correctional officer.

Taylor. wife of 35 years Marilyn choir member. He began his career She was a loving and caring SurvivorsPowell; include sons children, McGriff Bill with the Stanly County Sheriff’ s Mom, who enjoyed life, people Debbie (Mike) Williams of (Marlene) of San Antonio, TX Department moving to the Norwood andDepartment being in theand company of Albemarle, (Tom)ofCurry retiring as and MikeTeresa (Sharon) Asheboro, Police friends.

Cheryle also enjoyed ofNC; Oakboro, Douglas (Tammy) Chief of Police with the Town of bonus son John (Sarah) fishing after withmany her son, Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, Norwood yearscooking, of service. of Seabrook Island, SC; bonus and music.

Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, Dwight was an avid gardener, daughter Lisa Wickham of Samantha (Destiny) Smith of Billy Cheryleand is survived by a bird watcher Carolina fan.

Portland, OR; grandson Oakboro, Bradley Smith of Oakboro, son, Douglas Perry (Emily He is survived by his wife Hilda Powell (Sophia); brother Paul; Jonathan Stover of Peachland, and Purvis) of Badin, NC;D.brother, Whitley Farmer; one son Britten brother-in-law Doug McGriff Jessie Stover of Lylesville; sisterCalvin a nephew, Adam Farmer Jr.Deese; (Mary) of McLeansville, (Pam); sister-in-law Debbie in-law, Beatrice Goodman; many Whitten; special friends, Julie NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer Bown (Chuck); brother-innieces and nephews; and her beloved Lowe Aldridge Marie Starnes (David)and of Norwood; one law Hershel McGriff, Jr. cats, Bo and Garfield. andGeraldine boyfriend, Mark sister Dennis of Mauldin Troy; two (Shelly); sister-in-law Gina Barbara was a member of of the home. grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” Stallard (Paul); father-in-law Oakboro Baptist Church for over Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui Hershel McGriff (Sherrie); 60 years. She worked over 30 years Lowe. numerous grandchildren, atand Stanly Knitting Mills.

After just He was preceded in death by nieces, nephews, family and two years of retirement, she began his son Alex, brothers, Tommy and friends. the Oakboro Senior managing Jimmy, sisters, Nancy, Cornelia Center and did that for 18 years Annabell, Glennie Mae, and Betty. until this past week. Barbara was Memorials may be made to Cedar known for her good cooking and Grove United Methodist Church, always taking care of others. She also Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam loved going on day long shopping Smith 36071 Rocky River Springs trips - she could out walk and out Road, Norwood, NC 28128. shop people half her age. She kept her mind and body active through gardening, word searches, and various other hobbies.

Richard Leon "Buddy" Dunn

Ted Kupsick

December 11, 1941 ~ October 31, 2023 Ted Kupsick, Jr., 81, of Norwood, passed away Tuesday morning, October 31, 2023 at Atrium Stanly.

Mr. Kupsick was born on December 11, 1941 in Abilene, TX to the late Ted and Virginia Fleetwood Kupsick.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his siblings, Jennie Lee Drake, Jackie Lann, Homer Kupsick, and Sarah Toon; and greatgranddaughter, Remington Honeycutt.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 57 years, Phyllis Tyson Kupsick of the home; children: Cynthia Honeycutt (Michael), Theresa Long (Marty), and Ted Kupsick (Shannon); eight grandchildren: Heather Whitley (David), Samantha Goodman (Jeff), Joanne Morgan (Daniel), Lee Norton (Mariah), Paige Honeycutt (Daren), Madison Long, Trey Long, and Bryce Kupsick; and seven greatgrandchildren: Zoey Crayton, Jenson Elam, Ellie Goodman, Tyson Goodman, Bexleigh Honeycutt, Nora Morgan, and Gatsby Norton.

November 11, 1944 - November 1, 2023 Richard Leon "Buddy" Dunn, 78, of Albemarle passed away on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 in his home.

Born November 11, 1944 in Cabarrus County, NC, he was the son of the late Ernest Franklin Dunn and Sadie Elizabeth Rinehardt Dunn.

He was a member of Hillside Baptist Church and the owner of Dunn's Construction Company.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carolyn Smith Dunn. Other survivors include children Lisa Bowers and husband Marty of New London, Mark Dunn and wife Candace of Albemarle, and Stacy Dunn Herlocker of New London, special nephew Scott Dunn of Albemarle, brother Larry Dunn of Richfield, nine grandchildren Dustin Bowers, Brittany Bowers, Layne Parker, Colby Dunn, Dakota King, Hailey Steen, Corrie Steen, Kari Steen, and R J Beheler, and seven great-grandchildren Victor III, Madelyn, Morgan, Vandor, Montayla, Mabrie, and Koe, as well as many nieces and nephews. A brother James Franklin Dunn preceded him in death.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

James John Hathcock B. Kluttz Ruth Roseboro Cauthen Robert June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023 March 23, 9, February 24, 1935 1938 -~January November Senn 2023 James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of29, February 15, 1941 - October Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, 2023 January 10, 2023 at Anson Health and Rehab.

Ruth Cauthen Senn, 82, Roseboro born on ofMr. Locust, NC,was went home June 23, 1967 to the late Robert to be with her Lord and and Delena Shipp Roseboro. He Savior on Sunday, October graduated from South Stanly 29, 2023, at Atrium Health High School and was employed by Stanly, Albemarle, NC. She Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching was born on February 15, the football and basketball, especially 1941, in Charlotte, NC, to the Carolina TarHeels and Miami. late Evangeline John In addition to hisand parents heZis Cauthen. preceded in death by his brothers She met the love of and sisters: Barbara Leeher Roseboro, life, Earle, at the age of 22 Dorothy Brown, Verna Roseboro, and wasIngram, married inHarold less than Henrietta and three months. Soon after, Roseboro. she a mother of two.

Hebecame is survived by his sisters: She was a wonderful mother, Helen (James) Roseboro Edwards many sacrifices ofmaking Albemarle, Mary Roseboroover years. She was a ofthe Washington DC, andeven Marion second of mother to many a Morrison Albemarle; brothers: neighborhood child.

To them Thomas D. Roseboro of Charlotte, she was just “Mama Ruth.”

Robert Roseboro (Patricia) of Ruth and worked in many places Norwood, Van Horne; a special throughout her life Michelle and wore friend of over 40 years, McLendon of the special many hats.

Forhome; a while her and nieces: Montague, EarleNybrea had a horse farmKnya with 27 Little, and Laquanza Crump; special stalls.

She loved going to the nephews: Robert Desmond beach with theJr., whole family.

Roseboro, and Marcus and Family meant a lot Lilly; to her.

GodShe daughter, Daphne Johnson; and was preceded in special Johnson deathfriends, by herVetrella husband of 38 and Ben McLendon. years, Earle Senn, Jr. She is survived by her son, Wiley “Chip” Senn, III, and his wife, Tonia of Albemarle, NC, daughter Melissa Senn Kirk and husband Steve of Locust, NC, grandchildren, Leah Jordan of Waynesboro, VA, Chase Couick of Stanfield, NC, Bruce Pylant of Locust, NC, Joe Doiron of Little Axe, OK, greatgrandchildren Abigail Jordan, Gracelynn Jordan, Kameron Farris, Abby Farris, Rebel Doiron, and Dixie Doiron.

Darrick Baldwin January 7, 1973 ~ January 8, 2023

Darrick Vashon Baldwin, age 50, entered eternal rest, Sunday, January 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina.

Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin.

Darrick enjoyed life, always kept things lively and enjoyed making others smile. His presence is no longer in our midst, but his memory will forever live in our hearts.

He was educated in the Stanly March 31, 1932 ~ November 3, County public schools and attended 2023 Albemarle Senior High School, Albemarle.

Johnnie Robert Lefler, 91, of He was a great conversationalist Spartanburg, SC, formerly of and loved meeting people.

Darrick never met a stranger always Norwood, passedand away Friday showed loveNovember and compassion for his evening, 3 2023. fellowman.

Hewas alsoborn lovedMarch his dog, Johnnie Rocky.

31, 1932 to the late Arlie and He is survived by his father,He Hettie Swaringen Lefler.

Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; manager sisters: Crystal retired as a plant in (Eric) Jackson,industry.

LaFondra (Stoney) the textiles Medley, and Morganby Baldwin; He is survived his brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton daughter, Aundrea Lefler Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a Ivey of Albemarle, two host of other relatives and friends. grandchildren, Kevin BowersA limb has fallenoffrom our family tree.

(Amanda), Norwood, and We will not grieve (Stephen) Darrick’s death; Emily Bledsoe of we will celebrate hisseven life. We give Albemarle, and great thanksgiving for the many shared grandchildren. memories.

Johnnie Lefler

5, 2023

John grew up in the Millingport Robert “Pete” Hathcock, community where he drove a school 85, of Norwood passed away bus and worked at the local gas Sunday morning, November station during his High School years.

05, 2023 at Atrium Health He graduated from Millingport Stanly in Albemarle.

High in 1954 and entered into Robert was on service with theborn US Airforce February 24, 1938 to late immediately afterward.the Upon Marvin Adam Myrtle return from the and service, he and his Gregory Hathcock.

He retired high school sweetheart Julie were from Arrowood Store Fixtures married in 1956. He graduated from and was of theDiesel Baptist faith.later in Nashville Auto College He enjoyed hunting andas a diesel 1959 and began his career fishing, asatwell as working on mechanic Mitchell Distributing small engines.

Company, moving his growing In addition to his parents, family to Charlotte where they lived he is preceded in death by his until their retirement. wife Joyce Gibson Hathcock, When John purchased his first daughter, Lora Model A Ford at Hathcock, the age of 17, he sisters: Lee, Kay said thatCarolyn he took the carand to the Hyatt, and Mickey community mechanicHathcock when he had a small problem.The mechanic told and brothers: Franklin him that if he was going to keep the Hathcock, and Donnie car, he needed to learn to work on Hathcock. it. He Thisisissurvived when John’ for bys passion his Model A Fords began and how he children, Robert “Buck” spent his happiest days with his best Hathcock (Dawn), Shelia friends from around Lindsey the globe for the Hinson (Richard), rest of hisHathcock life!

“Shorty” (Crystal At age 50, after years as a Detroit Phillips), Johnny Hathcock Diesel Mechanic and Julie (Tanya), Jeffery he Hathcock decided to take the plunge and (Belinda), brothers: Jimmy open a full Model A Restoration Hathcock and Bob Hathcock, Shop. They thrived at their sisters: Betty Burris, Loisshop in Cornelius, NC until their Harris, Alice Doorman,retirement and in 1998 when they moved Shirley Rowland, and 20back to Cabarrus County.

John again grandchildren and 30once greatset up shop in his back yard garage grandchildren. where he attracted a loyal group of friends who visited almost daily.

While on the farm in Gold Hill, John also began a lifelong love with Alis Chalmers tractors after he restored his Dad’s tractor and began amassing his collection of tractors as well.

John restored many cars of his own and had the crowning achievement of winning the most prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered top points. He was also presented with the Ken Brady Service Award the highest award given to members at the national level.

This is what John’s Model A Community had to say upon learning of his death: He was an active member of June 14, 1940Methodist ~ November 2, Wesley Chapel Church where he loved2023 serving as greeter on Sunday mornings. He also belonged to Mary the United Methodist Joanne Brock Men. John is survived by his wife Hayman, 83, of Norwood, Julie Ussery for 66 years passed awayKluttz, Thursday of the home.November He is also survived afternoon, 2, 2023. byJoanne a son John David was bornKluttz June(Kim) 14, of Oakboro, NC;County two daughters, 1940 in Stanly to the SallyWilliam SimersonHarding of Denver, CO and late and Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, Elsie Mae Eudy Brock. She CO; threea grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz was member of Memorial Sammons (Ben) of Richfield, NC Baptist Church.

John Alexanderto McKinnon (Sarah) In addition her parents, of Asheville, NC andinSeth William she was preceded death McKinnon of Germany; by her son, (Amanda) Robert “Robbie” five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Hildreth.

Meredith, Grant, Victoria She is survived by herand Ronan. John is also preceded in husband, Emory Hayman death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and of the home; son, Richard Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large “Richie Hildreth of Norwood; and loving group of brothers and step children, Michael sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie Hayman Albemarle; Mark Lou KluttzofHoneycutt, Jake Nelson Hayman of Stanfield and Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Dorothy Hayman of Richfield.

Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Sister Judy Hall (Pat).

Fowler Kluttz.

Joanne Hayman

7

Doris Plyler Jones Brenda Coleman September 13, 1942 ~ October

7

31,1944 2023- January 10, October 11, 2023 Brenda Tyson Plyler, 81, of Albemarle passed away Doris Elaine Jones Coleman, 78, Tuesday morning, October 31,on went home into God’ s presence 2023 at her home.

January 10 after a sudden illness and a Brenda valiant week-long in ICU. was bornfight September Dorisin was born on October 13, 1942 Anson County to11, 1944, the mountains of Marion, the lateinJohn R and Emma NC whileTyson. her father was away Johnson fighting in the US Navy during In addition to her parents, World II. Raymond Jones she wasWar preceded in death bywas so proud to return afterPlyler the war and her husband, Darrell and meet his little girl! Doris grew up in her sister, Barbara Cooper.

Durham, NC and graduated She is survived by her from Durham High School. son, Christopher NeilShe furthered her studies at Watts Hospital Dennis(Dana) of Garner, NC; School of Nursing Durham and daughter, Tammyin Dennis graduated as of a Registered Nurse in Barton(Rob) Youngsville, 1966.

NC; her former husband married Dr. Ted andDoris father of her Rev. children, Coleman in 1966 and had two Bobby Dennis; grandchildren, daughtersMyers, Amy and Laura. Doris Krystina Kierstyn raised Amy and Laura in North Myers, L’il Rob Barton(Emily), Augusta, SC. Nathan Barton, James Barton Doris was an incredible neonatal and Hailey Moss(Nathaniel); intensive care nurse for most of her great grandchildren, career, and this was herPhoebe, passion.

Willa and Cash Bartondid and The Augusta Chronicle a feature Rose Moss; sisters, Phyllis on her in 1985.

She was a clinical Kupsick and Rachel Carpenter; nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia brothers, Richard Tyson(Rose) at University Hospital NICU and and Mark Tyson(Katie); worked there for 20 years. During step thischildren, time, DorisCharlotte mentored young Parker(Rusty) and in Scott nurses and assisted saving the Plyler(Satrina); specialShe friends, lives of so many babies. also Debbie Beemie Gimore. workedand for Pediatrician Dr. William A. Wilkes in Augusta for several years prior to her NICU career. Doris retired from the mother/baby area at Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 years of nursing.

Doris was a gentle and sweet spirit and loved her Lord. She never met a stranger, and she always left you feeling uplifted after talking with her. She would often claim that she had “adopted” friends into her immediate family, and honestly, she never made a distinction between the two. Positivity radiated from her like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her lifetime she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Durham, First Baptist Church of Augusta, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Augusta, and Palestine United Methodist Church in Albemarle.

She especially loved-helping at 30, September 1, 1948 October church with older adults, youth, and 2023 children.

She was especially talented Linda Mills Crisco, 75 at sewing from young age andon passed away ataTrinity Place made gifts friends, Christmas October 30,for2023. ornaments, Costumes, Linda wasHalloween born September clothes, pageant dresses, 1,doll 1948, in Albemarle, NC. prom dresses, coats, tote scarves, She is preceded inbags, death by outfits for Amy and Laura, and Barbara Davis (sister), Ethel Christening gowns forher each of her Daniels (sister), and grandchildren. parents Dewitt Mills, and Doris preceded death by Vernie P. was Mills.

She isin lovingly her father Arthur Raymond survived by her husband ofJones, her mother Mary Ellen Cameron 57 years, Edward Crisco. She Jones, and her sister Maryanne is also lovingly remembered Jones Brantley. by son Donnie (Joan) Crisco Survivors include her two and daughter Melody (Sandy) precious daughters: Amy Cameron Godfrey.

KyleNeal ColemanGrandchildren (partner Dr. Edward Crisco, Kody Crisco, and DJand Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, Godfrey.

Sisters; Judy Smith, Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio Lou Archer, KellyofSpeights, (husband David) Cincinnati, Ohio; Kathy Wheeler, Tammy seven grandchildren: Cameron Deaton, Susan Stephanie Mauney, Jae Dejak, David Oliverio, brothers; Steve Mills,Coleman Matthew Luca Beatty Oliverio, John Mills.

Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan She loved reading her Richard Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon romance novels, going in-laws, to the Oliverio; and numerous beach, spending time nieces,and nephews, cousins, and loved with ones.her family, especially her grandchildren.

Linda Dale Mills Crisco

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Right turn on red? With pedestrian deaths rising, US cities are considering bans The Associated Press CHICAGO — Sophee Langerman was on her way to a bicycle safety rally in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in June when a car turning right rolled through a red light and slammed into her bike, which she was walking off the curb and into the crosswalk.

The car was moving slowly enough that Langerman escaped serious injury, but the bicycle required extensive repairs. To Langerman, it’s another argument for ending a practice that almost all U.S. cities have embraced for decades: the legal prerogative for a driver to turn right after stopping at a red light.

A dramatic rise in accidents killing or injuring pedestrians and bicyclists has led to a myriad of policy and infrastructure changes, but moves to ban right on red have drawn some of the most intense sentiments on both sides.

Washington, D.C.’s City Council last year approved a righton-red ban that takes effect in 2025. New Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s transition plan called for “restricting right turns on red,” but his administration hasn’t provided specifics.

The college town of Ann Arbor, Michigan, now prohibits right

AP PHOTO

A passenger vehicle makes a right turn on red at an intersection that prohibits the turn Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, in Chicago. turns at red lights in the downtown area.

San Francisco leaders recently voted to urge their transportation agency to ban right on red across the city, and other major cities such as Los Angeles, Seat-

tle and Denver have looked into bans as well.

“Drivers should not have the option to decide for themselves when they think it’s safe,” said Langerman, 26. “People are busy.

People are distracted.”

But Jay Beeber, executive director for policy at the National Motorists Association, an advocacy organization for drivers, called it a “fallacy” to assume such blanket bans would make streets safer.

He cited an upcoming study by his association that analyzed California crash data from 20112019 and found that drivers turning right on red accounted for only about one pedestrian death and less than one bicyclist death statewide every two years.

“What’s really behind this movement is part of the agenda to make driving as miserable and as difficult as possible so people don’t drive so much,” Beeber said.

The United States is one of few major countries that generally allow right turns on red.

Concerned that cars idling at stop lights could compound an energy crisis, the U.S. government warned states in the 1970s that they could risk some federal funding should cities prohibit right on red, except in specific, clearly marked areas. Although another energy-conscious provision capping speed limits at 55 mph has long been abandoned, right on red has endured.

Right on red has never been allowed across most of New York City, where large signs alert Man-

Many Americans say their household expenses are outpacing earnings this year, AP-NORC poll shows The Associated Press NEW YORK — About 2 in 3 Americans say their household expenses have risen over the last year, but only about 1 in 4 say their income has increased in the same period, according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

As household expenses outpace earnings, many are expressing concern about their financial futures. What’s more, for most Americans, household debt has either risen in the last year or has not gone away.

Steve Shapiro, 61, who works as an audio engineer in Pittsburgh, said he’d been spending about $100 a week on groceries prior to this past year, but that he’s now shelling out closer to $200.

“My income has stayed the same,” he said. “The economy is good on paper, but I’m not doing great.”

About 8 in 10 Americans say their overall household debt is higher or about the same as it was a year ago. About half say they currently have credit card debt, 4 in 10 are dealing with auto loans, and about 1 in 4 have medical debt. Just 15% say their household savings have in-

AP PHOTO

A man shops at a grocery store in Buffalo Grove, Ill., March 19, 2023. creased over the last year.

Tracy Gonzales, 36, who works as a sub-contractor in construction in San Antonio, Texas, has several thousand dollars of medical debt from an emergency room visit for what she thought was a bad headache but turned out to be a tooth infection.

“They’ll treat you, but the bills are crazy,” she said. Gonzales said she’s tried to avoid seeking medical treatment because of the costs.

Relatively few Americans say they’re very or extremely con-

fident that they could pay an unexpected medical expense (26%) or have enough money for retirement (18%). Only about one-third are extremely or very confident their current financial situation will allow them to keep up with expenses, though an additional 42% say they’re somewhat confident.

“I’ve been looking forward to retirement my entire life.

Recently I realized it’s just not going to happen,” said Shapiro, adding that his wife’s $30,000 or so of student debt is a financial factor for his household. The

couple had hoped to sell their house and move this past year, but decided instead to hold on to their mortgage rate of 3.4%, rather than facing a higher rate.

(The current average long-term mortgage rate reached 7.79% this month.)

About 3 in 10 Americans say they’ve foregone a major purchase because of higher interest rates in the last year. Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults have student debt, with the pandemic-era payment pause on federal loans ending this month, contributing to the crunch.

Yet even as Americans have expressed gloomy sentiments about the economy, many have continued spending, which drove a strong quarter of growth from July though September, when the economy expanded at an annual pace of 4.9%.

Even so, wages and salaries have largely trailed inflation since the pandemic, leaving most households worse off, though economists debate which measures are the best to use. In the past 12 months, however, average hourly pay has started to pull ahead of prices, rising 0.5% faster.

Americans are generally split on whether the Republicans (29%) or the Democrats (25%)

hattan’s visitors that the practice is prohibited there. But it was the default policy practically everywhere else in the U.S. until last year’s vote in the nation’s capital.

Critics argue that banning right on red will not only inconvenience motorists but also slow down commuter buses and deliveries. The United Parcel Service hasn’t taken an official position on right on red but has long directed its drivers to avoid left turns whenever possible, viewing them as inefficient.

According to a national report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, more than 7,500 people walking were struck and killed by automobiles in 2022, the highest number since 1981.

The spike, which included all accidents — not just those involving right turns on red, was attributed in part to an increase in larger vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks on the road.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that the odds a pedestrian would be killed when struck by an automobile turning right were 89% higher when the vehicle was a pickup and 63% higher when it was an SUV, due to larger blind spots and the deadlier force associated with heavier models.

“These big, blunt front hoods, they knock people down and run over them, as opposed to before when people would crumple onto the hood,” said Mike McGinn, a former Seattle mayor who is the executive director of America Walks, a national nonprofit that advocates for pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

are better suited to handle the issue of inflation in the U.S. Three in 10 say they trust neither party to address it.

A slight majority of all Americans polled (54%) describe their household’s financial situation as good, which is about the same as it’s been for the last year but down from 63% in March of 2022. Older Americans are much more confident in their current finances than younger Americans. Just 39% of 18to 29-year-olds describe their household finances as good, compared to a majority (58%) of those who are 30 and older. People with higher levels of education or higher household incomes are more likely than Americans overall to evaluate their finances as solid.

About three-quarters of Americans describe the nation’s economy as poor, which is in line with measurements from early last year.

Among those who are retired, 3 in 10 say they are highly confident that there’s enough saved for their retirement, about 4 in 10 are somewhat confident, and 31% are not very confident or not confident at all.

About 4 in 10 Americans (38%) approve of how Biden is handling the presidency, while 61% disapprove. His overall approval numbers have remained at a steady low for the last several years. Most Americans generally disapprove of how he’s handling the federal budget (68% disapprove), the economy (67%), and student debt (58%).

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 37 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM

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Randolph record THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

We didn’t start the fire

Marshall Hedrick, 6, of Randleman is taught how to use a fire extinguisher by Aaron Cable of the Climax Fire Department during Firefighters Day at the Randolph County Courthouse in Asheboro on Saturday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Randolph County’s unemployment rises slightly from last year The county’s unemployment rate decreased for the month of September, both from the previous month and from the same time period last year.

Randolph’s 3.6% unemployment rate for September — 66th across all 100 NC counties — was up 0.1% from a year ago, but down 0.2% from the prior month. That translates to an estimated 2,411 of the county’s 66,867-strong total workforce being unemployed during the month.

The unemployment rates, which are not seasonally adjusted for hiring trends like farming or holidays, decreased in 98 of North Carolina’s counties in September 2023 and increased in two.

Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 5.6% while Swain and Buncombe Counties each had the lowest at 2.5%.

The number of workers employed statewide increased in September by 53,039 to 5,134,777, while those unemployed decreased by 18,714 to 170,391. Since September 2022, the number of workers employed statewide increased by 142,319, while those unemployed decreased by 7,967.

The county-level unemployment rates were released Nov. 1.

Early voting totals for Randolph County 1,166 ballots were cast during the early voting window in Randolph County.

It was mostly a slow process for the 13 days the polls were open at the Randolph County Board of Elections in Asheboro. Saturday’s final day of early voting drew 123 voters for the second-highest number behind the 132 voters Oct. 24.

Election Day was Tuesday.

Asheboro seeks public input on new greenway project

By Abby Cavanaugh Randolph Record ASHEBORO — The City of Asheboro is in the process of gathering public input for a proposed 1.8-mile greenway, envisioned to start at Vision Drive and extend northward along Haskett Creek to West Central Avenue. The project, which has been in development since July, is currently in the feasibility study stage.

The proposed route, detailed on the city’s website, aims to utilize existing sewer line easements and incorporate floodplain areas. It is set to cross various types of properties in-

cluding commercial zones, rural residential lots, and spaces linked to Homeowners Associations and institutional entities.

A key aspect of the feasibility study involves discussions with property owners along the potential route to secure easements necessary for the greenway’s creation. The city intends for the greenway to serve not only as a recreational pathway but also as a connecting route to North Asheboro Park, potentially acting as a trailhead.

Plans also include establishing links to Balfour Elementary School and North Asheboro Middle School, with a section following the West Bailey Street

Veterans Treatment Court approved by commissioners Randolph County to offer alternative to incarceration

By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Board of Commissioners, during their meeting on Monday, Nov. 6, approved the Veterans Treatment Court Project and revisited funding for opioid crisis assistance, among other budgetary matters.

Sheriff Greg Seabolt highlighted the need for the Veterans Treatment Court Project, noting the growing mental health issues among the county’s estimated 10,000 veterans.

The program is tailored for military veterans and service members who have run afoul of the

law due to substance use, mental health disorders, or trauma, offering them an alternative to incarceration.

The Veterans Treatment Court is structured as a fivephase, 16-24 month program that provides participants with access to resources and treatments tailored to their needs.

The process for eligible veterans includes referrals, screenings for criminal and military history, assessments of substance abuse, mental health, and housing needs, followed by a comprehensive case management plan. Participants will be required to make bi-weekly court appearances, meet with coordinators, and submit to random urine drug screens.

“This program will give veterans the opportunity to get treatment, restore their lives

A key aspect of the feasibility study involves discussions with property owners along the potential route to secure easements necessary for the greenway’s creation. public right-of-way from the Haskett Creek bridge to North Asheboro School Road.

The project is under the city’s jurisdiction as the entire proposed greenway falls within the

“This program will give veterans the opportunity to get treatment [and] restore their lives.”

Randolph Sheriff Greg Seabolt and get back to where they needed to be initially,” Seabolt said. The initiative is supported by a $851,633 grant from the 2023 Department of Justice Assistance for Veteran Treatment Court Planning and Implementation, covering the program for three years without additional county funding.

In other business, the commissioners approved amendments to the Waste Management Franchise Ordinance Agreement, expanding the landfill property coverage and updating the number of county-owned convenience centers.

They also extended the landfill’s projected lifespan based on full site usage.

The board accepted a $596,851 grant from the NC Tobacco Trust Fund for equip-

Asheboro corporate limits. The N.C. Department of Transportation is collaborating as a partner in support.

The North Asheboro Greenway Feasibility Study will assess various potential routes, both along roadways and offroad, to identify the most viable option. It will also provide cost estimates and draft an implementation strategy for the greenway’s construction. The completion of the final study is targeted for spring 2024.

Residents are encouraged to share their views and suggestions for the greenway through an online survey available at publicinput.com/northasheborogreenway.

Alternatively, paper surveys can be requested by calling 336-626-1201, ext.

2323.

The city is keen on incorporating community feedback to ensure the greenway meets the needs and expectations of Asheboro residents.

ment at the Farm, Food and Family Education Center. Kenny Sherin, Cooperative Extension Director, explained that the funds are allocated annually by the NC General Assembly.

Additionally, a $530,000 bid was approved for the construction of the Sandy Creek Pedestrian Bridge, which will enhance the Deep River Trail by connecting the communities of Franklinville and Ramseur.

In a reversal from a previous stance, Chairman Darrell Frye changed his vote to approve $50,000 in opioid settlement funding for Keaton’s Place, which had been initially rejected in July. Frye noted that it was his prerogative to bring the issue back to the table and change his vote.

The next meeting of the Randolph County Board of Commissioners is set for Dec. 4.

$2.00

Randolph Record for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

2 WEDNESDAY

11.8.23

Film on Wilmington Massacre sheds light on forgotten history “In the Pines” uses historical fiction to explore the events and impact of the 1898 racial conflict

“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 RANDOLPHRECORD.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00

By Alexis White For North State Journal ASHEBORO — The John Locke Foundation held a screening of “In the Pines,” a short film about the Wilmington Massacre of 1898, at the Asheboro Public Library on November 2.

Directed by Dugan Bridges, “In the Pines” is a piece of historical fiction following Scarlett Manning, played by Pandora Broadwater, as she shares her memories of the events leading up to the massacre. The younger Scarlett, portrayed by Amara Ayler, navigates the challenges of the time with her friends Ashleigh, played by Corrinne Mica, and Ashleigh’s love interest, Sam, played by John Potvin.

The film provides a narrative framework for understanding

the often-overlooked Wilmington Massacre. “The purpose was not to be a historical documentary,” explained Greg de Deugd, the creative director of the John Locke Foundation.

“It was to get people interested.”

In 1898, Wilmington, N.C., had a racially integrated government, with several black men in office. But following a White Supremacist propaganda campaign, the Democratic Party orchestrated the only successful coup d’état in U.S. history. On November 10, 1898, they killed numerous black citizens and officials, seizing control of what was then North Carolina’s largest city. The exact death toll remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from 60 to 250. Potvin, who portrays Sam, emphasized the importance of recognizing these historical events: “It’s an important part of American history, and too often these stories get swept under the rug for no good reason. So to help shine a light on these events, it became about having a respon-

sibility to bring this history forward.”

The John Locke Foundation, a nonprofit think tank, strives to promote truth, freedom, and the future of North Carolina, including raising awareness of the state’s history. Through initiatives like the North Carolina History Project and productions like “In the Pines,” the foundation seeks to educate and engage the public.

The Asheboro community gathered to view the film and discuss the historical significance of the 1898 events. De Deugd and Dr. Troy Kickler, Senior Fellow and Managing Director of the John Locke Foundation, introduced the film and facilitated a Q&A session afterward. De Deugd noted, “It’s a fictional story, but it’s an honest story.”

The 19-minute film has received significant recognition, earning more than 10 awards at film festivals across the nation and globally, including Best Short Drama and Best Period Film. For additional details, visit inthepinesfilm.com.

Randolph

Guide The Randolph Guide is a quick look at what’s going on in Randolph County.

Nov. 8-12 Military Appreciation at the NC Zoo In honor of Veterans Day, the North Carolina Zoo is offering free admission for military personnel and veterans and free admission for one accompanying guest for Military Appreciation Week. It’s available to all active duty, reserve, veteran and retired military personnel, but only for admission purchased on-site.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

Nov. 11

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

Cookies With Santa 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Enjoy cookies with Santa, including a photo with Santa from at the Randolph-Asheboro YMCA. Twas The Night Before Christmas will be read at the top of each hour. $20, must register online at randolphasheboroymca. com.

Get in touch!

www randolphrecord.com ASHLEY WHITE | FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

WEEKLY FORECAST SPONSORED BY

CALL OR TEXT 336-629-7588

WEDNESDAY NOV 8 HI 77 LOW 50 PRECIP 0%

THURSDAY NOV 9 HI 78 LOW 53 PRECIP 1%

FRIDAY NOV 10 HI 65 LOW 49 PRECIP 4%

SATURDAY NOV 11 HI 58 LOW 44 PRECIP 5%

Attendees participate in a Q&A session about “In the Pines” at the Asheboro Public Library on Nov. 2.

ASHEBORO/RANDOLPH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SEEKS PRESIDENT The Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce is seeking a president who will build a dynamic and progressive Chamber that will expand on and initiate programs and services that will support the needs of an evolving community.

Salary range: $75,000 and up; salary will be commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, a robust benefits package including retirement, vacation and flexible work schedule, and insurance is provided.

For more information, visit http://www.chamber.asheboro.com Applications will be accepted through November 30, 2023.

MONDAY NOV 13 HI 33 LOW 58 PRECIP 7%

TUESDAY NOV 14 HI 58 LOW 31 PRECIP 4%

Gather at the New Hope Volunteer Fire Department at 6397 Volunteer-Rescue Road for a reading of names ceremony and placing of flags in the side yard of the fire station to commemorate Veterans Day.

Down on the Farm 1 - 5:30 p.m.

Get hayrides, inflatables and food at Black Willow Farms at 4550 Woodfern Road in Seagrove. Music will include an acoustic worship set featuring Hannah Kerr, Hayleigh Smith and Madisen Renee. Bring a chair and your friends and family and join us for a wonderful day of worship and fellowship.

DEATH NOTICES

SUNDAY NOV 12 HI 55 LOW 39 PRECIP 35%

Flags for Veterans 11 a.m.

x Shirley “Beth” Elizabeth Davis, age 68 of Sophia, died October 28, 2023 at The Randolph Hospice House.

CRIME LOG x Lamb, Kelly (F, 35), Arrested on charge of Cyberstalking Threats by Email, on 10/31, at 322 Martin Hill Ave. x Lowery, Jessica (F, 35), Arrested on charge of Communicating Threats, on 10/31, at 5532 Racine Rd.

on charge of Misdemeanor Larceny, on 10/31, at 6522 NC HWY 134. x Burmeister, Amanda (F, 30), Arrested on charge of Simple Assault, on 10/30, at 7635 Old Rockett Rd.

x Oldham, Dennis (M, 49), Arrested on charge of Fail to Heed Light or Siren, on 10/31, at Hopewell Church Rd and Meadowbrok Dr.

x Kennedy, John (M, 53), Arrested on charge of Possess Marijuana up to 1/2oz, Possess Marijuana Paraphernalia, on 10/30, at 6338 US HWY 311.

x Scotton, Mia (F, 25), Arrested

x Lewis, Paul III (M, 43),

Arrested on charge of Resisting Public Officer, Possess Marijuana up to 1/2oz, on 10/30, at 1113 E Dixie Dr. x McRae, Tai (F, 47), Arrested on charge of Misdemeanor Larceny, Possession of Stolen Goods, on 10/30, at 200 Coleridge Rd. x Richardson, Stacy (F, 50), Arrested on charge of Communicating Threats, on 10/30, at 7276 Magnolia Ln.

x Mary Allred McNabb, age 84 of Randleman, died Sunday, November 5, 2023 at the Randolph Hospice House.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

OPINION

de

ES

3

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON

Honoring our Veterans and Servicemembers

Our region is home to thousands of veterans, and it is my duty as their Congressman to ensure our veterans have access to the resources and benefits they deserve.

THIS VETERANS DAY, we celebrate the best our nation has to offer.

We extend our respect, our admiration, and our appreciation to all who have worn the flag of our nation on their uniform.

As the representative of the largest Army base in the world, my top priority is making sure our veterans, as well as our troops and their families, get the support they deserve. I was proud to support the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which passed the House in July and fully funds veterans’ health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. I am especially proud this legislation contains my amendment to bring attention to funding the Veteran Crisis Line. I have fought for years to include this necessary funding that our military community deserves, reducing the stigma around mental health, and I was proud to secure these large wins for the thousands of veterans living in our community.

Earlier this year, I introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate November 12, 2023, as National Warrior Call Day. In North Carolina, Veterans Day is not just one day a year—it is a year-long call to action.

With the suicide rate among our nation’s veterans being 2.5 times more than civilians, I’ve made it a mission to do everything I can to address this tragedy. One effort that is making a difference on a national level is Warrior Call Day, which has gathered support from dozens of veterans organizations and seven former Veterans Affairs Secretaries.

I encourage folks in our community and across the country to take National Warrior Call Day as an opportunity to check in on someone they know, active-duty or veteran. I look forward to the day we get this resolution across the finish line and signed into law.

The Veterans Crisis Line acts as a critical tool to help our veterans in their time of need, and the number of annual contacts received—which include calls, texts, and chats—increased 15% between 2020 and 2022.

With this resolution, we are one step closer to addressing the challenges Veterans face head-on by keeping our promises made to them for their service and addressing the stigma around seeking help.

If you are a veteran or know someone who needs assistance, contact the 24-hour Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 or 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or chat online at www.VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

While we can never thank our active duty military, their families, and our veterans enough for their service, one thing we must do is

improve the quality of health care we provide them. For example, Master Sergeant Rich Stayskal, a resident of Moore County, served our country honorably and was wounded in combat. While stationed in our region, a missed cancer diagnosis changed his life. In response, I helped change federal law in 2020 so Rich and other military families who are victims of non-combat related medical malpractice while on activeduty could receive support. However, the Department of Defense has failed to implement the law properly, stealing hope from Rich Stayskal and hundreds of military families who have been harmed by medical malpractice.

This year I was proud to introduce the bipartisan Healthcare Equality and Rights for our Heroes (HERO) Act to correct this wrong and give our nation’s heroes who are victims of malpractice from a DoD medical treatment facility the opportunity to take their claim to District Court. Our servicemembers should have the right and opportunity to fight for the compensation and justice they deserve, and I will not stop fighting until they get it.

Our region is home to thousands of veterans, and it is my duty as their Congressman to ensure our veterans have access to the resources and benefits they deserve. Too often veterans face bureaucratic obstacles at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that hamper their access to care or benefits, and our office is here to help. If you or a veteran you know has experienced issues with the VA, please visit hudson.house.gov or call our Southern Pines district office at 910-910-1924.

I continue to pray for the strength and safety of soldiers from our region who have been or will be deployed.

As your Congressman, it is an honor to represent so many men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform and who bravely answered the call to defend our freedoms on the front lines. America’s servicemembers and veterans have given so much in the defense of our nation, and there are no words strong enough to express our sincere gratitude and deepest appreciation.

Richard Hudson is serving his sixth term in the U.S. House and represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District. He currently serves as the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee and is a member of the House Republican Steering Committee.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Understand evil or perish by its hand

Reality is ugly.

Reality is unpleasant.

LAST WEEK, the Metropolitan Police in London were videotaped removing posters with pictures of hostages taken by Hamas. The posters were being removed from Cullimore Chemist in Edgware. The chemist’s CEO, Hassan Khan, recently retweeted posts branding Israel and the IDF “filthy animals” and encouraging Iran and Hezbollah to attack Israel.

This naturally caused some properly earned angst. After all, the removal of such posters has become the domain of antisemites across the world. What was the police’s excuse for removing the posters? They explained, “We do not wish to limit the rights of anyone to protest or to raise awareness of the plight of those kidnapped and the terrible impact on their families. But we do have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to stop issues escalating and to avoid any further increase in community tension.”

Stop the escalation.

Prevent the community tension.

That’s the important thing.

This week, the Metropolitan Police also reportedly arrested a man for posting a video criticizing people for putting up Palestinian flags around his neighborhood. The British police didn’t touch the flags, in the name of relieving community tension. Instead, they arrested the man who wondered why Britain

would import the kinds of people who would post Palestinian flags on the street poles while Hamas is holding babies hostage.

Remember, the tensions must be reduced.

There are two ways to reduce tension in a community. The first is to cave to those who are the most dangerous and the most radical — in this case, the Hamas supporters.

Criminalize anyone who would ask just why a community in the West should be expected to contain people who support Hamas. Take them to jail for asking the question on tape.

The second way to lower community tensions is to recognize that those very people who defend Hamas are a danger to your community — that the problem isn’t community quiescence, but the constituency of the community itself.

That there can be no community with people who root for Hamas.

This should be obvious. But it isn’t. It isn’t because the West simply refuses to look reality in the face. Better to arrest those who speak it than to look reality in the face. Reality is ugly. Reality is unpleasant. And reality might require you to recognize that importation of millions of people who hate the West was an awful idea, and that means should be taken to reverse that process.

And so, instead, a way must be found to pretend away the threat.

Blame it on Israel.

Jabber about the two-state solution.

Talk about Islamophobia.

Whatever you do, don’t look the realities of multiculturalism’s dramatic failure directly in the face. This, of course, plays directly into the hands of Hamas. They now understand that they can say and do literally anything, and that much of the West will cover for them in order to maintain the fiction that multiculturalism works. They don’t even bother to hide the ball.

Hamas officials have spent the last weeks explaining that they wish to murder every Jew, and that they wish for their own civilians to die.

They say it all out loud. On camera.

Repeatedly. But the West won’t look Hamas in the face because then it might have to look Hamas’ supporters in the face. And while Hamas is in Gaza, Hamas’ supporters are located in our own towns. They work in our stores. They go to our schools. They staff our press and our academic institutions.

That’s too ugly and it’s too frightening. So, look away. In the name of relieving community tension.

As the community dies.

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

4 SIDELINE REPORT

SPORTS

NHL

Another former Blackhawk accuses coach of sexual assault Chicago A former hockey player in the Chicago Blackhawks organization has alleged in a lawsuit the team’s former video coach Brad Aldrich sexually assaulted him during the 2009-10 season.

He says the Blackhawks took no action when he complained because it didn’t want a disruption during its run to the Stanley Cup. The Chicago Tribune reported the plaintiff was a teammate of Kyle Beach, who reached a settlement with the Blackhawks in December 2021 after alleging he was sexually assaulted by Aldrich.

The Blackhawks declined to comment on the specifics of the latest lawsuit in a statement to the Tribune.

MLB

Chapman, Kiermaier win 4th Gold Gloves St. Louis Toronto third baseman Matt Chapman and outfielder Kevin Kiermaier won their fourth Gold Gloves, while New York Yankees rookie shortstop Anthony Volpe and Colorado rookie center fielder Brenton Doyle were among 13 first-time winners. Toronto, Texas and the Chicago Cubs tied for the high among clubs with three winners each.

Cleveland second baseman Andrés Giménez and left fielder Steven Kwan won their second Gold Gloves, along with Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson and left fielder Ian Happ and Arizona first baseman Christian Walker.

Ford to use Mustang Dark Horse for Cup Series in 2024

PAN AM GAMES

The high-end muscle car was unveiled last year

U.S. wins more golds, fewer medals at Pan American Games

The Associated Press

Santiago, Chile The United States roster of 631 athletes at the Pan American Games finished on the top of the medal table for the 17th time, as expected, but with fewer podiums than four years ago in Lima.

American athletes in Chile won 124 gold medals, two more than in Peru. The U.S also won 75 silver and 87 bronze in Santiago, totaling 286. In 2019, the American tally was 293 medals.

MIKE MEADOWS | FORD PERFORMANCE VIA AP

Ford Performance said last week it will use the new Mustang Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.

AVONDALE, Ariz. —Ford Performance said Wednesday it will use its top-of-the-line Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.

The Dark Horse is considered the blue-ribbon model of the Mustang lineup, with a starting price tag for consumers close to $60,000.

Joey Logano won the Cup title last year in the Mustang and Ryan Blaney clinched a second straight title for Ford and Team Penske on Sunday at Phoenix Raceway. The Dark Horse will make its Cup debut in the February exhibition opener at the Los

Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Ford won nine of 35 races in the current Mustang this season, and although Ford qualified six drivers for the 16-driver playoff field, defending champion Logano and Kevin Harvick were eliminated in the first round and Stewart-Haas Racing was winless this season.

“We think we’ve got a great road car lineup with the Mustang, but also took the decision to commit to a seventh-generation Mustang on the road and also race it around the world,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “Now to be on the cusp of showing the new Mustang Dark Horse for NASCAR Cup racing is exciting, and we want to compete and win around the world with Mustang and most

of the versions around the world are the Dark Horse.”

The Mustang will be eligible to race on six continents next season, from Bathurst to Le Mans and Daytona to Silverstone.

The Dark Horse was unveiled just over a year ago as the first new performance nameplate for Mustang since 2001. It is the most track-capable 5.0-liter V8 street-legal Mustang ever and was the inspiration for the Mustangs racing this year in Australia and the Formula Drift series.

The Dark Horse will be eligible to compete in GT3 and GT4 classes globally next year, and the Dark Horse R will compete in the Mustang Challenge Series and many grassroots racing events.

“If she gallops as fast as she

looks, it’s going to be a good year,” said Brad Keselowski, driver and co-owner of RFK Racing. “Mustang is an iconic American car made famous around the world. I think of how Mustang has evolved over the years and how NASCAR has evolved along with it and they’re just two brands that go together.

I’m proud to get to drive it and proud to be able to compete for the win in this car.”

The Mustang has competed in NASCAR since it entered Xfinity Series competition in 2011 and entered Cup in 2019.

In 2021, when NASCAR introduced the Next Gen car, Ford’s design was widely regarded as the sleekest of the muscle cars.

The current Mustang has won a manufacturer’s championship, a series-best 18 races in 2020 and a driver’s championship with Logano in 2022.

The Mustang has twice won the Daytona 500 and has wins in the Southern 500 and Brickyard 400. It also won the inaugural Clash at the Coliseum in the debut of the current Next Gen era.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

PREP FOOTBALL

BEST OVERALL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Eastern Randolph, Randleman roll in first round Randolph Record IT WORKED OUT WELL for a couple of Randolph County football teams playing home games Friday night when the state playoffs began.

Not so much for teams going on the road.

Eastern Randolph and Randleman were the lone county teams to keep their seasons alive.

Here’s a look: Eastern Randolph 68, Cherryville 7: In Class 1-A at Ramseur, the third-seeded Wildcats cruised against the No. 30 seed.

Eastern Randolph (10-1) has won 10 consecutive games.

Next, the Wildcats welcome No. 14 seed Hayesville (7-4) for a second-round game. Hayesville topped Christ the King 28-0 in the first round.

Randleman 43, West Stanly 0: In Class 2-A at Randleman, Edison Hernandez scored three touchdowns for the sixth-seeded Tigers (10-1).

5

Tyshaun Goldston made two touchdown catches and racked up 156 receiving yards, while on defense he intercepted a pair of passes.

John Kirkpatrick threw for two touchdowns.

Hernandez gained 134 rushing yards. Dylan Atkins ran for a touchdown.

Randleman’s second game comes against visiting Forest Hills (10-1), the No. 11 seed which has won its past two games against Anson County – 22-20 to end the regular season and 28-7 in the first round.

West Stokes 19, Southwestern Randolph 6: In Class 2-A at King, the No. 17 seed Cougars didn’t generate any points on offense as their season closed.

The lone points for Southwestern Randolph (6-5) came on Nathan Ellis’ 80-yard kickoff return. Scoring woes were a constant for the Cougars, who failed to reach the 20-point mark in six games this year.

All the scoring took place in

the first half. No. 16 seed West Stokes (7-4) never trailed.

East Surry 42, Providence Grove 13: In Class 2-A at Pilot Mountain, the visiting Patriots couldn’t keep up after taking an early lead.

No. 19 seed Providence Grove (6-5) led 7-6 on Logan Fox’s 5-yard run and Tucker Batten’s extra-point kick. No. 14 seed East Surry (8-3) scored the next 36 points.

Jacob Flinchum had the other touchdown for the Patriots, who lost four of their final five games under first-year coach David Hayes.

Brevard 44, Trinity 13: In Class 2-A at Brevard, Dominic Payne scored both of the touchdowns for the No. 25 seed Bulldogs (5-6), who completed their first season under coach Bear Bradley.

Payne scored on a pass from Noah Bradley and on a kickoff return.

Eighth-seeded Brevard (9-2) has won nine games in a row.

Karrie Gaines

PREP SOCCER

COURTESY PHOTO

Karrie Gaines, left, is a senior on the Faith Christian cross country team.

Faith Christian, cross country Gaines, a senior, is the individual championship in the North Carolina Christian School Association, winning last Thursday at Ivey Redmon Sports Complex in Kernersville.

She ran the 3.1 miles in 21 minutes, 36.36 seconds. Her winning margin was about 22 seconds on Bethel Christian senior Emmalee Rhem.

Gaines won the NCCSA individual state championship for the third time in four years.

Hirschman claims another North-South title Randolph Record

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Southwestern Randolph goalkeeper Jonathan Perez controls the ball during a game earlier this season against Randleman.

Cougars make it to second week of states Randolph Record SHELBY — Southwestern Randolph won twice last week in the Class 2-A state playoffs for boys’ soccer.

A 4-2 victory at fifth-seeded Shelby last Thursday sent Southwestern Randolph (21-3-1) to the third round for the first time in six years.

Fernando Hernandez had a goal and two assists in the Shelby game. David Lopez Dominguez, Jonathan Lopez and Joe Avina also scored for the Cougars.

No. 12 seed Southwestern Randolph began the playoffs by defeating No. 21 seed Lincolnton 2-0 with Hernandez and Lopez Dominguez both scoring goals.

The Cougars would play two games this week if they were

able to win in the third round Tuesday vs. No. 13 seed Lincoln Charter. ** Also in Class 2-A, Piedmont Athletic Conference champion Randleman lost in the first round in a penalty-kick shootout.

Neither team scored through overtime, and then No. 27 seed Monroe topped the sixth-seeded Tigers by a 5-3 count in the shootout.

Randleman (18-7) entered the state playoffs on a six-game winning streak. ** No. 14 seed Trinity was finished after a 1-0 loss at third-seeded Salisbury in the second round. That left Trinity with a 14-6-3 record.

The Bulldogs began by topping No. 19 seed West Stokes in penalty kicks (by 5-3) after nei-

ther team scored through 110 minutes.

Class 3-A Asheboro lost a home game in the state playoffs for the third year in a row. The third-seeded Blue Comets dropped a 1-0 decision to No. 14 seed Cramer.

Asheboro (18-4-2) was the Mid-Piedmont Conference champion.

The Blue Comets, who were a West Region finalist last year, opened this season’s postseason by topping No. 30 seed Foard 2-1 on goals by Tyler Smith and Ozmar Martinez.

Class 1-A No. 31 seed Eastern Randolph lost by 6-0 at second-seeded Mount Airy, while No. 27 seed Uwharrie Charter Academy fell 6-0 at sixth-seeded Piedmont Community School in firstround games.

Eastern Randolph finished with a 5-13-1 record. UCA dropped to 7-10-2.

for us.”

Jason Myers was next, folSOPHIA — Matt lowed by pole sitter Carson Hirschman won again in the Loftin, Tom Buzze, Jimmy North-South Shootout at Car- Blewett and Caraway Speedaway Speedway. way regular Josh Lowder.

Hirschman won for the third Also Saturday, the CARS year in a row in the 125-lap Tour held its last event of the Modifieds feature Saturday. season, with the Kvapil brothHe posted his ninth victory ers landing championships. (five at Caraway, four at ConThe Late Models Stock accord Speedway) in the North- tion had some tight racing. The South Shootout, race was won by Brenwhich has been held den Queen, who won 21 times. for the four time this “I’m a little bit There was season. Still, it wasn’t winded. It was a a family enough for the points long race and there title, which was won connection wasn’t a whole lot

by Carson Kvapil. left there at the end,” in CARS Tour “We did all we Hirschman said. competition. could,” Queen said.

“The way the race Kvapil’s 11th-place started out, I didn’t finish Saturday across expect as many cau125 laps was enough tions late as we had. for the season title.

There’s just not a whole lot left That was his lowest finishing there at the end. I was strug- place of the season. He started gling to get what grip we had 14th in the race based on qualleft out of the tires. I don’t know ifying. how much gap he had back, but In the CARS Tour Pro Late it seemed like it was down to Models, Kaden Honeycutt won the two of us at the end.” the 100-lap feature.

Patrick Emerling was the Points champion Caden runner-up, with two-time Kvapil had already clinched North-South Shootout winner the title and he led the first 51 Andy Seuss in third while Gary laps before ending up second Putnam and Austin Koche- behind Honeycutt. nash rounded out the top five.

In the 602 Modifieds race Emerling and Hirschman that included Caraway Speedmade contact on a late restart. way regulars, Paulie Hartwig “We were the fastest car at III was he winner, with Eric the end of the race,” Emerling Hersey and Justice Calabro in said. “We were doing every- the next two spots. Cody Northing we could. We had good man and Sean McElearney long run speed. That last cau- were fourth and fifth, respection was kind of inopportune tively.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

6 MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Champs!

PHOTOS BY PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Left, clockwise: SWRMS players celebrate winning the Randolph County Middle school football Championship on Super Saturday at Ivey B. Luck Stadium at Southwestern Randolph high school in Asheboro on October 27, 2023. Southwestern Randolph capped off their second straight undefeated season with a 40-0 win; RMS Shane Stevens fends off SWRM Levi Dalke during the Randolph County Middle school football Championship on Super Saturday; SWRMS Brody Lowe rushes for a touchdown against RMS during the Randolph County Middle school football Championship on Super Saturday. Above: RMS Jamari Rice grabs an interception over SWRM Levi Dalke during the Randolph County Middle school football Championship.

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COUNTY CHILD WELFARE

NC Child, a nonprofit organization advocating for children and families, released its annual County Data Cards, measuring factors contributing to maternal and infant health, educational attainment, economic security, safety, and health and wellness.

Statewide data shows North Carolina’s median household income increased nearly $4,000 between 2020 and 2021, reaching $60,516.

The number of children living in food-insecure homes dropped almost 3 percentage points during the same period, down to 15.4%. There was also a slight decline in the percentage of children living in poor or low-income homes.

Many counties saw similar trends, with incomes increasing and the number of food-insecure children declining. “We don’t have to accept child poverty as a given, and this data tells us that the policies and investments our legislators enacted during the worst of the pandemic succeeded in stabilizing families,” said NC Child Executive Director Erica Palmer Smith. “As certain federal programs like the expanded Child Tax Credit have expired, we must ensure that there are other policy measures in place at the state level that prevent child poverty rates from creeping back up.”

In Randolph County, the median income increased but was still below the state average. Randolph’s median income rose to $51,598 in 2021, up from $48,984 in 2020. The number of children living in foodinsecure homes dropped from 18.7% in 2019 to 15.7% in 2021. The number of children living in low-income homes increased, however, from 52.5% in 2020 to 54.3% in 2021.

“We all know that the pandemic brought a lot of challenges, but this data tells us that we made meaningful investments into our state’s children and families and that our efforts had a tangible impact,” said Smith. “It’s important that we continue to advocate for policies that help hold on to the ground we gained and make strides in areas like infant and maternal health.” Smith also said NC Child expects to see additional increases in these key child health and wellbeing metrics once the state’s decision to expand Medicaid is implemented.

A STRONG START Women who receive early prenatal care

Babies born at a low birthweight

2021

2021

78.3% Up from 76.3% in 2020

9.3%

Down from 9.6% in 2020

FAMILY ECONOMIC SECURITY Children living in poor or low-income homes

Children in households that are food insecure

2021

2021

54.3%

Up from 52.5% in 2016-2020

15.7% Down from 18.7% in 2019

NURTURING HOMES & COMMUNITIES Delinquency rate per 1,000 youth ages 6-15

Children assessed for abuse or neglect per 1,000

2021

2021

14.7

Down from 13.9 in 2020

59.3

Up from 54.3 in 2020

HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATION 3rd grade students scoring proficient in reading

40.3% 2021

Down from 45.3%% in 2020-2021

High school students graduating on time

87.5% 2021

Up from 87.1 in 2020-2021

HEALTH & WELLNESS Children without health insurance

Infant Mortality per 1,000 live births

2021

2021

5.4%

Down from 5.8% in 2020

9.5

Up from 9 in 2020

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

obituaries

Alesia "Lisa" Pugh Craven

April 14, 1960 — November 1, 2023 Alesia "Lisa" Pugh Craven, age 63, passed away on November 1, 2023 at Baptist Hospital.

She was the daughter of David and Lucille Hancock Pugh. Lisa was a 1978 graduate of Eastern Randolph High School and a 1980 graduate of Randolph Community College.

She loved playing softball and she was an avid genealogist.

Lisa loved traveling to Ocracoke Island with her children and grandchildren to enjoy the sand in her toes. She was a member of Franklinville Baptist Church and was employed at Hubbell Industrial Controls as a Sourcing Manager.

Anyone who knew Lisa, knew that her most cherished moments in life were the times spent with her daughters and grandchildren.

Lisa is survived by daughters, Katie Craven, Lindsay Craven Isenhart (Curtis); grandchildren, Hunter Isenhart, Ella Isenhart; sister, Sandra Pugh Hall (Lynn); brother, Randy Pugh (Dawn); ex-husband, Ronnie Craven; close friend, Sandra Gilmore and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Paul Gordon Ray Sr. April 21, 1937 — October 31, 2023

Paul Gordon Ray Sr., 86, of Seagrove, passed away on October 31, 2023, at his residence.

Gordon was born on April 21, 1937, in Stuart, VA to James E. Ray and Edith Shelton Ray Maness. Gordon served his country as a dedicated Navy veteran before becoming a beloved local Potter in the community.

In addition to his parents, Gordon was preceded in death by his stepfather, Wilmer Maness, half-sister Winnie Pierce, and half-brother Darwin Maness.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Cagle Ray of the home; son Paul G. Ray Jr. (Evelyn) of Seagrove; and his half-brothers Merritt Maness and Gray Maness of Robbins.

Left to cherish his memory are two grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

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James Andrew Fortenberry Jr.

August 10, 1944 ~ November 2, 2023 (age 79) James Andrew Fortenberry Jr., age 79, of Sophia made his Heavenly journey and has been reunited with his wife Fonda Bridges Fortenberry on November 2, 2023. He was born August 10, 1944 in Gaffney, South Carolina the son of the late James Andrew Fortenberry Sr. and Winifred Moss Fortenberry. Also preceding him in death are his beloved wife of 62 years, Fonda Fortenberry; and brother, Johnny Richard Fortenberry.

James and Fonda met as high school sweethearts, they shared a lifelong bond of love and commitment that lasted 62 years. Fonda kept the home and James worked for Duke Energy for 36 years. Following his retirement, they started the company Jim’s Backhoe and Loader Service. In his leisure, James enjoyed spending time woodcarving, farming, working on motors, hunting, fishing and time spent with family. James was a member of the Masonic Lodge.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his daughter, Melissa Costner (Ricky); sons, John Eric Fortenberry, James Fonda Fortenberry (Stephanie); brother, David Osborne Fortenbarry (Elaina); granddaughters, Brandi Alicia Costner Moore (Justin), and Ashley Ann Fortenberry; and great granddaughters, Zoe Rhinehardt and Lyra Moore.

Frank Wesley Norman, 38, died October 20th from complications due to a heart attack at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. He was an amazing man who was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his devoted wife, Chyenne Norman and beloved girlfriend, Emily Smith and his two daughters, Claire Norman and Becca Bowman. He is also survived by his father and step mother, Eddie Norman and Susan Norman as well as his siblings: Toni McElveen, Brantley Norman, Cassidy Norman and his step brother, Robbie Shelton. He also leaves behind his nephews: Brett Webster, Auston McElveen, Trace McElveen and Brantstain Norman.

Wes was a respected and award winning musician in the community. Despite not graduating high school, he went on to get his GED and then be awarded two associates (live sound and lighting and concert music) at GTCC. Over the twenty years he followed his passion, he was a part of several great bands winning prestigious awards such as ‘Rock Band of the Year’ at the Carolina Music Awards twice as well as opening for iconic headliners such as Living Color, P.O.D, Hinder, and Tantric. When he wasn’t rocking the stage, he played music for events and weddings, even going as far as to play live instruments for them like the bagpipes, guitar, harp, sitar, and cello (just to name a few).

He was so loved by everyone and made their lives a bit brighter by being in it.

Thomas Guy

Johnny Davis

July 15, 1937 - November 4, 2023

November 7, 1941 - November 2, 2023

Thomas William Guy, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather, passed away on November 4, 2023, at the age of 86. Born on July 15, 1937 to William and Millie Guy, Tom grew up in Waukegan, IL, and attended Waukegan Township High School. There he met his high school sweetheart and future wife, Joanne Marie Butler.

Tom went on to attend Bradley College and served in the US Air Force Reserves. He and Joanne had two children.

He began his career with Johns Manville in Waukegan and later relocated to Savannah, GA, which was home for many years before settling in North Carolina.

Tom was a devoted family man with a strong faith, and a great storyteller who loved to make people laugh. He was a consummate fan, athlete and coach of multiple sports. He celebrated his Irish heritage and will be remembered for growing a red beard for yearly St. Patrick’s Day festivals.

Above all, he had a truly kind heart and thoughtful, caring spirit. He will be deeply missed by his friends and family. We’re grateful for time spent together cheering on the Cubs, Bears, Tarheels, and NASCAR; long evenings on the porch, beach vacations, and afternoon beers followed by family dinners.

Tom is joyfully reunited in health with his wife, Joanne, parents, and sister, Nancy. He is survived by his children, Vicki (Keith) Pearson and Steven (Lisa) Guy; brother, Terry (Pat) Guy; grandchildren, Haley (Kyle) O'Hara, Graham Pearson, Ellie Pearson, Joseph (Elari) Guy, and Thomas Guy; great-granddaughter, Tessa Guy; many nieces, nephews; and friends in Charlotte, Greensboro, Seven Lakes, and Asheboro, NC.

Johnny Robert Davis, 81, of Seagrove, passed away Thursday, November 2, 2023 at Wesley Long Hospital in Greensboro.

A native of Moore Co., NC, Mr. Davis was born November 7, 1941, the son of the late Harrison and Mary Brewer Davis.

Johnny lived a wonderful life, he was a man who was loved by many and gave his love to everyone he met.

Johnny spent past time going to Teague store and spending time with the old timers there.

If Johnny wasn’t at the store, he was either wandering around somewhere between Robbins and Star visiting family and friends, passing on his knowledge and wisdom or telling the same stories we all heard a million times over.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Davis was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Sheppard Davis.

Mr. Davis is survived by his sons, Steve Davis, Keith Davis, both of Seagrove; sister, Pat Lankford (Randy) of Robbins; and grandson, Tanner Davis (Brittany). His Best Buddy Great Nephew Cooper Davis.

Step-Grand Children, whom he NEVER referred to as step and loved wholeheartedly.

Sean Doherty, Shannon Doherty, Kristy Glover, Lora Gattis. And Miss Emily Ann Davis, who awaited her Paw Paw’s arrival to Heaven.

Opal "Granny" Mabe

February 4, 1934 - November 2, 2023 Opal "Granny" Robertson Mabe, 89, of Asheboro, passed away Thursday, November 2, 2023 at Clapp's Nursing Home surrounded by her family.

Mrs. Mabe was born February 4, 1934, in Stokes Co., NC, and was the daughter of the late William And Vergie Spencer Robertson. "Granny," as she was affectionately known, was a great seamstress and avid gardener of many flowers and vegetables, especially her green beans.

She leaves behind a large number of community children, who's lives she touched over the span of 29 years in her home where she made her living as the owner of Granny's Day Care. She was truly the Granny to all the children that she cared for.

When she was still able, she loved spending time worshiping with her friends at Hunt's Plank Road Chapel.

However, her biggest joy in life was spending time surrounded by her family anytime they could all be together.

In addition to her parents Mrs. Mabe was preceded in death by her husband, Claude S. Mabe, and her son, Larry W. Mabe.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Linda McNeill (Stewart) of Asheboro, Brenda Boyles (Craig) of Asheboro, Michael Mabe (Susie) of Asheboro, Denice Cagle (Tim) of Asheboro, Bobby Mabe (Jennifer) of Seagrove; 7 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren.

Myrtle Hale

January 19, 1941 - October 31, 2023

Jimmy Dale Krizan

July 9, 1941 - October 28, 2023 Jimmy Dale Krizan, 82, of Asheboro, passed away Saturday, October 28, 2023 at Randolph Health in Asheboro.

Born July 9, 1941, in East Chicago, IN, Mr. Krizan was the son of the late Albert and Lena Beck Krizan. He was a member of Parks Crossroads Christian Church. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, and loved his Chicago Bears. He was very playful, a jokester, and had a great sense of humor. Mr. Krizan served in the US Army.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Krizan of the home; son, Brain D. Krizan, Sr., (Danielle) of Staley, NC; sister, Dorothy Stuppy of Booneville, IN; grandson, Brian Krizan, Jr., (Sara Conn) of Warsaw, IN.

Myrtle Launa Hendrick Thompson Hale, 82, of Franklinville, passed away Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at The Randolph Hospice House in Asheboro.

Born January 19, 1941, in Logan Co., WV, Mrs. Hale was the daughter of the late Cody and Mary Hall Hendrick. She loved reading, crocheting, gardening and traveling. She loved animals, especially her cats, and was an excellent cook.

Mrs. Hale was a giving person who would provide anything she could to those in need.

Mostly, though, she loved her family.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Hale was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Hale, brother, William Hendrick, and grandson, Walter Russell.

Survivors include her daughter, Barbara Russell of Anniston, AL; son, Bill Thompson (Susie) of Franklinville; sister, Dinah Bremer of Dayton, OH; grandchildren, Delana Mullins, Eric Thompson, Emily Lackey; great grandchildren, Michael Mullins, Kaleb Thompson, William Thompson, Kade Scott Gowens.

Frances Anderson

November 5, 1940 - October 31, 2023 Frances Evelyn Carrick Anderson, 82, of Randleman, passed away Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at Asheboro Rehab and Health Care Center in Asheboro.

Born November 5, 1940, in Davidson Co., NC, Mrs. Anderson was the daughter of the late Milas and Flora Pierce Carrick. She was retired from Randolph Hospital as an LPN, and was a member of First Wesleyan Church in Randleman. She enjoyed cross stitching, crocheting, watching westerns, taking care of her houseplants, and cooking for her family.

In addition to her parents, she preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Anderson, daughter, Patricia Kidd, and son, Clifford Hunt.

Mrs. Anderson is survived by her daughters, Janet Allamadani of Greensboro, Susan Tysinger of Randleman, Kathy Hayes (Jamie) of Randleman; brother, Bryce Carrick of Asheboro; 10 grandchildren; one great grandchild; and her beloved pet, Lucy.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Right turn on red? With pedestrian deaths rising, US cities are considering bans The Associated Press CHICAGO — Sophee Langerman was on her way to a bicycle safety rally in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in June when a car turning right rolled through a red light and slammed into her bike, which she was walking off the curb and into the crosswalk.

The car was moving slowly enough that Langerman escaped serious injury, but the bicycle required extensive repairs. To Langerman, it’s another argument for ending a practice that almost all U.S. cities have embraced for decades: the legal prerogative for a driver to turn right after stopping at a red light.

A dramatic rise in accidents killing or injuring pedestrians and bicyclists has led to a myriad of policy and infrastructure changes, but moves to ban right on red have drawn some of the most intense sentiments on both sides.

Washington, D.C.’s City Council last year approved a righton-red ban that takes effect in 2025. New Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s transition plan called for “restricting right turns on red,” but his administration hasn’t provided specifics.

The college town of Ann Arbor, Michigan, now prohibits right

AP PHOTO

A passenger vehicle makes a right turn on red at an intersection that prohibits the turn Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, in Chicago. turns at red lights in the downtown area.

San Francisco leaders recently voted to urge their transportation agency to ban right on red across the city, and other major cities such as Los Angeles, Seat-

tle and Denver have looked into bans as well.

“Drivers should not have the option to decide for themselves when they think it’s safe,” said Langerman, 26. “People are busy.

People are distracted.”

But Jay Beeber, executive director for policy at the National Motorists Association, an advocacy organization for drivers, called it a “fallacy” to assume such blanket bans would make streets safer.

He cited an upcoming study by his association that analyzed California crash data from 20112019 and found that drivers turning right on red accounted for only about one pedestrian death and less than one bicyclist death statewide every two years.

“What’s really behind this movement is part of the agenda to make driving as miserable and as difficult as possible so people don’t drive so much,” Beeber said.

The United States is one of few major countries that generally allow right turns on red.

Concerned that cars idling at stop lights could compound an energy crisis, the U.S. government warned states in the 1970s that they could risk some federal funding should cities prohibit right on red, except in specific, clearly marked areas. Although another energy-conscious provision capping speed limits at 55 mph has long been abandoned, right on red has endured.

Right on red has never been allowed across most of New York City, where large signs alert Man-

Many Americans say their household expenses are outpacing earnings this year, AP-NORC poll shows The Associated Press NEW YORK — About 2 in 3 Americans say their household expenses have risen over the last year, but only about 1 in 4 say their income has increased in the same period, according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

As household expenses outpace earnings, many are expressing concern about their financial futures. What’s more, for most Americans, household debt has either risen in the last year or has not gone away.

Steve Shapiro, 61, who works as an audio engineer in Pittsburgh, said he’d been spending about $100 a week on groceries prior to this past year, but that he’s now shelling out closer to $200.

“My income has stayed the same,” he said. “The economy is good on paper, but I’m not doing great.”

About 8 in 10 Americans say their overall household debt is higher or about the same as it was a year ago. About half say they currently have credit card debt, 4 in 10 are dealing with auto loans, and about 1 in 4 have medical debt. Just 15% say their household savings have in-

AP PHOTO

A man shops at a grocery store in Buffalo Grove, Ill., March 19, 2023. creased over the last year.

Tracy Gonzales, 36, who works as a sub-contractor in construction in San Antonio, Texas, has several thousand dollars of medical debt from an emergency room visit for what she thought was a bad headache but turned out to be a tooth infection.

“They’ll treat you, but the bills are crazy,” she said. Gonzales said she’s tried to avoid seeking medical treatment because of the costs.

Relatively few Americans say they’re very or extremely con-

fident that they could pay an unexpected medical expense (26%) or have enough money for retirement (18%). Only about one-third are extremely or very confident their current financial situation will allow them to keep up with expenses, though an additional 42% say they’re somewhat confident.

“I’ve been looking forward to retirement my entire life.

Recently I realized it’s just not going to happen,” said Shapiro, adding that his wife’s $30,000 or so of student debt is a financial factor for his household. The

couple had hoped to sell their house and move this past year, but decided instead to hold on to their mortgage rate of 3.4%, rather than facing a higher rate.

(The current average long-term mortgage rate reached 7.79% this month.)

About 3 in 10 Americans say they’ve foregone a major purchase because of higher interest rates in the last year. Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults have student debt, with the pandemic-era payment pause on federal loans ending this month, contributing to the crunch.

Yet even as Americans have expressed gloomy sentiments about the economy, many have continued spending, which drove a strong quarter of growth from July though September, when the economy expanded at an annual pace of 4.9%.

Even so, wages and salaries have largely trailed inflation since the pandemic, leaving most households worse off, though economists debate which measures are the best to use. In the past 12 months, however, average hourly pay has started to pull ahead of prices, rising 0.5% faster.

Americans are generally split on whether the Republicans (29%) or the Democrats (25%)

hattan’s visitors that the practice is prohibited there. But it was the default policy practically everywhere else in the U.S. until last year’s vote in the nation’s capital.

Critics argue that banning right on red will not only inconvenience motorists but also slow down commuter buses and deliveries. The United Parcel Service hasn’t taken an official position on right on red but has long directed its drivers to avoid left turns whenever possible, viewing them as inefficient.

According to a national report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, more than 7,500 people walking were struck and killed by automobiles in 2022, the highest number since 1981.

The spike, which included all accidents — not just those involving right turns on red, was attributed in part to an increase in larger vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks on the road.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that the odds a pedestrian would be killed when struck by an automobile turning right were 89% higher when the vehicle was a pickup and 63% higher when it was an SUV, due to larger blind spots and the deadlier force associated with heavier models.

“These big, blunt front hoods, they knock people down and run over them, as opposed to before when people would crumple onto the hood,” said Mike McGinn, a former Seattle mayor who is the executive director of America Walks, a national nonprofit that advocates for pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

are better suited to handle the issue of inflation in the U.S. Three in 10 say they trust neither party to address it.

A slight majority of all Americans polled (54%) describe their household’s financial situation as good, which is about the same as it’s been for the last year but down from 63% in March of 2022. Older Americans are much more confident in their current finances than younger Americans. Just 39% of 18to 29-year-olds describe their household finances as good, compared to a majority (58%) of those who are 30 and older. People with higher levels of education or higher household incomes are more likely than Americans overall to evaluate their finances as solid.

About three-quarters of Americans describe the nation’s economy as poor, which is in line with measurements from early last year.

Among those who are retired, 3 in 10 say they are highly confident that there’s enough saved for their retirement, about 4 in 10 are somewhat confident, and 31% are not very confident or not confident at all.

About 4 in 10 Americans (38%) approve of how Biden is handling the presidency, while 61% disapprove. His overall approval numbers have remained at a steady low for the last several years. Most Americans generally disapprove of how he’s handling the federal budget (68% disapprove), the economy (67%), and student debt (58%).

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 37 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM | SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

HOKE COUNTY THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COURTESY PHOTO

Don’t chicken out

Members of Trail Life Troop 0477 and the Hoke GOP celebrate their successful quarterly chicken sale through the House of Raeford.

The chicken sale raises money for local charities and organizations within Hoke County. This quarter’s sale raised $2,000 for Trail Life Troop 0477. Prior beneficiaries have included Open Door Soup Kitchen and the Hoke High School football team.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Hoke County’s unemployment rate drops The county’s unemployment rate decreased for the month of September, both from the previous month and from the same time period last year.

Hoke’s 4.2% unemployment rate for September — 89th across all 100 NC counties — was down 0.7% from a year ago, and 0.6% from the prior month. That translates to an estimated 856 of the county’s 20,292-strong total workforce being unemployed during the month.

The unemployment rates, which are not seasonally adjusted for hiring trends like farming or holidays, decreased in 98 of North Carolina’s counties in September 2023 and increased in two. Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 5.6% while Swain and Buncombe Counties each had the lowest at 2.5%.

The number of workers employed statewide increased in September by 53,039 to 5,134,777, while those unemployed decreased by 18,714 to 170,391. Since September 2022, the number of workers employed statewide increased by 142,319, while those unemployed decreased by 7,967.

Rep. Hudson announces re-election bid Congressman Richard Hudson R-NC, announced he will run for re-election in the North Carolina 9th Congressional District. First elected in 2012, if elected, Hudson would be serving his seventh term in Congress.

He has raised more than $540,000 in the last quarter, with support from more than 2,500 donors and $2.1 million in campaign funds on hand.

Hudson, his wife Renee, and their son live in Southern Pines.

Commissioners advance subdivision development, boost county worker Xmas bonus Hoke Board approves Blackburn Farm Phase II and adds Indigenous Day to the county holiday schedule

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RAEFORD — The Hoke County Board of Commissioners convened on Monday, Nov. 6, addressing several items including a new subdivision development, the Indigenous Day holiday, and holiday bonuses for county employees.

The meeting opened with a public hearing for the preliminary plat review of Blackburn Farm Subdivision Phase II. County Attorney Grady Hunt and Planning and Zoning Director Jeff Dockery detailed the 44-lot major subdivision proposal by DNL Engineering. The development, set on a 25.59-acre parcel off Philippi Church Road, will feature lots with a minimum size of 6,800 square feet due to the high-density option chosen by the developer, with the smallest lot being 7,808 square feet.

Dockery noted that the high-density option mandates

sidewalks on both sides of the street and upgraded curbs and gutters. Concerns were raised

by Commissioner Tony Hunt regarding the timeline for the development, given the county’s sewer and water capacity constraints and the delay in actual construction by developers holding capacity on paper.

“The big part of that is that we’ve got folks that have sewer capacity on paper and they’ve had it for two, three, or four years,” said Commissioner Tony Hunt. “When we reach a certain amount of capacity, we have to start enlarging our wastewater

treatment plant, but we really don’t have the natural flow coming in because we have so many people that have it on paper, but they’re not developing like they said they would.”

Despite these concerns, the board approved the preliminary plat for Blackburn Farm Subdivision Phase II. The commissioners also filled two vacant board positions for the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, appointing Tamika Jackson as the Health Director designee and Isley Cotton as the County Commissioners appointee.

Indigenous Day will be added to the 2024 Hoke County Holiday Schedule, with Commissioner Hunt expressed the importance of recognizing the contributions of Native American people at the federal, state, and county levels, leading to the decision to observe the day offiSee COMMISSIONERS, page 2

New Hoke County High School revealed Designs for the sleek new building showed off by architectural firm

By Abby Cavenaugh North State Journal PLANS FOR A NEW HIGH school in Hoke County are well underway, with architectural firm SfL+a Architects revealing a first look at what the school may look like when construction is complete.

On Nov. 2, the firm posted photos of architectural renderings on its Facebook page, with the message: “We are delighted to announce the forthcoming construction of a state-of-the-art Hoke County High School, designed to cultivate an innovative and student-centered learning environment. This impressive new facility will cover an expansive 139,000 square feet and will prioritize adaptability to accommodate ever-evolving technology

IMAGE VIA SFL+A ARCHITECTS

A rendering of what the new, cutting-edge Hoke County High School may look like. and curriculum advancements.

The building will feature cutting-edge amenities, including dedicated spaces for science and engineering labs and a maker space room.”

The color scheme utilizes the school’s colors of red and white, and features “a sleek exterior, incorporating elements such as brick, metal wall panels, store-

fronts, and curtain walls, creating a modern and welcoming structure.” The photos on the Facebook post show a modern-looking exterior, an open floorplan with lots of natural light pouring in through large windows, an open media center, and a state-of-the-art gym for the Fighting Bucks that will seat 1,700.

The original Hoke County High School was built in 1960, and has quickly outgrown its current structure. “Hoke County High School currently has a membership of 1,988 students, which is 397 students over its current building capacity as noted in the 2020-2021 NCDPI Facility Needs Survey (NCDPIFNS); this was in 2021-2022,” said Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Information Systems Dr. Chad Hunt. “Currently, there are 2,115 students enrolled, which is approximately 524 students over its current building capacity, as noted in the 2020-2021 NCDPI Facility Needs Survey.”

See SCHOOL, page 2

$2.00

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

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WEEKLY FORECAST

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“Join the conversation” SCHOOL from page 1 Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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The new high school is designed to help alleviate those overcrowding concerns with more square footage and the replacement of dilapidated buildings and modular classrooms. This will not only help improve crowding issues but will also boost safety and security, as well as energy efficiency. “[It will] ensure a solid technological infrastructure for learning and effective communication,” Dr. Hunt said.

“A new building will improve security by consolidating several existing buildings into one new building,” he added. “This facility will also house a food service/kitchen/ cafeteria, media space, gymnasium, collaborative spaces, classrooms, and office spaces.”

The new high school project began in the spring of 2022, which includes writing and submitting the grant application, Dr. Hunt said. “At the time of selecting the architecture firm and construction firm, the estimated completion date was scheduled for

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cially.

With the holiday season approaching, the board approved an increase in Christmas bonuses for Hoke County employees. Full-time employees hired before June 30, 2023, will receive a $600 bonus, part-time permanent employees will receive $400,

August 2025,” he continued.

“We are currently in phase 1 of the project.”

The budget for the new Hoke County High School is $78 million. According to Dr. Grant, $50 million of that was awarded to Hoke County Schools through the NeedsBased Public School Capital Fund grant and the Hoke County Commissioners are providing the remainder $28 million.

SfL+a Architects has recently completed other schools in Horry County, S.C., and Jones County in North Carolina. The firm has designed numerous elementary schools like Claxton Elementary in Guilford County, Southern Pines Elementary School, and high schools like Union High and Clinton High in Sampson County. According to the firm’s website, SfL+a specializes in “delivering extremely energy efficient buildings, including energy positive ones,” and creates “engaging environments positively impact people, communities and the environment.”

WEEKLY CRIME LOG x Wilson, Montrelius Demorne (B/M/25), Assault on a Female, 11/06/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

x Dix, Desarai Nicole (W/F/28), Probation Violation, 11/03/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

x Brock, Christopher Michael (W/M/49), Probation Violation, 11/06/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

x Ellis, Jack (W/M/31), Larceny Felony, 11/01/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

x Locklear, Kevin Dewayne (W/M/57), Probation Violation, 11/05/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office x Locklear, Brady (I/M/61), Misdemeanor Larceny, 11/04/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

x Harris, Ditereal Lamonta (B/M/22), Armed Robbery, 10/31/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office x Lowery, Joe (I/M/55), Probation Violation, 10/31/2023, Hoke County Sheriff’s Office

A weekly podcast getting to the facts across the state, around the world and at home HERE in Raeford, Hoke County, NC.

and employees hired between July 1, 2023, and October 31, 2023, will get $200. The bonus amounts were increased by $100 from the initial proposal, with the payments to be processed on November 21.

The Hoke County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to reconvene on November 20.

Hosted by:

Ruben Castellon, Hal Nunn and Chris Holland Available on most Platforms Join Our Facebook Page: The Roundtable Talk Podcast

Vets for Vets & Community Friday Nov. 10th – Saturday Nov. 11th

Connecting 3 Veteran Support Organizations and the community while promoting the value of military service and community support.

Concert + Car Show – Friday Nov. 10th – Raeford Airport CAR/BIKE/TRUCK/MILITARY VEHICLE SHOW 6-8 p.m. | VFW Post 10, 145 Hangar Ln. All are welcome | Awards given

CONCERT: THE JONATHAN ROBINSON BAND 8 p.m. (Veteran Members)

PK’s Grill @ Raeford Airport 8 p.m. | No Cover (Military & Civilian)

www.vets4vetshoke.wordpress.com

OTHER EVENTS Veteran & Community Festival Sat. Nov. 11

Veterans Day Ceremony Hoke Courthouse 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Vendor Fair

Food Trucks, Arts & crafts, and other groups/businesses 1–5 p.m.

McLaughlin Park

National Guard Static Display Pet Parade 1 p.m.

Food Trucks, Vendors, Veterans & more!

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

3

OPINION Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | U.S. REP. RICHARD HUDSON

Honoring our Veterans and Servicemembers

Our region is home to thousands of veterans, and it is my duty as their Congressman to ensure our veterans have access to the resources and benefits they deserve.

THIS VETERANS DAY, we celebrate the best our nation has to offer.

We extend our respect, our admiration, and our appreciation to all who have worn the flag of our nation on their uniform.

As the representative of the largest Army base in the world, my top priority is making sure our veterans, as well as our troops and their families, get the support they deserve. I was proud to support the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which passed the House in July and fully funds veterans’ health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. I am especially proud this legislation contains my amendment to bring attention to funding the Veteran Crisis Line. I have fought for years to include this necessary funding that our military community deserves, reducing the stigma around mental health, and I was proud to secure these large wins for the thousands of veterans living in our community.

Earlier this year, I introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate November 12, 2023, as National Warrior Call Day. In North Carolina, Veterans Day is not just one day a year—it is a year-long call to action.

With the suicide rate among our nation’s veterans being 2.5 times more than civilians, I’ve made it a mission to do everything I can to address this tragedy. One effort that is making a difference on a national level is Warrior Call Day, which has gathered support from dozens of veterans organizations and seven former Veterans Affairs Secretaries.

I encourage folks in our community and across the country to take National Warrior Call Day as an opportunity to check in on someone they know, active-duty or veteran. I look forward to the day we get this resolution across the finish line and signed into law.

The Veterans Crisis Line acts as a critical tool to help our veterans in their time of need, and the number of annual contacts received—which include calls, texts, and chats—increased 15% between 2020 and 2022.

With this resolution, we are one step closer to addressing the challenges Veterans face head-on by keeping our promises made to them for their service and addressing the stigma around seeking help.

If you are a veteran or know someone who needs assistance, contact the 24-hour Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 or 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or chat online at www.VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

While we can never thank our active duty military, their families, and our veterans enough for their service, one thing we must do is

improve the quality of health care we provide them. For example, Master Sergeant Rich Stayskal, a resident of Moore County, served our country honorably and was wounded in combat. While stationed in our region, a missed cancer diagnosis changed his life. In response, I helped change federal law in 2020 so Rich and other military families who are victims of non-combat related medical malpractice while on activeduty could receive support. However, the Department of Defense has failed to implement the law properly, stealing hope from Rich Stayskal and hundreds of military families who have been harmed by medical malpractice.

This year I was proud to introduce the bipartisan Healthcare Equality and Rights for our Heroes (HERO) Act to correct this wrong and give our nation’s heroes who are victims of malpractice from a DoD medical treatment facility the opportunity to take their claim to District Court. Our servicemembers should have the right and opportunity to fight for the compensation and justice they deserve, and I will not stop fighting until they get it.

Our region is home to thousands of veterans, and it is my duty as their Congressman to ensure our veterans have access to the resources and benefits they deserve. Too often veterans face bureaucratic obstacles at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that hamper their access to care or benefits, and our office is here to help. If you or a veteran you know has experienced issues with the VA, please visit hudson.house.gov or call our Southern Pines district office at 910-910-1924.

I continue to pray for the strength and safety of soldiers from our region who have been or will be deployed.

As your Congressman, it is an honor to represent so many men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform and who bravely answered the call to defend our freedoms on the front lines. America’s servicemembers and veterans have given so much in the defense of our nation, and there are no words strong enough to express our sincere gratitude and deepest appreciation.

Richard Hudson is serving his sixth term in the U.S. House and represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District. He currently serves as the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee and is a member of the House Republican Steering Committee.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Understand evil or perish by its hand

Reality is ugly.

Reality is unpleasant.

LAST WEEK, the Metropolitan Police in London were videotaped removing posters with pictures of hostages taken by Hamas. The posters were being removed from Cullimore Chemist in Edgware. The chemist’s CEO, Hassan Khan, recently retweeted posts branding Israel and the IDF “filthy animals” and encouraging Iran and Hezbollah to attack Israel.

This naturally caused some properly earned angst. After all, the removal of such posters has become the domain of antisemites across the world. What was the police’s excuse for removing the posters? They explained, “We do not wish to limit the rights of anyone to protest or to raise awareness of the plight of those kidnapped and the terrible impact on their families. But we do have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to stop issues escalating and to avoid any further increase in community tension.”

Stop the escalation.

Prevent the community tension.

That’s the important thing.

This week, the Metropolitan Police also reportedly arrested a man for posting a video criticizing people for putting up Palestinian flags around his neighborhood. The British police didn’t touch the flags, in the name of relieving community tension. Instead, they arrested the man who wondered why Britain

would import the kinds of people who would post Palestinian flags on the street poles while Hamas is holding babies hostage.

Remember, the tensions must be reduced.

There are two ways to reduce tension in a community. The first is to cave to those who are the most dangerous and the most radical — in this case, the Hamas supporters.

Criminalize anyone who would ask just why a community in the West should be expected to contain people who support Hamas. Take them to jail for asking the question on tape.

The second way to lower community tensions is to recognize that those very people who defend Hamas are a danger to your community — that the problem isn’t community quiescence, but the constituency of the community itself.

That there can be no community with people who root for Hamas.

This should be obvious. But it isn’t. It isn’t because the West simply refuses to look reality in the face. Better to arrest those who speak it than to look reality in the face. Reality is ugly. Reality is unpleasant. And reality might require you to recognize that importation of millions of people who hate the West was an awful idea, and that means should be taken to reverse that process.

And so, instead, a way must be found to pretend away the threat.

Blame it on Israel.

Jabber about the two-state solution.

Talk about Islamophobia.

Whatever you do, don’t look the realities of multiculturalism’s dramatic failure directly in the face. This, of course, plays directly into the hands of Hamas. They now understand that they can say and do literally anything, and that much of the West will cover for them in order to maintain the fiction that multiculturalism works. They don’t even bother to hide the ball.

Hamas officials have spent the last weeks explaining that they wish to murder every Jew, and that they wish for their own civilians to die.

They say it all out loud. On camera.

Repeatedly. But the West won’t look Hamas in the face because then it might have to look Hamas’ supporters in the face. And while Hamas is in Gaza, Hamas’ supporters are located in our own towns. They work in our stores. They go to our schools. They staff our press and our academic institutions.

That’s too ugly and it’s too frightening. So, look away. In the name of relieving community tension.

As the community dies.

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

4 SIDELINE REPORT

SPORTS

NHL

Another former Blackhawk accuses coach of sexual assault Chicago A former hockey player in the Chicago Blackhawks organization has alleged in a lawsuit the team’s former video coach Brad Aldrich sexually assaulted him during the 2009-10 season.

He says the Blackhawks took no action when he complained because it didn’t want a disruption during its run to the Stanley Cup. The Chicago Tribune reported the plaintiff was a teammate of Kyle Beach, who reached a settlement with the Blackhawks in December 2021 after alleging he was sexually assaulted by Aldrich.

The Blackhawks declined to comment on the specifics of the latest lawsuit in a statement to the Tribune.

MLB

Chapman, Kiermaier win 4th Gold Gloves St. Louis Toronto third baseman Matt Chapman and outfielder Kevin Kiermaier won their fourth Gold Gloves, while New York Yankees rookie shortstop Anthony Volpe and Colorado rookie center fielder Brenton Doyle were among 13 first-time winners. Toronto, Texas and the Chicago Cubs tied for the high among clubs with three winners each.

Cleveland second baseman Andrés Giménez and left fielder Steven Kwan won their second Gold Gloves, along with Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson and left fielder Ian Happ and Arizona first baseman Christian Walker.

Ford to use Mustang Dark Horse for Cup Series in 2024

PAN AM GAMES

The high-end muscle car was unveiled last year

U.S. wins more golds, fewer medals at Pan American Games

The Associated Press

Santiago, Chile The United States roster of 631 athletes at the Pan American Games finished on the top of the medal table for the 17th time, as expected, but with fewer podiums than four years ago in Lima.

American athletes in Chile won 124 gold medals, two more than in Peru. The U.S also won 75 silver and 87 bronze in Santiago, totaling 286. In 2019, the American tally was 293 medals.

MIKE MEADOWS | FORD PERFORMANCE VIA AP

Ford Performance said last week it will use the new Mustang Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.

AVONDALE, Ariz. —Ford Performance said Wednesday it will use its top-of-the-line Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.

The Dark Horse is considered the blue-ribbon model of the Mustang lineup, with a starting price tag for consumers close to $60,000.

Joey Logano won the Cup title last year in the Mustang and Ryan Blaney clinched a second straight title for Ford and Team Penske on Sunday at Phoenix Raceway. The Dark Horse will make its Cup debut in the February exhibition opener at the Los

Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Ford won nine of 35 races in the current Mustang this season, and although Ford qualified six drivers for the 16-driver playoff field, defending champion Logano and Kevin Harvick were eliminated in the first round and Stewart-Haas Racing was winless this season.

“We think we’ve got a great road car lineup with the Mustang, but also took the decision to commit to a seventh-generation Mustang on the road and also race it around the world,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “Now to be on the cusp of showing the new Mustang Dark Horse for NASCAR Cup racing is exciting, and we want to compete and win around the world with Mustang and most

of the versions around the world are the Dark Horse.”

The Mustang will be eligible to race on six continents next season, from Bathurst to Le Mans and Daytona to Silverstone.

The Dark Horse was unveiled just over a year ago as the first new performance nameplate for Mustang since 2001. It is the most track-capable 5.0-liter V8 street-legal Mustang ever and was the inspiration for the Mustangs racing this year in Australia and the Formula Drift series.

The Dark Horse will be eligible to compete in GT3 and GT4 classes globally next year, and the Dark Horse R will compete in the Mustang Challenge Series and many grassroots racing events.

“If she gallops as fast as she

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looks, it’s going to be a good year,” said Brad Keselowski, driver and co-owner of RFK Racing. “Mustang is an iconic American car made famous around the world. I think of how Mustang has evolved over the years and how NASCAR has evolved along with it and they’re just two brands that go together.

I’m proud to get to drive it and proud to be able to compete for the win in this car.”

The Mustang has competed in NASCAR since it entered Xfinity Series competition in 2011 and entered Cup in 2019.

In 2021, when NASCAR introduced the Next Gen car, Ford’s design was widely regarded as the sleekest of the muscle cars.

The current Mustang has won a manufacturer’s championship, a series-best 18 races in 2020 and a driver’s championship with Logano in 2022.

The Mustang has twice won the Daytona 500 and has wins The Eth in the Southern 500 and Brick- men’s ra yard 400. It also won the inaugural Clash at the Coliseum in the debut of the current Next The Assoc Gen era.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

World Series viewership averaged record-low 9.11M The matchup between the Rangers and Diamondbakcs was the least-watched Fall Classic in TV history The Associated Press THE TEXAS RANGERS 5-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks for their first championship on Wednesday night drew the largest audience of this World Series. It was not enough, however, to prevent the five-game series from being the least-watched Fall Classic in recorded TV history.

Nielsen and Fox said Thursday the World Series averaged 9.11 million viewers, less than the 9.79 million average from the 2020 series when the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Tampa Bay Rays in six games.

It was a 23% decline from last year’s series, when the Houston Astros beat the Philadelphia Phillies in six games and averaged 11.78 million.

Wednesday night’s game averaged 11.48 million on Fox, a jump of 3 million compared to Tuesday night’s audience. The total audience across Fox, Fox Deportes and Fox streaming platforms was 11.64 million.

It was the first audience of

more than 10 million for this year’s series. Monday night’s Game 3 set the record for the least-watched World Series game on record at 8.13 million.

The audience peaked with 14.27 million viewers for the final three outs.

Baseball and network executives figured this year’s series might face a tough audience because of two teams that don’t have much national appeal. The expanded playoffs also meant it was a series matching the teams with the seventh- and 11th-best records.

However, the Rangers being the ninth champion since 2013 and 14 teams qualifying for the Fall Classic in the same span does have some appeal for Fox executives.

“I think it’s a good thing for the health of baseball to have new pennant winners and new champions, new teams playing in the World Series. You don’t want it to be the same market and the same brands every year,” Fox EVP, Head of Strategy and Analytics Mike Mulvihill said. “But I admit it is difficult for ratings in the short term when you’ve got some brands paired up that don’t really have traditional national boards.”

Bob Thompson, the retired

president of Fox Sports Networks who runs his own consulting group, also saw scheduling and a short series as factors in the low audience numbers.

“I think the Friday night start probably is something baseball might want to look at. It is usually the poorest-viewed night of the week.

Then you had a couple games that were blowouts where people probably tuned out early,” he said. “Whenever there’s a chance for somebody to clinch, the numbers are usually high.”

The World Series also continues to outperform every entertainment program. This was the eighth straight year that has happened.

It was the most-watched event four of the five nights.

The only thing to beat it was “Monday Night Football,” when the Detroit Lions beat the Las Vegas Raiders.

“Our two hopes and expectations are to beat everything in entertainment, and to have a long series. We didn’t really get a long series, but we did still beat everything in entertainment,” Mulvihill said. “As long as the series continues to do that, it’ll always be powerful in prime time.”

With the addition of the pitch clock and shorter games, ratings on regional sports network were up 7% for the regular season, with 16 of the 29 U.S.-based teams showing improvement.

National regular-season ratings were up for Fox/FS1 and TBS, but f lat for ESPN.

5

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK:

Sandy Grove Middle School volleyball

HAL NUNN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The Sandy Grove Middle School volleyball team won the Southeastern regional middle school championship last week. The team included Aurianna Jordan, Hannah Guthrie, Katie Guthrie, Patience Morton, Dejah Baldwin, Julianna Kitchen, Emily Lunsford, Linley Nelson, Mia Fernandez, Jasmine Paquet, Ashley Bundy, Rose Harris Lily Mass, Leah Sarus and Braylee Bryant.

Tamirat Tola crosses the finish line to win the men’s division of the New York City Marathon on Sunday.

AP PHOTO

Tola sets course record, Obiri takes women’s title at NYC Marathon The Ethiopian topped the men’s race in 2:04:58 The Associated Press NEW YORK — Tamirat Tola wasn’t thinking about breaking the New York City Marathon course record as he was running by himself in Central Park for the last few miles of the race.

He just was focused on trying to win.

The Ethiopian runner broke the 12-year-old mark, finishing the 26.2-mile race in 2 hours, 4 minutes and 58 seconds on Sunday — eight seconds faster than Geoffrey Mutai in 2011.

“The people of New York is amazing to give me moral support every kilometer,” Tola said.

“I’m happy for them. Thank you all people. It’s a long kilometers to do alone. ... I’m not thinking about a lot. I’m thinking to win.

So this is nice.”

Tola, who finished fourth in the race in 2018 and 2019, pulled away from countrymate Jemal Yimer when the pair were heading toward the Bronx at mile 20. By the time Tola headed back into Manhattan a mile later he was up by 19 seconds and left only chasing Mutai’s mark.

The 32-year-old was a late add to the field, joining three weeks ago.

Albert Korir of Kenya, who won the 2021 NYC Marathon, finished second nearly two minutes behind Tola.

While there wasn’t much drama in the men’s race after Tola pulled away, the women’s competition came down to the final stretch. Hellen Obiri of Kenya pulled away in the final 400 meters to take the women’s title.

The 33-year-old Obiri ran New York for the first time last year and finished sixth.

“My first debut here was terrible for me, and I say like I don’t want to come back here next year,” Obiri said. “After that, I said, wow, I’m here again. So you know sometimes you learn

from your mistakes, so I did a lot of mistakes last year, so I said I want to try to do my best.”

She sure did.

Obiri, Letesenbet Gidey of Ethiopia and defending champion Sharon Lokedi were all running together exchanging the lead. Obiri made a move as the trio headed back into Central Park for the final half-mile pulling away. She finished in 2:27:23. Gidey finished second, six seconds behind.

Lokedi was 10 seconds behind Obiri, who won the Boston Marathon in April. She’s the first woman to win those two marathons in the same year since Norwegian Ingrid Kristiansen

did it in 1989.

Marcel Hug won the men’s wheelchair race, finishing a few seconds short of his own course record by finishing in 1:25:29. It was the Swiss star’s record-extending sixth NYC Marathon victory.

“It’s incredible. I think it takes some time to realize what happened,” Hug said. “I’m so happy as well.”

Catherine Debrunner of Switzerland won her New York debut, shattering the course record in the women’s wheelchair race.

She finished in 1:39:32, besting the previous mark by over 3 minutes, which was held by American Susannah Scaroni.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

6

Supreme Court will rule on Trump-era ban on rapid-fire gun bump stocks The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court agreed on Friday to decide whether a Trump era-ban on bump stocks, the gun attachments that allow semi-automatic weapons to fire more rapidly, violates federal law.

The justices will hear arguments early next year over a regulation put in place by the Justice Department after a mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017.

Federal appeals courts have come to different decisions about whether the regulation defining a bump stock as a machine gun comports with federal law.

The justices said they will review the Biden administration’s appeal of a ruling by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans that invalidated the ban.

The Supreme Court already is weighing a challenge to another federal law that seeks to keep guns away from people under domestic violence restraining orders, a case that stems from the landmark decision in 2022 in which the six-justice conservative majority expanded gun rights.

The new case is not about the Second Amendment right to “keep and bear arms,” but rather whether the Trump adminis-

AP PHOTO

In this Oct. 4, 2017, file photo, a device called a “bump stock” is attached to a semi-automatic rifle at the Gun Vault store and shooting range in South Jordan, Utah. tration followed federal law in changing the bump stock regulation.

The ban on bump stocks took effect in 2019. It stemmed from the Las Vegas shooting in which the gunman, a 64-year-old retired postal service worker and high-stakes gambler, used as-

sault-style rifles to fire more than 1,000 rounds in 11 minutes into a crowd of 22,000 music fans.

Most of the rifles were fitted with bump stock devices and high-capacity magazines. A total of 58 people were killed in the shooting, and two died later.

Hundreds were injured.

The Trump administration’s ban on bump stocks was an about-face for the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. In 2010, under the Obama administration, the agency found that a bump stock should not be clas-

5 strategies for navigating today’s digital tipping culture

By Kimberly Palmer NerdWallet THE NEARLY universal experience of finding yourself face-to-face with a checkout counter screen asking you to select an amount to tip for service can prompt a cascade of awkward questions: How much should you tip on a $5 coffee if anything? How can you decide before the cup has even been poured? Is it rude to select “no tip,” then slink away with your drink?

The answers to those questions vary depending on whom you ask, but tipping experts agree on one thing: We get prompted to tip much more frequently these days, largely because of the explosion of cashless payment methods with automated tipping options. Another thing they agree on: You don’t always have to say “yes.”

“During the pandemic and post-pandemic, we’ve seen a dramatic shift in the way tips are given. Suddenly, you see tablets where you are prompted to give specific tip amounts at points of purchase where never before would anyone have dreamed of giving a tip,” says Thomas Farley, also known as “Mister Manners,” a New Yorkbased etiquette expert and keynote speaker.

“Consumers want to be duti-

AP PHOTO

In this Feb. 2, 2011, file photo, a wallet containing cash and a Visa card is displayed. ful, good consumers, so many play along, but still feel confused,” Farley adds.

To sort out that confusion, consider following these five strategies for navigating current tipping culture: BRUSH OFF ANY AWKWARDNESS While you might feel put on the spot with the sudden appearance of the tipping screen at a checkout counter, Farley says you should feel justified in taking your time and making the best decision for you and your

budget.

“Most servers I witness try to give you your space while you decide. Own your decision knowing you are fully supported by good etiquette guidelines either way,” he says.

“We are living through inflationary times when everything costs more. Unless you have tons of disposable income, you shouldn’t feel guilty about not tipping” at a checkout counter, even if an iPad tells you to, Farley adds.

AIM TO TIP 20% FOR MOST SERVICES

While tipping isn’t traditional at a coffee shop or convenience store counter, it is expected when you’re being served at a restaurant, where 20% is customary. Hairstylists, salon assistants, food delivery drivers and other service workers generally rely on similar percentage tips as a significant portion of their income.

Blake Hammerton, Dallas-based founder of The Sharp Gentleman, a coaching and lifestyle website for men, suggests adding 20% or rounding up to an even dollar amount for most services. As a former pizza delivery worker, he says he always appreciated tips based on the amount of effort he had to put into the job, including distance driven and the amount of food delivered. “Five dollars is great if it’s close by and a small amount, but if it’s eight pizzas for a party, you’ll want to tip more,” he says.

CARRY SOME CASH FOR TRADITIONAL TIPPING Lisa Mirza Grotts, an etiquette expert, says that while many consumers no longer carry much cash, it’s still useful to have some on hand in certain situations, such as when tipping a hotel housekeeper or valet. She suggests keeping $5 and $10 bills handy, especially when you travel.

sified as a machine gun and therefore should not be banned under federal law.

Following the Las Vegas shooting, officials revisited that determination and found it incorrect.

Bump stocks harness the recoil energy of a semi-automatic firearm so that a trigger “resets and continues firing without additional physical manipulation of the trigger by the shooter,” according to the ATF. A shooter must maintain constant forward pressure on the weapon with the non-shooting hand and constant pressure on the trigger with the trigger finger, according to court records.

The full U.S. 5th Circuit ruled 13-3 in January that Congress would have to change federal law to ban bump stocks.

“The definition of ‘machinegun’ as set forth in the National Firearms Act and Gun Control Act does not apply to bump stocks,” Judge Jennifer Walker Elrod wrote for the 5th Circuit.

But a panel of three judges on the federal appeals court in Washington looked at the same language and came to a different conclusion.

Judge Robert Wilkins wrote for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit that “under the best interpretation of the statute, a bump stock is a self-regulating mechanism that allows a shooter to shoot more than one shot through a single pull of the trigger. As such, it is a machine gun under the National Firearms Act and Gun Control Act.” A decision is expected by early summer in Garland v. Cargill, 22-976.

There’s also a time for larger bills. When you’re tipping on a big-ticket service, such as a $5,000 house move, Farley recommends having a few $100 bills on hand to pass out to the workers at the end. “There’s no need to tip 20%, but $100 would go a long way,” he says.

At the end of the year, Farley suggests tipping each service provider, such as a hairstylist, barber or nail technician, the equivalent of the cost of one visit, whether it’s $30 or $300.

“Cash is king,” he says, adding that you can include a notecard with the tip.

CONSIDER YOUR BUDGET Ellie Austin-Williams, author of the forthcoming book “Money Talks: A Lifestyle Guide for Financial Wellbeing,” encourages consumers to protect their budget from tipping-creep. “Just because the option is there to tip, don’t always feel you have to take it. Businesses are there to encourage us to spend more money, and it’s on you to manage your money. You’ve got to look after your own finances,” she says.

EMBRACE THE JOY OF TIPPING When you’ve received excellent service and you want to reward the people who provided it, tipping can be a positive experience — and no one leaves feeling awkward.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

obituaries

Etta O'Lee (Walters) Bowen

February 9, 1935 ~ October 29, 2023 Etta O’Lee Bowen passed away on October 29, 2023 under the care of Autumn Care of Fayetteville and Gentiva Hospice at the age of 88.

O’Lee was born on February 09, 1935 in Fairmont, NC to the late Archie A. Walters and Dora Lee (Prevatte) Walters.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Everett Bowen; son in law, Lin Webb; brothers, Archie L. Walters and Harry Walters, Sr.; sisters, Evelyn Turbeville, Vera Lee Rogers, Gladys Jones, Eva Snook, and Jimmie Fulk.

O’Lee was a member of Bethel Presbyterian Church of Raeford and sang in the church choir for many years.

She was a wife, mother, and homemaker. She enjoyed sitting on her porch watching the hummingbirds, gardening, sewing, cooking, and baking.

O’Lee loved when family was together for meals and sharing time together.

She is survived by her daughter, Gail Webb of Fayetteville, NC; her son, Ricky Bowen and wife Sylvia of Raeford, NC, and her grandchildren Keith Webb (Erica) of St. Pauls, NC, Jeremy Bowen of Wagram, NC, Valerie Webb of Fayetteville, NC, and Kristy Nolan (Kevin) of Enterprise, AL; four great grandsons, Conyer and Cameron Webb, U.S Navy stationed in San Diego, CA, and Karson and Karter Nolan of Enterprise, AL. O’Lee was dearly loved by us all and she will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bethel Presbyterian Church. P.O Box 2128, Raeford, NC 28376

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Stephen Burns

Milton Clark

May 23, 1953 ~ October 28, 2023

March 13, 1968 ~ October 31, 2023

Mr. Milton Clark age, 70 went home to rest with his heavenly father on October 28, 2023.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife, Deloris Clark; children: Lynette Williams, Maurice Harris, Terrence McLean; sister, Harriet Dupree; brothers: William Clark, George Hubert Clark, Gary Mitchell Clark, Bruce Eric Clark, Jerry Jerome Clark, nine grandchildren, nine great grandchildren along with a host of other family and friends. Milton will be greatly missed.

Mr. Stephen Burns age, 55 went home to be with his heavenly father on October 31, 2023.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife, Patricia Ann Burns; step children: Michelle Carter, Michael Wilson; mother, Nancy Burns; sister, Laura Burns, three grandchildren along with a host of other family and friends. Stephen will be greatly missed.

Bobby Lee McDowell

March 29, 1940 ~ November 4, 2023 Mr. Bobby Lee McDowell, of Raeford, NC went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 04, 2023, at the age of 83.

Bobby was born in Durham County, NC on March 29, 1940, to the late Maxie and Gladys McDowell.

Along with his parents, he was preceded by his grandparents, John Fuller and Ruth McDowell.

He served as Chaplain’s Assistant Amour Division, Transportation, and Tank Commander in the Army National Guard. Just before retiring from the military, he became a licensed and ordained minister.

He was a member of the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Rockfish. In his final days, he served as a Chaplain in the First Health Hoke Hospital.

Bobby is survived by his wife of 55 years, Audrey Williamson McDowell; daughter, Mary Elizabeth McDowell; mother-in-law, Marion Williamson; and aunt, Geneva McKeithan. .

Celebrate the life of your loved ones.

Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Right turn on red? With pedestrian deaths rising, US cities are considering bans The Associated Press CHICAGO — Sophee Langerman was on her way to a bicycle safety rally in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in June when a car turning right rolled through a red light and slammed into her bike, which she was walking off the curb and into the crosswalk.

The car was moving slowly enough that Langerman escaped serious injury, but the bicycle required extensive repairs. To Langerman, it’s another argument for ending a practice that almost all U.S. cities have embraced for decades: the legal prerogative for a driver to turn right after stopping at a red light.

A dramatic rise in accidents killing or injuring pedestrians and bicyclists has led to a myriad of policy and infrastructure changes, but moves to ban right on red have drawn some of the most intense sentiments on both sides.

Washington, D.C.’s City Council last year approved a righton-red ban that takes effect in 2025. New Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s transition plan called for “restricting right turns on red,” but his administration hasn’t provided specifics.

The college town of Ann Arbor, Michigan, now prohibits right

AP PHOTO

A passenger vehicle makes a right turn on red at an intersection that prohibits the turn Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, in Chicago. turns at red lights in the downtown area.

San Francisco leaders recently voted to urge their transportation agency to ban right on red across the city, and other major cities such as Los Angeles, Seat-

tle and Denver have looked into bans as well.

“Drivers should not have the option to decide for themselves when they think it’s safe,” said Langerman, 26. “People are busy.

People are distracted.”

But Jay Beeber, executive director for policy at the National Motorists Association, an advocacy organization for drivers, called it a “fallacy” to assume such blanket bans would make streets safer.

He cited an upcoming study by his association that analyzed California crash data from 20112019 and found that drivers turning right on red accounted for only about one pedestrian death and less than one bicyclist death statewide every two years.

“What’s really behind this movement is part of the agenda to make driving as miserable and as difficult as possible so people don’t drive so much,” Beeber said.

The United States is one of few major countries that generally allow right turns on red.

Concerned that cars idling at stop lights could compound an energy crisis, the U.S. government warned states in the 1970s that they could risk some federal funding should cities prohibit right on red, except in specific, clearly marked areas. Although another energy-conscious provision capping speed limits at 55 mph has long been abandoned, right on red has endured.

Right on red has never been allowed across most of New York City, where large signs alert Man-

Many Americans say their household expenses are outpacing earnings this year, AP-NORC poll shows The Associated Press NEW YORK — About 2 in 3 Americans say their household expenses have risen over the last year, but only about 1 in 4 say their income has increased in the same period, according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

As household expenses outpace earnings, many are expressing concern about their financial futures. What’s more, for most Americans, household debt has either risen in the last year or has not gone away.

Steve Shapiro, 61, who works as an audio engineer in Pittsburgh, said he’d been spending about $100 a week on groceries prior to this past year, but that he’s now shelling out closer to $200.

“My income has stayed the same,” he said. “The economy is good on paper, but I’m not doing great.”

About 8 in 10 Americans say their overall household debt is higher or about the same as it was a year ago. About half say they currently have credit card debt, 4 in 10 are dealing with auto loans, and about 1 in 4 have medical debt. Just 15% say their household savings have in-

AP PHOTO

A man shops at a grocery store in Buffalo Grove, Ill., March 19, 2023. creased over the last year.

Tracy Gonzales, 36, who works as a sub-contractor in construction in San Antonio, Texas, has several thousand dollars of medical debt from an emergency room visit for what she thought was a bad headache but turned out to be a tooth infection.

“They’ll treat you, but the bills are crazy,” she said. Gonzales said she’s tried to avoid seeking medical treatment because of the costs.

Relatively few Americans say they’re very or extremely con-

fident that they could pay an unexpected medical expense (26%) or have enough money for retirement (18%). Only about one-third are extremely or very confident their current financial situation will allow them to keep up with expenses, though an additional 42% say they’re somewhat confident.

“I’ve been looking forward to retirement my entire life.

Recently I realized it’s just not going to happen,” said Shapiro, adding that his wife’s $30,000 or so of student debt is a financial factor for his household. The

couple had hoped to sell their house and move this past year, but decided instead to hold on to their mortgage rate of 3.4%, rather than facing a higher rate.

(The current average long-term mortgage rate reached 7.79% this month.)

About 3 in 10 Americans say they’ve foregone a major purchase because of higher interest rates in the last year. Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults have student debt, with the pandemic-era payment pause on federal loans ending this month, contributing to the crunch.

Yet even as Americans have expressed gloomy sentiments about the economy, many have continued spending, which drove a strong quarter of growth from July though September, when the economy expanded at an annual pace of 4.9%.

Even so, wages and salaries have largely trailed inflation since the pandemic, leaving most households worse off, though economists debate which measures are the best to use. In the past 12 months, however, average hourly pay has started to pull ahead of prices, rising 0.5% faster.

Americans are generally split on whether the Republicans (29%) or the Democrats (25%)

hattan’s visitors that the practice is prohibited there. But it was the default policy practically everywhere else in the U.S. until last year’s vote in the nation’s capital.

Critics argue that banning right on red will not only inconvenience motorists but also slow down commuter buses and deliveries. The United Parcel Service hasn’t taken an official position on right on red but has long directed its drivers to avoid left turns whenever possible, viewing them as inefficient.

According to a national report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, more than 7,500 people walking were struck and killed by automobiles in 2022, the highest number since 1981.

The spike, which included all accidents — not just those involving right turns on red, was attributed in part to an increase in larger vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks on the road.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that the odds a pedestrian would be killed when struck by an automobile turning right were 89% higher when the vehicle was a pickup and 63% higher when it was an SUV, due to larger blind spots and the deadlier force associated with heavier models.

“These big, blunt front hoods, they knock people down and run over them, as opposed to before when people would crumple onto the hood,” said Mike McGinn, a former Seattle mayor who is the executive director of America Walks, a national nonprofit that advocates for pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

are better suited to handle the issue of inflation in the U.S. Three in 10 say they trust neither party to address it.

A slight majority of all Americans polled (54%) describe their household’s financial situation as good, which is about the same as it’s been for the last year but down from 63% in March of 2022. Older Americans are much more confident in their current finances than younger Americans. Just 39% of 18to 29-year-olds describe their household finances as good, compared to a majority (58%) of those who are 30 and older. People with higher levels of education or higher household incomes are more likely than Americans overall to evaluate their finances as solid.

About three-quarters of Americans describe the nation’s economy as poor, which is in line with measurements from early last year.

Among those who are retired, 3 in 10 say they are highly confident that there’s enough saved for their retirement, about 4 in 10 are somewhat confident, and 31% are not very confident or not confident at all.

About 4 in 10 Americans (38%) approve of how Biden is handling the presidency, while 61% disapprove. His overall approval numbers have remained at a steady low for the last several years. Most Americans generally disapprove of how he’s handling the federal budget (68% disapprove), the economy (67%), and student debt (58%).

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THE FORSYTH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

JASON JACKSON | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Sand trapped Sally Toalson, senior at West Forsyth High School, clears a bunker on the 18th hole at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 4A women’s golf championship, held at Pinehurst No. 6 on October 31. West Forsyth finished 9th.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Forsyth County’s unemployment drops slightly The county’s unemployment rate decreased for the month of September, both from the previous month and from the same time period last year.

Forsyth’s 3.2% unemployment rate for September was down 0.3% from a year ago, and 0.4% from the prior month. That translates to an estimated 6,328 of the county’s 195,205-strong total workforce being unemployed during the month.

The unemployment rates, which are not seasonally adjusted for hiring trends like farming or holidays, decreased in 98 of North Carolina’s counties in September 2023 and increased in two. Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 5.6% while Swain and Buncombe Counties each had the lowest at 2.5%.

The number of workers employed statewide increased in September by 53,039 to 5,134,777, while those unemployed decreased by 18,714 to 170,391. Since September 2022, the number of workers employed statewide increased by 142,319, while those unemployed decreased by 7,967.

The county-level unemployment rates were released Nov. 1.

Wildfire smoke from western NC could be in the air A Henderson County wildfire that’s been burning since at least Friday, Nov. 4, has caused smoke to seep eastward, now visible in many North Carolina counties.

Air quality warnings have been issued for a number of counties closer to the fire as a result of the smoke.

The N.C. Forest Service has issued a burn ban for more than a dozen western NC counties, as the fire has so far destroyed two homes and two other structures.

Forsyth Commissioners address noise complaints and budgets, contracts Neighborhood noise issue persists as commissioners plan public hearing for street closure

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal WINSTON-SALEM — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners provided an update on a neighborhood noise dispute and addressed several budgetary items during their meeting on Thursday, Nov. 2.

The board discussed the situation with Piedmont Hoist &

Crane (PHC), following neighbor complaints about noise and debris from the company’s outdoor sandblasting operations. Community and Economic Development Director Kyle Haney reported on recent discussions with PHC’s leadership. “We actually went out and met with the company yesterday, the CEO and the vice president of operations, to really get a sense of where they were with this issue and what their plans are to mitigate it,” Haney said.

PHC has taken steps to address the issue since becoming aware of it in October, includ-

ing replacing sandblasting machine nozzles, constructing a barrier made from cargo containers with a covering, and exploring additional noise-reducing solutions such as a drape and fencing. However, there are no current plans to move the sandblasting activities indoors.

County staff also noted they are working on an objective, technical assessment of the sound levels in the area but have not yet been able to measure them during active work hours.

In other business, the commissioners announced their

intention to close a portion of Morris Street and scheduled a public hearing for Dec. 7.

The board approved four budgetary matters: an amendment to appropriate $91,126.54 from the National Association of County and City Health Officials, $50,000 from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for targeted testing services, $75,000 for the Employee Health Benefits Internal Service Fund, and a transfer of $36,949 in Edward Byrne Memorial Justice AssisSee COMMISSIONERS, page 2

Winston-Salem man receives 46-month sentence for obscene videos involving animals Timothy Blackmon sentenced for making and distributing videos of sex acts with dogs

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal WINSTON-SALEM — Timothy Lewis Blackmon, 45, of Winston-Salem, has been sentenced to 46 months in prison after being charged with possession of child pornography and distributing obscene videos depicting sexual acts with dogs.

The sentencing was announced

by United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, Sandra J. Hairston, on October 31.

Chief United States District Judge Catherine C. Eagles presided over the case in the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, also imposing 3 years of supervised release following Blackmon’s prison term. Blackmon is further ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victims.

The investigation into Blackmon’s activities was initiated by an anonymous tip received in March 2022, which led to these federal charges in July of that year. The tip suggested that an individual was selling videos on the messaging app “Kik” that featured him engaging in sexual acts with dogs.

Multiple agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, and the Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office, collaborated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Nicole DuPré prosecuted the case. Blackmon was first arrested by Forsyth Sheriff’s deputies just days after the original tip.

“The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office will always pursue justice and protect the rights of those who live in our County — two-legged or four-legged,” said Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby F. Kimbrough, Jr. in a Facebook post announcing the arrest in March 2022. “It is our obligation and oath to protect animal rights and human rights - we

“The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office will always pursue justice and protect the rights of those who live in our County- two-legged or four-legged.”

Forsyth County Sheriff Kimbrough will always do what is moral, what is legal, and what is right.”

A search of Blackmon’s mobile devices uncovered several videos of the accused involved in cruel acts with animals.

Two dogs, identified as pit bull mixed breeds, were rescued by law enforcement.

According to details from the search warrant, Blackmon had broadcasted live on Kik, where he described videos of his pitbull and a female engaging in sexual acts, as well as his own involvement with the same female.

Tracy Lynn Abbott, also implicated in the case, was arrested and charged with two counts of felony crime against nature by the Stokes County Sheriff’s Office. Abbott pleaded guilty in August 2022, receiving a suspended sentence and supervised probation.

Prison records indicate that Blackmon has a lengthy criminal history dating back to 1997, with various charges including driving with a revoked license, larceny, and assault-related offenses.

The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to address and prosecute cases involving animal cruelty and exploitation.

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Understand evil or perish by its hand

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FRIDAY

NOV 9

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Twin City Herald

Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal

THURSDAY

Reality is ugly.

Reality is unpleasant.

LAST WEEK, the Metropolitan Police in London were videotaped removing posters with pictures of hostages taken by Hamas. The posters were being removed from Cullimore Chemist in Edgware. The chemist’s CEO, Hassan Khan, recently retweeted posts branding Israel and the IDF “filthy animals” and encouraging Iran and Hezbollah to attack Israel.

This naturally caused some properly earned angst. After all, the removal of such posters has become the domain of antisemites across the world. What was the police’s excuse for removing the posters? They explained, “We do not wish to limit the rights of anyone to protest or to raise awareness of the plight of those kidnapped and the terrible impact on their families. But we do have a responsibility to take reasonable steps to stop issues escalating and to avoid any further increase in community tension.”

Stop the escalation.

Prevent the community tension.

That’s the important thing.

This week, the Metropolitan Police also reportedly arrested a man for posting a video criticizing people for putting up Palestinian flags around his neighborhood. The British police didn’t touch the flags, in the name of relieving community tension. Instead, they arrested the man who wondered why Britain would import the kinds of people who would post Palestinian flags on the street poles while Hamas is holding babies hostage.

Remember, the tensions must be reduced.

There are two ways to reduce tension in a community. The first is to cave to those who are the most dangerous and the most radical — in this case, the Hamas supporters. Criminalize anyone who would ask just why a community in the West should be expected to contain people who support Hamas. Take them to jail for asking the question on tape.

The second way to lower community tensions is to recognize that those very people who defend Hamas are a danger to your community — that

the problem isn’t community quiescence, but the constituency of the community itself.

That there can be no community with people who root for Hamas.

This should be obvious. But it isn’t. It isn’t because the West simply refuses to look reality in the face. Better to arrest those who speak it than to look reality in the face. Reality is ugly. Reality is unpleasant. And reality might require you to recognize that importation of millions of people who hate the West was an awful idea, and that means should be taken to reverse that process.

And so, instead, a way must be found to pretend away the threat.

Blame it on Israel.

Jabber about the two-state solution.

Talk about Islamophobia.

Whatever you do, don’t look the realities of multiculturalism’s dramatic failure directly in the face. This, of course, plays directly into the hands of Hamas. They now understand that they can say and do literally anything, and that much of the West will cover for them in order to maintain the fiction that multiculturalism works.

They don’t even bother to hide the ball. Hamas officials have spent the last weeks explaining that they wish to murder every Jew, and that they wish for their own civilians to die.

They say it all out loud. On camera.

Repeatedly. But the West won’t look Hamas in the face because then it might have to look Hamas’ supporters in the face. And while Hamas is in Gaza, Hamas’ supporters are located in our own towns. They work in our stores. They go to our schools. They staff our press and our academic institutions.

That’s too ugly and it’s too frightening. So, look away. In the name of relieving community tension.

As the community dies.

Ben Shapiro, 39, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

Film on Wilmington Massacre sheds light on forgotten history “In the Pines” uses historical fiction to explore the events and impact of the 1898 racial conflict

By Ashley White For North State Joural ASHEBORO — The John Locke Foundation held a screening of “In the Pines,” a short film about the Wilmington Massacre of 1898, at the Asheboro Public Library on November 2.

Directed by Dugan Bridges, “In the Pines” is a piece of historical fiction following Scarlett Manning, played by Pandora Broadwater, as she shares her memories of the events leading up to the massacre. The younger Scarlett, portrayed by Amara Ayler, navigates the challenges of the time with her friends Ashleigh, played by Corrinne Mica, and Ashleigh’s love interest, Sam, played by John Potvin.

COMMISSIONERS from page 1

tance Grant Funds to the general fund.

Five contractual matters received approval, including a MoU for transportation planning with the High Point Metropolitan Planning Organization; an $82,130 contract for the purchase of two Chrysler Pacifica minivans for the County General Services Department; a $68,835 contract for Arrow EZ-IO emergency vascular access equipment; a $250,300

ASHLEY WHITE | FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Attendees participate in a Q&A session about “In the Pines” at the Asheboro Public Library on Nov. 2.

The film provides a narrative framework for understanding the often-overlooked Wilmington Massacre. “The purpose was

not to be a historical documentary,” explained Greg de Deugd, the creative director of the John Locke Foundation. “It was to get

contract with archSTUDIO7, PLLC for professional design services for the Law Enforcement Detention Center Elevator Modernization Project; and a contract with Propio LS for telephonic and virtual interpretation services, with a maximum cost of $61,300. These contracts represent a range of services and purchases that the county has deemed necessary for its operations and community services.

Chairman Don Martin questioned the increased cost of the

Propio LS contract, originally estimated at around $20,000, with Deputy County Manager Shontell Robinson attributing the increase to greater utilization in various program areas, the lifting of COVID-19 waivers, and the addition of video capability to the service.

Lastly, the board approved a stormwater operation and maintenance agreement and easement with the City of Winston-Salem for a stormwater control system on county property at 1931 Union Cross Road.

people interested.”

In 1898, Wilmington, N.C., had a racially integrated government, with several black men in office. But following a White Supremacist propaganda campaign, the Democratic Party orchestrated the only successful coup d’état in U.S. history. On November 10, 1898, they killed numerous black citizens and officials, seizing control of what was then North Carolina’s largest city. The exact death toll remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from 60 to 250.

Potvin, who portrays Sam, emphasized the importance of recognizing these historical events: “It’s an important part of American history, and too often these stories get swept under the rug for no good reason. So to help shine a light on these events, it became about having a responsibility to bring this history forward.”

The John Locke Foundation, a nonprofit think tank, strives

to promote truth, freedom, and the future of North Carolina, including raising awareness of the state’s history. Through initiatives like the North Carolina History Project and productions like “In the Pines,” the foundation seeks to educate and engage the public.

The Asheboro community gathered to view the film and discuss the historical significance of the 1898 events. De Deugd and Dr. Troy Kickler, Senior Fellow and Managing Director of the John Locke Foundation, introduced the film and facilitated a Q&A session afterward. De Deugd noted, “It’s a fictional story, but it’s an honest story.”

The 19-minute film has received significant recognition, earning more than 10 awards at film festivals across the nation and globally, including Best Short Drama and Best Period Film. For additional details, visit inthepinesfilm.com.

Do you have a birthday, wedding, engagement or other milestone to celebrate?

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Twin City Herald for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

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NHL

Another former Blackhawk accuses coach of sexual assault Chicago A former hockey player in the Chicago Blackhawks organization has alleged in a lawsuit the team’s former video coach Brad Aldrich sexually assaulted him during the 2009-10 season.

He says the Blackhawks took no action when he complained because it didn’t want a disruption during its run to the Stanley Cup. The Chicago Tribune reported the plaintiff was a teammate of Kyle Beach, who reached a settlement with the Blackhawks in December 2021 after alleging he was sexually assaulted by Aldrich. The Blackhawks declined to comment on the specifics of the latest lawsuit in a statement to the Tribune.

Ford to use Mustang Dark Horse for Cup Series in 2024

Chapman, Kiermaier win 4th Gold Gloves

The Associated Press

Liverpool’s Diaz appeals for the release of his kidnapped father Luton, England Luis Diaz has returned to Liverpool’s squad and scored a late equalizer for its Premier League soccer match against Luton with his father still missing after being kidnapped by a guerrilla group in Colombia.

Diaz had missed Liverpool’s last two games but trained since Thursday and was selected on the bench for the match at Kenilworth Road.

He entered the game in the 83rd and scored in the fifth minute of stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw for his team. He revealed a T-shirt with the words “Libertad Para Papa” or “Freedom For Papa” after the goal.

NBA

Pelicans’ McCollum diagnosed with partially collapsed lung New Orleans The New Orleans Pelicans say guard CJ McCollum has been diagnosed with a partially collapsed lung.

The announcement on Sunday afternoon came after McCullom scored 13 points in a 123-105 Pelicans loss to Atlanta on Saturday night. The Pelicans play next on Monday night in Denver and it is unclear how much time McCollum might be sidelined. The Pelicans say “additional examination will be performed in the next 48 hours to determine the progress of healing” and that more information will be provided after that. The 32-year-old McCollum has averaged 21.7 points, 5.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds in six games this season.

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The high-end muscle car was unveiled last year

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MLB

St. Louis Toronto third baseman Matt Chapman and outfielder Kevin Kiermaier won their fourth Gold Gloves, while New York Yankees rookie shortstop Anthony Volpe and Colorado rookie center fielder Brenton Doyle were among 13 first-time winners. Toronto, Texas and the Chicago Cubs tied for the high among clubs with three winners each.

Cleveland second baseman Andrés Giménez and left fielder Steven Kwan won their second Gold Gloves, along with Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson and left fielder Ian Happ and Arizona first baseman Christian Walker.

the better part of th ing to earn acceptan stitutions,” Ural said don’t know what we’r now.”

The outbreak has for millions of stud taking virtual tou while also dealing about tuition payme

AVONDALE, Ariz. —Ford Performance said Wednesday it will use its top-of-the-line Dark Horse in the NASCAR Cup Series next year.

The Dark Horse is considered the blue-ribbon model of the Mustang lineup, with a starting price tag for consumers close to $60,000.

Joey Logano won the Cup title last year in the Mustang and Ryan Blaney clinched a second straight title for Ford and Team Penske on Sunday at Phoenix Raceway. The Dark Horse will make its Cup debut in the February exhibition opener at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Ford won nine of 35 races in the current Mustang this season, and although Ford qualified six drivers for the 16-driver playoff field, defending champion Logano and Kevin Harvick were eliminated in the first round and Stewart-Haas Racing was winless this season.

“We think we’ve got a great road car lineup with the Mustang, but also took the decision to commit to a seventh-generation Mustang on the road and also race it around the world,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “Now to be on the cusp of showing the new Mustang Dark Horse for NASCAR Cup racing is exciting, and we want to compete and win around the world with Mustang and most of the versions around the world are the Dark Horse.”

The Mustang will be eligible to race

on six continents next season, from Bathurst to Le Mans and Daytona to Silverstone.

The Dark Horse was unveiled just over a year ago as the first new performance nameplate for Mustang since 2001. It is the most track-capable 5.0-liter V8 street-legal Mustang ever and was the inspiration for the Mustangs racing this year in Australia and the Formula Drift series.

The Dark Horse will be eligible to compete in GT3 and GT4 classes globally next year, and the Dark Horse R will compete in the Mustang Challenge Series and many grassroots racing events.

“If she gallops as fast as she looks, it’s going to be a good year,” said Brad Keselowski, driver and co-owner of RFK Racing. “Mustang is an iconic American car made famous around the world.

I think of how Mustang has evolved over the years and how NASCAR has evolved along with it and they’re just two brands that go together. I’m proud to get to drive it and proud to be able to compete for the win in this car.”

The Mustang has competed in NASCAR since it entered Xfinity Series competition in 2011 and entered Cup in 2019. In 2021, when NASCAR introduced the Next Gen car, Ford’s design was widely regarded as the sleekest of the muscle cars. The current Mustang has won a manufacturer’s championship, a series-best 18 races in 2020 and a driver’s championship with Logano in 2022.

The Mustang has twice won the Daytona 500 and has wins in the Southern 500 and Brickyard 400. It also won the inaugural Clash at the Coliseum in the debut of the current Next Gen era.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Reagan, volleyball Gabrielle Nichols is a junior middle hitter on the Reagan volleyball team.

After running through the entire season undefeated, the Raiders took their 37-0 record to the final four of the state 4A tournament. Reagan fell in the state semifinals, however, losing to Cox Mill, 3-1.

Nichols was one of the top players on the team, leading the Raiders in hitting percentage and blocks, while also ranking in the top three in kills. She also turned in the top hitting percentage in the state.

World Series viewership averaged record-low 9.11M The matchup between the Rangers and Diamondbakcs was the least-watched Fall Classic in TV history

The Associated Press THE TEXAS RANGERS 5-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks for their first championship on Wednesday night drew the largest audience of this World Series. It was not enough, however, to prevent the fivegame series from being the leastwatched Fall Classic in recorded TV history.

Nielsen and Fox said Thursday the World Series averaged 9.11 million viewers, less than the 9.79 million average from the 2020 series when the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Tampa Bay Rays in six games.

It was a 23% decline from last year’s series, when the Houston Astros beat the Philadelphia Phillies in six games and averaged 11.78 million.

Wednesday night’s game averaged 11.48 million on Fox, a jump of 3 million compared to Tuesday night’s audience. The total audience across Fox, Fox Deportes and Fox streaming platforms was 11.64 million.

It was the first audience of more than 10 million for this year’s series. Monday night’s Game 3 set the record for the least-watched World Series game

AP PHOTO

Rangers catcher Jonah Heim, left, and relief pitcher Josh Sborz celebrate after Texas won Game 5 to clinch the World Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday in Phoenix. on record at 8.13 million.

The audience peaked with 14.27 million viewers for the final three outs.

Baseball and network executives figured this year’s series might face a tough audience because of two teams that don’t have much national appeal. The expanded playoffs also meant it was a series matching the teams with the seventh- and 11th-best records.

However, the Rangers being the ninth champion since 2013 and 14 teams qualifying for the Fall Classic in the same span

does have some appeal for Fox executives.

“I think it’s a good thing for the health of baseball to have new pennant winners and new champions, new teams playing in the World Series. You don’t want it to be the same market and the same brands every year,” Fox EVP, Head of Strategy and Analytics Mike Mulvihill said. “But I admit it is difficult for ratings in the short term when you’ve got some brands paired up that don’t really have traditional national boards.”

Bob Thompson, the retired

president of Fox Sports Networks who runs his own consulting group, also saw scheduling and a short series as factors in the low audience numbers.

“I think the Friday night start probably is something baseball might want to look at. It is usually the poorest-viewed night of the week. Then you had a couple games that were blowouts where people probably tuned out early,” he said. “Whenever there’s a chance for somebody to clinch, the numbers are usually high.”

The World Series also continues to outperform every entertainment program. This was the eighth straight year that has happened.

It was the most-watched event four of the five nights. The only thing to beat it was “Monday Night Football,” when the Detroit Lions beat the Las Vegas Raiders.

“Our two hopes and expectations are to beat everything in entertainment, and to have a long series. We didn’t really get a long series, but we did still beat everything in entertainment,” Mulvihill said. “As long as the series continues to do that, it’ll always be powerful in prime time.”

With the addition of the pitch clock and shorter games, ratings on regional sports network were up 7% for the regular season, with 16 of the 29 U.S.-based teams showing improvement.

National regular-season ratings were up for Fox/FS1 and TBS, but flat for ESPN.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

4

STATE & NATION

Right turn on red? With pedestrian deaths rising, US cities are considering bans The Associated Press CHICAGO — Sophee Langerman was on her way to a bicycle safety rally in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in June when a car turning right rolled through a red light and slammed into her bike, which she was walking off the curb and into the crosswalk.

The car was moving slowly enough that Langerman escaped serious injury, but the bicycle required extensive repairs. To Langerman, it’s another argument for ending a practice that almost all U.S. cities have embraced for decades: the legal prerogative for a driver to turn right after stopping at a red light.

A dramatic rise in accidents killing or injuring pedestrians and bicyclists has led to a myriad of policy and infrastructure changes, but moves to ban right on red have drawn some of the most intense sentiments on both sides.

Washington, D.C.’s City Council last year approved a righton-red ban that takes effect in 2025. New Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s transition plan called for “restricting right turns on red,” but his administration hasn’t provided specifics.

The college town of Ann Arbor, Michigan, now prohibits right

AP PHOTO

A passenger vehicle makes a right turn on red at an intersection that prohibits the turn Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023, in Chicago. turns at red lights in the downtown area.

San Francisco leaders recently voted to urge their transportation agency to ban right on red across the city, and other major cities such as Los Angeles, Seat-

tle and Denver have looked into bans as well.

“Drivers should not have the option to decide for themselves when they think it’s safe,” said Langerman, 26. “People are busy.

People are distracted.”

But Jay Beeber, executive director for policy at the National Motorists Association, an advocacy organization for drivers, called it a “fallacy” to assume such blanket bans would make streets safer.

He cited an upcoming study by his association that analyzed California crash data from 20112019 and found that drivers turning right on red accounted for only about one pedestrian death and less than one bicyclist death statewide every two years.

“What’s really behind this movement is part of the agenda to make driving as miserable and as difficult as possible so people don’t drive so much,” Beeber said.

The United States is one of few major countries that generally allow right turns on red.

Concerned that cars idling at stop lights could compound an energy crisis, the U.S. government warned states in the 1970s that they could risk some federal funding should cities prohibit right on red, except in specific, clearly marked areas. Although another energy-conscious provision capping speed limits at 55 mph has long been abandoned, right on red has endured.

Right on red has never been allowed across most of New York City, where large signs alert Man-

Many Americans say their household expenses are outpacing earnings this year, AP-NORC poll shows The Associated Press NEW YORK — About 2 in 3 Americans say their household expenses have risen over the last year, but only about 1 in 4 say their income has increased in the same period, according to a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

As household expenses outpace earnings, many are expressing concern about their financial futures. What’s more, for most Americans, household debt has either risen in the last year or has not gone away.

Steve Shapiro, 61, who works as an audio engineer in Pittsburgh, said he’d been spending about $100 a week on groceries prior to this past year, but that he’s now shelling out closer to $200.

“My income has stayed the same,” he said. “The economy is good on paper, but I’m not doing great.”

About 8 in 10 Americans say their overall household debt is higher or about the same as it was a year ago. About half say they currently have credit card debt, 4 in 10 are dealing with auto loans, and about 1 in 4 have medical debt. Just 15% say their household savings have in-

AP PHOTO

A man shops at a grocery store in Buffalo Grove, Ill., March 19, 2023. creased over the last year.

Tracy Gonzales, 36, who works as a sub-contractor in construction in San Antonio, Texas, has several thousand dollars of medical debt from an emergency room visit for what she thought was a bad headache but turned out to be a tooth infection.

“They’ll treat you, but the bills are crazy,” she said. Gonzales said she’s tried to avoid seeking medical treatment because of the costs.

Relatively few Americans say they’re very or extremely con-

fident that they could pay an unexpected medical expense (26%) or have enough money for retirement (18%). Only about one-third are extremely or very confident their current financial situation will allow them to keep up with expenses, though an additional 42% say they’re somewhat confident.

“I’ve been looking forward to retirement my entire life.

Recently I realized it’s just not going to happen,” said Shapiro, adding that his wife’s $30,000 or so of student debt is a financial factor for his household. The

couple had hoped to sell their house and move this past year, but decided instead to hold on to their mortgage rate of 3.4%, rather than facing a higher rate.

(The current average long-term mortgage rate reached 7.79% this month.)

About 3 in 10 Americans say they’ve foregone a major purchase because of higher interest rates in the last year. Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults have student debt, with the pandemic-era payment pause on federal loans ending this month, contributing to the crunch.

Yet even as Americans have expressed gloomy sentiments about the economy, many have continued spending, which drove a strong quarter of growth from July though September, when the economy expanded at an annual pace of 4.9%.

Even so, wages and salaries have largely trailed inflation since the pandemic, leaving most households worse off, though economists debate which measures are the best to use. In the past 12 months, however, average hourly pay has started to pull ahead of prices, rising 0.5% faster.

Americans are generally split on whether the Republicans (29%) or the Democrats (25%)

hattan’s visitors that the practice is prohibited there. But it was the default policy practically everywhere else in the U.S. until last year’s vote in the nation’s capital.

Critics argue that banning right on red will not only inconvenience motorists but also slow down commuter buses and deliveries. The United Parcel Service hasn’t taken an official position on right on red but has long directed its drivers to avoid left turns whenever possible, viewing them as inefficient.

According to a national report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, more than 7,500 people walking were struck and killed by automobiles in 2022, the highest number since 1981.

The spike, which included all accidents — not just those involving right turns on red, was attributed in part to an increase in larger vehicles such as SUVs and pickup trucks on the road.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that the odds a pedestrian would be killed when struck by an automobile turning right were 89% higher when the vehicle was a pickup and 63% higher when it was an SUV, due to larger blind spots and the deadlier force associated with heavier models.

“These big, blunt front hoods, they knock people down and run over them, as opposed to before when people would crumple onto the hood,” said Mike McGinn, a former Seattle mayor who is the executive director of America Walks, a national nonprofit that advocates for pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

are better suited to handle the issue of inflation in the U.S. Three in 10 say they trust neither party to address it.

A slight majority of all Americans polled (54%) describe their household’s financial situation as good, which is about the same as it’s been for the last year but down from 63% in March of 2022. Older Americans are much more confident in their current finances than younger Americans. Just 39% of 18to 29-year-olds describe their household finances as good, compared to a majority (58%) of those who are 30 and older. People with higher levels of education or higher household incomes are more likely than Americans overall to evaluate their finances as solid.

About three-quarters of Americans describe the nation’s economy as poor, which is in line with measurements from early last year.

Among those who are retired, 3 in 10 say they are highly confident that there’s enough saved for their retirement, about 4 in 10 are somewhat confident, and 31% are not very confident or not confident at all.

About 4 in 10 Americans (38%) approve of how Biden is handling the presidency, while 61% disapprove. His overall approval numbers have remained at a steady low for the last several years. Most Americans generally disapprove of how he’s handling the federal budget (68% disapprove), the economy (67%), and student debt (58%).

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 37 | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 | MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM | SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

MOORE COUNTY THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

JASON JACKSON | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

‘It’s time to go home, ball.’

Kaitlyn Kruczek, junior at Pinecrest High School, celebrates an eagle on the 18th hole at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 4A women’s golf championship, held at Pinehurst No. 6 on October 31. The Pinecrest team went on to win the team championship, with Kruczek tying for 6th in the individual standings.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Moore County’s unemployment drops slightly The county’s unemployment rate decreased for the month of September, both from the previous month and from the same time period last year.

Moore’s 3.3% unemployment rate for September — 59th across all 100 NC counties — was down 0.1% from a year ago, and 0.4% from the prior month. That translates to an estimated 1,436 of the county’s 42,953-strong total workforce being unemployed during the month.

The unemployment rates, which are not seasonally adjusted for hiring trends like farming or holidays, decreased in 98 of North Carolina’s counties in September 2023 and increased in two. Scotland County had the highest unemployment rate at 5.6% while Swain and Buncombe Counties each had the lowest at 2.5%.

The number of workers employed statewide increased in September by 53,039 to 5,134,777, while those unemployed decreased by 18,714 to 170,391. Since September 2022, the number of workers employed statewide increased by 142,319, while those unemployed decreased by 7,967.

The county-level unemployment rates were released Nov. 1.

COUNTY CHILD WELFARE NC Child, a nonprofit organization advocating for children and families, released its annual County Data Cards, measuring factors contributing to maternal and infant health, educational attainment, economic security, safety, and health and wellness.

Statewide data shows North Carolina’s median household income increased nearly $4,000 between 2020 and 2021, reaching $60,516. The number of children living in food-insecure homes dropped almost 3 percentage points during the same period, down to 15.4%. There was also a slight decline in the percentage of children living in poor or low-income homes. Many counties saw similar trends, with incomes increasing and the number of food-insecure children declining.

In Moore County, the median income rose above the state average, to $67,440 in 2021, up from $63,324 in 2020. The number of children living in food-insecure homes dropped from 17.1% in 2019 to 11.2% in 2021. The number of children living in low-income homes also dropped from 34.9% in 2020 to 31.2%NOT in 2021.

MOORE DONE YET

A STRONG START Women who receive early prenatal care

83.0% 2021

Up from 82.9% in 2020

Babies born at a low birthweight

10.7% 2021

Up from 7.7% in 2020

FAMILY ECONOMIC SECURITY Children living in poor or low-income homes

42.7% 2021

Up from 41.0% in 2016-2020

Children in households that are food insecure

15.8% 2021

Down from 19.0% in 2019

NURTURING HOMES & COMMUNITIES Delinquency rate per 1,000 youth ages 6-15

8.4 2021

Rep. Hudson announces re-election bid

Down from 11.3 in 2020

Congressman Richard Hudson R-NC, announced he will run for re-election in the North Carolina 9th Congressional District. First elected in 2012, if elected, Hudson would be serving his seventh term in Congress.

He has raised more than $540,000 in the last quarter, with support from more than 2,500 donors and $2.1 million in campaign funds on hand.

3rd grade students scoring proficient in reading

Children assessed for abuse or neglect per 1,000

44.2 2021

Down from 47 in 2020

HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATION

45.8% 2021

Up from 37.4% in 2020-2021

High school students graduating on time

91.0% 2021

Up from 89.5 in 2020-2021

HEALTH & WELLNESS Children without health insurance

7.6% 2021

Up from 6.6% in 2020

Infant Mortality per 1,000 live births

8.2 2021

No previous data

Film on Wilmington Massacre sheds light on forgotten history “In the Pines” uses historical fiction to explore the events and impact of the 1898 racial conflict

By Ashley White For North State Journal ASHEBORO — The John Locke Foundation held a screening of “In the Pines,” a short film about the Wilmington Massacre of 1898, at the Asheboro Public Library on November 2.

Directed by Dugan Bridges, “In the Pines” is a piece of historical fiction following Scarlett Manning, played by Pandora Broadwater, as she shares her memories of the events leading up to the massacre. The younger Scarlett, portrayed by Amara Ayler, navigates the challenges of the time with her friends Ashleigh, played by Corrinne Mica, and Ashleigh’s love interest, Sam, played by John Potvin.

The film provides a narrative framework for understanding the often-overlooked Wilmington Massacre. “The purpose was not to be a historical documentary,” explained Greg de Deugd, the creative director of the John Locke Foundation.

“It was to get people interested.”

In 1898, Wilmington, N.C., had a racially integrated government, with several black men in office. But following a White Supremacist propaganda campaign, the Democratic Party orchestrated the only successful coup d’état in U.S. history. On November 10, 1898, they killed numerous black citizens and officials, seizing control of what was then North Carolina’s largest city. The exact death toll

remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from 60 to 250.

Potvin, who portrays Sam, emphasized the importance of recognizing these historical events: “It’s an important part of American history, and too often these stories get swept under the rug for no good reason. So to help shine a light on these events, it became about having a responsibility to bring this history forward.”

The John Locke Foundation, a nonprofit think tank, strives to promote truth, freedom, and the future of North Carolina, including raising awareness of the state’s history. Through initiatives like the North Carolina History Project and productions like “In the Pines,” the foundation seeks to educate and engage the public.

The Asheboro community gathered to view the film and discuss the historical significance of the 1898 events. De Deugd and Dr. Troy Kickler, Senior Fellow and Managing Director of the John Locke Foundation, introduced the film and facilitated a Q&A session afterward. De Deugd noted, “It’s a fictional story, but it’s an honest story.”

The 19-minute film has received significant recognition, earning more than 10 awards at film festivals across the nation and globally, including Best Short Drama and Best Period Film. For additional details, visit inthepinesfilm. com.

$2.00

“It’s an important part of American history, and too often these stories get swept under the rug for no good reason.”

Actor John Potvin, who plays Sam

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

2

COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON

WEDNESDAY

11.8.23

“Join the conversation”

Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Jordan Golson Locals Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

Get in touch

Hoke County Edition of North State Journal

moore

Honoring our Veterans and Servicemembers THIS VETERANS DAY, we celebrate the best our nation has to offer. We extend our respect, our admiration, and our appreciation to all who have worn the flag of our nation on their uniform.

As the representative of the largest Army base in the world, my top priority is making sure our veterans, as well as our troops and their families, get the support they deserve. I was proud to support the FY24 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, which passed the House in July and fully funds veterans’ health care programs, benefits, and other critical VA programs. I am especially proud this legislation contains my amendment to bring attention to funding the Veteran Crisis Line.

I have fought for years to include this necessary funding that our military community deserves, reducing the stigma around mental health, and I was proud to secure these large wins for the thousands of veterans living in our community.

Earlier this year, I introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate November 12, 2023, as National Warrior Call Day. In North Carolina, Veterans Day is not just one day a year—it is a year-long call to action. With the suicide rate among our nation’s veterans being 2.5 times more than civilians, I’ve made it a mission to do everything I can to address this tragedy. One effort that is making a difference on a national level is Warrior Call Day, which has gathered support from dozens of veterans organizations and seven former Veterans Affairs Secretaries.

I encourage folks in our community and across the country to take National Warrior Call Day as an opportunity to check in on someone they know, active-duty or veteran. I look forward to the day we get this resolution across the finish line and signed into law.

The Veterans Crisis Line acts as a critical tool to help our veterans in their time of need, and the number of annual contacts received—which include calls, texts, and chats—increased 15% between 2020 and 2022. With this resolution, we are one step closer to addressing the challenges Veterans face head-on by keeping our promises made to them for their service and addressing the stigma around seeking help.

If you are a veteran or know someone who needs assistance, contact the 24-hour Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 or 988 and Press 1, text 838255, or chat online at www.

VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

While we can never thank our active duty military, their families, and our veterans enough

happening

for their service, one thing we must do is improve the quality of health care we provide them.

For example, Master Sergeant Rich Stayskal, a resident of Moore County, served our country honorably and was wounded in combat. While stationed in our region, a missed cancer diagnosis changed his life. In response, I helped change federal law in 2020 so Rich and other military families who are victims of non-combat related medical malpractice while on active-duty could receive support. However, the Department of Defense has failed to implement the law properly, stealing hope from Rich Stayskal and hundreds of military families who have been harmed by medical malpractice.

This year I was proud to introduce the bipartisan Healthcare Equality and Rights for our Heroes (HERO) Act to correct this wrong and give our nation’s heroes who are victims of malpractice from a DoD medical treatment facility the opportunity to take their claim to District Court.

Our servicemembers should have the right and opportunity to fight for the compensation and justice they deserve, and I will not stop fighting until they get it.

Our region is home to thousands of veterans, and it is my duty as their Congressman to ensure our veterans have access to the resources and benefits they deserve. Too often veterans face bureaucratic obstacles at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that hamper their access to care or benefits, and our office is here to help. If you or a veteran you know has experienced issues with the VA, please visit hudson.house.gov or call our Southern Pines district office at 910-910-1924.

I continue to pray for the strength and safety of soldiers from our region who have been or will be deployed.

As your Congressman, it is an honor to represent so many men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform and who bravely answered the call to defend our freedoms on the front lines. America’s servicemembers and veterans have given so much in the defense of our nation, and there are no words strong enough to express our sincere gratitude and deepest appreciation.

Richard Hudson is serving his sixth term in the U.S. House and represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District. He currently serves as the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee and is a member of the House Republican Steering Committee.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:

Nov. 11 Moore County Farmers Market 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

In Downtown Southern Pines at 156 SE Broad Street, extended this year through Nov.. In appreciation for our customers we will be offering free hot cocoa and apple cider. Thank you for shopping local and making this such an incredible season!

Southern Pines Veterans Day Parade 10 a.m.

11th annual Southern Pines Veterans Day Parade.

Opening ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m. with parade beginning at 10.

Nov. 11 and 12 Finding Nemo Musical | 2 p.m.

Join Imagine Youth Theater Junior at Pergola Garden at the Village Arboretum for a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo. Get tickets at taylordance.org

CRIME LOG

MOORE CITIZENS FOR FREEDOM

MOORE COUNTY Remember that we live in the best country, the best state, and by far the best county.

MOORE COUNTY, WHAT A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE!

TUNE INTO The John and Maureen show

Sundays

1 - 2PM WEEB 990 AM 104.1 and 97.3 FM

x LIRA, SUSAN MARIE MCRAE, 43, W, F, 11/6/2023, Pinehurst PD, Simple Possession Schedule IV CS, Simple Possess Schedule VI CS, Possess Drug Paraphernalia, Misdemeanor Larceny, Possession of Stolen Goods/Property, $14,000 Secured x GONZALEZ, ANTHONY APAEZ, 19, H, M, 11/6/2023, Robbins PD, PWIMSD Schedule VI CS, Possess Marijuana Greater than 1/2oz to 1 1/2oz, Possess Marijuana Paraphernalia, $18,500 Secured x BRITT, RYAN ANDREW, 31, W, M, 11/6/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Burning Unoccupied Building, Set Fire to Woods/Lands/Fields (x2), $10,000 Secured x MOSBROOK, AMY MICHELLE, 56, W, F, 11/5/2023, Pinehurst PD, Misdemeanor Larceny, Breaking or Entering, Possession of Stolen Goods/Property, $2,500 Secured x CHEATHEM, GARY DEAN, 32, B, M, 11/5/2023, Southern Pines PD,

Resisting Public Officer, $500 Secured x THOMPSON, TERRY LEE, 28, W, M, 11/3/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Assault on a Female, Resisting Public Officer, Driver While License Revoked Not Impaired Rev Based (x2), $23,000 Secured x GARNER, JERRY DENNIS, 46, W, M, 11/3/2023, Vass PD, Assault by Strangulation, AWDW Minor Present, $15,000 Secured x WILLIAMS, DAVID SHANE, 47, W, M, 11/2/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Felony Worthless Check, $6,000 Secured x MCRAE, DERRIKES LAMONTE, 48, B, M, 11/2/2023, Moore County Sheriff’s Office, Attempted First Degree Murder, Possession of Firearm by Felon, Assault by Pointing a Gun, $500,000 Secured x MATTHEWS, ROBERT ORBREY, 32, W, M, 11/2/2023, Pinebluff PD, Assault on a Female, Interfere Emergency Communication, $2,000 Secured

Do you have a birthday, wedding, engagement or other milestone to celebrate?

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ing

North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

3

SPORTS Pinecrest, North Moore open Christopher playoff runs with victories Betancourt ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

North State Journal

BOTH LOCAL TEAMS were victorious in the first round of the state playoffs on Friday and will advance to round two this week.

Pinecrest 45, South Garner 31 The Pinecrest Patriots stormed back in the second half to defeat South Garner 45-31 on Friday night in the first round of the state playoffs. Pinecrest trailed 24-14 at the half, with the scoring coming from two Jaylin Morgan touchdowns.

The Patriots erupted for 21 points in the span of about three minutes in the third on two touchdowns by Zymire Spencer and a blocked punt in the end zone recovered by Cole Riley to take command.

Spencer added a 54 yard TD run and Will Miller capped the scoring with a field goal. Spencer rushed for 223 yards on the night.

It is on to round two next Friday night at home against Clayton.

DAVID SINCLAIR | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North Moore 28, Chatham Central 0

Cole Riley (21) recovers a blocked punt in the end zone to help Pinecrest storm back to a win over South Garner with three straight second-half touchdowns.

North Moore shut out Chatham Central in the first round of the playoffs on Friday night. The Mustangs rolled up more than 300 yards on the ground and did not complete a pass as four different players rushed for touchdowns. Ja-

karey Gillis led the way with 109 yards and a score. Kolby Ritchie had 85 yards and a touchdown. Nathan Rogers and Colby Pennington also found the end zone for North Moore. The Mustangs got their sec-

ond win over Chatham Central in as many weeks after closing the regular season with a win over the winless Bears. They now move on to the second round of the 1A bracket, against Bertie.

GENE GALIN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

North Moore, soccer

COURTESY PHOTO

Pinecrest band takes title

The Marching Patriots of Pinecrest left it all on the field, taking first place in Class 4A and earning secnd place overall. Among the honors the band took home at the competition, hosted by Southern Lee High School, were: First place: drum major; First place: marching; First place: general effect; First place: music; 2nd place: percussion; 2nd place: visual ensamble. Terry Sanford won the grand champions title in class 1A-2A, while Union Pines was named grand champions in 3A-5A.

Christopher Betancourt is a sophomore on the North Moore men’s soccer team.

The younger brother of previous Athlete of the Week Ricky Betancourt, the duo has been the offensive spark for the Mustangs this season. Christopher ranks near the top of the team in goals and assists. His penalty kick goal gave North Moore the early lead in 4-1 win over Vance Charter in the second round of the state playoffs.

The 3-seed Mustangs played Southside after press time for a berth in the round of 8.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, November 8, 2023

4

obituaries

George Edward Dees 1945 ~ 2023

George Edward Dees of Pinebluff passed away on Saturday, November 4, 2023, in his home at the age of 78.

George was born in Marlboro County, South Carolina on February 25, 1945, to the late Peter Currie and Margaret Honeycutt Dees.

After high school, he began working for CP&L, now Duke Energy and retired after 35 years.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his three brothers, Pete, James, and Charles. Two sisters, Sandra and Carolyn.

He leaves behind his wife, Pat Dees; his daughter, Melinda Valentine, and her husband, Thad of Raleigh; his son, George Edward Dees, Jr. of Raleigh; his granddaughter, Katie Valentine; three grandsons, Tad Valentine, Holden, and Benjamin Zaner.

Barbara Jean Reynolds

April 6, 1945 - November 3, 2023 Barbara Reynolds, age 78, of Aberdeen, NC passed away at home surrounded by her family on November 3, 2023. Barbara was born in Moore County, NC April 6, 1945 to Charlie Pleasant Talbert and Annie Jane Freeman.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Pamela Jan (Allan) Kerrick; grandchildren, Brendan and Justin Kerrick; siblings, Bill Talbert, Stanley Talbert, Jack Talbert and Phyllis Owens. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James “Jim” Reynolds; siblings, Don Talbert, Allie Davis and Joyce Davis.

Charles Thomas Needham April 21, 1934 - November 2, 2023

Charles Thomas Needham age 89, of Aberdeen, N.C. passed on November 2nd, 2023 in Pinehurst, N.C. Charles T. Needham was born April, 21 1934 in Asheboro, N.C. to the late Charlie and Ethel Needham. He served in the United States Army and was a proud alumni to Wingate University. Charles was an exceptional athlete who played football and baseball during college and played baseball during his Army service at Fort Sam Houston. He also enjoyed cheering on the Carolina Tarheels basketball team.

During his professional career, Charles enjoyed providing the best possible service to the customers of his flooring company here in Moore County.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Needham and his daughter Cindy Gibson.

He is survived by his children Dean and Darlene Smith; grandchildren, Brandi and Charles Smith, Trey Smith, Leigh Ann and Josh Smith; great grandchildren, Trevor, Hailey, Brantley, Nolyn and Dylan.

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Bonnie Mae Brewer Williams

May 1, 1929 - October 29, 2023 Bonnie Mae Brewer Williams, 94, of Carthage passed away on Sunday, October 29, 2023.

Bonnie was born May 1, 1929 in Carthage, NC the daughter of the late Ethel Brewer.

In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husband Gordon Williams, brother John Henry Brewer, and grandson Mike Brewer.

She is survived by her son, Arthur L. Brewer (wife Christine) of Robbins, NC; two grandchildren, Teresa Ream (husband Tom) of Holly Springs, NC; and Franklin David Brewer (wife Agatha) of Atlanta, GA; three greatgrandchildren, Marissa Ream and Tristan Ream of Holly Springs and Dalton Brewer of High Falls, NC; and Lisa Brewer of High Falls, NC (wife of the late Mike Brewer).

Charles Leigh Nickerson

September 14, 1941 - October 28, 2023 Charles Leigh Nickerson, 82, of Seven Lakes passed away suddenly on October 28, 2023.

He was born on September 14, 1941 in Presque Isle, ME, the son of Ralph L. Nickerson and Audrey (Smith) Nickerson Lannigan.

He is survived by his wife, Cherryl (Buck) Nickerson of Seven Lakes, NC; a son, Randy Nickerson and his wife, Disa, of Anchorage, AK; a daughter, Deborah Fowler and her husband, James, of Potomac, MD; a grand-daughter, Cherryl Salzman and her husband, Brock, of Las Vegas, NV; two grandsons, Patrick Fowler and wife, Amy, of Silver Spring, MD and William Fowler of New York, NY, and two great grand-daughters, Ava and Lily Salzman of Las Vegas, NV. Charles leaves a sister, Paula Fugal and brother-in-law, Dale, of Chiefland, FL; and a brother, Myron, of Florida. He was predeceased by his parents and by a brother, Edwin Nickerson, of Presque Isle, ME.

Lois Jean MacFarlane

June 8, 1925 - October 28, 2023

Jeffrey David Bodin

May 31, 1950 - November 3, 2023 Jeffrey David Bodin, 73, entered the arms of Jesus, November 3rd, 2023, after a valiant battle with mesothelioma.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Anne, 3 daughters Heidi Regan (John), Melissa Bodin and Holly Smathers (Joe); 8 grandkids: Emily, Elizabeth, Samantha, Grace, Josh, Caleb, Isabella and Isaiah; 3 great grandkids: Cameryn, Easton and Lucy; 3 brothers: Rick Bodin (Kim), Tim Bodin (Terri), Timmy Wiberg (June), 1 sister, Marsha Retzer (Ken), a brother-inlaw, John Carlson (Sumalee), sister-in-law, Kay Callies (Joel), several nephews, nieces and many dear friends and former colleagues. Preceded in death by his parents and his sister Bonnie.

Lois Jean MacFarlane, age 98, of Southern Pines, NC passed away early Saturday morning, October 28, 2023.

Lois Jean was born to Stanley Johnston Hungerford and Genora Mae (Willcox) Hungerford in Clayton, NY. She met Dewey Cunningham from Mena, Arkansas while attending Columbia University and their common love of jazz and swing music created an immediate attraction. They married on January 18, 1946, in Clayton. Lois Jean and Dewey had two children, Joedy G. Baughan (deceased in 2008) and D. Jay Cunningham. Dewey died in 1977 and in 1979, Lois Jean married her high school sweetheart, John MacFarlane.

Lois Jean is survived by her son, Jay and his family including grandsons Sam Cunningham and his two children and Michael Cunningham. Joedy Baughan’s family includes grandsons Rhett and Todd Baughan and their children and a total of six great-grandchildren.

Linda Moffat Criswell

September 25, 1964 - November 2, 2023

Rebecca Sue Stoltenborg

November 11, 1940 - October 30, 2023 Rebecca Sue Stoltenborg, age 82, of Pinehurst, NC passed away at Peak Resources on October 30, 2023. Rebecca was born in Madisonville, KY November 11, 1940 to William Eural Ray and Nora B. Collins.

Rebecca is survived by her sons, Joseph (Joann) Stoltenborg and Mathew (Andrea) Stoltenborg; 8 grandchildren and 14 greatgrandchildren. Rebecca was preceded in death by her parents, William and Nora Ray; brothers, Eural, Lester, George and David Ray; sister, Frances Grabil.

Linda Moffat Criswell, passed away on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at her home in Seven Lakes, NC with loving husband by her side.

Born September 25, 1964, in Perry FL, spouse of Mitchell Drake Criswell of Seven Lakes, NC. Linda was the youngest of six girls born to Franklin T. Moffat and Yvonne Ellzey Moffat. She was predeceased by both parents and her eldest sister Bonnie Marie Farmer.

Her surviving siblings are Kimberley Nicholas of Florida, Yvette Harbison (Rheb) of Georgia, Michelle Reilly (William) of Florida, Margaret Wyatt Trivett (Rick) of North Carolina; 9 nieces/nephews; and 15 great nieces/nephews.

Doris Balser

March 5, 1925 - October 27, 2023 Doris Balser, 98, of Moore County, peacefully passed away at home on October 27, 2023 surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Alexandria, Indiana on March 5, 1925 to Russell and Naomi Allen. In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband Bernard Balser, children Patricia Thomas and Jack Bodkin, Grand children Bryant and Justin. Sisters Kay, Vivian, Jean, Betty, and brothers Bud, Joe, and Bob. She is survived by 4 daughters: Linda Bodkin, Catherine Kelly (Pete), Melody Cummings (ED), Cheryl Martin, 1 son Darren Balser (Cheryl) and 1 sister Shirley Dickinson and a host of grandchildren.

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