the BRIEF this week
In ation rose slightly last month as grocery prices ticked higher
U.S. in ation picked up a bit last month as food costs rose, though overall in ation remained mostly tame. Consumer prices increased 2.4% in May compared to a year ago, according to a report released Wednesday. That is up from a 2.3% yearly increase in April.
Excluding the volatile food and energy categories, core prices rose 2.8% for the third straight month. The gures suggest any impact of new tari s, predicted by economists to have a drastic e ect on prices, have been generally limited.
U.S. to get rare earth minerals from China in trade deal, tari s on Chinese goods will go to 55%
President Donald Trump says the United States will get magnets and rare earth minerals from China under a new trade deal and tari s on Chinese goods will go to 55%. Trump said Wednesday in return the U.S. will allow Chinese students to attend American colleges and universities. Trump says the deal is subject to nal approval by him and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Senior U.S. and Chinese negotiators announced late Tuesday that they had agreed on a framework to get trade negotiations back on track after a series of disputes threatened to derail them.
Back at Bragg
President Trump made a trip to the newly renamed Fort Bragg on Tuesday as part of weeklong festivities celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Both the president and attendees received demonstrations of capabilities from Army units based at the facility, before speeches from N.C. native and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and the president himself.
Siler City approves $23M budget for 2025-26, tax rate stays at
Property owners may see increases in taxes due to value reassessments
By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record
SILER CITY — Siler City has its budget for the upcoming scal year.
At its June 2 meeting, the Town of Siler City Board of Commissioners approved the FY 2025-26 recommended budget following a public hearing.
The town’s budget is balanced at approximately $23.2 million, but just over $13.9 million of that is the general fund budget, which is the town’s basic operating funds.
That’s an approximately $3.7 million increase, or 26.8%, from the 2024-25 general fund total.
“I commend the board and sta for putting together a pretty conservative budget,” said Mayor Donald Matthews. “We’ve asked for things that have to be done to make improvements to our town, and in some places, we moved some stu so it wouldn’t be a bigger burden.”
Governor forms council to work on marijuana legalization policy
Josh Stein wants nal recommendations by the end of next year
The Associated Press
RALEIGH — Gov. Josh Stein says a panel he’s tasked with recommending cannabis
sale regulations — including potential legalization of adult use of marijuana — should aim to provide a structure in a state where products now from otherwise lawful hemp are unregulated and leave young people unprotected.
The Democratic governor signed an executive order last
week creating a State Advisory Council on Cannabis.
North Carolina is among a small number of states whose laws prohibit marijuana for both medicinal use or adult recreational use. The General Assembly would have to enact any law legalizing marijuana. The council’s ndings could
8 now arrested in house party shootings, additional attempted murder charges led
“Gang motives were a part of this tragedy. We are still unraveling that as part of our larger investigation.”
Catawba Sheri ’s Maj. Aaron Tur
The shooting appears gang-related, said prosecutors
The Associated Press
NEWTON — Eight people have now been arrested and charged in connection with last weekend’s shootings at a Catawba County house party where a barrage of gun re ended with one person dead and 11 others injured, authorities said. Five defendants made court appearances last Friday. Four of the ve were facing one count each of attempted rst-degree murder. A judge
ordered two of those four to remain in jail without bond, according to the Catawba County Clerk of Court’s o ce.
But late Friday, the sheri ’s o ce announced that 10 additional counts of attempted rst-degree murder had been led against each of the four who already faced one similar count. All four were jailed pending scheduled court appearances early next week, according to an o ce press release.
A prosecutor handling the defendants’ appearances last Friday said in court that the
The budget has ve strategic priorities: facilitate and achieve economic prosperity, plan and implement sustainable infrastructure goals, strengthen organizational and operational
See BUDGET, page A3
add pressure upon lawmakers to place regulations on products, many of which can be obtained at vape and convenience stores.
The order directs the 24-member council also named this week to o er preliminary recommendations for a “comprehensive cannabis policy” and any proposed legislation by next March 15, with nal recommendations by the end of 2026.
Council members include representatives of state agencies, law
See COUNCIL, page A7
BOTTOM PHOTOS BY ALEX BRANDON/ AP PHOTO
PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
We stand corrected
To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.
CRIME LOG
June 4
• Marcie Lynn Moody, 51, of Siler City, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Brandon Eugene Cagle, 30, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for felony possession of cocaine, possession of a schedule VI controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
June 6
• Jene Lee Reed, 42, of Siler City, was arrested for purchasing a rearm in violation of a domestic order.
• John Patrick Warnicke, 46, of Raleigh, was arrested for possession of a rearm by a felon, possession of methamphetamine and maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/ place for controlled substances.
• James Alan Wolfe, 53, of Snow Camp, was arrested for assault on a female, misdemeanor larceny and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
Runaway pet zebra captured in Tennessee after week on run
Ed the Zebra had become a social media sensation
The Associated Press
MURFREESBORO, Tenn.
— A runaway pet zebra that was on the loose for more than a week in Tennessee and became an internet sensation in the process was captured Sunday, authorities said.
Ed the Zebra was captured safely after being located in a pasture near a subdivision in the Christiana community in central Tennessee, the Rutherford County Sheri ’s O ce con rmed. The sheri ’s o ce said aviation crews captured the zebra.
“Ed was airlifted and own by helicopter back to a waiting animal trailer,” the sheri ’s ofce said in a statement.
Video posted by the sheri ’s o ce showed Ed wrapped in a net with his head sticking out as he is carried by the helicopter to the trailer.
Ed arrived in Christiana on May 30, the sheri ’s o ce said. His owner reported him missing the next day. The zebra was spotted and lmed running along Interstate 24, forcing deputies to shut the roadway, but
A zebra named Ed evaded capture for several days after it ran away from its owner. It was airlifted to a waiting animal trailer.
Ed escaped into a wooded area.
There were several sightings posted to social media. Ed was lmed trotting through a neighborhood.
The zebra quickly became the subject of internet memes. One fake posting showed Ed dining at a Wa e House, a Southern staple. Others had him visiting other Tennessee cities or panhandling on the side of the road.
The pursuit of Ed came a
“Ed was airlifted and own by helicopter back to a waiting animal trailer.”
Rutherford County Sheri ’s O ce
month after a runway kangaroo shut down a section of Alabama interstate.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
June
12
Opinionation Trivia at House of Pops
6-8 p.m.
Two sessions of this “Family Feud”-style game are held each evening, rst round at 6 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m., o ering contestants two opportunities to win House of Hops gift cards worth $15 and $25 each. 112 Russet Run Suite 110 Pittsboro
June 13
Meet the Animals! with the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
11 a.m. to noon
This free event is best for families with children 3-plus. Meet animals from the museum and learn about their characteristics, adaptations and their essential roles in our environment. No registration required; call 919-545-8085 for more information.
Chatham Community Library 197 N.C. Highway 87 North Pittsboro
Nantahala at Bynum Front Porch
7-8:30 p.m.
Family-friendly, free musical performance with donations welcomed. Concessions will be available on-site. Free parking.
Front Porch, Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum
June
14
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 o ered 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 Hillsboro Street Pittsboro
June 18
Jazz Night at The Sycamore at Chatham Mills
6-9 p.m.
Every Wednesday night from 6-9 p.m., The Sycamore at Chatham Mills hosts live Jazz Nights. The series features a rotating list of local musicians. The Sycamore also o ers its Lounge Menu in the dining room on Wednesday nights. Reservations are highly recommended.
480 Hillsboro Street Suite 500 Pittsboro
RUTHERFORD COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP
101 dogs living in packed, lthy conditions removed from home
The dogs, along with 21 chickens, were relinquished
The Associated Press
RALEIGH — Dozens of dogs found living in packed, filthy conditions were removed from a home in Raleigh last Wednesday.
Animal control officers responding to a complaint in Raleigh discovered 101 dogs crammed in stacked cages or roaming in confined quarters
at the home, the Wake County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said on Facebook. Many of the dogs were small breeds. Among those rescued were several puppies and older dogs.
The homeowner agreed to relinquish the dogs, along with 21 chickens, news outlets reported. The dogs were taken in by eight different shelters and were undergoing medical assessments, the SPCA chapter said. Many dogs had matted fur as well as skin and dental issues.
It wasn’t known whether the homeowner faces charges. A telephone call to the Raleigh police department wasn’t immediately returned.
Last Friday, the chapter said that several dogs under its care were “getting the spa day of their lives — and their first taste of fresh air, possibly ever. We’re seeing a lot of smiles from these guys.
“This is the biggest moment in these dogs’ lives, and we are feeling so grateful to be a part of their healing.”
BUDGET from page A1
performance, enhance community engagement and provide a high level of public safety.
“The budget focuses on the town’s long-term nancial stability while allowing us to provide the highest quality of services at the lowest possible costs,” said Town Manager Jack Meadows.
“We sought to provide realistic expectations of revenue for the coming scal year based on current data and project expenditures that meet the priorities for each department.”
recreation, sanitation and airport.
“This budget, we have cut it to the bare minimum to make sure that we can provide the services that the citizens have requested and need,” Matthews said.
“We have cut it to the bare minimum.”
Siler City Mayor Donald Matthews
Highlights of the budget include a compensation pay study raise and 3.1% cost-of-living adjustment for town employees, a $3.27 million allotment for the police department and a $1.2 million for the re department.
However, various departments saw decreases in their prior allotments such as parks and
The town is also having to front the cost of hiking prices with insurance, retirement, medical and other bene ts for employees, as well as overall in ationary e ects on services and material.
In addition, the property tax rate will remain at $0.54 per $100 valuation, although since 2025 was a reevaluation year, some residents may still see a higher tax bill.
The revenue neutral tax rate — or the rate at which the town would have been able to collect the same amount of revenue as the prior scal year would have been $0.27 per $100 valuation.
The Siler City Board of Commissioners will next meet June 16.
Share with your community! Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to community@ chathamnewsrecord.com
The weekly deadline is Monday at Noon.
Woods Charter School
Congrats Class of 2025!
• Thomas Frazelle
• Sydney Batey
• Felix Bordo
• Aiden Breen
• Charlie Burke
• Antonio Cataudella
• Luke Christian
• Quinn Dodd
• Liam Drake
• Zada Dusenberry
• Ian Feickert
• Briyanna Fife
• Coen Figge
• Alina Handel
• Ashlee Hernandez
• Augie Hofweber
• Aiden Ivey
• Noah Laupert
• Wilson Lipsmeyer
• Ayana Lupoli-Rojas
• Hallie Manton
• James Matthews
• Orion Moulton
• Ava Nunez
• Jeddah Parker
• Anna Peeler
• Yevgeny Podolyanskiy
• Lily Pritts
• Ava Robards
• So a Salazar
• Tessa Schirmer
• Sam Scholer
• Max Selleck
• Buvanesh Senthil
• Maya Sheridan
• Molly Steed
• David Stout
• Zavante Thomas
• Bethany Tracy
• Benjamin Valentine
• Michaela Valentine
• Dylan Villanueva
• Shelli Wagoner
• Hazel Waller
• Violet Walter
• Caden Watson
SAMANTHA RANLET / SPCA OF WAKE COUNTY VIA AP
Left, Dr. Samantha Zurlinden, a veterinarian with the Wake County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, examines two dogs at the SPCA’s Admission Center in Garner last Thursday. Right, a chihuahua and her two puppies rescued from the home are being taken care of at the Wake County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals admission center in Garner last week.
MADY THIELEMANN VIA AP
COURTESY WOODS CHARTER SCHOOL
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
On loaded words
When dealing with contested topics, I wish we took more care and consideration to frame our debate without “loaded” terms.
I HAVE WRITTEN this column for almost ve years. During the course of that time, I’ve received negative feedback from readers, which I have tried to receive in good faith. Contradiction is inevitable, particularly when dealing with complex issues.
Over the years in our larger online and print media, I’ve noticed that the language of criticism has become increasingly violent. One “blasts” his critics. Arguments need “ammunition.” You “take no prisoners.” You “annihilate” and “destroy” your opponents. In the vast majority of these instances, actual physical violence does not result.
Yet, words matter. Combative, martial words leave little room for nuance, subtlety or grace.
When dealing with contested topics, I wish we took more care and consideration to frame our debate without “loaded” terms. Perhaps if our language were less violent and adversarial, then we might tiptoe out from our ideological fortresses and nd common ground.
When I receive an email taking exception to something I’ve written or, as is sometimes the case, something that a reader thought I’d implied, I refrain from “ ring back.” I fold my hands in my lap and breathe until my heart stops racing. I understand the primal instinct to ght, but written language a ords the gift of time, and with time comes perspective.
When I begin to type my response, I often reach for the
COLUMN | BOB WACHS
word “we.” I don’t mean the so-called royal we, which is a fancy way of saying “I,” but “we,” as in two people with two perspectives. You and I might disagree for valid reasons. What might we share? What might we seek to build on as a common foundation? Such inquiries point beyond grammar to the question of democracy itself.
The fact that our U.S. Constitution begins with “We the people” is hardly trivial. Any group of individuals is likely to disagree, yet our founding fathers realized that our sovereignty as a nation depends on the collective. Public discourse often divides into “warring factions.” “We the people” asks more from all of us. We should strive for unity, not uniformity.
Obviously, we live in heated times of controversy. “As iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17), so citizens can re ne points and perspectives through dialogue. Until the day when swords become plowshares and spears become pruning hooks (Isaiah 2:4), we might convert loaded, in ammatory language into calm, subtle, wry, gentle wisdom. A clarifying question, rather than a biting accusation, might arise after much re ection instead of an immediate retort. And that would be a step toward peace, can’t we agree?
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, co ee drinker and student of joy.
Time of year turns us into homing pigeons
And the changes ... there have been many over the years, especially since I was a child.
IT WAS THE ENGLISH POET
Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who wrote long ago, “In the spring a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love.”
And while that’s true, although he didn’t know it at the time, he could have added some other things that folks’ fancies turn to in the spring, especially in June, although June is now summer. Through the years, I’ve had the opportunity to spend considerable time with couples, young and not so young, helping them turn their June thoughts into June weddings. It’s always been my hope and prayer that when that spring season has passed and they’ve moved into their autumn and even winter times, things have worked out so they’re still together in the same year.
There are other things June is noted for besides weddings, however. Some of those things include graduations — now over — and full-blown baseball seasons, although mostly for the majors and minors since high school is done and college is winding down. And yet there’s one more great tradition when spring comes knocking — church homecomings. While not every parish celebrates in late May or early June, many do. Some folks, because of tradition, pick other times of the year, even late summer or early fall. But what’s really important is not so much the when but the that — that it happens sometime. The reasons for these events are
perhaps as varied as the people celebrating them. For some, it’s what they do every Sunday, worship at their customary place. For others, it really is the opportunity to go back “home” to their community and church. Whatever the reason, it grabs many folks like a magnet. Nothing wrong with that.
It’s been a privilege for me to share in many of them, near and far. And while they’re pretty much the same wherever, they’re also di erent in style and substance, sometimes in barely noticeable ways.
And the changes ... there have been many over the years, especially since I was a child.
As I remember them from then, 70 -plus years ago, the weather was hot, the preaching was long, the music was loud, and the food was bountiful and good. From this point, I’m going to refrain from making similar comparisons to today because I could incriminate myself, so let me just note that the weather is still kind of warm and the food is still good.
But we no longer spread out food on pieces of heavy wire fence that sat on sawhorses to create tables, all safely tucked under a line of massive oak trees. And no longer are tea or real lemonade with slices of the fruit oating among the ice blocks dipped from a big wash tub or poured from a metal barrel. And while you can still eat outside on a picnic table or by holding plate and drink in your hands
while trying to munch your chicken leg or ham biscuit, it’s often hard to resist the temptation of air conditioning. Plus, in those days, folks always kept an eye on the sky to see if there would be rain.
As a youngster, I liked eating outside, near the tables where I had already scoped out the fried chicken and ham biscuits, and warm, soggy Duke’s mayonnaise-laden tomato sandwiches wrapped in wax paper.
And the cakes and pies.
My dad was not only my idol then but my mentor as well. From him, I learn how to ll a plate, nd room for dessert and balance my cup of tea, all the while consuming various and sundry amounts of the good stu . He also showed me the value of nding a Plymouth or Chevy with a big front fender, which could serve as a table if I got tired of not having four hands.
I think of those days often now, especially as they recede farther and farther into the past. And, as my dad often said about various things, I wouldn’t take a million dollars for them.
So nd a homecoming to go to. Greet old friends; make some new ones; and have a tomato sandwich during this season.
It’ll do you good and help you, too.
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 | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN
THE 100% TARIFF on Chinese electric vehicles — coupled with any additional tari s Trump may choose to impose — is hurting Americans and the climate goals of the United States. We must eliminate these tari s as soon as possible.
Chinese EVs cost much less than American ones because of government subsidies and cheaper production. These tari s force us to pay in ated prices for domestic EVs or stick with gas cars — how are Americans supposed to contribute to the ght against climate change when they can’t a ord low-emission vehicles?
Chinese companies like BYD o er innovative technology — long battery lives, faster charging and
hybrid systems that outlast most American models. One fear that proponents of protectionist economic policies have is that these tari s will harm American workers and the automakers they work for. A solution for this would be to require Chinese automakers to establish plants in the United States. This way, workers will have even more job opportunities in a future-proof car market. Congress must work to end these tari s immediately. Americans deserve access to innovative, a ordable electric vehicles while we ght climate change and strengthen our economy.
Holton Mody, Chapel Hill
Human passions and the massive continuity of ducks
Are you denying any responsibility (zip, actually) for your devotion to a book series that now makes you apoplectic because of its cultural biases?
Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor. COLUMN | JAN HUTTON
HEY, I BET YOU have one, too.
One what?
A precious book stash of many years standing. Pages and pages, exerting a strong pull on your memory and heart. Veritable time machines with the power to instantly catapult us back through the stages of our lives. Replete with oodles of lessons, consciously and unconsciously, informing our life choices. Book therapy = Cheap therapy. You know?
So … I was in need of respite from our troubled world. Went “respite-hunting” through my well-loved book stash for a literate mystery, undergirded by a sense of humor. Found one! The spine was approaching decrepitude, and I couldn’t recall the last time I’d read it. Eons? Ahhhhh, ready to settle in, release the reins of responsibility, and escape … No. No. No!
Appalled. Absolutely appalled! My chosen mystery novel of escape was very popular when I devoured it, in the 1980s, along with all its sister and brother volumes. Gulp, gulp, gulp! But 40-plus years hence, with more culturally-sensitive eyes, I felt punched in the stomach by the book’s sexism and racism. I’d loved this series! I did! Embarrassed, now, by my blind adoration. Truly embarrassed. Now just hold your horses! The reading public heaped loads of critical praise on this series. Snappy and humorous repartee, literate writing, literary allusions and embedded with some great life lessons. I mean, geez, Time magazine, The New York Times, you know, all the old chestnuts from which I took my then-reading suggestions. Shouldn’t
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
those informational organs be embarrassed, too? C’mon, the books were crowned by the creation of an episodic TV series! Is that not acceptance across the damn board?
Whoa! Whoa. Are you denying any responsibility (zip, actually) for your devotion to a book series that now makes you apoplectic because of its cultural biases?
You got a point. The me that loved those books, well, I’m feeling pretty critical of her shortsightedness. Pretty damn critical. Makes me sad. Did I actually imbibe those sexist and racist beliefs at that point in my life? Oh, no, no, no!
Time for a deep breath … I loved those books during an era when some of our cultural beliefs were antiquated, hurtful and we hadn’t yet seen the light. A goodly portion of our cultural beliefs are wise and caring. Others truly stink, but as a young ’un, you just don’t know until you’ve already breathed them in — hook, line and sinker. Sigh. A loss, nonetheless. Where can I nd my needed respite, now? Winnie the Pooh? “No one can be uncheered by a balloon.” Too short. What about: “How eeting are all human passions compared with the massive continuity of ducks.” (“Gaudy Night” by Dorothy Sayers.) Gonna go with the ducks! Getting my water wings on. A book rst read 50-plus years ago. Heading for that elegiac old chestnut wherein the words, awlessly, still sing to me today.
Trump derangement syndrome
See Elon prance.
See Donald pounce.
“IT’S SORT OF TRUMP derangement syndrome, I guess they call it,” President Donald Trump said, in explaining the hostility that overcomes veterans of his administration. Are they crazed because of what they’ve seen or what they’ve done? Or were they always crazed, which is why they were there in the rst place?
In Elon Musk’s case, it is clearly all of the above. Many books will be written about why Donald Trump won this election. I would be surprised if any of them will conclude that money made the di erence; Kamala Harris had plenty of money. But Elon Musk has a simpler explanation. It was all him: “Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate.”
And you know he believes that. He spent almost $300 million on Trump, and he thought he owned him. He thought having more money than anyone in the room made him the equal of the most powerful man in the room.
He thought wrong. In the process, he red people who will have to be rehired, took health care and food away from starving children in the world, dismantled institutions that will have to be rebuilt and wreaked havoc on the federal workforce, all without making a dent in the de cit. And his Tesla stock tanked.
It was, of course, inevitable. Two such colossal egos cannot coexist. Musk reportedly thought that because he had elected the president, he had been elected president. He could have come in with a scalpel, with teams of auditors, not bros, worked with the leadership of both parties in Congress, as well as the White House, and actually made a di erence. Swamplands run deep, and coming in with a chainsaw gets you nowhere.
Is he really gone now?
One can only hope. Do the MAGA-maniacs have enough money of their own to hold Republican members of Congress hostage to Trump, as they’ve been since January, con rming the likes of Pete Hegseth and Robert Kennedy Jr.? Can Musk turn back to Tesla and SpaceX and restore their tarnished luster? Musk is no longer the Master of the Universe he once was. He may be talking about forming another political party, but whether it will have nearly as many followers as Musk does on X remains to be seen. Musk thought he could conquer Washington. He thought he
Amazon data center is
a big
win for the region
AMAZON’S COMMITMENT to invest $10 billion in a cloud computing and arti cial intelligence data center campus in Richmond County signals a transformative era for the Sandhills region. Located in Hamlet’s Energy Way Industrial Park, this ambitious project will yield signi cant economic gains for Richmond County while also creating far-reaching opportunities for neighboring Moore County. Amazon’s new campus will fuel economic growth, advance workforce development and knit stronger community bonds across the region.
For Richmond County, a rural area eager for economic renewal, Amazon’s project promises a substantial nancial inspiration. The $10 billion investment will signi cantly boost the county’s property tax base through the data center infrastructure. These funds could be used to enhance schools, emergency services and roads, easing the scal load on residents.
During the 8-to-10-year construction phase, 2,000 workers will invigorate the local economy. Skilled tradespeople, including electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians, will nd ample opportunities while driving business to local restaurants, retailers and housing markets. The 500 permanent high-tech jobs, o ering salaries often above $70,000, will further increase personal income tax revenue and local commerce. Amazon has a track record of community support through workforce training and infrastructure grants, which could be signi cant in reducing Richmond County’s nancial burdens, providing an indirect tax bene t.
Just 20 miles from Hamlet, Moore County stands to gain considerably from its proximity to the data center. Renowned for golf tourism and vibrant towns like Southern Pines and Pinehurst, the county will experience economic ripple e ects. The 2,000 construction jobs could draw skilled workers from Moore County, where commuting is practical. Electricians, plumbers and HVAC technicians can secure stable, high-paying roles, boosting spending at local shops and eateries. Additionally, Moore County’s contractors and suppliers may pro t by supporting the data center’s construction needs. Amazon’s operations may spur infrastructure upgrades, such as improved broadband or transportation networks, bene ting Moore County’s connectivity. These enhancements could bolster the county’s tourism economy and attract tech businesses, diversifying its economic foundation beyond seasonal visitors. Hightech workers relocating to Moore County for its appealing lifestyle will increase demand for housing and services, further stimulating growth.
SCC’s Innovative High School in Moore County is well positioned to leverage Amazon’s investment. Crafted to equip students for highdemand careers through integrated high school and college coursework, the program can align with the data center’s needs. By expanding or developing training in trades like electrical work, plumbing and HVAC, SCC can prepare students for certi cations that unlock the 2,000 construction jobs, o ering graduates immediate career paths.
For the 500 permanent high-tech roles, the Innovative High School can introduce or enhance courses in cloud computing, AI and cybersecurity, creating a talent pipeline for Amazon. Collaborations with Amazon might include internships, apprenticeships or industry expert talks, enriching student experiences. Given Amazon’s history of supporting STEM education, SCC could receive grants for equipment, scholarships or faculty development. These investments would elevate the program’s prestige, draw more students and establish Moore County as a regional hub for tech education.
had more power than the bureaucracy. He was wrong. For now, it’s entertaining theater. Musk went so far as to claim that the reason all of Je rey Epstein’s papers have not been released is because Donald J. Trump is somehow in them. Mr. Family Values calling the kettle black.
Me, I’m betting they’ll get back in bed together when it suits them both. Trump loves money too much to let Musk go permanently. Musk loves power too much — not to mention the billions in federal grants — to leave it all behind. This was a relationship built on the foundation of outsize ambition that isn’t going anywhere. See Elon prance. See Donald pounce. Start counting to see if and when any Republicans have the nerve to stand up to Trump. Enjoy the theater. The curtain has gone down on Act One, but the show is far from over. They won’t destroy each other. It’s the rest of us I’m still worried about. May they bring out the worst in each other. May their true colors shine through. We can hope, but I’m not betting on it. Trump derangement syndrome looks like a chronic illness to me.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. She was campaign manager for the 1988 Michael Dukakis for President campaign.
The Sandhills region, uniting Richmond and Moore counties, will thrive through Amazon’s project. Construction will open doors for businesses in both counties to supply materials or services, fostering shared economic growth. By aligning education with industry, SCC’s Innovative High School will build a skilled workforce, enhancing the region’s competitiveness and ensuring young people access well-paying jobs. Together, these impacts will pave the way for a prosperous, interconnected future for the region.
Rep. Neal Jackson represents N.C. District 78, which includes parts of Moore and Randolph counties, in the N.C. House of Representatives.
POOL VIA AP
President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk speak to reporters as they sit in a red Model S Tesla vehicle on the South Lawn of the White House earlier this year.
obituaries
IN MEMORY
DONNIE
LEE MANESS
AUG.30, 1941 – JUNE 6, 2025
Donnie Lee Maness, 83, of Seagrove, passed away on Friday, June 6, 2025 at his home. The funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Riverside Baptist Church with Rick Asbill and Jordan Cain presiding. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Donnie was born in Randolph County on August 30, 1941 to Herbert and Ruby Kearns Maness. He was a Veteran of the US Marine Corps and worked in textiles. He enjoyed restoring cars, traveling and camping. Donnie loved his family and cherished the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Anthony Ray Maness; brother, Ernest Maness and sisters, Ellen Chriscoe, Gladys Maness and Mary Faye Leonard. He is survived by his children, Don (Tammy), of Edgewater, FL, Phil (Tina), of Seagrove and Doug, of Asheboro; sister, Laura Asbill (Rick), of Asheboro; grandchildren, Anthony, Megan (Brad), Christopher, Katie, Ti any and Abilene; greatgrandchildren, Kindall, Kaylynn, Keira, Rachel, Braelyn, Ryan and Harlan ; numerous nieces and nephews who adored him and a host of family and friends.
LUCY ALICE CAVINESS MARTINDALE
APRIL 25TH, 1928 – JUNE 5, 2025
Lucy Alice Caviness Martindale 97, of Robbins, passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Autumn Care in Biscoe. The funeral will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at 3:00 pm in the Beulah Chapel of Beulah Baptist Church with Dr. Neal Jackson, Pastor Robert Kidd and Pastor Terry Warren presiding. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service and the family will also receive friends in the fellowship hall following the service. Lucy was born in Moore County on April 25, 1928 to Albert and Mattie Ritter Caviness. She was a member of Beulah Baptist Church and cherished her church family. She was an inspector at Ithaca Mill. Lucy loved to cut up and was a “full of grit and no quit” lady. She enjoyed being outdoors, raising cattle, sewing, cooking and reading. She especially loved her family and spending time with them. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ervin Martindale; sons, Wayne and Tommy Martindale; grandchild, Laura Martindale; sister, Dorothy Comer and brother, James Albert Caviness. She survived by her son, Donnie Martindale (Kathy), of Robbins; sister, Genavieve Bray, of Bennett; daughter-in-law, Kathy Martindale, of Robbins; grandchildren, Lane, Preston, Brian and Melissa; great-grandchildren, Inman, Missouri, Jocelyn, Adaline and Shiloh and a host of family and friends.
NINA LOUISE DAVIS DUNNAVANT
AUG. 22, 1957 – JUNE 6, 2025
Nina Louise Davis Dunnavant, 67, of Siler City, passed suddenly on Friday, June 6th, 2025. Nina was born on August 22nd, 1957, in Okaloosa County, FL to the late Silas Davis & Virginia Houchens. She is preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Steven & Ken Davis; and her nephew, Michael Bremmes. Nina was a homemaker who loved caring for her family. She was a member of Faith Baptist Church and loved her church family. She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Douglas Dunnavant; her son, Judson Dunnavant of Siler City; her daughter, Tamahai Dunnavant of Greensboro; her grandchildren, Josiah (Ashton), Micah, Jourdan, Gideon, Brylan, Abigail, and Keylan; and her great grandchild, Kain; her brother, Bruce Brock of Alabama; and her niece, Modesty Hudson of Ohio. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 12th, 2025, at 2 pm, at Faith Baptist Church. Visitation will be held at the church prior to the service from 1-2 pm. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Services will be o ciated by Reverend Bobby Shutt. Memorials can be made to the Faith Baptist Church Building Fund, 303 Hillbrook Blvd., Siler City, NC 27344 in Nina’s name.
LANNY DARYEL “BUSTER” PUGH
APRIL 19, 1957 – MAY 26, 2025
Lanny Daryel “Buster” Pugh, 68, of Bennett passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2025 at the VA Hospital in Durham. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Buster was born in Chatham County on April 19, 1957 to Willard and Lucy Phillips Pugh. He was a Veteran of the U.S. Navy. He graduated from Appalachian State University and worked in restaurant management. He was an accomplished artist and painter. He enjoyed country music and gardening. He loved his family and the time spent with them. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Ronnie Pugh. His survived by his wife, Laurie Mason Pugh, of the home; step-sons, Andrew Weaver (Rakayla), of Painsville, OH, Stephen Reeves, of Vass, NC and Michael Clowser, of Seven Lakes, NC; sister, Lili Ellen Onufryk (John), of Clarks Summit, PA; grandchildren, Izabella Ann, Gabriel, Mason and Dominic; nephews, Jonathan Onufryk and Sean Onufryk and a host of family and friends.
Ruth Sapp Stamey
Aug. 9, 1938 – June 6, 2025
Ruth Sapp Stamey of Moore County, age 86, left her earthly home to dwell in her heavenly home on June 6th. She was born in Moore County on August 9th, 1938. She was the daughter of R. Henry Phillips and Alice Tillman Phillips and the stepdaughter of G. Clinton Fields. Her grandparents were Giles and Angie Tillman of Glendon, NC, and Bob and Swannie Phillips of Glendon, NC. Step-grandmother Clatie Fields of Bear Creek, NC, and a special uncle John
Tillman, also of Glendon, NC. She was also preceded in death by her rst husband, Ronnie Sapp, her brother Donald Phillips, brother Tommy Phillips, sisters-in-law, Phyllis Branch and Sylvia Richardson. She is survived by her current husband, Joel Stamey, her son Michael Sapp (Lori), her daughter Pamela Sapp Whitaker (Kim/ Roy), and her daughter Kimberly Sapp Bullard. Step-children, which she called her own, Donna Stamey Robinson, Nancy Stamey Baucom (Randy), Joel Stamey Jr. (Michelle), and Curtis Stamey. She is also survived by her sisters, Debbie Brady, Gail (Hal) Meeks, brother Leon (Gwen) Phillips, and sisters-in-law Linda Phillips and Jewelene Phillips. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 25 greatgrandchildren, one great-greatgrandchild and many nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly. Ruth was a 1956 graduate of Bonlee High School and a 1971 graduate of CCTI Nursing Program, graduating with honors as an LPN. She was employed as a nurse, working at Sanford
Medical Group, then with Dr. Dugan in Siler City, NC. She also worked at Chatham Medical Practice for many years, until she retired.
The funeral will be Monday, June 9th, 2025, at 2pm, at Tyson’s Creek Baptist Church, with Pastor Scott Walker and Pastor Willie Pickard presiding. The visitation will be held at the church from 12-2 pm prior to the service. There will be a graveside service o ciated by Pastor William Cashion. The burial will be at Cool Springs Church Cemetery following the service where she will be laid to rest beside her rst husband, Ronnie. Pall Bearers will be Drew Lombard, Jonathan Sapp, Daniel Whitaker, Michael Lopez, Gerald Stamey, and Daniel Robinson.
Smith & Buckner Funeral
Home will be assisting the SappStamey family.
Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh.
com
To order memorial trees or send owers to the family in memory of Mary Ruth Phillips Sapp-Stamey, please visit our ower store.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Chatham News & Record at obits@chathamrecord.com
Kenneth Farrell
CANNABIS from page B1
enforcement, legislators and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, whose dispensary on tribal land has sold since last year marijuana and cannabis products to any adult over 21.
“Let’s work together on a thoughtful, comprehensive solution that allows sales to adults and that is grounded in public safety and health.” Stein said last Wednesday in a news release. “We can work together and get this right.”
Hemp is actually a lawful form of cannabis in the state based on its low levels of THC, the chemical that in larger amounts makes people high. Consumable products made from hemp promote CBD, the nonpsychoactive chemical within it.
But Stein, the former attorney general, says some in the hemp product industry have found ways to extract enough THC from hemp so that their o erings also provide the high of marijuana. He said this has led to an unregulated “Wild West” cannabis market in which anyone, including children, can purchase products with “intoxicating THC.”
In an interview with WRAL-TV last Tuesday, Stein said that he personally supports legalizing adult recreational use of marijuana and other intoxicating THC products, and believes a structure can be put in place that simultaneously keeps them away from children.
“I believe adults should be able to choose what they
from page A1
shootings were gang-related, and the sheri ’s o ce agreed, news outlets reported.
“Gang motives were a part of this tragedy,” sheri ’s Maj. Aaron Turk told WSOC-TV.
“We are still unraveling that as part of our larger investigation.”
Investigators have said both adults and young people were among the scores of attendees at the house party in a residential neighborhood roughly 55 miles northwest of Charlotte.
Another defendant arrested earlier in the week also is charged with one count of attempted rst-degree murder.
The two others were charged with helping underage youth possess alcoholic beverages — the sheri ’s o ce identi ed them as planning and promoting the house party.
Authorities have said more than 80 shots were red short-
ly after midnight June 1 in a crime scene that spanned several properties. The shootings began with gun re coming from an elevated area in a yard neighboring the house, the Catawba sheri ’s o ce has said, with shots later around the home, the home’s front yard and by a road.
Shawn Patrick Hood, 58, of Lenoir, was killed. He was the oldest of the victims, who ranged in age from as young as 16, the sheri ’s o ce said. Most of the people injured were shot, Turk has said. As of last Friday, no one had been speci cally charged for Hood’s death. Turk told reporters this week that investigators needed to account for every shot that had been red at partygoers “before we can discern who might be responsible for the homicide.” FBI agents had been at the crime scene this week examining bullet trajectories.
want to do, but they need to have information,” Stein said. “They need to be protected.”
Legislation that would authorize medical marijuana have cleared the Senate in the recent past occasions but have failed to pass the House.
Council members include Republican state Sen. Bill Rabon and GOP Rep. John Bell. Rabon has championed medical marijuana legalization at the General Assembly, while Bell is an executive at a manufacturer of CBD and hemp -based products and has called for stricter industry regulation.
Stein said last Wednesday the council should propose developing a regulatory system that “allows adult sales, ensures public safety, promotes public health, supports
North Carolina agriculture, expunges past convictions of simple THC possession, and invests the revenues in resources for addiction, mental health, and drugged driving detection.” The order says recommendations also should consider taxation.
For now, Stein said, the General Assembly should pass laws prohibiting sales of products with intoxicating THC to anyone under 21 and set packaging standards.
Thirty-nine states and the District of Columbia allow the medical use of cannabis products, while about half of the states and D.C. have legalized small amounts of cannabis for adult recreational use, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Your Journey Starts Here...
Get your learner’s permit this summer! Teenagers at 14 ½ years old may enroll in our teen class which includes 30 hrs of in-class instruction, and 6 hrs of behind-the-wheel lessons, and vision/medical screening before getting the learner’s permit.
Contact & Operating Hours centralcarolinadrivingschool@gmail.com | 984-315-0430 M-F 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Weekends by appointment only. Visit our website www.centralcarolinadrivingschool.com
SHOOTINGS
ELAINE THOMPSON / AP PHOTO
A store employee retrieves products for customers at a marijuana shop in Seattle in 2019.
WSOC VIA AP
Various police vehicles gather outside a community after a mass shooting on June 1 in Hickory.
REAL ESTATE
LEARN ABOUT LAND - Chatham Land Experts, www.learnaboutland. com - 919-362-6999.
JY2,tfnc
FOR RENT
THE RETREAT AT PITTSBORO
Apartments is accepting applications for the waiting list for 1BR & 2BR units. Visit us at the o ce located at 196 Chatham Business Dr in Pittsboro or call (919) 355-0325 (TTY 711) for more information. $25 application fee per applicant, credit/criminal check reqd. Section 8 accepted. Accessible units designed for persons with disabilities subject to availability. Equal Housing Opportunity. This institution is professionally managed by Partnership Property Management, an equal opportunity provider and employer. 1tc
POWELL SPRINGS APTS. Evergreen
Construction introduces its newest independent living community for adults 55 years or older, 1 and 2 bedroom applications now being accepted. O ce hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 919533-6319 for more information, TDD #1-800-735-2962, Equal housing opportunity, Handicapped accessible. A2,tfnc
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS now for one-bedroom apartments, adults 55 years or older. Water included, appliances furnished, on-site laundry, elevator, keyless entry. Section 8 accepted. No security deposit. Application fee $25 per adult. Call Braxton Manor, 919-663-1877. Handicap accessible. Equal Housing Opportunity. J14,tfnc
AUCTIONS
RICKY ELLINGTON AUCTIONEERS
- Equipment, business, liquidation, estates, land, houses, antiques, personal property, coins, furniture, consignments, bene ts, etc., NCAL #7706, 919-548-3684, 919-6633556, rickyellingtonauctions@yahoo. com. Jy6,tfnc
YARD SALE
INDOOR YARD SALE
Rain or shine EVERYTHING MUST GO! Thursday June 19th from 9:00-2:00 Clothes, tools, furniture, kitchen items and more 1858 Lake Woods Falls Road Goldston, NC 27252 2tc
FOR SALE
Baby Muscovy Ducks for sale - $7.00/ each – 6 or more, $5.00/each. 3766 Alston Bridge Rd., Siler City, NC –919-742-5066. 2tp
SERVICES
RAINBOW WATER FILTERED VACUUMS, Alice Cox, Cox’s Distributing - Rainbow - Cell: 919-548-4314, Sales, Services, Supplies. Serving public for 35 years. Rada Cutlery is also available. A26,tfnc
JUNK CARS PICKED UP Free of charge. Due to many months of low steel prices and unstable steel markets, we cannot pay for cars at this time. Cars, trucks, and machinery will be transported and environmentally correctly recycled at no charge. 919-542-2803. A2,tfnc
LETT’S TREE SERVICE - tree removal, stump grinding, lot clearing. Visa & Master Card accepted. Timber. Free estimates. 919-258-3594. N9,tfnc
dishwasher are included in the rent. Rent starts at $630 and up. 400 Honeysuckle Dr., Pittsboro, NC 27312 919-542-5410 TDD 1-800-735-2962
Email: pittsborovillage@ECCMGT.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF Suzanne Simmons Daily All
Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Executor.
This the 12th day of June, 2025. Kathryn Daily, Executor c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517
NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY DESTRUCTION, DONATION, OR AUCTION OF ARTICLES IN THE POSSESSION OF THE PITTSBORO POLICE DEPARTMENT, PITTSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
Notice is hereby given that the Pittsboro Police Department of Pittsboro, North Carolina, have in their possession computers, cell phones, electronics, shing pole, oor jack,
Notice
PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING
Subject: Town of Pittsboro Climate Action Plan
Community Meetings
Dates: June 24, 2025, 4 PM-7 PM June 26, 2025, 12 PM-3 PM
Location: Pittsboro Community House, 65 Thompson St, Pittsboro, NC
Details: Join us for a public information meeting to discuss the Climate Action Plan. Your input is valuable as we work together to create a stronger, more resilient community Contact: Town of Pittsboro at (919) 542-6421or jpeterson@pittsboronc.gov.
Website: https://pittsboronc.gov/587/ClimateAction-Plan
Why Attend? Learn about the Climate Action Plan, ask questions, and share your ideas to shape the future of our Town.
NOTICE
“All persons having claims against the estate of DENNIS RAY APPLEYARD of Chatham County, NC, who died on March 13, 2025, are noti ed to present them on or before September 1, 2025 to Douglas Appleyard, Executor for the estate of Dennis Ray Appleyard, c/o Schupp & Hamilton, PLLC, P.O. Box 3200, Chapel Hill, NC 27515-3200, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery.”
DATES: 05/29/2025, 06/05/2025, 06/12/2025, 06/19/2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
All persons, rms, and corporations having claims against Louise Barrett Derr, deceased, of Pittsboro, Chatham County, NC, are noti ed to present such claims to Diane Adkins, Executor/Personal Representative of the estate, at P.O. Box 2651, Taos, NM, 87571, on or before September 13, 2025. All claims not presented within this time will be forever barred.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against Robert D. Shinney, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before September 12, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This June 12, 2025. c/o Shea Maliszewski, Barringer Sasser, LLP, 111 Commonwealth Court, Suite 101, Cary, NC 27511.
NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JACK A. MOODY DECEASED.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having heretofore quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Jack A. Moody, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, hereby noti es all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before August 21st, 2025 or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of any recovery thereon. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 21st day of May, 2025 William Barden Moody, Executor Estate of Jack A. Moody, Deceased c/o Ronald P. Johnson, Esq. Carruthers & Roth, P.A. Attorneys & Counselors at Law 235 North Edgeworth Street (27401) Post O ce Box 540 Greensboro, North Carolina 27402 Publication dates: May 21st, 28th and June 4th and 11th, 2025. 4908-2207-9811, v. 1
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
25E000289-180
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
The undersigned, Lori Delbridge, having quali ed as Limited Personal Representative of the Estate of Barbara Ann Headen, 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 September 10, 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 12th day of June, 2025. Lori Delbridge Limited personal Representative Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post O ce Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312
CREDITOR’S NOTICE
Having quali ed on the 23th day of May 2025, as Administrator of the Estate of Rachel Hudson, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 3rd day of September 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.
This is the 27th day of May 2025. Danny Hudson, Administrator of the Estate of Rachel Hudson 292 George Hudson Road Siler City, NC 27344 Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: June 5th, 12th, 19nd and 26th.
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
All persons having claims against the estate of John Edward Hunt of Chatham County, NC, who died on the 19th of April, 2011, are noti ed to present them on or before August 22nd , 2025 to Geo rey E. Hunt, Executor for the Estate, c/o Schupp & Hamilton, P.L.L.C., P. O. Box 3200, Chapel Hill, NC 27515-3200, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Schupp & Hamilton, P.L.L.C. P. O. Box 3200 Chapel Hill, NC 27515-3200 For May 22nd , May 29th, June 5th , and June 12th of 2025.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
A public hearing will be held by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners on Monday, June 16, 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 o ce. 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:
Legislative Request: A legislative public hearing requested for a general use rezoning by Vikas & Gunsan Laad, from CDNB to R-1 Residential on Parcel 96061, being 19.43 acres, located at 2676 Farrington Point Rd., Williams Township.
A legislative public hearing requested for a rezoning by Stephen Sta ord on Parcels 9815 and 64619, located at 14987 US 421 S, from R-1 Residential to CD-RB Conditional District Regional Business, on approximately 3.91 acres, for a self mini warehouse storage facility, Gulf Township.
A legislative public hearing requested for a general use rezoning by Oscar Guarin, from R-1 Nonconforming to Light Industrial on Parcel 5067, being 9.278 acres, located at 4920 Old US 421 S, Bear Creek Township. A legislative public hearing requested for rezoning and a conversion of an existing Conditional Use
Permit by Kent Dickens dba Dicken’s RV Park, from R-1 with CUP, R-1, and Ind H to Conditional District Neighborhood Business (CD-NB) on portions of Parcels 5176, 5177, 5636 (9.73 ac), a portion of 5143 (2.009 ac) and conversion of Parcel 5749 (35.121 ac) of existing campground. Parcels are located at 0 Corinth Rd and 2501 Corinth Rd., Cape Fear 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: June 5th and 12th, 2025
NOTICE
ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against Monnda Lee Welch, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before August 29, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 29th day of May, 2025. Anna Brothers, Executor 150 Saddle Tree Dr. Franklinton, NC 27525 IPL000176-180
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Nancy Cary Peter late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 20th day of August, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
This the 14th day of May, 2025. Linda P. Crabtree, Administrator CTA of the Estate of Nancy Cary Peter 25 Joe Brown Road Bear Creek, North Carolina 27207
MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000254-180 ALL persons having claims against STEPHEN CHARLES ALLARIO, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Aug 22 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 22nd day of May, 2025.
KIMBERLY D. ZIERMAN, Executor C/O Privette Legacy Planning 1400 Crescent Green, Suite G-100 Cary, NC 27518 M22, 29, 5 and 12
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000288-180 ALL persons having claims against Benjamin Wayne Barber aka Benjamin Barber, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Sep 05 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 5th day of June, 2025. Cameron Barber, Administrator C/O Kerr Law, PLLC P.O. Box 10941 Greensboro, NC 27404 J5, 12, 19 and 26
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000250-180 ALL persons having claims against THOMAS HUGH
THOMPSON, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Sep 05 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
This the 5th day of June, 2025. KARLA LACKORE THOMPSON, Executor C/O Jones Branz & Whitaker LLP 4030 Wake Forest Rd. Ste. 300 Raleigh, NC 27609 J5, 12, 19 and 26
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000190-180
ALL persons having claims against PHILLIP NORMAN COOPER, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Aug 29 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
This the 29th day of May, 2025.
LINDA WASMUTH, EXECUTOR C/O GLENN B. LASSITER, JR. PO Box 1460 Pittsboro, NC 27312
M29, 5, 12 and 19
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000141-180
ALL persons having claims against Elliott Milton Baron, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Aug 22 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
This the 22nd day of May, 2025.
MOLLY BAARS, Executor C/O Law O ces of Amy Whinery Osborne, PC P.O. Box 7 Cary, NC 27512 M22, 29, 5 and 12
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
Chatham COUNTY
25E000296-180
All persons, rms, and corporations having claims against William Lambert Jernigan, deceased, late of Chatham County, NC, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 13th day of September, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 12th day of June 2025. Rachel Lee Jernigan, Executor c/o Hemphill Gelder, PC PO Box 97035 Raleigh, NC 27624-7035
Chatham News and Record June 12, 19, 26, 2025 and July 3, 2025
NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF Floyd Fried All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Floyd Fried, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit them to Daniel Fried as Executor of the decedent’s estate on or before August 30, 2025, c/o Janet B. Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Executor. This the 29th day of May, 2025.
Daniel Fried, Executor c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517
NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF William Brent Sutton All persons, rms and corporations having claims against William Brent Sutton, late of Chatham, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit them to Deborah Moyer or Rebecca Shelton as Administrator CTA of the decedent’s estate on or before September 7, 2025, c/o Janet B. Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the abovenamed Executor. This the 5th day of June, 2025.
Deborah Sutton Moyer, Administrator CTA
Rebecca Elizabeth Sutton Shelton, Administrator CTA c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty.
TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517
NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF MARIJANE K. WHITEMAN All persons, rms and corporations having claims against MARIJANE K. WHITEMAN, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit them to Patricia McDonough as Administrator CTA of the decedent’s estate on or before August 30, 2025, c/o Janet B. Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Administrator CTA. This the 29th day of May, 2025.
Patricia McDonough, Administrator CTA c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty.
TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000033-180
The undersigned, CARLA PETERS, having quali ed on the 25TH Day of APRIL, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BAILEY LOUIS PIGFORD, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 5TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 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 5TH DAY OF JUNE 2025
CARLA PETERS, EXECUTOR 11801 US 421 GOLDSTON, NC 27252 Run dates: J5,12,19,26p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000275-180
The undersigned, CATHERINE M. RIEHM, having quali ed on the 20TH Day of MAY, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BERNARD RAY VANCIL, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 29TH 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 29TH DAY OF MAY 2025.
CATHERINE M. RIEHM, EXECUTOR PO BOX 194 APEX, NC 27502 Run dates: M29,J5,12,19p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM The undersigned, James C. Bowers, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of James A. Bowers, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the Estate to present such claims to the undersigned in care of the undersigned’s Attorney at their address on or before August 22, 2025 or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the above named Administrator. This the 22nd day of May, 2025. James C. Bowers, Administrator Estate of James A. Bowers John Stephens, Esq. Carolina Estate Planning 380 Knollwood St. Suite 500 Winston Salem, NC 27103 May 22, 29, June 5 and 12, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000219-180 The undersigned, ALISON S. FLEMING, having quali ed on the 21ST Day of APRIL, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of SUSAN L. FLEMING, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 29TH 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 29TH DAY OF MAY 2025. ALISON S. FLEMING, EXECUTOR 313 ACADEMIA COURT DURHAM, NC 27713 Run dates: M29,J5,12,19p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000291-180 The undersigned, MATTHEW JOHNSON AND BELINDA C. MURRAY, having quali ed on the 2ND Day of JUNE, 2025 as CO-EXECUTORS of the Estate of RANDY LYNN JOHNSON, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 12TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 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 12TH DAY OF JUNE 2025. MATTHEW JOHNSON, CO-EXECUTOR 1104 BOWERS STORE RD. SILER CITY, NC 27344 BELINDA C. MURRAY, CO-EXECUTOR 95 NC HWY 22/42 BENNETT, NC 27208 Run dates: J12,19,26,Jy3p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#19E000112-180 The undersigned, RONALD BROOKS, having quali ed on the 28TH Day of FEBRUARY, 2019 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of MILDRED WATSON BROOKS deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 22ND 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 22ND DAY OF MAY 2025. RONALD BROOKS, EXECUTOR 1201 ALPHA ST. SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: M22,29,J5,12p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000247-180
The undersigned, MARK BRAUND CARPENTER, having quali ed on the 2ND Day of MAY, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JEAN MITCHELL CARPENTER deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 22ND 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 22ND DAY OF MAY 2025. MARK BRAUND CARPENTER, EXECUTOR 7409 RUSSELL RD. INDIAN TRAIL, NC 28079 Run dates: M22,29,J5,12p
NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE # 24SP001159-180 IN RE Estate of Julie Susan White, DECEASED. To: The Unknown Heirs of Julie Susan White Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled special proceeding. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Petitioner is the duly appointed
Thoughts that breathe, words that burn
Congratulations to the winners of the 2025 Chatham County Library Teen Poetry Contest, selected by the library’s Teen Advisory Board, recognizing three local students for their original works.
Sophie Lumkowski earned first place with “The Mob in Moonlight,” while Norah Myer claimed both second-place positions
Hatred, It’s installed within us.
Hate this, hate that,
But don’t bother to wonder why.
Don’t take a step back, don’t worry, Just don’t think.
Fill your minds with noise, Pointless drivel.
Ignore what you really feel.
Let go of your conscience, your morals, Your love.
Let your life be a service to nothing, Means to no end.
Let them control you, By fear, by hope, by desire. Tell yourself you’re doing something good. They pretend to give you purpose,
A uni ed cause.
Oh, doesn’t it feel so good to belong, To hate something together.
Don’t bother to wonder if hate is right. Just revel in the fact that it has given you purpose, Or so it seems.
Don’t wonder if belonging is worth this much, Don’t ponder if the cause is right. It doesn’t matter after all,
You just don’t want to think.
Let yourself be taken in by the honor of it all, The bravado, The surface value. Focus on the now, The raw emotions, the quenching violence,
with “488” and “Friend Wishes.” Acey Lee Justice took third place with “Mike, The Creek Fish.”
The contest was open to youths in grades 6-12 who submitted original poems in any poetic form. Each winner received a $25 gift card to McIntyre’s Books in Pittsboro, with prizes sponsored by the Friends of the Chatham Community Library.
Not about daylight repercussions, Just about the mob in moonlight.
Always lie,
To yourself, to those around you.
Tell yourself that curiosity is underrated, That morals are outdated, That thinking is too hard.
Because God forbid what would happen if you did think?
If you stopped for just a moment, Paused the ceaseless rat race,
To see the beauty around you,
To look at a ower, awe at a sunset,
But you don’t and you can’t. It would be too di cult to stop now.
You’ve been given something to believe in,
Something to ll the hole in your heart,
Second Place | Friend Wishes and 488 by Norah Myer
Dear you, I wish to go back in time,
Though not enough that time would hurt
To paint my already painted shirt
With a sense of solidarity and dirt
Though it already does hurt.
There is no evil among me that they see
Amok you, yet I feel you mock me
In a way that nobody else sprung onto me
Those that are dead anyhow, or alive enough to see me
Alive enough to be me,
I am alive enough to be me, Are you alive enough to see me?
I see you, underneath our wilted tree
Though I wish to water it
Would you let me?
Please?
Though is there worth in attempting to plead?
If you said yes, it’s still diseased
But I won’t know, as all I do is say:
Content Warning: Elements around school shooting
I fear for my life, Everyday I wake up Sit up, get up, pick up, Stick up, sick up, fret up, Afraid of, Myself
And everyone else
Except you Though I know you’re afraid, as well.
Rubbing my eyes, I will pick at the skin, When I sit, Sink running, Spitting, shower, singing, Boiling, alone and twisting, O the roof- are you listening?
And I hate the world, I have to admit it
I’d like to tame it, Eat it, and shame it, Shake it and blame it, Maim it, and take it, Down on its knees, Where they all will learn how to plead, Plead to me.
I’ve seen this before, Done once before, And it’s unfair how I’ve not done it before
It’s unfair how they’ve all done it before,
Third
“please” To you, at least Though no, not you at least You at most Them, at least.
Foreclosing, Am I composing the foreclosing that is closing? Proposing the idea of enclosing?
Putting the purpose in supposing communication? Supposed communication, Supposed to be communication, Supposed to be our communication, Our destination and dedication Thrown up reevaluation Ambidextrous desperation The worldly winding creation That looms before your devastation Your world ending while in salvation My world beginning while in predation And the decision follows decision, and decision, and decision, Is this what I have to live in?
It’s unfair how my life seems to come before
It’s unfair how I’ll never grow up once more
It’s unfair mom won’t cry some more
It’s unfair that I have to do this anymore
But it’s fair they have to say “no more”, Because they all didn’t just go and die before.
Idolization, justice, gestation
My human race is revelation
I’ll walk the halls and preach my nation, Holding their breath in anticipation, For, what is understanding without cooperation?
And I will paper over the cracks, Trust me, I’ll bring springtime and April so fast
I’ll x you, let me bring you a cast I’ll bandage you up, but, Everything hurt me, so isn’t it fair to hurt you back?
Wait- don’t answer that.
Have you felt safe? I nally felt safe when I saw that safe, Hinges whispering as I plunged my hand in Fingers twisting around the barrel and sanding, Smelling the lead sticks and branding, So safe, my own understanding.
If I live on, will you live in?
Answer me, I’m all you got for living.
I nd myself to die of thirst, You dried up with no hearse
And when you ood back in again and burst, I drown feet rst to the bottom, And expect the best-worst.
But I want to see you, No matter the pain Care coerced me to be with you, To sing for you, to listen as you silently sing Well-versed, of course
And I will always be immersed, But you’ve walked backwards with sudden force, And listen as I say: When you reach the edge of the Earth, It is your choice to jump o rst.
My love for you carries still, As I look at the monarch, Rest upon my windowsill
Let me hide inside your hell, Prison, pearly blinding shell They all fell down so damn well And your hands I rmly, tightly, held Against my chest, as I kneel Slaughtering, Achielle’s heel Apostles, the pigs, they squeal Thumb, my triggered feel I’m sorry, this is truly real You shouldn’t have come here, To this whole ordeal.
And isn’t it ironic?
Bionic, so unwanted To prove to you That I wanted to stop it, I had to: explain myself and turn out my pockets, To understand what it means to be wanted, To want myself and also be wanted, To rest myself and look truly upon it, To gain control when I sometimes don’t want it, To gain control when I do really want it, To have control when I don’t e ng got it, To have control after I got it, To be control, since it’s what you should’ve wanted, To wake up and see the sun how I wanted, To wake up and be the son that she wanted To go here and hold the re like I wanted
Place | Mike, The Creek Fish by Acey Lee Justice
Something to conform to, A way to belong, And you will stop at nothing to please your master.
You will banish thought, Care, Hope, Love.
For something that satis es your need to ght, Belong, Control, Kill.
Just don’t ever stop to think, to really feel.
You’re too invested in your lies, You’re buried in them.
And you will just keep digging. Because you cannot stop now.
I wish life would cycle simply for me as well
When I simply die, I know that I tried to be healthy and well
Not that I want to die as well, But before wishing any world farewell, And ringing God’s doorbell, Know that I’m always hoping for you as well
That when you die, Yes, we will die, We all will, As life does go on without us as well, But that when you die, That it will not be in your will Could you promise me still? Maybe not, Oh well I hope to see you someday still Before then maybe, Hopefully, Oh well That’s all I can say now, So, goodbye, Hope you’re well.
So that we all die martyrs in the world that you bought in Please don’t bury me beside winter’s co n.
Rabbits scattered at the chime of the bell, Morning glory, my hand In it the arrow I felt Litigant, I, the little lamb, And in me, a bleat, A boom I held And my heart yelped
The ringing, pulsing, bloody welt, Would this have happened if you’d helped?
And magistrate, I, the huntsman, The gunman, The tamed man, The dead man, The now changed man, Any apology, hate, would it land? You don’t know what I had to withstand My tears and blood have been banned And those that can’t stand, Matter to you more than I am?
“Why?” A question I can’t say, “Die?” A lie that’ll reach a decade, “Goodbye?” Perhaps “I’m not sure how this can go away.”
First Place | The Mob in Moonlight by Sophie Lumkowski
CHATHAM SPORTS
Local NFL Flag league crowns another set of champions
The late spring season in Chatham County wrapped up on May 31
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
MORE OF THE GRAND, shiny NFL Flag championship rings were earned on May 31.
Flag Football Elite, Chatham County’s NFL Flag league run by former NFL veteran Cedric Peerman and his wife, Hagar, determined another set of champions for its late spring season. After hard-fought battles at Northwood High School, the Commanders won the 8U championship, the 49ers won the 10U title and the Patriots took the 14U crown.
Flag Football Elite also crowned its rst Durham champions, which played the late spring season and championship games at Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill. The Seahawks took the 8U title, the Bengals won the 10U championship and the Titans took home the 14U crown.
The late spring season ran like the early spring season with practices and games played on Saturdays over the course of six weeks. During the season, players develop football skills and knowledge of the game. The kids also learn important life lessons, such as teamwork,
“Our hope is to just grow the game of football through the game of ag football here in Chatham County and throughout the surrounding community.”
Cedric Peerman
sportsmanship and how to handle success and failure.
“Our hope is to just grow the game of football through the game of ag football here in Chatham County and throughout the surrounding community,” Cedric Peerman said before the league launched in January. “We see a need for another outlet for the youth in our community.”
The league also encourages girls to sign up, especially with the growing popularity of girls’ ag football around the country. As the league is coed for now, Peerman also said in January that he envisions having an all-girls league someday. Registration for the summer seasons in Chatham County and Durham are open now and will close on July 2. The season will run from July 12 to Aug. 16. Northwood will once again host the Chatham practices and games, and Durham
will return to Trinity School.
The registration fee is $165. Parents are also welcome to register for coach and volunteer positions.
For families that have planned vacations or other commitments during the summer, the league o ers partial week participation and adjusted registration costs.
After the summer season, Flag Football Elite will host two more seasons for both Chatham County and Durham in 2025. Registration for the fall season, which will run from Sept. 13 to Oct. 18, is also open and will close on Sept. 3. Athletes can sign up for the winter season, which will run from Nov. 8 to Dec. 13, starting Oct. 1. Locations for the Durham fall and winter seasons are still to be determined due to renovations at Trinity School.
In addition to providing competitive and learning environments on the eld, the league announced the Faith & Football Series, a new optional summer program for its players.
With a focus on “developing the whole athlete through the lens of faith and sports,” Peerman will lead discussions on personal and religious growth with guest appearances from college and pro athletes.
The meetings will be held at Northwood High School from 5:30-6:30 p.m. and are open to athletes aged 7 and up and their parents.
The boys earned plenty of postseason recognition in 2025
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
THE NORTH Carolina Lacrosse Coaches Association released its all-state and all-region teams last week.
After a memorable season of lacrosse with teams reaching record wins and individuals putting on unforgettable performances, numerous local athletes earned post season honors. Chatham County boys were recognized in the 1A/2A/3A classi cation for all-state, while the girls’ all- state teams encompassed all classi cations. The boys were listed in the 1A/2A/3A East division for all-region, and the girls’ all-region teams for the East division also included all classi cations.
Here are Chatham County’s all-state and all-region lacrosse players from this spring.
Cameron Exley (Seaforth, rst team all-state, rst team all-region)
Senior attack Cameron Exley was an elite o ensive threat during Seaforth’s historic season. Exley led the team with a career-high 77 goals and dished out a career-high 46 assists in the spring. He had two games with double digit points and scored at least two goals in all but three of the Hawks’ 22 games.
Ivan Grimes (Seaforth, second team all-state, second team all-region)
Junior attack Ivan Grimes was another key piece to Seaforth’s explosive o ense, leading the team in assists (50) and points (126). Grimes scored a career-high 76 goals, besting his 2024 total of 41 in two more games played. He scored in all but the Hawks’ very last game against Orange in the playo s.
Local baseball players earn all-region
Players from Chatham Central and Chatham Charter make the Region 5 list
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
THE NORTH Carolina Baseball Coaches Association released its all-region teams for the 2024-25 season last week. Players from Chatham Central and Chatham Charter earned all-region recognition for Region 5. Here are the local players that received post season honors and a recap of their respective seasons.
Zane Overman (Chatham Central)
Senior pitcher and third baseman Zane Overman earned
all-region honors after a solid season both at the plate and on the mound. Overman led the Bears with a .418 batting average and a .529 on-base percentage. He also recorded team highs of 23 hits and eight doubles. On the mound, Overman threw 28 strikeouts and walked 24 batters in 25 innings. One of his best performances of the season came in a 12-5 win over North Moore on April 22 in which he went 2 for 3 and notched four RBIs. Overman hit a home run in a 5-1 win over Chatham Home School on May 1.
Benjamin Wilson (Chatham Central)
Senior in elder Benjamin Wilson had the best hitting season of his high school career, batting .240 and recording an on-base percentage of .424. He
PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Seaforth’s Ivan Grimes (5) takes a shot on goal while teammate Cameron Exley (32) looks on. Both players were named to the all-region and all-state lacrosse teams.
COURTESY FLAG FOOTBALL ELITE
The Patriots take a photo with their rings after winning the Chatham County league’s 14U title on May 31.
Grayson Cox
Northwood,
boys’ lacrosse
Northwood’s Grayson Cox earns athlete of the week honors for the week of June 9.
Cox, a rising senior, was named to the North Carolina Lacrosse Coaches Association’s second all-state team for the 1A/2A/3A classi cation, and he rst team 1A/2A/3A East all-region honors.
He wore many hats for the Chargers in the spring, leading the team in goals (65), ground balls (72) and assists (35). Cox also earned Central/Mid-Carolina conference all-conference honors this season.
O ensive woes hurt Chatham Post 305 in 6-2 loss to Garner
Post 305 struggled to bring runners home in the loss
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
IN A ROUGH NIGHT at the plate, Chatham Post 305 recorded one hit in the last four innings on its way to a 6-2 road loss to Garner Nationals on June 3.
Garner’s Brady Suber led all batters in the game with two RBIs. His only hit, in the bottom of the sixth inning, sent in an insurance run and Garner’s nal score of the night.
The Nationals also struggled at the plate, nishing with three hits. But despite losing the hitting battle 4-3, Garner utilized smart, aggressive baserunning to get runners home.
After back-to-back singles by Lyric Pittman and Ayden Fogg in the bottom of the rst inning, Pittman and Fogg stole third and second, respectively, during Hansel Diaz’s at-bat. Pittman ran in Garner’s rst score on a wild pitch, which also sent Fogg to third. And while Diaz hit himself out on a sacri ce y, Fogg cashed in on the Nationals’ second run for a 2-0 lead.
Diaz also bene ted from being a base bandit in the bottom of the third inning. He stole second base and advanced to third on a Chatham error before Brody Hines knocked him home on a sacri ce y for a 4-2 lead.
For Chatham, which never lead in the game, getting on base was also a struggle, but unlike Garner, Post 305 couldn’t score its runners. Chatham left four runners on base, including three in the rst three innings.
Down 3-0 in the top of the third inning, a single from Joshua Johnson and back-to-back doubles from Daniel White and Colin Dorney brought Post 305 within one run. The next two batters struck out, and Brayden Brewer was intentionally walked. But with a chance to load the bases or send in the game-tying run, Ian McMillan ied out to right center, leaving the two runners stranded.
Chatham recorded one more hit after that play, nishing the game with three more 1-2 -3 innings.
Garner pitcher Elliott Essic earned the win with four strikeouts, four walks, three hits and two earned runs in three innings. Evans pitched
two innings for Garner and struck out ve batters. Including two other pitchers, Garner’s pitching sta combined for 13 strikeouts on the night. Anthony Lopossay pitched four innings for Chatham, striking out three batters, walking four and allowing two hits.
The loss dropped Chatham to 2-5 on the season as Post 305 has lost four of its last ve games.
After a solid start to the season at the plate, batting has turned into an issue for Chatham as its registered less than ve hits in two straight games.
Notching hits and getting on base was a huge di erence in the rst time Chatham and Garner met on May 21.
Post 305 won the hitting battle 6-4, earned three more walks and took three more total bases than Garner on its way to an 8-0 win. Since then, Chatham has scored more than ve runs only once and has yet to win this season when an opponent scores more than one run.
After a nearly two-week-long break, Post 305 will be back in action against Randolph County at McCrary Park in Asheboro on Monday at 7 p.m.
Chatham’s Daniel White gets ready to take a swing in an American Legion game in the 2025 season.
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
CHATHAM AMERICAN LEGION BASEBALL / FACEBOOK
Powell a rst-rounder in latest NBA mock drafts
The former Northwood star will nd an NBA home this month
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
IN TWO WEEKS, Chatham County basketball fans will nd out what’s next for their homegrown basketball star Drake Powell.
The 2025 NBA Draft will run from June 25-26 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, and will air on ESPN at 8 p.m. both days. Powell, the former Northwood forward, has a chance to become the rst alum of a Chatham County high school to play in the NBA.
After Powell shined at the NBA Draft Combine in May, his name has been all over mock drafts as analysts predict landing spots for the newest draft class.
In its mock draft posted by its Draft Digest Sta on Monday, Sports Illustrated predicted Powell to land with the Washington Wizards with the 18th overall pick. The Wizards, who will have three picks (two rsts and a
Joseph Greto (Seaforth, second team all-state, second team all-region)
Junior defender Joseph Greto put on a stellar season for the Hawks, recording 57 ground balls and 21 takeaways in 19 games. He had four games with three takeaways and scored three goals.
James Flannagan (Northwood, second team all-state, second team all-region)
Junior goalkeeper James Flannagan stepped up huge for Northwood, recording a career-high 230 saves. He stopped at least 10 goal attempts in 13 games, including a 20-save performance against Southern Alamance on March 14.
Grayson Cox (Northwood, second team all-state, rst team all-region)
Junior mid elder Grayson Cox did a little bit of everything for Northwood, leading the team with 65 goals, 72 ground balls and 35 assists this spring. He made a huge jump in his numbers from last season, when he recorded 35 goals and 47 ground balls in the same number of games played (21).
Layne Armstrong (Seaforth, second team all-region)
Senior mid elder and faceo specialist Layne Armstrong was often the start of Seaforth’s dangerous o ensive possessions. He won a career-high 231 faceo s
second), nished last in the East with a 18-64 record this past season and will look to continue rebuilding with young talent. Yahoo Sports’ mock draft by NBA Senior Analyst Kevin O’Connor on May 30 had Pow-
ell going even higher. O’Connor has Powell being picked by the Chicago Bulls with the 12th pick. According to O’Connor, Powell worked out for the Bulls and has had shooting success in his predraft workouts. Chicago
(.666 faceo percentage) and led the team with 133 ground balls. Armstrong had three games with double-digit ground ball totals.
George Cole (Seaforth, third team all-region)
Junior defender George Cole made key contributions to Seaforth’s success, recording 30 ground balls and 14 takeaways in 20 games.
Caleb Stevenson (Northwood, all-region honorable mention)
Sophomore defender Caleb Stevenson had a solid season for the Chargers, notching 46 ground balls in 21 games.
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.
Drake Powell drives against Alabama’s Grant Nelson in UNC’s matchup with the Crimson Tide on Dec. 4.
went 39-43 this season and made the play-in tournament as the 10th seed in the East. If Powell lands there, he’ll possibly get to play with fellow Tar Heel Coby White and help the Bulls try to get over the hump.
Seaforth’s Cameron Exley runs with the ball against Orange on April 15.
Exley earned rst team all-state honors this spring.
Local athletes that earned all-state selections
Natalie Boecke (Seaforth, allregion honorable mention)
Sophomore mid elder Natalie Boecke was an all-around weapon for Seaforth this spring, leading the team in goals (95), assists (20), ground balls (83) and caused turnovers (33). She also controlled 145 draws while leading the Hawks on a historic season.
e nal 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 ve $100 Visa gi cards. Scan the QR code or visit NCBrightIdeas.com for more information or to apply!
Bleacher Report’s June 3 mock draft by Jonathan Wasserman also has Powell staying on the East Coast. Wasserman predicts Powell will go to the Brooklyn Nets with the 27th pick. The Nets, who have ve picks (including four rst-rounders), are another team looking to climb back into relevancy with young talent. Barring any changes through trades or free agency, Powell would possibly play with two former Tar Heels in Cam Johnson and Day’Ron Sharpe.
Posted right after the combine on May 19, ESPN’s mock draft by Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo has Powell going west and landing with the Minnesota Timberwolves with the 31st pick (second round). Although a later selection, it’ll give Powell a chance to play for a highly competitive team right away as the Timberwolves, led by star guard Anthony Edwards, have made back-to-back Western Conference nal appearances.
Whether it’s early in the rst round or early in the second round, analysts agree Powell will make his “ultimate goal” come true later this month.
all-region honors for Region 5.
notched 12 hits, 11 runs and seven RBIs. On the mound, Wilson nished the season with a 5-6 record. In 16 appearances, he recorded a 5.25 ERA with 36 strikeouts and 13 walks.
Reid Albright (Chatham Central)
Senior utility player Reid
Albright led the Bears in stolen bases (seven), runs (13) and RBIs (12) in his only season of baseball. He nished with the team’s second-best batting average (.418) and 18 hits, batting at least .500 in seven games this season. Albright’s hitting and baserunning played a huge part in Chatham Central’s wins as the Bears went 5-1 when he stole a base. Against 4A opponent Green Level on April 3, Albright went 2 for 4 at the plate and drove in three RBIs to lead the Bears to the 5-4 win.
Zach Cartrette (Chatham Charter)
of the playo s. At the plate, Cartrette batted .275 average with 22 hits, 15 runs and 19 RBIs.
Luke Johnson (Chatham Charter)
Senior Luke Johnson was a reliable hitter for the Knights this season, batting .403. He notched 31 hits, 21 runs and 16 RBIs while achieving an on-base percentage of .478. Johnson also made 13 appearances as a pitcher, striking out 38 batters and walking 24.
local players make allregion team
Tyner Williams (Chatham Charter)
Junior Tyner Williams was one of the Knights’ strongest hitters this year. Williams achieved a .416 batting average (tied for rst on the team), recording a hit in 16 straight games through the end of the season. He nished the year with 32 hits, 22 RBIs a team-high 22 runs and a .478 on-base percentage.
Jace Young (Chatham Charter)
Senior pitcher Zach Cartrette had a stellar season on the mound. He nished with an 8-3 record, striking out 97 batters, walking 13 and notching a 1.33 ERA in 14 appearances. Cartrette had two games with double-digit strikeouts, and he didn’t allow a run in the rst two rounds
Junior Jace Young tied with Williams for a team-high .416 batting average, and he led the Knights in hits (32), RBIs (25), slugging percentage (.584), and doubles (11). As the catcher, Young, recorded 208 put outs with a .995 elding percentage.
BASEBALL from page B1
LACROSSE from page B1
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Chatham Central’s Reid Albright follows through on his swing against Northwood on April 17. Albright earned
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Denny Hamlin celebrates his victory with a burnout after taking Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway.
Hamlin wins at Michigan for his 3rd Cup Series victory of season
By Larry Lage The Associated Press
BROOKLYN, Mich. — Den-
ny Hamlin is pulling o quite a juggling act.
Hamlin outlasted the competition at Michigan International Speedway for his third NASCAR Cup Series victory of the season and 57th of his career, juggling his roles as a driver, expectant father and co-owner of a racing team that’s suing NASCAR.
“The tackle box is full,” Hamlin said Sunday. “There’s all kinds of stu going on.”
Hamlin, in the No. 11 Toyota, went low to pass William Byron on the 197th of 200 laps and pulled away from the pack to win by more than a second over Chris Buescher.
“Just worked over the guys one by one, giving them di erent looks,” he said.
Ty Gibbs nished third, matching a season best, followed by Bubba Wallace and Kyle Larson.
The 44-year-old Hamlin was prepared to leave his team to join his ancée, Jordan Fish, who is due to give birth to their third child, a boy. If she was in labor by Lap 50 or sooner at Michigan, he was prepared to leave the track.
Hamlin said he would skip next week’s race in Mexico City if necessary to witness the birth.
He drives for Joe Gibbs Racing, which hadn’t won at Michigan in a decade.
“I think it’s the most underrated track that we go to,” said Hamlin, who has won three times on the 2-mile oval.
Hamlin became JGR’s winningest driver, surpassing Kyle Busch’s 56 victories, and the 10th driver in Cup Series history to win after his 700th start.
“It feels good because I’m going to hate it when I’m not at the level I’m at now,” he said. “I will certainly retire very quicky after that.”
Hamlin’s team set him up
with enough fuel to win while many drivers, including Byron, ran out of gas late in the race.
“It really stings,” said Byron, the points leader, who was a season-worst 28th. “We just burned more (fuel) and not able to do much about that.”
Hamlin, meanwhile, wasn’t on empty until his celebratory burnout was cut short.
Pole-sitter Chase Briscoe was out front until Byron passed him on Lap 12. Buescher pulled ahead on Lap 36 and stayed up front to win his rst stage this season.
Ryan Blaney and Chase Elliott took turns with the lead before a crash involving Alex Bowman brought out the red ag on Lap 67. Byron took the lead again af-
ter a restart on Lap 78 as part of his strong start and surged to the front again to win the second stage.
Carson Hocevar took the lead on Lap 152 and was informed soon thereafter that he didn’t have enough fuel to nish, but that became moot because a at tire forced him into the pits with 18 laps to go.
Rough times for Bowman Bowman hit a wall with the front end of his No. 48 Chevrolet as part of a multicar crash in his latest setback.
“That hurt a lot,” he said after passing a medical evaluation. “That was probably top of the board on hits I’ve taken.” Bowman, who drives for Hendrick Motorsports, came to Michigan 12th in points and will leave lower in the standings. He has nished 27th or worse in seven of his last nine starts and didn’t nish for a third time during the tough stretch.
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
US Open 25: DeChambeau’s sand save an all-time memory at golf’s most brutal major
Last year’s key shot at Pinehurst is still fresh in the winner’s mind
By Eddie Pells
The Associated Press
IT ONLY FEELS right that the reigning titleholder at the golf championship that, at least in theory, anyone can win is the player who leans into the role of the sport’s most relatable everyman, Bryson DeChambeau.
And it only feels right that at the U.S. Open — a tournament built to humble and punish the best in the game as much as celebrate them — DeChambeau earned his title by hitting a shot that virtually no man can hit.
A plaque now sits outside the bunker on the 18th hole at Pinehurst No. 2, enshrining the spot where DeChambeau placed his
name in the history books with what he called “the shot of my life” — a 55-yard blast from the sand to 4 feet with the trophy hanging in the balance on Sunday at last year’s Open.
Defense of the title begins Thursday at Oakmont, getting ready to host its record 10th U.S. Open and a course with a longtime reputation for being as dicult as they come.
What would golf’s everyman say to fans who someday might encounter their own version of the 50-yard bunker shot, widely recognized as one of the most di cult in the game, even under normal circumstances?
“The best piece of advice I give them is just practice in weird, unique situations for maybe an hour a week, 20 minutes, whatever,” DeChambeau said. “But try to be di erent and don’t just hit the same stock shot every time.”
“Try to be di erent and don’t just hit the same stock shot every time.”
Bryson DeChambeau
A history-making shot in a tournament that does not produce them
All the major championships have their own personalities.
America’s golf championship has a reputation for forcing the best players to su er like the rest of us.
As a result, the list of “greatest shots of all time” at the U.S. Open is a short one.
“When he took this big swing, the amount of con dence that you have to have to hit it that close to the golf ball and not
accidentally catch too much ball and send it on top of the clubhouse, it’s a very ne line,” said NBC golf analyst Smylie Kaufman, whose biggest brush with pressure came when he played in the nal group Sunday at the 2016 Masters.
“They work every single day, every week at these facets of the game in hopes they will have an opportunity to try it,” said Notah Begay, also of NBC. “I think one of the most overlooked things about professional golf is all the calculation that happens on the y in evaluating certain shots, which way the grass is lying, where the ball’s going to land, and on top of all the normal things.”
Though Scottie Sche er is playing the best right now and Rory McIlroy recently won the Masters to complete the career Grand Slam, DeCham-
Gau handles bad memories, top-ranked Sabalenka to earn rst French Open title
The 21-year-old became the rst American woman to win in Roland Garros since 2015
By Jerome Pugmire and Samuel Petrequin
The Associated Press
PARIS — Drawing on the painful memory of her defeat three years ago in the French Open nal gave Coco Gau just the motivation she needed to win the clay-court major for the rst time.
The 21-year-old American defeated top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka 6-7 (5), 6-2, 6-4 on Saturday for her second Grand Slam title, two years after winning the U.S. Open.
“I think (the U.S. Open victory) was more emotional, but this one was harder,” said Gau , who managed to handle the elements and the momentum swings better than Sabalenka. “I knew it was going to be about will power and mental (strength).”
The victory put to rest the bad memories of her 2022 French Open nal loss to Iga Swiatek when, as an 18-yearold, Gau felt overwhelmed
even before stepping onto Court Philippe-Chatrier.
“It was a tough time, I was doubting myself,” Gau recalled. “I was crying before the
match and so nervous, (I) literally couldn’t breathe and stu .” Gau said that the lopsided loss rocked her con dence to such an extent that she was left “in a dark place” and feared she was not cut out for winning major titles.
“I thought if I can’t handle this, how am I going to handle it again?” she said.
She handled it just ne on Saturday.
The second-ranked Gau made fewer mistakes and kept her emotions in check to get the better of Sabalenka again at major nal, having come from a set down to beat the Belarusian in the 2023 U.S. Open nal.
Gau raised the winners’ trophy aloft, then kissed it several times. She held her hand over her heart when the U.S. national anthem played.
“This one is heavy,” Gau said. “It feels great to lift it.”
She is the rst American woman to win at Roland-Garros since Serena Williams in 2015. It was the rst No. 1 vs.
beau may capture the attention of fans more than anyone.
He is making golf feel like everyman’s sport, posting videos in which he makes a holein- one with a wedge shot over his house, plays with o -therack clubs to see how theystack up and tries to beat a scratch golfer while playing left-handed.
All of it sounds nutty, but it all goes back to that piece of advice he o ered when asked how to replicate the improbable under impossible circumstances.
“Once you get a stock shot down and you’re comfortable with it, go have some fun,” DeChambeau said. “Do a chipping contest with your amateur friends and throw it in the bunker from 50 yards, or throw it in a bush and see if you can get out. Stu to that extent has suited my game very well.”
No. 2 nal in Paris since 2013, when Williams defeated Maria Sharapova, and just the second in the last 30 years.
One thing Gau could not manage — yet — was a victory speech in French.
“I completely tanked on that,” she said, adding that she will try in the future. “I don’t think I could do a whole speech but maybe a good something to say to the French crowd.”
Sabalenka praised Gau for being a “ ghter” and said she deserved the win but added that the windy conditions made for an error-strewn contest.
“This will hurt so much,” Sabalenka said. “Coco, congrats, in the tough conditions you were a better player than me.”
Sabalenka was often frustrated, remonstrating and shouting at herself and frequently turning around to look at her team with an exasperated look on her face. She put her head on her hands a couple of times, and at one point raised her shoulders as if to say “What’s going on?”
It was a rare highlight on a day when swirling wind troubled both players with the roof open.
“It was tough to plant your feet, the ball was moving so much,” Gau said. “It was not a day for great tennis, honestly.”
LINDSEY WASSON / AP PHOTO
Coco Gau celebrates after winning the nal match of the French Open at Roland-Garros against Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus.
MOVIE REVIEW
‘Final Destination: Bloodlines’
The sixth installment of the franchise is set in the 1960s
By Bob Garver The Sun
IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE that we went over a decade without a new “Final Destination” movie. Fans love this series and its “slasher-movie-without-a-slasher” gimmick. The “killer” here is the concept of Death itself, which takes the form of unlikely, elaborate, horri c accidents. This sixth installment features arguably the best opening kill sequence of the entire franchise. Set in the 1960s, apparent protagonist Iris (Brec Bassinger) visits a rooftop restaurant at the top of a hastily built tower. The tower collapses and everyone is killed, including Iris, but the scene turns out to be a dream-like vision by Iris’ granddaughter Stefani (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) in the modern day. But wait, if Iris was killed in the tower collapse, how did
she live long enough to have a family? Things aren’t adding up, even by “Final Destination” standards.
We eventually learn that Stefani’s whole family is marked
for death, it’s just taken Death a few decades to get around to them. Cue the convoluted, yet inventive, sequences of family members getting picked o in ways that only the sickest minds in horror can dream up. Though we know most of the characters are toast, they’re more likeable than usual thanks to their strong familial bond. That, and a sincere farewell appearance by the late Tony Todd, make “Bloodlines” the most heartfelt of the “Final Destination” movies. I can’t say it’s the tightest entry, as I think it leaves too much potential unful lled at the end, but until the last 10 minutes or so, I was ready to call this my favorite installment in the series. As it is, it takes a backseat to the fth movie, but it’s in a respectable second place.
Grade: B-
“Final Destination: Bloodlines” is rated R for strong violent/ grisly accidents, and language. Its running time is 110 minutes.
In ‘The Listeners,’ Maggie Stiefvater approaches WWII with distinct voice
The well-researched book was inspired by real people and places
By Rachel S. Hunt The Associated Press
MAGGIE STIEFVATER has brought her magical prose with her to her rst adult novel.
“The Listeners” takes place at a luxury hotel in West Virginia as World War II begins. In need of a place to store their foreign nationals — i.e. Axis diplomats and their families — the U.S. government takes over the Avallon Hotel, forcing its manager and her sta to scramble to balance hospitality and hedonism.
June Porter Hudson, the hotel’s general manager, is a self-assured woman, wholeheartedly devoted to the Avallon Hotel at the cost of her identity. Tucker Minnick is a tough but emotionally wounded FBI agent, responsible for diplomatically monitoring his hostages and any accomplices. When June and Tucker meet, their logistical tug-of-war serves as mutual annoyance, entertainment and self-discovery.
Humanizing and detail-oriented, “The Listeners” is a story about both people management and self-regulation. It’s a unique, domestic take on World
VIKING VIA AP
“The Listeners” was written by Maggie Stiefvater, a New York Times bestselling author of young adult novels. BOOK REVIEW
War II that showcases the encroaching nature of war as men are drafted, families are torn apart and rations are enforced. At the same time, the novel shows how class divide fosters privilege — and ignorance — in the rich, especially during dark times.
When the reality of the conict nally hits the hotel, both the reader and the narrators have no choice but to reckon with the gray area that ex-
ists during wartime: Enemies can be likable; friends can be unsavory.
In her afterword, Stiefvater revealed that “The Listeners” was inspired by real people, events and attitudes, which made the novel that much more impressive. It was well-researched and tactful, handling dark issues with sensitivity and embedding colorful detail onto each page.
The many threads opened at the beginning of the book in the form of letters, hotel room orders, oddly speci c details and mismatched characters begged the question, “Will this come together?”
By the third half of the novel, the con ict was waiting to bubble over.
But character development came full circle, loose plot threads tied up and previous hints were unveiled as June and Tucker formed a quaint alliance, wrestling to protect the most vulnerable at the Avallon. The result of their e orts was unexpected yet undeniably satisfying.
“The Listeners” could’ve been more grounded at times, the supernatural properties of the mountain sweet water distracting from the novel’s historical ction genre. Altogether, it lived up to the literary nesse Stiefvater has established in her previous work.
COURTESY IMDB
“Final Destination: Bloodlines” stars Brec Bassinger and Kaitlyn Santa Juana.
2nd
this week in history
Captain Cook nds Great Barrier Reef, escape from Alcatraz, Medgar Evers killed
JUNE 12
1942: Anne Frank, a German-born Jewish girl living in Amsterdam, received a diary for her 13th birthday, less than a month before she and her family went into hiding from the Nazis.
1963: Civil rights leader Medgar Evers, 37, was shot and killed outside his home in Jackson, Mississippi. 1964: Eight South African anti-apartheid activists, including Nelson Mandela, were sentenced to life in prison for acts of sabotage against the apartheid regime.
1994: Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman were killed outside Simpson’s Los Angeles home.
JUNE 13
1942: During World War II, a four-man Nazi sabotage team arrived by submarine at Long Island, New York, three days before a second four-man team landed in Florida.
1966: The Supreme Court ruled in Miranda v. Arizona that criminal suspects must be informed of their constitutional
rights to remain silent and consult with an attorney.
1971: The New York Times began publishing excerpts of the Pentagon Papers, a top-secret study of America’s involvement in Vietnam since 1945, leaked by military analyst Daniel Ellsberg.
JUNE 14
1775: The Continental Army, forerunner of the United States Army, was created by the Second Continental Congress.
1777: The Second Continental Congress approved the design of the rst “stars and stripes” American ag.
1940: German troops entered Paris during World War II; on the same day, the Nazis transported their rst prisoners to the Auschwitz concentration camp in German-occupied Poland.
JUNE 15
1215: England’s King John placed his seal on Magna Carta (“the Great Charter”), which curtailed the absolute power of the monarchy.
1775: The Second Continental Congress voted unanimously to appoint George Washington head of the Continental Army.
1934: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the
AP PHOTO
Civil rights leader and NAACP eld secretary Medgar Evers was shot and killed outside his home in Jackson, Mississippi, on June 12, 1963.
most-visited national park in the United States, was established by Congress.
JUNE 16
1858: Abraham Lincoln, accepting the Illinois Republican nomination for U.S. Senate, declared, “A house divided against itself cannot stand,” calling for the resolution of the slavery issue.
1903: The Ford Motor Co. was incorporated in Detroit. 1963: Soviet cosmonaut Val-
entina Tereshkova, 26, became the rst woman in space, orbiting Earth 48 times over 71 hours aboard Vostok 6.
JUNE 17
1885: The disassembled Statue of Liberty arrived in New York Harbor in 214 crates aboard the French frigate Isère.
1930: President Herbert Hoover signed the Smoot-Hawley Tari Act, raising U.S. tari s to historic levels and prompting foreign retaliation.
1994: O.J. Simpson was arrested and charged with murder in the deaths of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman after a slow-speed police chase on Southern California freeways.
JUNE 18
1812: The War of 1812 began as Congress approved, and President James Madison signed, a declaration of war against Britain.
1815: Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated at the Battle of Waterloo as British and Prussian troops overcame the French Imperial Army in Belgium.
1983: Astronaut Sally Ride became the rst American woman in space, launching aboard the space shuttle Challenger on a six-day mission.
Marc Maron to end ‘WTF’ podcast after 15 years
Interviews ranged from comics and musicians to former President Barack Obama
By Andrew Dalton
The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES — Com-
ic and actor Marc Maron announced that he’s ending his popular and in uential podcast “WTF with Marc Maron” after nearly 16 years.
Maron said on a newly released episode that the last of the nearly 2,000 episodes he has hosted will be released later this year.
“Sixteen years we’ve been doing this, and we’ve decided that we had a great run,” Maron said. “Now, basically, it’s time, folks. It’s time. ‘WTF’ is coming to an end. It’s our decision. We’ll have our nal episode sometime in the fall.”
The 61-year-old Maron said he and producing partner Brendan McDonald are “tired” and “burnt out” but “utterly satis ed with the work we’ve done.”
Maron was a veteran stand-up comic who had dabbled in radio when he started the show in 2009, at a time when stand-ups were trying out
the form in big numbers, and many listeners still downloaded episodes onto iPods.
The show early on was often about Maron talking through his beefs with fellow comedians, but it soon stood out and became a widely heard and medium-de ning show with its thoughtful, probing longform interviews of cultural gures.
The podcast became a key stop on press tours for authors, actors and musicians, and it reached a peak when then- President
solutions
“Sixteen years we’ve been doing this, and we’ve decided that we had a great run. Now, basically, it’s time, folks. It’s time.”
Marc Maron
for an episode in 2015.
Marc Maron arrives at the premiere of “Stick” this year in Los Angeles.
Maron used a simple interview style to get guests to share stories they’d rarely told elsewhere. Seeking to know the biggest in uences on their lives and careers, Maron would ask, “Who are your guys?”
Other memorable episodes include a 2010 personal and emotional interview with Robin Williams that was reposted and widely listened to after Williams’ death in 2014.
The episode earned a place in the National Recording Regis-
try at the Library of Congress.
Maron kept doing standup specials and expanded his acting career while the show aired, including a three-season run on the Net ix series “GLOW.”
The show’s guitar-rock theme song opened with a clip of Maron shouting, “Lock the gates!” in his role as a promoter in the lm “Almost Famous.”
The solo episode openings became a confessional space for Maron where he talked about his life, relationships, years of doing stand-up comedy and struggles with drug addiction.
Maron gave tearful tribute to his girlfriend, director Lynn Shelton, in the episode after her death in 2020.
“People who listen to the podcast know me pretty well, and it’s all good. They have a relationship with me that’s one sided, but it’s real and I try to be as gracious about that as possible,” Maron told The Associated Press in 2019. “My particular little slice of the show business world is very me speci c and it’s very personal and usually that’s a good thing. But I’ve had to learn how to balance how much of my life I reveal and what I keep to myself and try to nd a little space.”
Barack Obama visited Maron’s makeshift Los Angeles garage studio
CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO
*Must set up Auto Draft for 2nd Month.
famous birthdays this week
Rapper-turned-actor
THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.
JUNE 12
Actor Sonia Manzano is 75. Actor-director Timothy Bus eld is 68. Olympic track gold medalist Gwen Torrence is 60. Actor Rick Ho man is 55. Actor Jason Mewes is 51. Blues musician Kenny Wayne Shepherd is 48.
JUNE 13
Actor Malcolm McDowell is 82. Former U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is 81. Actor Stellan Skarsgård is 74. Actor-comedian Tim Allen is 71. Actor Ally Sheedy is 63. Sportscaster Hannah Storm is 63. Musician Rivers Cuomo (Weezer) is 55.
JUNE 14
Actor Marla Gibbs is 94. U.S. President Donald Trump is 79. Jazz musician Marcus Miller is 66. Singer Boy George is 64. Tennis Hall of Famer Ste Graf is 56.
JUNE 15
Actor Jim Belushi is 71. Actor Courteney Cox is 61. Actor Neil Patrick Harris is 52. Rapper-actor Ice Cube is 56. Actor Leah Remini is 55. Actor Jake Busey is 53.
JUNE 16
Actor Eileen Atkins (“The Crown,” “Doc Martin”) is 91. Singer Eddie Levert of The O’Jays is 83. Actor Joan Van Ark is 82. Actor Laurie Metcalf (“Roseanne,” “Norm”) is 70.
JUNE 17
Actor Peter Lupus (TV’s “Mission: Impossible”) is 93. Singer Barry Manilow is 82. Comedian Joe Piscopo is 74. Actor Thomas Haden Church (“Sideways”) is 65. Actor Greg Kinnear is 62.
JUNE 18
Musician Paul McCartney is 83. Actor Constance McCashin (“Knots Landing”) is 78. Actor Carol Kane is 73. Actor Isabella Rossellini is 73.
Marla Gibbs walks the red carpet at the 75th Emmy Awards in 2024. The actor turns 94 on Saturday.
PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO
Ice Cube, pictured in Los Angeles in April, turns 56 on Sunday.
EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO
Actor Courteney Cox, pictured at the world premiere of “Scream VI” at AMC Lincoln Square in 2023, turns 61 on Sunday.
CHARLES SYKES / INVISION / AP PHOTO Singer Barry Manilow, pictured in New York in 2023, turns 82 on Tuesday.
MARK VON HOLDEN / INVISION FOR THE TELEVISION ACADEMY / AP IMAGES
Seaforth High School Congrats Class of 2025!
• Ismael Aguilar Lopez
• Asher Lorton Aldridge
• Michael Anthony Amatucci Jr
• Kendall Marie Anderson
• Daniel David Andros
• Jack Brody Anstrom
• Jason Tyler Antley
• Layne Franklin Armstrong
• Yanichell Yalitsa Arrieta-Murcia
• Robert Mitchell Austin
• Mia Nicole Ballachino
• Juana Bautista-Jimenez
• Arnette Jem Remaneses Benitez
• Derek Osmany Berreondo Sierra
• Maja Emilia Boer
• Jonathan Nash Booth
• Lockard Thomas Bowen
• Caroline Margaret Bowman
• Matthew Walter Bowser
• Kimberly Jaqualine Boytim
• Julian Rybarczyk Bozzolo
• Wakeland Emerson Branz
• Johnson Montgomery Brekke
• Caden Gene Brewer
• Mya Simone Brower
• Shyanne Elizabeth Brown
• Christopher Aiden Bryant
• Wesley Thomas Burgess
• Diego Javier Burgos
• Jayden Ryan Burnette
• Cooper Smith Buske
• Sebastian Wilson Calderon
• Morgan Alyssa Callis
• Hugo Cervantes Garcia
Isabella Kateyi-Yi Chang
Gri n Wheeler Ching
Addison Alexandra Clarke
Henry Ignatius Clemens
Claire Maire Coady
Maddock Chance Cody
Ryan Christopher Coen
Ahnika Rayiene Ohaver Carolina Collins
• Peyton Mackenzie Collins
• Christian Michael Conrad
• Jayden Michael Cooper
• Atziri Cortes Perez
• Brylee James Cothren
• Christopher Cruz-Guerrero
• William Joseph Cuicchi
• Natalia Grace Davis
• Jordan Kingston DiPietro
• Cora Jasmine Dodge
• Donovan Henrey Douglas
• Alyssa Ann Duke
• Ruth Duque de Lucio
• Joshua Michael Dutcher
• Nathan Jamez Emerson
• Walter Bowman Entrekin
• Caitlin Autumn Erman
• Cameron Dedriche Exley
• Marisol Ivette Fajardo
• William Masaaki Farmer
• Christofer Moises Feliciano
Gomez
Karl Edward Ferm
Lance Nathan Fernandez
Jasper Joy Fidler
Kaden Justis Florence
William David Flowers
Sheila Francisco-Rodriguez
Nathan Alexander Froom
Paul Benjamin Fuller
Jett Thomas Gabreski
Brody Anthony Gagne
Alexandre Gallegos Ramirez
Tobias George Decoste Gargash
John Green Gay
Brandon Eliel Gayosso-Martinez
Addison Leigh Gensler
Charlie Ann Hope George
Donoban Gael Godoy Basabes
Brissa Joeselyn Gonzalez Lopez
Martin Gonzalez-Rodriguez
Ellie Michell Gordon
Travis Steadman Greene
David Bradley Greenway
• Samuel James Grunke
• Anna Elisabeth Guzzo
• Matthew Troy Haley
• Kendall Jae Hangland
• Jack Reed Haste
• Jacob Matthew Haugan
• Ian Michael Henry
• Evan Richard Magnus Hepburn
• Jorge Hernandez Carranza
• Cristian Alexander
Hernandez Perez
• Jahlil Thurman Allen Hill
• Tyler Collins Hill
• Alexander John Hinchman
• Braden Nicholas Holdsclaw
• Gilad Louis Sinwany Holt
• Thaialyn Kamali Horton
• Ethan Prakash House
• Skylar Nicole Howell
• Thaddeus Logan Hudec
• Maris Eleanor Huneycutt
• Khai Anh Huynh
• Aakash Kumar Jain
• Jocelyn Jimenez Camargo
• Margaret O’Hara Johns
• Benjamin James Johnson
• Elizabeth Michele Johnson
• Kathryn Jane Johnson
• Broden Reese Jones
• Kevin Owen Jones
• Sykina Ashaleem Jones
• Liam Daniel Jonsson
• Turan Ahmet Kadioglu
• Zidane Jamil Kadoura
• Mia Patrice Kellam
• Mikel David Austin Kokas
• Lukas Kovar
• Ethan Edwin Kuball
• Benjamin Leo Lajoie
Aidan Bryce Latta
Brody Cole Latta
Edwin Philip Ledbetter
MaKenzy Grace Lehew
Abigail Elizabeth Lehman
Seamus Anthony Leigh
Addison Grace Leviner
Noah Xavier Lewis
Braxton William Little
Judge Weston Lloyd
Matthew Signor Lucas
Peyton James Lucas
Brennan Reece Luster
Ayden Daniel Mace
Gavin Christopher Maley
Sophie Roberta Malone
Hazel Rae Mangum
Tayedon James Mansour
Haley Emilce Marinelli
Noel Martin
Abril Martinez
Ashlynn Paige Matthews
Brandon Terrell Matthews
Luke McLean Mattocks
Alison Michelle Mayen Murcia
Claire Virginia McClintock
Henry Joseph McFall
Lillian Rose McFall
Katherine Grace McGarrah
Sean Michael McGarrah
Susanna Kristin McGuire
Malana Desmoines McLean
Savannah Leigh Messick
Micah Carrington Miller
Molly May Milsom
Pierson Frye Moade
Darren Thomas Moore
Taylor Rose Moore
Claire Jean Morgan
Barbara Negrete-Rodriguez
Carter Heath Nelson
Julianna Neri-Guerrero
Chad Devon Nevilles
Quoc-Thinh Ngo Nguyen
Emma Grace O’Rourke
Monica Anayeli Olivera Garcia
Angel Oliverio Sanchez
Asha Jewel Yasmina Owens
Demi Alexis Parker
Wyatt Thomas Parker
Jainik Niravkumar Patel
Karson Kastner Paul
Nicholas Armando Perez
• Samantha Marie Perez
• Chris Angel Perez Sepulveda
• Brennan Grace Perry
• Jacob Warren Phillips
• Fletcher James Platt
• Luke James Pleicones
• Jackson Elliott Powell
• Blake Charles Price
• Chloe Helen Price
• Liam Maddox Quale
Josie Grey Quick
Maria Alicia Ramirez Gutierrez
Julissa Rangel Hernandez
Samantha Alison Riggsbee
Sage Willow Robertson
Jenna Noelle Robinette
Diandra Mellany
Apolinar Rodriguez
• Andy Joseph Rodriguez Montoya
• Conner Sims Roland
• Trajan Alexander Ruesch
• Rebecca Sanchez Perez
• Fiona Arora Scardina-Keele
Gianna Rose Schiavone
William Peter Mackay Scholle
William Cottie-Elyas Sellers
Bailey Kimbrell Shadoan
Savannah Gale Sheridan
Maxwell Anderson Shiels
Anson David Shoaf
Jonah Henry Shook
Giovanny Sierra Rojas
Anavi Gabrielle Smith
Caden Boise Smith
Carson Henslee Smith
Gunnar Walch Smith
Nathan Dee Smith
Samarion Gabriel Smith
Jackson Matthew Snipes
Logan Douglas Sparrow
Anson Joseph Spinks
Alexander Gray Stewart
Kyle Thomas Stinson
Jackson Charles Stoner
Brandon Je rey Sturdivant
Falayver Ngun Hlawl Sung
Brunson B Tanner
Katie Wynn Tanner
Andrew Ross Tarantino
Aaron James Teta
Keni James Thompson
Alexia Rinoa Trombley
Jonathan Scott Trott
Sarah Elizabeth Tucker
Paige Kathryn Vanderveen
• Juliet Claire Vanolinda
• Demian Alexander Vargas Reyes
• Riddhi Vasisht
• Jackson Alexander Vaughn
• Finley Parker Vickers
• George Matthew Weaver
• Lucas James Webster
• Daniel Ciwuike White
• Gabrielle Chinyere White
• Tillie Collette Wilson
• Vanessa Claire Wilson
• Rylee Lauren Witham
• Isabel So a Wood
• Kimberly Ann Wood
• Connor Davis Yalch
• Morgan Skylar York
• Kaitlyn Elizabeth Zanga
• Kevin Daniel Zuniga Lopez