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LOG
CRIME
May 7
• Codey Alan Kosut, 30, of Pittsboro, was arrested for assault on a female and domestic violence.
• Katherine McDonald Johnson, 47, of Pittsboro, was arrested for hit and run with property damage.
May 9
• Brandon Scott Lackey, 40, of Lenoir, was arrested for burglary, larceny after breaking and entering and fleeing arrest with a motor vehicle.
May 10
• Ruben Josue Perez Corona, 33, of Bear Creek, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a felon.
• Derrick Anderson Nipper, 38, of Pittsboro, was arrested for driving while impaired.
May 12
• Charles Scott Wood, 35, of Dunn, was arrested for identity theft and obtaining property by false pretenses.
• Justin Howard Gaines, 37, of Bonlee, was arrested for false pretense, possession of five or more counterfeit instruments and forgery.
upstate South Carolina before causing historic flooding in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee.
Helene is the seventh-most expensive disaster in the United States since 1980, causing an estimated $78 billion in damage and 219 deaths.
Officials have estimated that Helene caused billions in property and economic damage to agriculture, including $5.5 billion in Georgia and $4.9 billion in North Carolina.
Federal officials in March began handing out $10 billion designated in the bill for farmers nationwide harmed by low crop prices and high fertilizer prices. But billions more were set aside for farmers harmed by Helene and other natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins was questioned about the timeframe last Tuesday by lawmakers including Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff of Georgia. He told Rollins that “Time is of the essence.”
“I’ve seen the devastation firsthand,” Rollins said. “It is heartbreaking to witness it.”
Some farmers have dipped into savings to pay for losses not covered by insurance. Others have unpaid debts from last year, restricting borrowing to plant 2025 crops. A few have sold equipment or land to generate cash. The schedule shows feder-
al officials will open applications for some aid in stages from May 30 through Sept. 15. But states have to negotiate plans to distribute other aid through block grants. If state and federal officials agree on a plan by May 28, block grants would be finalized by June 13, federal officials said. If agreements can be reached by June 13, they would be finalized by June 30. After that, states must give out the money.
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said Thursday that he didn’t know how much money Georgia would get in block grants. He said whether the state made the May 28 deadline “depends on how our negotiations go with USDA over the next couple of weeks.”
Kemp last Thursday signed into law tax breaks for farmers and timber owners harmed by Helene that could be worth nearly $300 million.
“Farmers operate on extremely tight margins, and to rebuild from a storm of this magnitude could be impossible for some to shoulder,”
Kemp said at Georgia Forestry Association headquarters in Forsyth, saying Helene was “a storm like no other in out state.”
The tax breaks come on top of $867 million in spending that Georgia lawmakers earlier allotted for Hurricane Helene relief.
The law exempts federal payments to farmers because of Helene from Georgia state
• 37 E Cotton Road (Pittsboro), 0.996 acres, $100,000
• 1834 Dewitt Smith Road (Pittsboro), 30.49 acres, 3 bed/2.5 bath, $850,000 LAND
• 1701
income taxes. That could be worth $140 million.
Georgia’s law also lets private timberland owners claim a credit for damaged timber on state income taxes if they replant trees. The timberland tax break could be worth $83 million to $104 million through 2030, estimates show.
Another tax break waives state and local sales taxes on building materials to rebuild chicken houses, barns and fences.
A fourth program lets counties waive taxes when timber owners cut down trees for 15 months. Any county that waives taxes would refund any taxes collected since Oct. 1. The state could spend $17.4 million to reimburse counties’ lost tax money.
Georgia lawmakers earlier approved $285 million for low-interest loans to farmers and to remove downed trees from private lands so they don’t become a fire hazard. There’s also $25 million in grants to nonprofits that are supposed to go to help individuals.
In South Carolina, Republican legislative leaders are discussing hundreds of millions in Helene relief as part of the state’s budget. North Carolina lawmakers agreed to a $524 million supplemental Helene relief in March, in part to provide more funds for agricultural needs. It was North Carolina’s fourth Helene aid package.
• 919 N 2nd Avenue (Siler City), 0.34 acres, $550,000
• 140 & 148 East Street (Pittsboro), 1.49 acres, $1,350,000
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
May
15
Opinionation Trivia at House of Pops
6-8 p.m.
Two sessions of this “Family Feud”-style game are held each evening, first round at 6 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m., offering contestants two opportunities to win House of Hops gift cards worth $15 and $25 each. 112 Russet Run Suite 110 Pittsboro
May 16
96.1 BBB Summer Jam Music Series: Band of Oz
7-9 p.m.
Tickets to this outdoor musical performance are free. Lawn opens to the public at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy this family- and pet-friendly event. Concessions are available for purchase onsite.
Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons 457 Freedom Parkway. Pittsboro
May 17
Chatham Mills Farmers Market
8 a.m. to noon
This weekly outdoor farmers market is a producers-only market, which means the wide variety of goods offered there, from fresh produce to other groceries, including eggs, cheese and meat, along with health and wellness items and crafts, are produced or created by the vendors themselves. Lawn of the historic Chatham Mills
480 Hillsborough St. Pittsboro
Krav Maga Self-Defense Class
2-3:30 p.m.
Krav Maga is a form of self-defense. Participation in self-defense classes has been shown to boost physical fitness and self-confidence, and improve an individual’s ability to protect themselves when threatened. This workshop is open to rising ninth graders to adults. Registration pricing varies; individual adult cost/class = $45. Adult & student pairing cost/class = $75.
Woods Charter School 160 Woodland Grove Lane Chapel Hill
May 18
The Lore Family Concert
10 a.m.
A concert featuring Southern Gospel harmonies performed by this popular group, comprised of a family of five from southern Ohio, The Lore Family has built a loyal fan base since they began touring full time in 1999, preaching and singing at various religious events and venues.
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN
That glorious plural pronoun
Even at the most basic level of everyday encounters, we practice respect and caretaking.
I SPENT A FEW DAYS in Pittsburgh, which was enough time to recall why I’d wished to move South to live in a rural county like Chatham. A big city is loud in a way that’s challenging for me to come to grips with. It’s not just the rumbling trash trucks, blaring car horns or screaming children in strollers, all of which we have here. It’s all those noises and more, all at once, from all directions.
That said, there’s a certain charm to the way that strangers in a city interact with one another. Unlike my neighborhood, where I greet every pedestrian, urbanites care for strangers in subtle ways by adjusting and accommodating almost imperceptibly to the inexperienced eye. But once I caught on, I noticed this kind of tenderness everywhere — someone bearing right in the crosswalk to allow the fleet-footed jogger to pass, or leaning back at the bus stop to give the pregnant woman space, or shifting to make room at the coffeeshop’s tabletop so that a stranger might enjoy his beverage while he scribbled thoughts in a notebook. As I exited that shop, I thanked an older gentleman for holding the door. He replied, “Of course.”
Even at the most basic level of everyday encounters, we practice respect and caretaking. The exceptions prove the rule; for every jerk or Karen, there must be hundreds of folks doing the simple, gentle thing, which is actually extraordinary to me. We form communities all the time through our actions, even if those groups are as temporary as sharing a restaurant or subway train. While such brief engagements might not represent a slice of heaven, they make life a little easier and softer around the edges. For this reason, poet Pádraig Ó Tuama
writes that “our” is “that glorious plural pronoun.” I returned from my trip to the city and happily reentered the slower pace of life. Walking my dog this morning, I happily wished each passerby a good morning. I was grateful for a chance to connect, however fleeting, for this is our home, our common way of life.
Andrew Taylor-Troutman’s newest book is “This Is the Day.” He serves as pastor of Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church as well as a writer, pizza maker, coffee drinker and student of joy.
Reach out – and touch someone
If you’ve still got your mama, touch her. Hug her. Wrap your arms around her and hang on for a long time.
BY NOW, Mother’s Day, at least as the calendar says, has come and gone, and with it lots of cards, flowers, candy, jewelry and such.
Nothing wrong with any of that, especially if it’s more than just tossing a bone because Hallmark or the calendar says it’s time to do that.
The day we celebrate as Mother’s Day — the second Sunday in May — is one of those sometimes difficult days for many folks. Others include, obviously, Father’s Day, as well as Valentine’s Day and some birthdays. Why so?
Well, one reason Valentine’s Day can be a bit difficult is that in the romantic persuasion Valentine’s Day has come to be, some folks may not have a significant other at the moment and so there can be feelings ranging from isolation to insignificance.
On the question of Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, some folks have neither parent in their lives. Others who may still have one or both may not have had a great relationship through the years, and so the day can send mixed and difficult signals ranging from remorse to guilt to something in between. And combinations of those factors, and others such as deceased parents with whom relationships weren’t so good, can compound the feelings even more.
So what’s a good response to all this? In part, the response will depend on how the respondent is wired. Some folks may choose to simply ignore it all and forge ahead with whatever they’re already doing. Or they may choose to “do” nothing, especially if they’re not “doers.”
Other folks may try to make amends with living parents, while those whose folks are deceased may dedicate themselves to developing different attitudes
about relationships. And it’s in that area I’d like to offer a thought. Not for Mother’s Day 2025, which has obviously come and gone, but for the next official such day on the calendar and really for all days — and all people.
One Sunday some years ago at the church house where I was pastor, the morning meditation concerned such thoughts and many of the good folks present got a good belly laugh when I confessed to them that “women often touch me.” A few may have been shocked. Some may have thought it was the opening line of a joke ... but it wasn’t. It was — and is — a true statement but with a meaning not necessarily clear at first thought.
The ladies being described at the time of that statement are those gentle souls who now live elsewhere than their own residences, usually in a care facility or nursing home. When I see them — those I know and those I don’t — many are sitting in chairs in the doors to their rooms or in groups in the halls or parlors. At times, they don’t know where they’re sitting or, in some instances, that they are sitting.
But they do know another human being is in their vicinity, and their response to that is often, maybe even usually, to reach out a hand for a touch.
If you’ve still got your mama, touch her. Hug her. Wrap your arms around her and hang on for a long time. She was the first to touch you. And if your mama is alive only in your memory, find a “second mama” you can touch. And then do it.
Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.
COLUMN | BOB WACHS
PUBLIC DOMAIN IMAGE VIA VECTEEZY
A cardinal rests on the branch of a flowering dogwood tree.
COLUMN
A brief guide to escaping a morass
Thanks to our hereditary, millions of years old, threatresponse brain, any Tyrannosaurus Rex-like challenge becomes a case for all-out survival; values be damned.
I NEVER, EVER, imagined that automated phone systems would become an ongoing path to spiritual enlightenment for me. But it’s true Not meaning to brag or anything, I think you’d find that I’m a truly nice person. In conversation and on social media, I hold strong values about not contributing to cesspool-like dialogues. (Yay, me!) However, verbal dumpster diving can be so satisfying, so cutting-down-to-size, and often, so full of, let’s be honest, @&!$!*’s. None of these behaviors, or so I thought, were on my chosen values list. (Dream on, Jan.) Thanks to our hereditary, millions of years old, threat-response brain, any Tyrannosaurus Rex-like challenge becomes a case for all-out survival; values be damned. Oh, wait, Tyrannosaurus rex? Please, excuse me! I’ve been told those fierce critters aren’t around anymore. Today, it’s the ferocious beasts of differing opinions, political beliefs, religious differences, gender issues, and gosh, even, “How can you possibly eat that?!”
Also … The uncompromising jungles of automated phone systems. Trapped! That’s the modern-day culprit of my powerlessness in the face of a charging saber-toothed tiger. Get me outta here! Worst case scenario, especially coming from the mouth of a Quaker pacifist, lots of shouted @&!$!*’s and “I’m gonna kill you!” (You won’t tell on me, will you?) I just want to speak with a live human … Sigh. So embarrassing. So very human. I absolutely lose control of myself in the purgatory of automated phone systems. With a real-life human heart, I don’t. My values, so inclusive of civility, are laid to waste. I just head for the bottom of the barrel. The v-e-r-y
bottom. Absolutely mortifying to me. Head hanging in disgust at my post-civility-deprived interlude via an unhearing automated phone system.
As a dear old friend of mine said when I was clearly “in a mood,” “What gives?” I sat down to think about that recently after one of my automated phone system tirades. It’s my brain. Harking back to our millions of years old threat response brains, and pointing my finger. “You’re at fault!” How could I have forgotten to share that our collective human brains tend to respond negatively to any outside stimuli, any at all? “Our brains became Teflon for the positive and Velcro for the negative.” Being alert to the negative kept us alive, and having a good ol’ time often left us ignoring life-threatening events. Whoops, I’m dead …
Bingo! Yep, I may feel absolutely powerless in the face of a charging saber-toothed tiger. (Wouldn’t you?) But an automated phone system is not going to wrangle my nerves every single time. Nope.
Reminder to self: I always manage to find a human voice in what seems like an impenetrable system. Always. Before my hereditary threat brain’s yelling and screaming is triggered, I do have a choice. Every automated phone system is not trying to eat me (I don’t think). I can breathe (what a concept), not throw a hissy fit and know that somewhere, in that byzantine mess, a real human voice lurks. That’s always been the case, but I forget when I’m triggered. Oh heavens, my blood pressure will just be so happy …
Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.
COLUMN | JESSICA WARD AND MATTIAS GUGEL
Why
are North Carolina lawmakers copying Illinois’ worst swipe fee policy?
Swipe fees help fund essential parts of the payment system.
SOME NORTH CAROLINA lawmakers are eyeing a shiny new idea — straight from the land of broken budgets and busted promises: Illinois.
Yes, Illinois, the state famous for fiscal faceplants and legislative landmines.
At issue? A proposal to regulate and cap credit card “swipe fees”. Sounds consumerfriendly, right? Until you dig into what happened in Illinois and how it’s backfiring on the folks lawmakers said they were trying to help.
When you cap swipe fees, it doesn’t mean the costs disappear — they just get moved around. And, spoiler alert: they usually land squarely in the laps of small businesses and consumers.
That’s what’s happening in Illinois right now. Merchants didn’t magically eat those higher processing costs — they’re passing them right along. The end result? Higher prices at the register and fewer rewards from the credit card in your wallet. Those airline miles and cashback perks sure were nice while they lasted.
Swipe fees help fund essential parts of the payment system: fraud protection, technology upgrades and security. Limiting them might sound like a win, until you realize you’re kneecapping the innovation that makes digital payments safe and seamless.
If North Carolina chooses this path, don’t be surprised when card security weakens, customer perks dry up, bank fees increase, and the start-up capital that small businesses rely on dwindles.
Want to bring back checkbooks, dialup internet, and Blockbuster too? Because capping swipe fees is basically asking for a financial time machine — and not the fun kind.
Big retailers love these kinds of regulations. They have armies of lawyers and custom pointof-sale systems. But mom-and-pop shops across North Carolina? They’re the ones who really suffer.
From the pulled pork pits of Lexington to
BE IN TOUCH
the indie cafés tucked between Blue Ridge boutiques, North Carolina’s backbone is built on small business hustle — not corporate handouts and Chicago-style schemes. Some rely on swipe rewards to manage purchases. And many will have to overhaul their payment systems just to stay compliant. That’s money out the door, and time they don’t have.
Worse, these businesses won’t get the sweetheart deals big box stores can negotiate. They’ll get squeezed, and some may not survive the pinch.
Banks won’t take this lying down. When swipe fees get capped, they’ll make up the difference elsewhere. That “free checking account”? Say goodbye. That nice mobile banking service? Expect fees.
This means higher costs and fewer options for everyday North Carolinians — all so a handful of national retailers can boost their bottom lines.
Here’s the kicker: Illinois lawmakers are already scrambling to undo the very policy North Carolina legislators are considering to copy. One of the original backers of the swipe fee ban has introduced legislation to repeal it. Apparently, the economic hangover kicked in faster than expected.
When a state with a history of budget blunders realizes it’s made another mistake, maybe — just maybe — it’s not a blueprint worth following.
North Carolina prides itself on pragmatic policy and sound fiscal management. Following Illinois down a regulatory rabbit hole doesn’t match that tradition. This swipe fee scheme might sound sweet, but it’s likely to end in regret for North Carolina consumers and small businesses.
Lawmakers should think twice before importing Illinois’ mistakes and selling them as solutions. Bless their well-intentioned hearts, but North Carolina taxpayers deserve better.
Jessica Ward is Senior Director of State Affairs and Mattias Gugel is Director of State External Affairs for the National Taxpayers Union.
The Pope’s nose
I SAW A PRIEST in the coffee shop last Wednesday morning.
He was wearing a cassock, the long black robe with buttons down the front that Catholic priests wore everywhere until Vatican II.
The cassock might mean he’s what they call a “trad Catholic,” which is short for “traditional Catholic,” and means you act the way every Catholic did in 1964, which is when I learned to be an altar boy, in Latin.
You should always listen to a guy with a big house and no job.
I introduced myself to the priest and, God help me, because I think I’m funny, I asked him a question.
“Do you have any inside information on who they’re going to pick as the next pope?” I asked him. “You know, in case I want to get a bet down.”
God bless him, he laughed.
“What do you think?” he said.
“God knows,” I said. “If you go online, the bookmakers have Parolin out front, with Tagle the second favorite.”
“I was surprised when Francis was elected,” the priest said. “I’d never heard of him.”
I considered the possibility of a dark horse.
“They won’t elect anyone today,” the priest said. “It’s just the first vote.”
“Do you know it’s a sin to bet on who is going to be pope?” the priest said.
I was going to ask him why, but his bacon, egg and cheese sandwich and coffee came up, and he left.
“Don’t worry, Father,” I said. “I don’t have a bet down.” I took my ham, egg and cheese to a corner table.
“My God,” I thought. “What if he doesn’t want people to bet on the pope race because he doesn’t want the odds to shift?”
I told the boys at the bar about it that night, and John, who doesn’t have a job, laughed.
“I know that priest,” John said. “He’s got a parish out in the suburbs. My house is bigger than his church. It’s like he’s saying Mass in my garage.”
It’s true John has a big house, and you should always listen to a guy with a big house and no job. He’s probably going to jail soon, but he knows something about money. What I think is that John knows something about selling things by the gram. Doesn’t matter. I don’t have any money down on grams, either.
“It’s probably a sin because it’s disrespectful,” Frank, who delivers mail, said. “What are you gonna do, go to the casino and say, ‘Gimme $20 on the pope’s nose?’”
Frank’s wife goes to church, so he knows stuff from her. Also, he has a small house and his truck is nine years old. God makes honest people poor so you can see how honest they are. Frank’s not gonna do anything bad to get money, and next year his truck is gonna be 10 years old.
It’s like my pension. It took me 30 years of ruining my digestion in a newsroom to earn it, and it’s about 20% of what I made in a month when I was working, but I earned it, so I can be proud. My God, I can be proud.
John called the casino.
“They don’t take bets on popes,” he said. “I know a guy, if you really wanna bet.” I did not.
“Yeah? What?” John said.
Contact a writer or columnist: connect@northstatejournal.com COLUMN
“There’s only one difference between the pope race and a horse race,” I told John.
“The guy who wins pope usually he dies in office,” I said. “But if he retires, they don’t put him out to stud.”
Marc Dion is a syndicated columnist. His latest book is “Mean Old Liberal” and available in paperback from Amazon and for Nook, Kindle and iBooks.
Letters to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or mailed to 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.
obituaries
Bobby Gene Davis
Jan. 15, 1939 – May 8, 2025
Bobby Gene Davis, Sr., 86, of Siler City, died Thursday, May 8, 2025, at home surrounded by his family.
Bobby was born in Alamance County, NC on January 15, 1939, to Eric J. Davis and Beatrice Searcy Davis. He was a member of Oakley Baptist Church where he was always willing to do what was needed. Bobby was a Deacon, on the Finance and Building and Grounds Committees, and member of the choir. He was a Sunday school teacher and a prayer warrior. He loved to be outside whether it was in his garden or bird watching. Bobby enjoyed spending time with his family and telling them all kinds of stories.
Bobby is survived by his children, Bobby Gene Davis, Jr, Kimberly Yarborough and
Patsy Larue Maynor
April 25, 1940 – May 1, 2025
Patsy Larue Maynor, beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, sister and aunt of Pittsboro, died on May 1, 2025.
She was born April 25, 1940, to the late Britt and Lavera Maynor in Chapel Hill. Patsy will be remembered by all who knew her as a caring and loving friend. Patsy was always plain-spoken and direct; you knew exactly how she felt. Patsy had a difficult life, losing two of her children and her long-time companions, Jerry and Tom, yet she was always positive,
REBECCA
husband, TC, Susan McPherson and husband, Todd, and Kristina Bogart and husband, Richard; his grandchildren, Heather Oldham and husband, Travis, Jessica Corona, Brandy Yarborough, Kolby McPherson, Connor Davis, Jillian Bogart and Collin Davis; and his eight great grandchildren, Micaela, Michael, Abigail, Adaline, Alyssa, Jackson, Wyatt, and Everett. He is also survived by his brother, Joseph Davis and wife, Gayle; and his sisters, Judy Wood and husband, Ron and Ruby Carden and husband, Charles.
In addition to his parents Bobby was preceded in death by his wife, Eva Conklin Davis; his stepfather, Lynn Holt; his daughter-in-law, Lorri Davis; his brother, Howard Davis; and his sister, Margie Holland.
A visitation will be held Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 1:00 - 2:45 p.m. at Oakley Baptist Church. The Funeral will follow at 3:00 p.m., with Dr. Jeff Johnson officiating. Burial will be immediately after in the church cemetery.
The family would like to say a special thank you to Brittany Clephane for all her help and care.
The family request memorials be made to Oakley Baptist Church or to Amedysis Hospice of Burlington.
Smith & Buckner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Davis family.
Online Condolences may be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com
cheerful and willing to help anyone.
Patsy was a great friend to many, and her sense of humor and direct manner of speaking will be missed by all who knew her.
Patsy was tragically preceded in death by her daughter, Jodie Williamson, and a son, Barry Cash.
She also lost her sister, Carolyn Overaker, earlier this year. Patsy was also preceded in death by longtime friends Jerry Jacobs and Tom Moore.
She is survived by her daughter, Wanda Cash, a stepson, Gary Williamson, her sister, Reba Mangum of Walnut Cove, NC, a brother, Ronald Maynor of Athens, GA, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to convey a special thank you to the staff of The Laurels of Chatham, the UNC Hospitals Hillsborough CCU team and the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice House.
Larue, we will miss you.
There will be no formal services or visitation.
Online condolences may be offered at burroughsfuneralhome.
com Burroughs Funeral Home, Walnut Cove, is honored to be serving the Maynor family.
“BECKY”
HARRINGTON MAY 11, 2025
Rebecca “Becky” Harrington, age 76, of Sanford, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 11, 2025 in the comfort of her home. She was born in Opelika, Alabama to the late Leonard Howard Smith and Lillian Hayes Smith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Wade Harrington and sister Phyllis Diane Metcalf. Becky worked many years at Eagle Electric. She was a people person and never met a stranger—every person she encountered became a friend. Above all, she cherished her family. Whether gathered around the dinner table or celebrating holidays her love for her children, grandchildren, and extended family was unwavering and deep. Becky also enjoyed attending Central Baptist Temple and spending time with her church family. She is survived by her sons Robert “Bob” Place and wife, Sandy, Billy Place and wife, Sandi and step-son Lee Harrington and wife, Wendy, all of Sanford; brother Danny Smith and wife Debbie of Cameron; sisters Johnny Faye McLean and Deborah Sue Fore; seven dearly loved grandchildren, Matthew Place, Phillip Place, Adam Place, Zachery Place, Justin Harrington, Jeffrey Harrington and Amber Place and several special great-grandchildren.
Louise Barrett Derr
May 9, 2025
Louise Barrett Derr passed peacefully on May 9, 2025, at her home in Pittsboro Christian Village, Pittsboro, NC.
Louise was born in Wilmington, NC, in 1941 to Ethel and Warren Barrett. She was predeceased by her
IN MEMORY
parents as well as her husband, Harry Lewis Derr, Jr, whom she married in 1975. Louise is survived by her son David Toney, her step-children Diane Adkins, Skipper Derr, Annette Bowles and Eric Derr, as well as her sisters Sally Hearne and Susan Taylor, her stepsister Marie Pittman, her stepbrother J.C. Barrett and her half-brother George Barrett. Louise graduated from Pittsboro High School in 1959 where she also drove a school bus. She went on to get her Master’s in Education from UNC Chapel Hill to teach gifted elementary school children.
Louise traveled the world, getting her private pilot’s license and a motorcycle to keep life adventurous. In 1999 she and Harry moved to Waxhaw, NC to J.A.A.R.S. (Wycliff’s Jungle Aviation And Radio Services)
where Louise helped translate the New Testament into native languages. She was most proud of authoring three books on Experiencing Bible Science – one for pre-school, one for elementary school and one for youth.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, May 16th, 2025 in the Chapel of Gordon Funeral Service, 1904 Lancaster Ave. Monroe, NC 28112. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM. She will be privately interred next to Harry by the family following the service in the Waxhaw City Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made at www. gordonfuneralservice.com
Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory is honored to be entrusted to care for the Derr Family.
RICHARD ALEXANDER WEBSTER
MAY 6, 2025
Richard Alexander Webster, age 84 of Bear Creek, NC, passed away on Tuesday (5/6/2025) at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill. He was born in Chatham County, son of the late John William Webster and Vonnie Jane Spivey Webster. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his first wife, Judy Webster. Richard was a Sunday School teacher for many years and enjoyed teaching others about the Bible. He loved the Lord, is with Jesus today and was a master carpenter like Jesus. Surviving is his wife, Doris Locklear Webster of the home; daughter, Heather Phillips (Daren) of Siler City, NC; sons, Jeff Webster (Joyce) of Bear Creek, NC and Sean Webster (Stephanie) of Kannapolis, NC; step-sons, Nicki Adams of Broadway, NC and Michael Baggett (Alicia) of Four Oaks, NC; sisters, Millie Webster of Goldston, NC, Gail Webster of Goldston, NC, Carol Webster of Fayetteville, NC Dot Hall of Sanford, NC and Betty Wallace of Goldston, NC; brothers, Clifton Webster (Jane) of Siler City, NC, Jack Webster (Jean) of Siler City, NC, Ben Webster (Frances) of Bear Creek, NC, Charles Webster (Mary) of Goldston, NC and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Saturday (5/10/2025) from 12:30- 1:50pm at the Holly Springs Baptist Church multi-purpose building
Teachers, are you looking for new opportunities to fund projects for your classroom? Central Electric is awarding up to $15,000 in Bright Ideas education grants to local educators in K-12 classrooms for the 2025-2026 school year.
The final deadline for all grant applications is Sept. 15, but don’t wait to apply. Applications submitted prior to the early-bird deadline on Aug. 15 will be entered to win one of five $100 Visa gift cards. Scan the QR code or visit NCBrightIdeas.com for more information or to apply!
Maurice Sanders
Jan. 21, 1953 – May 2, 2025
Maurice Sanders, 72, passed peacefully at home on Friday, May 2, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on January 21, 1953, to Carden and Elnora Powell Sanders, both of whom predeceased him. Maurice, better known by “Mo” to friends and family, loved cooking on the grill, listening to beach music, his gun collection, going to the
2 p.m. - Fitness Room Orientation (by appointment) Wednesday, May 21 Pittsboro Center for Active Living
8:30 a.m. - Cardio & Lower Body Exercise
10 a.m. - Chair Yoga with Liz; Music Jam
10:30 a.m.
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10
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2:30
8:30
dragstrip in his younger days, building his race cars, and meeting and talking with his friends daily at his workshop. He enjoyed being retired and spending time with his wife and their dog “Chance”.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years Bobbie Sanders; son Philip Sanders (Megan), grandson Bryson Sanders, granddaughter Addison Sanders, granddaughter Courtney Sanders; daughter Kimberly Minter (Larry), granddaughter Brittney Sanders (Melvis Alston), greatgrandson Adonis Alston, granddaughter LaNitra Minter, granddaughter KiArra Minter, granddaughter LaToya Jeffries, and grandson Kelvin Penney.
There are no services planned at this time. Condolences may be made at www.donaldsonfunerals. com. Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Sanders family.
JOHN JOSEPH BRADLEY
OCT. 3, 1948 – MAY 9, 2025
John Joseph Bradley, age 76 of Sanford, passed away on Friday (5/9/2025) at his home. He was born on October 3, 1948, son of the late Lotis Bradley and Ann Sedesse Bradley. He was preceded in death by his parents. Joe was a graduate of NC State and was a tool and dye maker by trade. He was the charter master of Friendship Masonic Lodge No. 763 AF&AM in Broadway and received his 50-year membership award in 2022. He was a member of the Scottish Rite, Valley of New Bern, and had received the honor of Knight Commander Court of Honor. He was also a member of the Lee County Scottish Rite Club where he served as Past President. He was employed by M.R. Stoner Electric, and for many years worked for Van Sharpe Trucking and Rhett Butler Trucking. Surviving are his sons, James Edwin Bradley (Tammy) of Sanford, NC and John Joseph Bradley II of Bear Creek, NC and grandchildren, J.D. Bradley, Savannah Bradley and Christian Bradley.
Memorial Day
May 26, 2025
Prayers: Pastor Jason Golden
Taps Across America: Cliff Tilly Sponsored by: Chatham County American Legion Posts Veterans Strengthening America
Documents are available for purchase at www.mcgillengineers.com for a fee of $50.00 per set. These documents may be downloaded by selecting this project from the “Bids” link and by entering Quest Project Number 9618623. For assistance and free membership registration, contact QuestCDN at (952) 233-1632 or info@ questcdn.com A Pre-Bid Conference was held at the Siler City Town Hall April 10, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Each bid shall be accompanied with a cash deposit or certified check drawn on a bank or trust company insured by the FDIC or a Bid Bond prepared on the form of Bid Bond contained in the Bidding Documents or a Surety Company’s standard form and properly executed by a corporate surety licensed under the laws of North Carolina to execute such bonds. The amount of the bid bond shall be
Bidders must comply with the requirements of the State of North Carolina and be appropriately licensed as a Contractor as provided in General Statutes Chapter 87. Neither the Owner nor the Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including any Addenda, obtained from any source other than the Owner’s
non-responsive, or conditional bids. The Owner reserves the right to award a contract to the lowest, responsive, responsible bidder or bidders, taking into consideration quality, performance and time. Contractors submitting a Bid on this project must solicit bids from minority subcontractors and provide documentation of any outreach efforts as required by the Special Conditions Packages.
Date: May 12, 2025 Jack Meadows, Town Manager Town of Siler City Authorized Representative
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
25E000212-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, Marie H. Hopper, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of John R. Stell, deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day of August 7, 2025, 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 9th day of May, 2025.
Marie H. Hopper Executor Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CHATHAM COUNTY BEFORE THE CLERK
22E000318-180 IN THE MATTER OF: ) ) THE ESTATE OF MAYBELLINE) ANN ARZATE ) NOTICE OF SERVICE OF ) PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
TO: RAMIRO ARZATE BONITEZ
Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above entitled action. The nature of the relief sought is as follows: Petition for Determination of Lawful Heirs and Abandonment. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than June 24, 2025, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. THIS, the 8th day of May, 2025. MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE BY:_______________________________ W. BEN ATWATER, JR. ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF Post Office Box 629 Siler City, North Carolina 27344 Telephone: (919) 663-2850 Facsimile: (919) 663-3790 State Bar Number 6986 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
25E000204-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
The undersigned, Atlas Cleveland Dunn III, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Atlas Cleveland Dunn, Jr., deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before
NOTICE
NOTICE OF PROCEEDING AND SERVICE OF
PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF RANDOLPH IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 22CVD001043-750
FELISHA LYNN ALSTON v. TIMOTEO ULLOA TORRES
To: Timoteo Ulloa Torres, Defendant.
TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is ABSOLUTE
DIVORCE BASED ON ONE YEAR SEPARATION. You are required to answer the petition not later than June 22, 2025 and upon your failure to do so the party seeking relief against you will apply to the Court for the relief herein sought.
This the 8th day of May, 2025. Margaret J. Megerian, Attorney for Plaintiff 175 E. Salisbury Street Asheboro, NC 27203
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
A public hearing will be held by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners on Monday, May 19, 2025, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The hearing will be held in the courtroom of the Historic Courthouse in Pittsboro, North Carolina at 9 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro NC 27312. Additional information is available at the Chatham County Planning Department office. Speakers are requested to sign up at the meeting prior to the hearing. You may also sign up on the county website prior to the meeting at www.chathamcountync.gov by selecting the heading County Government, then Commissioner Meetings, then Public Input/Hearing Sign Up. The public hearing may be continued to another date at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive input, both written and oral, on the issues listed below:
Testimony is required to be given under oath during the evidentiary hearing for the following item:
Quasi-Judicial Request: A quasi-judicial public hearing requested for a Special Use Permit revision to the Chatham Downs shopping center, located on Parcel 18906, located at 88 Chatham Downs Dr., to add a fueling station, Williams Township.
Substantial changes may be made following the public hearing due to verbal or written comments received or based on the Board’s discussions. Notice to people with special needs: If you have an audio or visual impairment, unique accessibility requirements or need language assistance, please call the number listed below prior to the hearing and assistance may be provided. If you have any questions or comments concerning these issues, please call the Chatham County Planning Department at 919-542-8204 or write to P.O. Box 54, Pittsboro N.C. 27312.
Please run in your paper: May 8th and 15th, 2025
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of David Anthony Cook, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of August, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
This the lst day of May, 2025. Susan Dowd Wustrow, Executor of the Estate of David Anthony Cook 1142 Bonlee Bennett Road Siler City, North Carolina 27344
MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE
ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629
SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Billy Edward York, Jr., late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of August, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
This the lst day of May, 2025.
Linda N. York, Executor of the Estate of Billy Edward York, Jr. 3730 Piney Grove Church Road Siler City, North Carolina 27344 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE
ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
Notice of Probate IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Catherine Crowe Ragland, File number 25E00200-180.
Notice is hereby given that Catherine Crowe Ragland, whose last known address was 300 Clynelish Close, Pittsboro, NC 27312, died in Chatham County on February 9, 2025, and that an Executor has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of said deceased person by the Clerk of Superior Court for Chatham County, North Carolina. All creditors of said estate are hereby notified to present their claims to the Personal Representative at the contact information below within 3 months from the date of the first publication of this notice, which is on or before August 10, 2025, or their claims will be barred forever. Estate of Catherine Crowe Ragland 118 Monterey Lane Durham, NC 27713
Please be advised that a copy of the will of the decedent is on file with the Chatham County Superior Court and is available for inspection. Date of First Publication: May 8, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The proposed budget for the Town of Goldston for fiscal year 2025/2026 has been presented to the town council and is available for public inspection at the Town Hall Building, 40 Coral Avenue,
Citizens are invited to make oral or written comments. Jonathan W Hensley Mayor of Goldston
25E000118-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, Susan Elizabeth Moushon, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Carl Eugene Moushon, deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day of July 31, 2025, 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 2nd day of May, 2025. Susan Elizabeth Moushon Executor Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified as the Administrator of the Estate of Russell Lee Hackney, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned through the attorney, Raymond L. Grier & Associates, LLC, 100 South Juniper Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 on or before the 1st day of August, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 1st day of May, 2025. Raymond L. Grier & Associates, LLC 100 South Juniper Street, 3rd Floor Philadelphia, PA 19107 Telephone: 215 987 3990 Facsimile: 215 987 3984 raymondgrier@msn.com Attorney for Rumarcus D. Hackney, Administrator of the Estate of Russell Lee Hackney.
Notice to Creditors
ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against Joan Estelle Marsh, deceased, of Chatham County, NC, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before August 8, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 8th day of May, 2025. Ann Marie Marsh, Executor, c/o Bagwell Holt Smith P.A., 111 Cloister Court, STE 200, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Martha Ashley Orr qualified before the Chatham County Clerk of Court on April 9th, 2025 as The Executor of The Estate of Tamla Crisp Orr, 568 Lydia Perry Road, Sanford, NC 27330. This is to notify all persons, firms and corporations, as required by NCGS 28A-14-1, having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the attorney designated below on or before the 22nd Day of July, 2025 or this notice will be pled in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payments to the undersigned. Payments and claims should be presented to M. Andrew Lucas, P.O. Box 1045, Sanford, NC 27331-1045 Please Publish: April 24th, May 1st, 8th & 15th, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against James P. Ward, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before August 3, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 1st day of May, 2025.
Peter J. Ward, Executor 225 Britten Pass Alpharetta, GA 30009
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS
CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Matthew Ray Johnson, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 15th day of August, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 7th day of May, 2025. Amy Stackhouse Johnson, Executor of the Estate of Matthew Ray Johnson 596 R.E. Wright Road Snow Camp, North Carolina 27349 4tp
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000218-180
The undersigned, ROBERT YOX, having qualified on the 21ST Day of APRIL, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ANN L. YOX, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 24TH Day of JULY 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 24TH DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
ROBERT YOX, EXECUTOR 13132 MOREHEAD CHAPEL HILL, NC 27517 Run dates: A24,M1,8,15p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000205-180
The undersigned, WILLIAM ARTHUR BURGESS
having qualified on the 15TH Day of APRIL, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of VIRGINA L. BURGESS, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 24TH Day of JULY 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 24TH DAY OF APRIL, 2025.
WILLIAM ARTHUR BURGESS, EXECUTOR 7949 NC HWY 902 PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: A24,M1,8,15p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000203-180
The undersigned, LUKE SMITH AND LISA SMITH
having qualified on the 14TH Day of APRIL, 2025 as CO-EXECUTORS of the Estate of RANDY LEE SMITH, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 24TH Day of JULY 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 24TH DAY OF APRIL, 2025. LUKE SMITH, CO-EXECUTOR 1853 POPE HILL CT KERNERSVILLE, NC 27284 LISA SMITH, CO-EXECUTOR 11274 US HWY 220 STONEVILLE, NC 27048 Run dates: A24,M1,8,15p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000234-180 The undersigned, DANIEL JOSEPH NAGLE, having qualified on the 30TH Day of APRIL, 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of MARY KENNEDY NAGLE, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 8TH Day OF AUGUST 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 8TH DAY OF MAY, 2025. DANIEL JOSEPH NAGLE, ADMINISTRATOR 6304 BLAIRMORE COURT RALEIGH, NC 27612 Run dates: M8,15,22,29p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000198-180 The undersigned, AMANDA JOHNSTON GROCE and EMILY JOHNSTON GORDON, having qualified on the 11TH Day of APRIL, 2025 as CO-ADMINISTRATORS of the Estate of LINDA CHRISTINE BOGGS SMITH deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 15TH Day OF AUGUST 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 15TH DAY OF MAY, 2025. AMANDA JOHNSTON GROCE, CO-ADMINISTRATOR 145 SCOTTSDALE LANE CLEMMONS, NC 27012 EMILY JOHNSTON GORDON, CO-ADMINISTRATOR 3128 HICKORY RIDGE DR. WINSTON SALEM, NC 27127 Run dates: M15,22,29,J5p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000195-180 The undersigned, ETHAN DUNLAP SMITH having qualified on the 14TH Day of APRIL, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of HELEN JANE DUNLAP, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 24TH Day of JULY 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 24TH DAY OF APRIL, 2025. ETHAN DUNLAP SMITH, EXECUTOR 156 WINDSOR CIRCLE CHAPEL HILL, NC 27516 Run dates: A24,M1,8,15p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
2025, regular meeting. The proposed item is available for review by contacting Timothy Mack at tmack@silercity.org or 919-726-8626. All persons interested in the outcome of this item are invited to attend the legislative hearing and present comments, testimony, and exhibits on the above referenced item. Interested parties may also submit written comments. Written comments can be submitted by email to tmack@silercity.org. Individuals desiring to speak may sign up by registering their name and information on the sign-up sheet, located outside the entry doors to the court room. The Town of Siler City will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that disabled persons are provided other accommodations, such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of materials for the blind, or assuring a barrier-free location for the proceedings. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Kimberly Pickard at 919-726-8620, 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344, or kpickard@ silercity.org for accommodations for this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Kimberly Pickard al kpickard@silercity.org o 919-726-8625 o en 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344 de alojamiento para esta solicitud.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#___25 E000233-180_ The undersigned, (Cathleen S Cutlip), having qualified on the 29th of April, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of, Robert David Shea deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 8TH Day OF AUGUST 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 8TH DAY OF MAY, 2025. Cathleen S Cutlip 1068 Saint Cloud Loop Apex, NC 27523 Run dates: M8,15,22,29p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS 25E000148-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, Stephen P. Schnetzler, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of William P. Schnetzler, deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day of July 31, 2025, 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 2nd day of May, 2025. Stephen P. Schnetzler Executor Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312
BOARD from page A1
the budget request are to enhance workforce excellence by reinstating the Master’s supplement as well as investing in a competitive local salary supplement, securing financial stability by smartly allocating funding, promoting equity and student achievement through the universal free meals program and strengthening safety and modernization.
“We strive daily to operate as a dynamic, high performing organization, focused on preparing students for bright and prosperous futures,” said Inter-
ACCENT from page A1
“My accent is nonexistent,” said Ira Levine, her oldest son. “People I work with, and even in school, people didn’t believe I was from Atlanta.”
The Southern accent, which has many variations, is fading in some areas of the South as people migrate to the region from other parts of the U.S. and around the world. A series of research papers published in December documented the diminishment of the regional accent among black residents of the Atlanta area, white working-class people in the New Orleans area and people who grew up in Raleigh.
More than 5.8 million people have moved into the U.S. South so far in the 2020s, more than four times the combined total of the nation’s three other regions. Linguists don’t believe mass media has played a significant role in the language change, which tends to start in urban areas and radiate out to more rural places.
Late 20th-century migration surge affects accents
The classical white Southern accent in the Atlanta area and other parts of the urban South peaked with baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 and then dropped off with Gen
TAKE NOTICE
NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE # 24SP001157-180
To: Samuel Lee Jackson and Delena J. Spinelli
im Chief Finance Officer Brittany Smith. The board was also provided an update on how the universal free meal program went last year.
Universal free meals were offered throughout the school system, which saw a 3.6% increase in breakfast participation and a nearly 16% increase in lunch participation district-wide.
“Thank you all for the lunch and breakfast for everybody this year,” said Board Chair Gary Leonard. “That has been a wonderful addition. I know it’s a lot more work, but I’m just so appreciative of it, and I know
Xersborn between 1965 and 1980 and subsequent generations, in large part because of the tremendous in-migration of people in the second half of the 20th century. It has been replaced among the youngest speakers in the 21st century with a dialect that was first noticed in California in the late 1980s, according to recent research from linguists at the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech and Brigham Young University. That dialect, which also was detected in Canada, has become a pan-regional accent as it has spread to other parts of the U.S., including Boston, New York and Michigan, contributing to the diminishment of their regional accents.
In Raleigh, the trigger point in the decline of the Southern accent was the opening in 1959 of the Research Triangle Park, a sprawling complex of research and technology firms that attracted tens of thousands of highly educated workers from outside the South. White residents born after 1979, a generation after the Research Triangle’s establishment, typically don’t talk with a Southern accent, linguist Sean Lundergan wrote in a paper published in December.
Often, outsiders wrongly associate a Southern accent with a lack of education, and some younger people may be trying to distance themselves from that stereotype.
our board has been too. It’s wonderful.”
The board was then presented with the proposed 2026-27 academic calendar.
“Each year, we work through our two-year cycle for calendar proposals,” said Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Kelly Batten. “Overall, Draft A was the preferred calendar for 2026-27. That includes a start day on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026, aligning spring break with the nine-week grading period and then maintaining a real targeted use of workdays.”
The preferred calendar has
“Young people today, especially the educated young people, they don’t want to sound too much like they are from a specific hometown,” said Georgia Tech linguist Lelia Glass, who cowrote the Atlanta study. “They want to sound more kind of, nonlocal and geographically mobile.”
Accents change for younger people
The Southern dialect among black people in Atlanta has dropped off in recent decades mainly because of an influx of African Americans from northern U.S. cities in what has been described as the “Reverse Great Migration.”
During the Great Migration, from roughly 1910 to 1970, African Americans from the South moved to cities in the North like New York, Detroit and Chicago. Their grandchildren and great-grandchildren have moved back South in large numbers to places like Atlanta during the late 20th and early 21st centuries and are more likely to be college-educated. Researchers found Southern accents among African Americans dropped off with Gen Z, or those born between 1997 and 2012, according to a study published in December. The same researchers previously studied Southern accents among white people in Atlanta.
Michelle and Richard Beck,
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
25E000232-180 NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled special proceeding. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Petitioner is the duly appointed and qualified administrator of the Estate of John Henry Jackson; see Chatham County Estate File #22E000690180. The purpose of this action is to sell John Henry Jackson’s property to pay the debts of his estate. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than June 17, 2025 and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.
This the 1st day of May, 2025.
Shelby L. Lennon, Attorney for Administrator Law Offices of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish: 05/08/25, 05/15/25, 05/22/25
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP001120-180 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jeremy K. Thompson and Lycrecia V. Thompson (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jeremy K. Thompson) to David L. Brunk, Trustee(s), dated June 25, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 1344, at Page 638 in Chatham County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on February 27, 2024, in Book No. 2402, at Page 210, 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 Chatham 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
a total of 174.5 instructional workdays, with the final day of school for students falling on June 9, 2026. District staff also collected community feedback on the calendars and one area that was mentioned, and that continues to gain traction around the state, is a desire for high school exams to take place before winter break and for both semesters to be balanced.
“Under the current auspices of the legislative requirements, this is a true challenge to be able to work out those two things,” Batten said. “We are continuing to watch what the General As-
Gen Xers living in the Atlanta area, have Southern accents, but it’s missing in their two sons born in 1998 and 2001.
“I think they speak clearer than I do,” Richard Beck, a law enforcement officer, said of his sons. “They don’t sound as country as I do when it comes to the Southern drawl.”
New Orleans “yat” accent diminished
Unlike other accents that have changed because of an influx of new residents, the distinctive, white working-class “yat” accent of New Orleans has declined as many locals left following the devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The accent is distinct from other regional accents in the South and often described as sounding as much like Brooklynese as Southern.
The hurricane was a “catastrophic” language change event for New Orleans since it displaced around a quarter million residents in the first year after the storm and brought in tens of thousands of outsiders in the following decade.
The diminishment of the “yat” accent is most noticeable in millennials, who were adolescents when Katrina hit, since they were exposed to other ways of speaking during a key time for linguistic development, Virginia Tech sociolinguist Katie
The undersigned, Jordan Riggans, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of John G. Wright, deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day of August 6, 2025, 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 8th day of May 2025.
Jordan Riggans Executor Marie H. Hopper
Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312
Pittsboro, Chatham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on May 22, 2025 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Pittsboro in the County of Chatham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain property situated in the County of Chatham and state of North Carolina, being more fully described in a Deed dated 02/28/2001 and recorded 03/01/2001, among the land records of the County of State set forth above, in Deed Volume 856 and Page 136. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 220 Blakes Drive, Pittsboro, North Carolina. Tax Map or Parcel ID NO.: 0062241 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
sembly decides as far as calendar flexibility.” The board will vote on the calendar next month.
In addition, the board also approved a contract renewal with The Budd Group for custodial services.
“Overall, it’s very comparable to what we would have been paying,” said Assistant Superintendent for Operations Chris Blice. “The advantage is that The Budd Group is actually able to hire people in the times when we were not.”
The Chatham County Schools Board of Education will next meet June 2.
Carmichael said in a paper published in December.
Cheryl Wilson Lanier, a 64-year-old who grew up in Chalmette, Louisiana, one of the New Orleans suburbs where the accent was most prevalent, worries that part of the region’s uniqueness will be lost if the accent disappears.
“It’s kind of like we’re losing our distinct personality,” she said.
Southern identity changing
While it is diminishing in many urban areas, the Southern accent is unlikely to disappear completely because “accents are an incredibly straightforward way of showing other people something about ourselves,” said University of Georgia linguist Margaret Renwick, one of the authors of the Atlanta studies.
It may instead reflect a change in how younger speakers view Southern identity, with a regional accent not as closely associated with what is considered Southern as in previous generations, and linguistic boundaries less important than other factors, she said.
“So young people in the Atlanta area or Raleigh area have a different vision of what life is in the South,” Renwick said. “And it’s not the same as the one that their parents or grandparents grew up with.”
CHATHAM COUNTY FY26 BUDGET HEARING NOTICE
The Chatham County budget for FY2025-26 has been submitted to the Board of Commissioners and is available for public inspection on th6e Chatham County website or in the office of the Clerk to the Board, located at 12 East Street in Pittsboro.
The Chatham County Board of Commissioners will hold two public hearings on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 6:00pm and Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 6:00pm. The public is invited to attend the hearing to express their viewpoints.
The hearing on May 19, 2025 will be held at the Historic Courthouse located at 9 Hillsboro Street in Pittsboro at 6:00pm.
The hearing on May 20, 2025 will be held at Siler City Town Hall located at 311 North Second Avenue in Siler City at 6:00pm.
Those wishing to speak may sign up on the county website or submit written comments to Clerk to the Board Jenifer Johnson at PO Box 1809, Pittsboro, NC 27312 or jenifer.johnson@chathamcountync.gov.
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
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
Emma Grace Hill
Seaforth, softball
Seaforth sophomore Emma Grace Hill earns athlete of the week honors for the week of May 5.
Tied at 1-1 in the bottom of the seventh inning against No. 24 Whiteville in the first round of the 2A East playoffs, Hill knocked in a double and sent Kaylynn Long home for the walk-off win. The play secured Seaforth’s first-ever softball playoff win. Hill also struck out 12 batters in the circle. Against No. 8 North Johnston in the second round, Hill recorded a team-high two hits and struck out eight batters in a 1-0 shutout.
Hill has been a key two-way player for the Hawks when the stakes are high. Her stellar pitching has come up huge, especially in Seaforth’s close wins in the conference tournament final and the playoffs.
Chatham American Legion baseball to begin this weekend
Post 305 looks to build on last year’s playoff series win
By Asheebo Rojas
Chatham News & Record
IT’S TIME FOR summer baseball in Chatham County.
The Chatham American Le gion team, otherwise known as Post 305 (previously Post 292), will start its 2025 season Sunday.
Post 305 brings together high school players from Chatham County and the surrounding ar eas, including recent grads and freshmen in college who are still 19 years of age. All of its home games will be played at Jor dan Matthews High School.
This year’s team will be coached by Bryce Marsh, who returns from last year’s coaching staff. Bill Slaughter, the coach at Chatham Charter, Will Felder, the coach at Jordan Matthews, and John Headen will also re turn for this year’s staff.
The full roster will be com pleted prior to Sunday’s season
opener. The roster is fluid and can change throughout the sum mer. Players from Seaforth and Chatham Charter could miss some of the early games depend ing on how far they go in the NCHSAA playoffs.
Last year, the team finished with a 14 10 record and won its first playoff series in over two de cades.
After starting the 2024 sea son 3 6, Chatham went on an eight game winning streak, in cluding sweeps of Durham Post 416 and Wake Forest Post 187.
Post 292 swept Wake For est again in a best of five series in the first round of the playoffs. Chatham outscored Wake For est 25 11 in the three games and were led by a combined six hits and five RBIs from Landon Mos er and Ian McMillan in the se ries clinching 11 5 win.
In the second round, Post 292 was swept by Garner Na tionals, which is once again on the schedule this summer. Cha tham lost Games 1 and 3 both by a score of 5 4, with Game 1 slip ping away on a walk off RBI in extra innings.
Other repeat opponents from last season on the 2025 sched ule include Randolph Coun ty (RC 25), Hamlet Post 49,
GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Westin Phillips of Chatham Charter takes a swing against Hamlet Post 49 during an American Legion game last May.
Local track and field athletes qualify for state meet
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
FIELD
TRACK AND
REGIONAL CHAMPIONS and state qualifiers were de termined last week. The state championships will be held at Marcus T. Johnson Track on the North Carolina A&T University campus with 1A competing Fri day and 2A competing Saturday.
Here are Chatham Coun ty’s 1A Mideast regional cham pions and state qualifiers (top four from each event) from Sat urday’s regional meet at Pend er High School (school, event, time/mark).
Boys
Regional champions: Tor ris Price — Chatham Char ter, 800 (2 minutes, 6.90 sec onds), 1,600 (4:32.79) and 3,200 (10:48.31); Ezra Roebuck, Wyatt Webster, Jackson Selleck, Dylan Villanueva — Woods Charter, 4x400 (3:34.98)
Other state qualifiers: Wy att Webster — Woods Charter, 200 (23.38) and 400 (52.97); Ezra Roebuck — Woods Char ter, 400 (50.95); Eli Coleman — Chatham Charter, 800 (2:07.77) and 1,600 (4:32.79); Holton Mody — Woods Charter, 1,600 (4:54.01) and 3,200 (11:09.89); Jeremiah Young — long jump (19 6.5); Reid Albright, Nick Glover, Elijah Turner, Tyler Congrove — Chatham Central, 4x100 (44.88); Holton Mody, Jackson Selleck, Coen Fig ge, Dylan Villanueva — Woods Charter, 4x800 (8:58.30)
Girls
Regional champions: Jor dyn Garner — Chatham Charter, long jump (13 feet, 11.75 inches) and discus (88 1); Dana Sudhir, Dara Sudhir, Michaela Valen tine, Sofia Rodriguez — Woods Charter, 4x800 (10:56.90)
Other state qualifiers: Aa
liyah Walden — Chatham Char ter, 100 (13.15) and high jump (4 6); Jordyn Garner — Chatham Charter, triple jump (31 5.5) and discus; Anna Peeler — Woods Charter, 800 (2:28.22), 1,600 (5:27.67) and 3,200 (12:46.44); Michaela Valentine — Woods Charter, 800 (2:40.71); Morgan Peele — Chatham Central, long jump (13 10); Ally O’Neill, Sofia Rodriguez, Molly Selleck, Anna Peeler — Woods Charter, 4x400 (4:52.58)
Here are Chatham Coun ty’s 2A Mideast regional cham pions and state qualifiers from Friday’s regional meet at Heide Trask High School: Girls
Regional champions: Claire Morgan — Seaforth, pole vault (9 6)
Other state qualifiers: Sa sha Helmer — Seaforth, 400 (1:03.35); Claire Morgan — Sea forth, 800 (2:30.87); Natalia Davis — Seaforth, 800 (2:35.24) and 1,600 (5:30.12); Julia Hall — Northwood, 1,600 (5:31.83) and 3,200 (12:43.91); Caidence Bazemore — Seaforth, 3,200 (12:50.50); Tinsley Borland — Seaforth, 100 hurdles (17.10); Khamya Woods, Danyell Rone, Lizzie Alston, Sophia Kope la — Jordan Matthews, 4x200 (1:49.32); Sasha Helmer, Nata lia Davis, Claire Morgan, Tins ley Borland — Seaforth, 4x400 (4:29.45); Sasha Helmer, Caid ence Bazemore, Piper Gens ler, Natalia Davis — Seaforth, 4x800 (10:40.40); Gabby White — Seaforth, high jump (5 2); Rachael Woods — Jordan Mat thews, long jump (16 6) and tri ple jump (35 4); Jada Everson — Northwood, discus (108 4); Amari Bullet — Northwood, shot put (32 10.75) Boys
Regional champions: Se bastian Calderon — Seaforth, 400 (49.90); Will Cuicchi —
Seaforth, 800 (2:02.08); Jack Anstrom — Seaforth, 1,600 (4:34.61) and 3,200 (9:56.99); Sebastian Calderon, Paul Cuic chi, Walter Entrekin, Will Cuicchi — Seaforth, 4x400 (3:28.15); Paul Cuicchi, Way lon Vose, Jack Anstrom, Will Cuicchi — Seaforth, 4x800 (8:14.11); Luke Waldstein — Northwood, high jump (6 2); Kamarie Hadley (tied for first) — Jordan Matthews, long jump (20 7); Ryan Yoder — Seaforth, pole vault (14 6); Dylan Wat kins — Seaforth, discus (140 7)
Other state qualifiers: Se bastian Calderon — Seaforth, 200 (22.55); Tequone Moore — Northwood, 400 (51.33); Will Cuicchi — Seaforth, 1,600 (4:34.66); Samuel Neil — Sea forth, 3,200 (10:18.39); Jordan Wiley — Northwood, 3,2000 (10:21.52); Luke Waldstein — Northwood, 110 hurdles (15.88); Yadiel Zayas — Jordan Mat thews, 300 hurdles (41.68); Joe Flynn, Zaire Ellis, Brian Krebs, Jordan Wiley — Northwood, 4x800 (8:57.62); Kamarie Had ley — Jordan Matthews, triple jump (41 4); Benjamin Alten burg — Northwood, pole vault (12 6)
BOYS’ TENNIS
In the third round of the 1A East dual team playoffs on May 7, No. 6 Chatham Charter fell to No. 2 Triangle Math and Science 5 2. The Knights took down No. 3 Rosewood 7 2 in the second round on May 5.
After beating No. 1 Clinton 5 1 in the third round of the 2A East bracket, No. 9 Seaforth fell to No. 13 NCSSM: Durham 6 3 in the fourth round.
Chatham Charter’s Thom as Bjork came up short to El kin’s Grant Ballard after two sets in the first round of the 1A state singles tournament. In the first round of the 2A sin gles bracket, Seaforth’s Joa quin Hernandez Gonzalez beat North Lenoir’s Casey Alston
in two straight 6 0 sets. Her nandez Gonzalez fell to North Stanly’s Rex Wang in the sec ond round.
GIRLS’ SOCCER
Seaforth went undefeated in regular season conference play for the third straight sea son. Behind four goals from ju nior Sofia Viana, the Hawks beat Jordan Matthews 9 0 on May 5. In a dominant 14 0 win over Bartlett Yancey on May 6, senior Caitlin Erman scored a team high six goals.
Woods Charter clinched its fourth straight Central Tar Heel 1A conference title (un defeated in conference play in the last four seasons) after beating Clover Garden School 9 0 on May 5 (four goals from sophomore Annabel Unah) and Southern Wake Academy 7 1 on May 7 (five goals from Lucy Poitras).
Northwood finished the reg ular season with a 4 3 win over North Moore on May 8. The Chargers ended the year with 11 conference wins for the sec ond season in a row.
Final Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference standings (overall, conference) (as of Sunday)
Final Central Tar Heel 1A conference standings (as of Sunday)
1. Woods Charter (13 4 1, 12‑0); 2. Southern Wake Acad emy (10 4, 10 2); 3. Clover Gar den School (9 10, 7 5); 4. Riv er Mill (8 10 1, 6 6); 5. Ascend Leadership (5 9, 4 8); 6. Cha
tham Charter (5 14, 3 9); 7. Tri angle Math and Science (0 18, 0 12)
BOYS’ LACROSSE
Seaforth ended the season with their two most explosive offensive performances, includ ing a 21 6 win over Eastern Al amance on May 6 and a 21 1 win over Western Alamance the next day. Senior Camer on Exley scored a team high six goals against Eastern Ala mance, and junior Ivan Grimes scored four times against West ern Alamance.
Northwood fell to Union Pines 10 8 to end its regular season.
Seaforth finished the regu lar season strong with a 19 4 win over Northwood on May
SIDELINE REPORT
NFL
Saints QB Carr retiring due to “degenerative changes” in shoulder
New Orleans
The New Orleans Saints say veteran quarterback Derek Carr has decided to retire because of a labral tear in his right shoulder and “significant degenerative changes” to his rotator cuff. The 34 year old Carr has played for 11 pro seasons. Carr was acquired by the Saints as a free agent in 2023 but had mixed results in New Orleans, going 14 13 as a starter while also struggling through oblique, hand and head injuries that caused him to miss seven games last season.
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
FCS teams could be allowed to play 12 regular-season games every year
Indianapolis FCS teams would be allowed to play 12 regular‑season games every year under a Division I Football Championship Subdivision Oversight Committee recommendation. The NCAA announced the one game extension would go into effect in 2026 if the Division I Council gives its approval during its June 24 25 meeting. Current legislation permits 12 regular season games in years when there are 14 Saturdays from the first permissible playing date through the last playing date in November. In all other years, only 11 regular season contests are permitted.
MLB Astros’ McCullers receives threats directed at children after tough start
Houston Houston pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. received online death threats directed at his children after his tough start against the Cincinnati Reds. McCullers, who was making just his second start since Game 3 of the 2022 World Series, allowed seven runs while getting just one out in Houston’s 13 9 loss on Saturday night. Afterward, McCullers said he had received the threats on social media and that people had threatened to “stab my kids.” The Astros said that the Houston Police Department and MLB security had been alerted to the threats.
NHL Smith scores with 0.4 seconds left, Golden Knights stun Oilers Edmonton, Alberta Reilly Smith scored with 0.4 seconds left to give the Vegas Golden Knights a stunning 4 3 victory in Saturday’s Game 3. It was officially the third latest third period winning goal in playoff history, at least since the NHL added decimals to the final minute. Nazem Kadri had one with 0.1 seconds left for Colorado in 2020, and Jussi Jokinen scored with 0.2 remaining for Carolina in 2009.
Judges may toss order allowing 23XI, Front Row to race as chartered status
The teams are currently able to race while suing NASCAR
By Mike Barber The Associated Press
RICHMOND, Va. — A three judge federal appellate panel indicated it might over turn an injunction that allows 23XI Racing, co owned by re tired NBA great Michael Jor dan and veteran driver Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Mo torsports to race as chartered teams in NASCAR this sea son while the two teams sue the stock car series over alleged an titrust violations.
NASCAR attorney Chris Yates argued the injunction, granted in December by U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell of the Western District of North Carolina, forced the series into an unwanted relationship with unwilling partners, and that it harms other teams because they earn less money. Yates said the district court broke precedent by granting the injunction, saying the “re lease” clause in the charter con tracts forbidding the teams from suing is “common.” He
argued, essentially, that the teams should not have the ben efits of the charter system they are suing to overturn.
Overturning the injunction would leave the two organiza tions able to race but without any of the perks of being char tered, including guaranteed weekly revenue. They would also have to qualify at every Cup Series event to make the field, which currently has only four open spots each week; 23XI and Front Row are each running three cars in Cup this season.
Judges Steven Agee, Paul Niemeyer and Stephanie Thack er at multiple points during the 50 minute hearing pushed back on the argument made by plain tiff’s attorney Jeffrey Kessler, who accused NASCAR of being a monopoly.
“There’s no other place to compete,” Kessler told the judg es, later noting that overturn ing the injunction would cause tremendous damage to the two teams, which could lose drivers and sponsors. “It will cause havoc to overturn this in junction in the middle of the season.”
The teams filed the antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR on
NCAA decision could alter junior hockey, NHL talent pipelines
Canadian Hockey League players are now allowed to compete in the NCAA
By John Wawrow The Associated Press
BOSTON UNIVERSITY
sophomore Aiden Celebrini has no regrets over the decision he reached at 16 to maintain his college eligibility by skipping a chance to play for the West ern Hockey League’s Saskatoon Blades.
And it makes no difference that college hockey wasn’t on his radar growing up in North Vancouver and regularly at tending WHL games with his younger brother Macklin, the NHL’s Draft’s No. 1 pick last summer.
“We didn’t know much about college hockey,” Celebrini said. “Going to Vancouver Giants games, that was always kind of our dream to play in the WHL and then eventually play in the NHL.”
It’s a dream Macklin has al ready achieved in completing his rookie season with the San Jose Sharks and after one year at BU. Aiden could well fol low after being drafted by his hometown Canucks in 2023.
Last fall, the NCAA made a landmark eligibility deci
sion to allow Canadian Hock ey League players to compete at the college level. The ruling frees today’s players from the either or choice the Celebrin is faced to either join the CHL team that drafted them or pre serve their college eligibility as they did by playing at the Cana dian Junior A or USHL levels — Aiden in Alberta and Macklin in Chicago.
“I’m kind of jealous,” Aiden Celebrini said. “I think it’s awe some that guys can experience both now because I think the WHL is a top league, and ob viously the NCAA is also. It’s great to have that kind of pipe line now.”
While players will benefit most, the NCAA ruling has the potential to dramatically tilt North America’s junior hock ey developmental landscape toward U.S. colleges in a fun damental altering of how pros pects reach the NHL.
The route for many has tradi tionally run through the CHL’s three leagues, the WHL, OHL and QMJHL.
The CHL remains the clear leader in having 839 players drafted from 2015 24, with the NCAA’s 74 a distant sev enth. And yet, of those 74 col lege players, 63 were chosen in the first round, including two Canadians selected first over
Oct. 2, arguing that the series bullied teams into signing new charters that make it difficult to compete financially. That came after two years of failed nego tiations on new charter agree ments, which is NASCAR’s equivalent of franchise deals.
23XI — co owned by Jor dan, Hamlin and Curtis Polk, a longtime Jordan business part ner — and Front Row Motor sports, were the only two out of 15 charter holding teams that refused to sign new agreements in September.
The charters, which teams originally signed before the 2016 season, have twice been extended. The most recent ex tension runs until 2031, match ing the current media rights deal. It guarantees that 36 of the 40 available spots in week ly races will go to teams hold ing charters.
The judges expressed agree ment with Yates’s argument that the district court had erred in issuing the injunction allow ing the teams to race, because it mandated they sign the NA SCAR charter but eliminated the contract’s release.
“It seems you want to have your cake and eat it, too,” Niemeyer told Kessler.
At another point, the judge pointedly told Kessler that if the teams want to race, they should sign the charter. Yates contended that forc ing an unwanted relationship between NASCAR and the two teams “harms NASCAR and other racing teams.” He said that more chartered teams would earn more money if not for the injunction and noted that the two teams are being “given the benefits of a contract they rejected.”
Kessler argued that even if the district court’s reason ing was flawed, other evidence should lead the circuit court to uphold the injunction. Niemay er disagreed.
“The court wanted you to be able to race but without a con tract,” he said.
A trial date is set for Decem ber and Agee strongly urged the sides to meet for media tion — previously ordered by a lower court — to attempt to resolve the dispute over the injunction.
“It’ll be a very interesting tri al,” Agee said with a wry smile.
The prospect of successful mediation seems unlikely. Yates told the judges: “We’re not go ing to rewrite the charter.”
all (Celebrini and Michigan’s Owen Power in 2021).
The 16 team USHL says it has produced more NHL draft picks (197) over the past four years than each of the CHL’s individual leagues, led by the OHL (166), the WHL (155) and QMJHL (89).
Meanwhile, college hockey players now make up about a third of NHL rosters, up from 20% in 2000, with Hockey East commissioner Steve Met calf envisioning that number growing.
“I don’t think it’s that com plicated. There’ll be an increas ing number of NHLers that come from college,” Metcalf said. ”(The CHL and USHL) will feed players up into col lege hockey. And college hock ey will feed the players up to the NHL.”
A big concern is the NCAA’s change in eligibility rules lead ing to Canadians potentially displacing Americans on col lege rosters. USA Hockey exec
utive director Pat Kelleher said he’d like to see the U.S. Con gress cap the number of in ternational players on college teams. Currently, NHL teams re tain the draft rights to play ers for 30 days after they leave college. By comparison, teams hold CHL players’ right for two seasons after being drafted.
One benefit NHL teams have in drafting college players is, once signed, those players can be sent directly to the minors. CHL players must be returned to their CHL teams until their eligibility expires.
“The NCAA made whatev er decision, and we’re all going to have to adjust,” NHL Com missioner Gary Bettman said. “We’re going to have to talk to the union and understand how we think it works based on the current rule and what maybe we need to modify to be reflec tive of the way we think things would flow best.”
JEFF ROBERSON / AP PHOTO
Members of Western Michigan celebrate after defeating Boston University in the championship game of the NCAA Frozen Four.
Denny Hamlin (11) holds onto the lead during an April’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Bristol, Tennessee.
Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, Mark Pritchard collab for inventive ‘Tall Tales’
“We sign their papers/ We line their pockets.”
Tom Yorke, Radiohead
By Jim Pollock The Associated Press
“TALL TALES,” the first fulllength collaboration between Radiohead singer Thom Yorke and electronic music pioneer Mark Pritchard, captures two prolific artists without much to prove and whole worlds left to explore.
The project was conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic when Yorke and Pritchard, both working remotely, began exchanging and modifying sound files. A half-decade later, the collaboration journeys back into the isolation of that period and far beyond. (And the partnership shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise: Pritchard previously worked with Yorke on the 2016 track “Beautiful People.”)
“Tall Tales” captures their shared, endearing spirit of experimentation in a collection of dystopian, prog electronics that will satisfy fans of both artists.
Across the album, Pritchard’s inventive productions often serve as a perfect foil for Yorke’s darker lyrics and mournful vocals.
Pritchard is a synthesizer sommelier, too, utilizing clas-
sic vintage electronic instruments dating back many decades, such as the Arp Odyssey, Wurlitzer Sideman and the Minimoog.
Yorke returns to themes of tech dystopia, consumerism and alienation that he has explored since the 1997 Radiohead album “OK Computer,” evidenced in tracks like “Gangsters” and “The Men Who Dance in Stag’s Heads.” On the later, a droning satire of billionaire self-indulgence, he sings, “We sign their papers/We line their pockets.”
The opening track, “A Fake in a Faker’s World,” serves up a mission statement for the project. There, Pritchard presents a whirlwind of digital sounds, with Yorke’s human voice the sole organic element.
The two tracks that follow are ambient works that seem destined for IMAX films or A24 soundtracks. “Ice Shelf” is cold and glacial as Yorke sings “Standing solo on an ice shelf.” “Bugging Out Again” follows, haunting and dense with retro-futuristic effects.
A strong middle section begins with “Back in the Game.”
The opening lyrics evoke the project’s genesis: “Have you missed me? How’ve you been? Back to 2020 again.” As in so much of Yorke’s work, the track blends emotional despair with an infectious musicality. It is anchored by the album’s two catchiest tracks. “Gangsters” evokes 1980s video games with its use of a Mattel Bee Gees rhythm machine. The wonderfully titled “This Conversation Is Missing Your Voice” follows, with a propulsive electronic pop energy that falls somewhere between Gorillaz and Squeeze. The final third houses the oddball tracks. The overlapping voices in “Tall Tales” evoke a bardo of unsettled spirits. “Happy Days” features a bouncy carnival beat.
The late songs gradually add analog instruments to the mix, and by the finale, “Wandering Genie,” the initial musical premise seems almost inverted: In the beginning, Yorke’s voice was the only organic sound; by the end, it’s all recognizable instruments and his voice has been digitized beyond recognition. Atop analog flute, bassoon and pipe organ, a mechanical Yorke brings the journey to its coda, repeating the single lyric, “I am falling.” And in 2020, who wasn’t?
“Tall Tales” is a new collaborative full-length album by Radiohead’s Thom Yorke and electronic musician Mark Pritchard.
Avant-garde electronic music meets melancholic vocals
WARP
famous birthdays this week
ROB GRABOWSKI /
/ AP
Trent Reznor performs on day three of Riot Fest in 2022. The Nine Inch Nails founder and front man celebrates 60 on Saturday.
Brian Eno is 77, Taj Mahal turns 83, Janet Jackson is 59, Tina Fey hits 55
The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.
MAY 15
Actor-singer Lainie Kazan is 85. Basketball Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson is 85. Musician Brian Eno is 77. Actor Chazz Palminteri is 73.
MAY 16
Actor Danny Trejo is 81. Actor Pierce Brosnan is 72. Actor Debra Winger is 70. Rock musician Krist Novoselic (Nirvana) is 60. Singer Janet Jackson is 59.
MAY 17
Musician Taj Mahal is 83. Boxing Hall of Famer Sugar Ray Leonard is 69. Sports announcer Jim Nantz is 66. Singer-composer Enya is 64.
TV host-comedian Craig Ferguson is 63. Musician Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails) is 60.
MAY 18
Country singer George Strait is 73. Actor Chow YunFat (“Anna and the King,” ″The Replacement Killers”) is 70. Comedian Tina Fey is 55. Musician Jack Johnson is 50.
MAY 19
TV personality David Hartman is 90. Actor James Fox is 86. Musician Pete Townshend is 80. Singer-actor-model Grace Jones is 77.
MAY 20 Singer-actor Cher is 79. Actor Dave Thomas (“Grace Under Fire,” ″SCTV”) is 77. Actor Bronson Pinchot is 66. Actor Tony Goldwyn (“Scandal”) is 65. Rapper Busta Rhymes is 53.
MAY 21
Actor Mr. T is 73. Actor Judge Reinhold is 68. Actor-director Nick Cassavetes (“The Notebook”) is 66.
DAMIAN DOVARGANES / AP PHOTO Actor and motivational speaker Mr. T turns 73 on Wednesday.
CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO Singer Janet Jackson is 59 on Friday.
