A crane lifts a submerged Nissan Maxima from Jordan Lake at the U.S. 64 bridge last Friday. The vehicle was spotted earlier in the week by a sherman using sonar and recovered by the Chatham County Sheri ’s O ce with help from the Durham County Sheri ’s O ce Dive Team and Barnes Towing. Investigators are looking to see if it’s connected to any known incidents or reports.
Violent crime in U.S.
dropped 4.5% last year, FBI data shows
Washington, D.C.
A new FBI report says violent crime in the United States fell 4.5% last year while property crime dropped 8% from the year before. The FBI statistics released Tuesday show murder and nonnegligent manslaughter in the U.S. fell nearly 15% in 2024, continuing a decline that’s been seen since a coronavirus pandemicera crime spike. Reported hate crimes decreased 1.5%. The FBI collects data through its Uniform Crime Reporting Program. Not all law enforcement agencies in the U.S. participate. The 2024 report is based on data from more than 16,000 agencies, or more than 86% of those agencies in the FBI’s program.
House committee subpoenas Epstein les, depositions with Clintons
Washington, D.C.
The House Oversight Committee has subpoenaed the Justice Department for les in the Je rey Epstein sex tra cking investigation and is seeking depositions with the Clintons and eight former top law enforcement o cials. Meanwhile, federal prosecutors are asking in court to unseal grand jury transcripts in the sex tra cking cases against Epstein and his ex-girlfriend but say there’s not much new in them.
The governor wrote to FEMA to ask for federal disaster relief funds
Chatham News & Record sta
RALEIGH — Individuals in Chatham and seven other counties whose homes and belongings were damaged by massive rains last month from Tropical Storm Chantal can now seek state-fundednancial grants for temporary assistance.
ter under the North Carolina Emergency Management Act.
Gov. Josh Stein issued a state disaster declaration Tuesday, making available state emergency assistance funds in Orange, Durham, Alamance, Caswell, Granville, Person, Wake and Chatham counties. Stein declared a Type 1 disas-
As much as 9 to 12 inches of rain fell in the region at the close of the July 4 weekend, sending some rivers to record-breaking levels, a ecting public water systems, and damaging homes and businesses. There were at least six storm-related deaths, law enforcement agencies said.
Democratic governors may o er path forward for party out of power
Republicans have control of D.C., but state houses o er a respite
By Bill Barrow The Associated Press
ATLANTA — Anderson Clay-
ton wanted a headline name to speak at North Carolina Dem-
NC’s
Roy Cooper vs. Michael Whatley may turn on issues rather than culture wars
By Thomas Beaumont
and
Gary D. Robertson
Associated Press
The
RALEIGH — Democrats still in the dumps over last year’s elections have found cause for optimism in North Carolina, where former Gov. Roy Cooper jumped into the race for that state’s newly open seat with a vow to address voters’ persistent concerns about making ends meet. Even Republicans quiet-
ocrats’ summer gala — but the state party chair bypassed familiar Capitol Hill gures, looking instead to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.
She described him as “a real ghter” against President Donald Trump, someone who gets things done because he controls levers of government — unlike any Democrat in Washington.
ly note that Cooper’s candidacy makes their job of holding the seat more di cult and expensive. Cooper had raised $2.6 million for his campaign between his Monday launch and Tuesday, and more than $900,000 toward allied groups. Republicans, meanwhile, are hardly ceding the economic populist ground. In announcing his candidacy for the Senate on Thursday, Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley credited President Donald Trump with ful lling campaign promises to working Americans and
“I wanted people to hear from one of the Democratic governors who has defended their state, who could look at the president and say, ‘I’m in a position of power right now just like you are, and I’m doing good things,’” Clayton said. Indeed, some Democratic activists see the party’s 23 governors as their best answer to
“We can attack Republicans all day long, but unless we have candidates who can really embody that message, we’re not going to be able to take back power.”
Pat Dennis, American Bridge 21st Century
Stein also wrote President Donald Trump and the Federal Emergency Management Agency on Tuesday asking them to issue a federal major disaster declaration that would accelerate federal aid to help local governments with the costs of rebuilding roads and utilities, and for removing
Trump’s second Republican presidency. Those statehouse chiefs provide proof voters will embrace alternatives — and could give them a roadmap for the 2026 midterms, when Democrats hope at least to reclaim a U.S. House majority. They also will likely be central to the party’s hopes in the 2028 presidential race.
There is no question Democrats are down at the federal level. Republicans control the White House, the House and the Senate, allowing Trump to pursue an aggressive agenda. The party
July 28
• Xzavier Willie Raquan Allison, 24, of Siler City, was arrested for resisting a public o cer causing serious injury, assaulting a law enforcement o cer causing serious injury and assault in icting physical injury on a law enforcement o cer.
• Ronald Junior Nealy, 33, of Fayetteville, was arrested for aiding and abetting armed robbery.
August 1
• James Dewayne Ward, 49, of Pittsboro, was arrested for violating a domestic violence protective order.
The study documented 56 natural areas as ecologically signi cant and will guide future planning
Chatham News & Record sta PITTSBORO — Chatham County has completed its rst comprehensive natural areas inventory in more than three decades, providing updated data on rare species and significant habitats to guide future land use decisions.
The Chatham County Planning Department and North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, partnering with Triangle Land Conservancy, nished the two-year ecological study in June. The project marks the rst county-wide update since 1992 of signicant habitats and rare species in Chatham County.
Scientists surveyed 112 tracts across the county in 2024 and 2025, identifying 56 natural areas as ecologically signi cant. The inventory also documented six newly described natural areas and 13
expanded areas based on updated ndings.
The comprehensive study began with 500 tracts identied through ecological data and community nominations.
Researchers contacted 413 landowners seeking survey access and received permission from 172 property owners to survey both public and private lands.
“This initiative re ects our commitment to sustainable growth that respects Chatham County’s rich natural heritage,” said Chance Mullis, assistant director of the Chatham County Planning Department. “The updated data will help inform conservation e orts, development regulations, and decisions made by landowners, local agencies, and nonpro t partners.”
The inventory documents the current status of rare species, natural communities and ecologically signi cant areas, providing data to balance environmental protection with the county’s economic and community needs.
Triangle Land Conservancy helped coordinate the project, which was funded through the
This initiative re ects our commitment to sustainable growth that respects Chatham County’s rich natural heritage.”
Chance Mullis, County Planning
Chatham County budget. The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program led eldwork and data analysis.
“This new inventory will be invaluable in helping protect the lands and species that make Chatham County special,” said Sandy Sweitzer, executive director of Triangle Land Conservancy. “We’re proud to support this work and continue partnering with communities to protect land for nature and people.”
The inventory serves government planners, conservation groups, landowners and residents by providing science-based information to support long-term environmental stewardship.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
Aug. 7
Opinionation Trivia at House of Pops
6-8 p.m.
Two sessions of this “Family Feud”-style game are held each Thursday 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.
12 Russet Run Suite 110 Pittsboro
Aug. 8
Teen Lock-In! 6-9 p.m.
Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to this social event, including games and a pizza party. Registration is required. Contact 919-545-8085.
Chatham Community Library 197 N.C. Hwy. 87 N. Pittsboro
Curtis Eller at Bynum Front Porch!
7 p.m.
Free musical performance by Curtis Eller, a singer, dancer and banjo player. Donations are welcome. This is a family-friendly event with food and beverages available for purchase on-site.
Front Porch, Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum
Aug. 9
Chatham Mills Farmers Market
8 a.m. to noon
Producers-only farmers market o ering a wide variety of goods from fresh produce to other groceries, including eggs, cheese, meat, health and wellness items, and crafts. Everything is created by the vendors themselves.
Lawn of the historic Chatham Mills
480 Hillsboro St. Pittsboro
Aug. 13
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 St. Suite 500 Pittsboro
Drones delivering everything from food to medicine will soon be common
By Josh Funk
The Associated Press
A NEW FEDERAL rule proposed Tuesday would make it easier for companies to use drones over longer distances out of the operator’s sight without having to go through a cumbersome waiver process.
The federal government had already approved 657 waivers to allow companies such as Amazon and major utilities to do this in certain circumstances, but the waiver process made it di cult.
The industry has long pressed for the rule because being able to operate drones out of sight opens up a multitude of possibilities for their use. Being able to do this enables more use of drones for deliveries, inspecting infrastructure like bridges and power lines, and other uses in agriculture over thousands of acres on large farms.
“This draft rule is a critical step toward enabling drone operations that will enhance safe-
SENATE from page A1
painted Cooper as a puppet of the left.
Still, Cooper’s opening message that he hears the worries of working families has given Democrats in North Carolina and beyond a sense that they can reclaim their place as the party that champions the middle class. They think it’s a message that could help them pick up a Senate seat, and possibly more, in next year’s midterm elections, which in recent years have typically favored the party out of power.
“I’m Roy Cooper. And I know that today, for too many Americans, the middle class feels like a distant dream,” the former governor said in a video announcing his candidacy.
“Meanwhile, the biggest corporations and the richest Americans have grabbed unimaginable wealth at your expense.
It’s time for that to change.”
Cooper’s plainspoken appeal may represent just the latest e ort by Democrats to nd their way back to power, but it has some thinking they’ve nally found their footing after last year’s resounding losses.
“I think it would do us all a lot of good to take a close look at his example,” said Larry Grisolano, a Chicago-based Democratic media strategist and former adviser to President Barack Obama.
Whatley, a former North Carolina GOP chairman and close Trump ally, used last Thursday’s announcement that he was entering the race to hail the president as the true champion of the middle class. He said Trump had already ful lled promises
“From drones delivering medicine to unmanned aircraft surveying crops, this technology will fundamentally change the way we interact with the world.”
Sean Du y, Transportation Secretary
ty, transform commercial services, and strengthen public safety with drones as a force multiplier,” said Michael Robbins, president & CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International trade group.
The rule spells out the circumstances drones can be used under while working to ensure they don’t disrupt aviation and cause problems around airports, Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Bryan Bedford said.
“We are making the future of our aviation a reality and unleashing American drone dominance. From drones delivering
medicine to unmanned aircraft surveying crops, this technology will fundamentally change the way we interact with the world,” Transportation Secretary Sean Du y said.
President Donald Trump issued executive orders in June directing the Transportation Department to quickly get this rule out. The orders also included restrictions meant to help protect against terrorism, espionage and public safety threats.
Drones are already used in a variety of ways, including bolstering search-and-rescue operations, applying fertilizer, inspecting power lines and railroad bridges, and even delivering packages.
But the war in Ukraine has highlighted how drones could be used in a military or terrorist attack — a concern as the World Cup and Olympics approach in the U.S. There also have been espionage cases where drones have been used to surveil sensitive sites. And White House o cials said drones are being used to smuggle drugs over the border, and there are concerns about the potential for a disastrous collision between a drone and an airliner around an airport.
to end taxes on tips and overtime and said Cooper was out of step with North Carolinians.
“Six months in, it’s pretty clear to see, America is back,” Whatley said. “A healthy, robust economy, safe kids and communities and a strong America. These are the North Carolina values that I will champion if elected.”
Still, the decision by Cooper, who held statewide o ce for 24 years and has never lost an election, makes North Carolina a potential bright spot in a midterm election cycle when Democrats must net four seats to retake the majority — and when most of the 2026 Senate contests are in states Trump won comfortably last November.
State Rep. Cynthia Ball threw up a hand in excitement when asked Monday at the North Carolina Legislative Building about Cooper’s announcement.
“Everyone I’ve spoken to was
RIVES CHAPEL BAPTIST CHURCH
4338 Rives Chapel Church Road Siler City, NC 27344
Join Us
193rd Homecoming & Revival
Rives Chapel Baptist Church • Est. 1832
Homecoming Worship Service followed by covered dish meal
Sunday, Aug. 10 at 11 a.m.
Revival Services by Rev. Paul Langston Sunday, Aug. 10 to Wednesday, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. nightly
Special Music Each Night. Everyone is invited!
CHAPEL AME ZION CHURCH
7888 Goldston-Glendon Road Goldston, NC 27252
Reaves Chapel AME Zion Church will be having their Annual Homecoming Service on Sunday, Aug. 10 at 11 a.m.
You are cordially invited to come out and celebrate with us on this special occasion. Dinner will be served in the Fellowship Hall immediately after service. The speaker for our Homecoming Service will be our very own pastor, Rev. Joseph L. Marsh
GUM SPRINGS BAPTIST CHURCH
Revival Services
Aug. 18-20
Monday -Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m.
Pastor Brian Parker, Sanford will speak Monday and Pastor Brian Parker, formerly of New Hope, Sanford will be Tuesday’s speaker. Wednesday night will be a time of Congregational Praise & Worship.
Join us each Sunday forSunday School 9:00-9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10-11 a.m.
And Wednesday for Bible Study at 6:30 p.m.
We have room for you!
30-second spot says. “But he’s just another radical, D.C. liberal in disguise.”
really hoping that he was going to run,” said the Raleigh Democrat.
Democratic legislators hope having Cooper’s name at the top of the ballot will encourage higher turnout and help them in downballot races. While Republicans have controlled both General Assembly chambers since 2011, Democrats managed last fall to end the GOP’s veto-proof majority, if only by a single seat.
Republican strategists familiar with the national Senate landscape have said privately that Cooper poses a formidable threat.
The Senate Leadership Fund, a GOP super PAC a liated with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, wasted no time in challenging Cooper’s portrayal of a commonsense advocate for working people.
“Roy Cooper masquerades as a moderate,” the narrator in the
Cooper, a former state legislator who served four terms as attorney general before he became governor, has never held an o ce in Washington. Still, Whatley was quick to link Cooper to national progressive gures such as New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, former Vice President Kamala Harris and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. Whatley accused Cooper of failing to address illegal immigration and of supporting liberal gender ideology. He echoed the themes raised in the Senate Leadership Fund ad, which noted Cooper’s vetoes in the Republican-led legislature of measures popular with conservatives, such as banning gender-a rming health care for minors and requiring county sheri s to cooperate with federal immigration o cials.
“Roy Cooper may pretend to be di erent than the radical extremists,” Whatley said. “But he is all-in on their agenda.” Cooper rst won the governorship in 2016, while Trump was carrying the state in his rst White House bid. Four years later, they both carried the state again.
Cooper, who grew up in a small town roughly 50 miles east of Raleigh, has long declined requests that he seek federal o ce. He “understands rural North Carolina,” veteran North Carolina strategist Thomas Mills said. “And while he’s not going to win it, he knows how to talk to those folks.” As with most Democrats, Cooper’s winning coalition in-
cludes the state’s largest cities and suburbs. But he has long made enough inroads in other areas to win.
“He actually listens to what voters are trying to tell us, instead of us trying to explain to them how they should think and feel,” said state Sen. Michael Garrett, a Greensboro Democrat.
In his video announcement, Cooper tried to turn the populist appeal Trump made to voters on checkbook issues against the party in power, casting himself as the Washington outsider. Senior Cooper strategist Morgan Jackson said the message represents a shift and will take work to drive home with voters.
“Part of the challenge Democrats had in 2024 is we were not addressing directly the issues people were concerned about today,” Jackson said. “We have to acknowledge what people are going through right now and what they are feeling, that he hears you and understands what you feel.”
Pat Dennis, president of American Bridge 21st Century, a group that conducts research for an initiative called the Working Class Project, said Cooper struck a tone that other Democrats should try to match.
“His focus on a ordability and his outsider status really hits a lot of the notes these folks are interested in,” Dennis said. “I do think it’s a model, especially his focus on a ordability.”
“We can attack Republicans all day long, but unless we have candidates who can really embody that message, we’re not going to be able to take back power.”
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
In the ght to alleviate su ering in the weary world, we must o er our yeses and nos.
A MENTOR of mine recently challenged me to take time with three questions: What are you ghting for? What are you saying “no” to in service of that? What are you saying “yes” to in service of the same thing?
The rst two were straightforward. I am against several issues. The U.S.-Israel policies limit humanitarian aid, despite millions starving in Gaza. One out of every seven children here in Chatham County faces food insecurity, yet federal funds for various programs, especially food assistance programs and Medicaid, have been cut in the most recent “big” bill. I am aware of the issues I oppose.
But what about my yes?
I think it is often true that those of us who want to make the world a more just and peaceful place can be overly attuned to protesting the problems. The prayer must be to work harder against death-dealing forces, yet the prayer must also be to open hearts, minds and senses to the gifts and graces. Here’s something I can’t explain but have found to be true: The more you hope for delight, the more it will nd you.
Just yesterday, a new resident on our street took a stroll with his two pugs, one brown and the other black. My daughter rushed out of the house to meet the furry
creatures, who turned out to be named Poppy and Moses. Soon, another young girl and her mother joined her. Poppy and Moses delighted in the attention, and before long, we all laughed as their leashes became entangled around our legs. Eventually, we untangled, and the dogs headed home, but the girls decided to continue their fun and chalk the sidewalk. Their elaborate design of a playhouse stretched in front of several houses, and then the girls decided to make magical potions out of water, chalk dust and ower petals. Magic is made of everyday things, isn’t it? My girl taught her friend the word “concoction,” which refers to a mixture of various elements.
In the ght to alleviate su ering in the weary world, we must o er our yeses and nos. A concoction of e ort, care and kindness will help, and attentiveness is one of the most sacred gifts we o er, especially when kids are in the mix. Maybe throw in a few pugs, too, their curly tails and mashed-up faces grinning madly.
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.
Is it true, one man’s trash really is another’s treasure?
We all have some quirks, I suppose. That’s one thing that gives variety to life.
THERE’S NO denying I’m a packrat. Even though society today calls us folks by such names as “collectors,” the fact remains we’re packrats or, to some, hoarders.
There are several reasons for this behavior. One is simply a personality characteristic. I’m reluctant to use the term “character aw,” but again, to some, that’s probably more accurate.
Another reason I’m this way, I’m convinced, is because of my dear departed mother. She saved everything — except my comic book collection and baseball cards, which today would be worth several dollars to other collectors ... if I wanted to sell them.
When, as a youngster, I would ask her why she saved all that stu , she would reply, “If you’d live through a depression (the Great one of the 1930s), you’d save everything too.”
“But Mama,” I’d say, “I didn’t” or “We’re not,” to which she’d usually reply, “Well, you might need it one day.”
Now lest you think she saved “everything,” I’m not including such things as used matches or tissues, although after she left us and I cleaned out her house and pocketbook and such, I did nd some napkins and rolled up paper towels. Apparently, she wasn’t going to be without some way to cover a sneeze or wipe her nose.
However, there’s no way I can say a great deal about that because when cold weather comes around and I slip on my heavier jackets and stick my hands in the outer pockets, there is a good chance there will be a Kleenex or two there. And it’s been pointed out we Southerners will save napkins from a fast-food joint and put them in our vehicles for later.
So we all have some quirks, I suppose. That’s one thing that gives variety to life. Among my more noticeable ones are the collection of books (blame Barnes & Noble) stacked up on the oor of my study and, best of all, a signi cantly large collection of newspapers. Both of those are related to the fact I enjoy reading, partly because I’m not a mechanic or plumber but also because most of my adult life careers have involved the use of words, especially in those years of print journalism at several newspapers, including the one you’re reading now.
Reading them isn’t the problem; it’s tossing them afterward. In a bit of personal appreciation, I will say I have gotten a bit better at disposal.
But books, on the other hand ... that’s a di erent story. I know many folks today have Kindles or other electronic books. Not me. I’ve got to hold the paper in my hands, so I’m always on the lookout for a bargain book, which leads me to this point.
Sometimes the books were originally gifts or held a special place in someone’s life, and when I run across one of those, I wonder what happened to move the book from its original home.
Such a thing happened not so long ago. I was in an area Christian bookstore and found a few gems on the used book table. One was about strategies for “the back nine” of life; and, yes, it used golf as the way to deal with that period.
What attracted my attention when I sat down with it was an inside page right before the text started that noted the book was a gift from a wife to her husband on the occasion of their fth wedding anniversary. The handwriting was beautiful, and I imagined so was the life of those two, but wait ...
Why was the book gone from its original owner? Was one or the other deceased? Were they no longer Mr. and Mrs.? Did the old boy read it, say “thanks” and move on? All that, of course, made me think of my own library. What would someone think of the range of books I have from Christian authors, leftover seminary texts, joke books, volumes about baseball and the War Between the States and World War II, collections of cartoons, popular volumes of other years, assorted American history and some I can’t remember?
My plus-40-something descendants have told me not to leave a mess for them to clean up one day. Experts, whoever they are, say the younger generation(s) aren’t interested in Grandma’s tea set.
I wonder where I could nd one of those.
Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.
Well, there you go! Oh, but wait, there’s a codicil to the implicit positive power of swearing.
CRANKY, cranky, cranky … ... and a whole bunch of accompanying, choice, four-letter words spilling out as I attend to tasks today. I’m in a pissy mood. Wait, am I allowed to say that? Pissy, I mean?
Your post, your choice! And of course, your outcomes too … that is, if someone takes issue with the term “pissy,” it’s on you. Well, OK. With gusto, now. Pissy, pissy, pissy!!!
Does that help?
A tad, I guess. A tad. Just feels better to express how I feel — cuss words and all. Dammit!
Whoa!
And the deep breath I just expelled was de nitely a calmer-downer. Don’t think “calmer-downer” is a real phrase, but it popped right out and feels like a relaxing tonic. And a relaxing tonic sounds wonderful about now. What the heck is going on that brings you to such a state of pissiness? Not your usual mode. I mean, expressing pissy-ness, and all its near-cousin expletives, so insistently?! WTF? (Smile.)
Wait, wait, a factoid is called for (I love factoids!) Did you know that verbalizing pissiness and its expletive-deleted cousins are wonderful therapeutic stress releasers? Hey, take it from a British psychologist: “Psychologist Richard Stephens of Keele University believes in the positive power of swearing. He says go for a big one, or even a sustained outburst — a scattergun of profanity. … If people hurt themselves, I would advise them to swear.”
COLUMN | STEVE GOLD
Well, there you go! Oh, but wait, there’s a codicil to the implicit positive power of swearing.
A codicil?
Yeah, sort of an advisory regarding a protracted outburst of profanity.
What’s the advisory?
It’s advisable to choose your audience for those who hear your therapeutic, but sustained, cussing delivery.
Why, for heaven’s sakes?
Um, not everyone present might welcome a profusion of swearing.
Oh, yeah, right.
What’s currently stimulating this serial cuss word leakage on your part?
Well, if you must know, I injured my back.
Ah!! Well, damn and damnation, no wonder you’re spilling over with cuss-itude! (New word alert! New word alert!) Yes, well
Gazing out at the tree- lled canopy outside my window now. A di erent approach for releasing stress, but clearly one of many, and it also includes habitués of cuss-city. (Another new term!) Oh my!
Where in the heck is this mini-verbal rampage going?
Hey, great question; no answer. Just feels good to put it out in the ether. I want my back to stop hurting! So there.
OK, let’s hear it for a new therapeutically supportive behavior, cussitude! All together, now…
Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.
American truck drivers move more than 70% of all freight across the country.
AFTER A FATAL ACCIDENT caused by a non-English-speaking trucker with a commercial drivers’ license (CDL), President Donald Trump ordered the Department of Transportation to review the nondomiciled CDLs issued by each state over the past four years. This is a massive victory for highway safety — preventing further loss of American lives.
Just ve years ago, new truckers had to produce a birth certi cate, speak English and con rm state residency to even qualify for a CDL. If the driver couldn’t speak English, he couldn’t get a driver’s test. Today, any evidence of a work permit or foreign visa is enough to qualify for a nondomiciled CDL.
In 2022, the Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) set high, federal standard training requirements through the Entry Level Driver Training rules. The goal was to make highways safer, in conjunction with state commercial driver training laws that have been in place for decades. But these new rules have more exemptions than the federal tax code. Employers, municipalities and online video providers, posing as educators, now provide commercial driver training through unchecked “self-certi cation.”
Consider for a minute that almost every state requires 16-year-olds to attend a state licensed driver training program before they can get behind the wheel of an automobile. But, as Teamsters President Sean O’Brien just testi ed in the Senate Commerce Committee hearing, if you want to drive an 80,000-pound truck on our nation’s highways, there is no oversight or enforcement of the new FMCSA rules. Because of the lack of enforcement, the fraud and abuse are profound as the FMCSA has allowed unquali ed “CDL training providers” to recruit and train unquali ed truck drivers, who ultimately degrade the American truck driving workforce and put the unsuspecting general public at risk every day. The results have been catastrophic. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, 153,472 highway truck accidents resulted in 5,472 highway fatalities in 2023, a 40% increase from 2014. The 2024 data show similar fatality rates. The odds of getting killed by a truck driver is 20 times greater than dying while ying on a U.S. airline.
More than 30,000 commercial driving schools are now approved by the FMCSA, but only 2,100 are state licensed. As founder and CEO of one of the nation’s largest commercial truck driving schools, I know rsthand that the largest employers or truckers make up only 10% of the trucking industry. These employers are rumored to be rejecting nearly half of truck driver applicants as they have strict safety guidelines and driver evaluation criteria.
But the $1 trillion U.S. trucking industry is 90% comprised of companies with 10 drivers or less with thin margins. These employers lack compliance and safety departments, and are hiring individuals trained at unquali ed schools. These are the trucking companies you’ve never heard of that are in the news every day causing another fatality. Everyone wants cheaper prices, and no one wants burdensome regulations, but at what cost?
In a letter to the FMCSA, the American Trucking Association outlined the problem and lambasted the agency for being too
“insu ciently robust to shield prospective drivers and the motoring public from fraudulent and non-compliant training entities that fast-track CDL applicants with minimal, if any, training.”
Some states aren’t waiting for the FMCSA to take action and are taking matters into their own hands. California, which was second in the nation in the most highway fatalities in 2023, unanimously passed a bill to eliminate nefarious commercial-driving schools in the state. Florida and Colorado, among others, are sending cease-and-desist letters to unlicensed commercial training schools that assert they are exempt because of “new federal rules” and ignoring state laws.
Trump’s requested study, coupled with his executive order requiring commercial truck drivers to be pro cient in English, should disqualify many recently minted unquali ed commercial drivers, if properly enforced. Substandard training providers who falsely attested in the Federal Training Provider Registry, should not only be removed from the program but also face the same explicit penalties as those who abused the Paycheck Protection Program after the pandemic. That alone would prevent unquali ed drivers from getting behind the wheel and putting us all at risk.
American truck drivers move more than 70% of all freight across the country. They keep supply chains running — from delivering food and medicine to stocking shelves and fueling factories. Their hard work, often behind the scenes, keeps America moving, and they deserve to be well-compensated.
The trucking industry applauds Trump and Secretary of Transportation Sean Du y for already doing so much to protect America’s truck drivers and our highways. We look forward to working alongside them to go a step farther and enforce the FMCSA rules and protect the American public by eliminating nefarious CDL training schools.
With approximately 3,000 accidents and 100 fatalities each week caused by heavy trucks, the trucking industry and general driving public can’t wait much longer.
Steve Gold is the founder and chief executive o cer of 160 Driving Academy and the Truckers Network Association. This article was originally published by Daily Caller News Foundation.
LAURA LOOMER, the right-wing in uencer and conspiracy theorist who describes herself as “pro-white nationalist” and is so far out there that she herself could not make it through the vetting process for a job in either the Trump campaign or the Trump administration, has some new scalps to add to her collection. She is the self-appointed enforcer of total loyalty, above all else, to Donald Trump, someone Trump has publicly described as “a fantastic woman, a true patriot” and “amazing.” She is also a beautiful woman, which some speculate is the real reason Trump keeps her around, gives her free access to the West Wing and listens to her diatribes about o cials she deems insu ciently loyal.
She is on a roll. Last week, it was April Falcon Doss, the general counsel of the National Security Agency, who was red after Loomer went after her because she had previously done work for the Democratic sta of the Senate Intelligence Committee.
Her next victim was last Tuesday, when the FDA’s top vaccine o cial, Dr. Vinay Prasad, resigned after Loomer went after him for statements from ve or more years ago praising Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders and describing himself as a “political liberal.”
A day later, Army secretary Daniel Driscoll ordered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point to revoke the job o er it had made to Army veteran Jen Easterly after Loomer went after her for serving as the director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency under President Joe Biden — even though she had also worked as a cybersecurity o cial under President George W. Bush.
Earlier this year, she was directly responsible for a purge at the National Security Council and the National Security Agency and even the ring of a career prosecutor in Los Angeles who was working up a case against a major Trump donor (which has since been dropped by the o ce). As Loomer herself likes to boast, they were all “Loomered.”
The resignation of Prasad is particularly telling because it came despite the fact HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. privately supported him. Prasad is an anti-vaxxer. During the pandemic, he earned the support of rightwingers by attacking social distancing and masking. During his brief time at the FDA, he had already limited the use of COVID vaccines and had strengthened the warnings about a rare cardiac side e ect of vaccinations — none of which made enough of a di erence for Loomer — or Trump.
“You have a person, from outside of the government of no national security experience and with extreme views, having de facto hire and re authority over some of the most senior and important positions in the United States government,” Kevin Carroll, a former CIA o cial, told The New York Times. “Eventually, when all of the quali ed people are driven out and only the people acceptable to Laura Loomer remain, there could be an extremely bad result for the United States in some international crisis.”
“I was raised to dress for the job you want, and even if you don’t have the job, pretend that you do,” Loomer told an interviewer. “I want to do vetting, so I’m going to do the job I want.”
She’s doing it, unfortunately. The blame belongs to Trump. The price will be paid not only by those she targets, but also by those she drives away from public service. And by all of us.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator.
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July 20, 1948 –July 29, 2025
Winfred McCoy Cheek, 77, of Ramseur, passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at Randolph Hospice House in Asheboro. Funeral Services, 11:00 am, Friday, August 8, 2025, at Lo in Funeral Home Chapel, Ramseur. O ciating, Rev. Samuel Moore Jr., Rev. Montez Allen. Entombment, Chatham Memorial Park Mausoleum, Siler City. Winfred was a native and lifetime resident of Randolph County, born July 20, 1948. He was a 1967 graduate of Chatham High School, a retired supervisor with Ramtex and enjoyed his lawn care business. Winfred was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of McCrary’s Chapel UMC. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hayworth and E e Mo tt Cheek, as well as his sister, McCoy Gathings. Survivors:
Jan. 1, 1926 – July 30, 2025
Mary Bunton Emery, 99, of Statesville, passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Gordon Hospice House following an extended illness. Mary was born in Alexander Co., January 01, 1926, to the late William Alfred Bunton and Onor Gay McCurdy. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by three brothers, Everette Bunton, William M. Bunton (Bud), and Gurney Bunton, one infant son, John David Bunton, and son, Durward Emery Jr. Survivors include three sons, James Emory (Doris) of
wife of 55 years, Joan Mauldin Cheek, of the home, daughter, Tresa Hatchett and husband, Tony, of Ramseur, son, Torris Cheek and wife, Cierra, of Greensboro, sisters, Annie Haith, of Greensboro, Zula Matthews and husband, Lonnie, of Ramseur, grandchildren, “his two favorite girls”, Taylor Elizabeth Hatchett and Raya Elise Cheek, sisters-in-law, Shirley Emerson, Cynthia Brooks and husband Larry, Sandra Mauldin, Felicia Mauldin, Hattie Marsh, special brothers-in-law, Howard Miller and Tim Mauldin and wife Sherry, special niece and nephew, Vivian Siler and Charles Lennon “Buddy” Staley, his two grand-dogs, “Little Momma” and “Myloe” as well as many other loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. The family would like to express a special thanks to Home Sweet Home Care Services, LLC., Tavares Wilhite, Fresenius Kidney Care, Randolph Hospital, and Hospice of Randolph County for the special care given during Mr. Cheek’s illness. Visitation, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Lo in Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ramseur. Arrangements by Lo in Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ramseur. In lieu of owers and food, memorials may be made to Ramseur Elementary School, 6755 Jordan Road, Ramseur, NC 27316, or to the Ramseur Food Pantry, 724 Liberty Street, Ramseur, NC 27316.
Statesville, NC, Gary Emery (Renee) of Gibsonville, NC, and Danny Emery (Annie) of Whitsett, NC. Three daughters, Ann McDaniel (Je ) of Siler City, NC, Barbara Emery of Liberty, NC, and Denise Brinkley of Whitsett, NC. One brother, Leonard Bunton (Shirley) of Statesville, NC. Twelve grandchildren: Scott Emery, Crystal E. Sloan, Michael Emery, Tina Reed, William (Billy) Reed, Richard Brinkley, Christopher Emery, Tina C., Brandie E. Strang, Craig Emery, Kenneth (Ken) McDaniel, and Greg McDaniel. As well as numerous greatgrandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A graveside service will be conducted Saturday, August 02, 2025, at 3:00 pm at Pilgrim Baptist Church cemetery (965 Pilgrim Church Rd, Hiddenite, NC 28636). There will be a private family viewing one hour prior to the service. Pastor Noah Alvarez will o ciate. In lieu of owers, the family asks for memorials to be sent to Hospice & Palliative Care of Iredell County (2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625) and Brookdale East Broad (244 East Broad Street, Statesville, NC, 28625).
FRANCES “FRAN” RIVES FUNSTON GARDNER
JULY 25, 2025
Frances “Fran” Rives Funston Gardner, age 83, of Sanford, passed away on Friday, July 25, 2025. She was born in Chatham County to the late Thomas H. Rives and Sarah Mozelle Whitt Rives. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by sons William “Kent” Funston and Todd Funston and siblings Thomas H. Rives Jr., Josephine Smith, Charles “Mini Buck” Rives and Elizabeth Koury. Fran retired from Lee County where she worked in the Tax Administration o ce. She enjoyed gardening, working in her yard and time spent with her family. Fran is survived by her children Steve Funston of Stuart, Florida and Sharon Kemp of Franklinton; sister Ruth Orem of Sanford and brother Melvin Rives of Chatham County.
BANJO JOE MATTHEWS JULY 30, 2025
Banjo Joe Matthews, age 63, of Sanford, passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. He was born in Lee County to Mildred Taylor Matthews and the late John Ed Matthews. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his uncles Julius Matthews and Ralph Matthews and aunt Sarah Margaret Wicker. A man who truly lived life his own way, Banjo was known for his love of the land, the water, and the people around him. He found his greatest joys in the simple things: a day spent shing, a good game of golf; working the farm and sharing stories over breakfast at Hardee’s. Rain or shine, you could count on him being there each morning, co ee in hand, surrounded by friends who became like family. He had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, who adored the time they spent with their uncle – whether it was riding around the farm, casting a line at the lake, or just listening to his stories. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Zelda; mother Mildred of Sanford; brothers Randy Matthews of Sanford and Dexter Matthews (Charla) of Carthage and many special nieces, nephews and cousins.
March 13, 1933 –Aug. 2, 2025
Pauline “Polly” or “Peggy” Blackburn Baldwin, 92, of Wake Forest, went to her Heavenly home on the evening of August 2, 2025.
Polly was born on March 13, 1933, in Pender County to the late William Samuel and Bertha Lee Carroll Blackburn. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Larry Neal Baldwin in 2019. She is also preceded in
death by her siblings Ernest, Millard and Roland Blackburn, and her sisters, Lois, Lucile, Mary and Virginia.
Polly worked as an administrative assistant for several businesses in Siler City, NC where she was a resident for 52 years. She obtained a business degree from Central Carolina Community College in Pittsboro. She was a member of Oakley Baptist church in Siler City where she attended Sunday School, taught Sunday school and was an active member in WMU. In her earlier years, Polly enjoyed bowling, sewing, traveling, puzzles and games, reading her Bible and watching Christian TV. She helped deliver Meals on Wheels to the residents in Chatham County and she enjoyed participating in activities through the Chatham County Senior Center.
Polly is survived by her sons, Michael (Aisa) Baldwin of Albemarle, NC, Mitchell (Sandra) Baldwin of Peyton, CO, Mark (Kathryn) Baldwin of Cary, NC, Matt (Sandra) Baldwin of Wake Forest, NC, and her honorary son, David Oliver from Savannah, GA; her grandchildren, Andy,
Greg, Meredith, Tyler, Faith, Grace, Leigh Anne, Daniel and Matthew; her great grandchildren, Lauren, Connor, Blake and Lexi; her honorary sister, Virtie Baldwin of Scotts Hill, NC; her lifelong friend since grade school, Peggy Shepard of Wilmington, NC; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, August 10th, 2025, at 2pm at Oakley Baptist Church in Siler City. There will be visitation starting one hour prior to the service at the church. Dr. Je Johnson will be o ciating the service.
The family would like to thank the employees of The Lodge at Wake Forest, the therapists at Legacy Healthcare, and the assistants from Home Instead for their love, care, and friendship over the last two years.
In lieu of owers, memorials can be made to Oakley Baptist Church, 2300 Siler City-Glendon Road, Siler City, NC 27344. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Baldwin family. Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh. com
Popular 1980s actor Loni Anderson of ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’ dead at 79
The show, about an Ohio radio station, aired from 1978 to 1982
By Christopher Weber
The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES — Loni Anderson, who played a struggling radio station’s empowered receptionist on the hit TV comedy “WKRP in Cincinnati,” died Sunday, just days before her 80th birthday.
Anderson died at a Los Angeles hospital following a prolonged illness, said her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother and grandmother,” Anderson’s family said in a statement.
“WKRP in Cincinnati” aired from 1978 to 1982 and was set in a agging Ohio radio station trying to reinvent itself with rock music. The cast included Gary Sandy, Tim Reid, Howard Hesseman, Frank Bonner and Jan Smithers, alongside Anderson as Jennifer Marlowe, whose good looks were matched by her intelligence.
As the station’s receptionist, the blonde and high-heeled Jennifer routinely de ected unwanted business calls for her boss, Mr. Carlson. Her e ciency often kept the station running in the face of others’ incompetence.
The role earned Anderson two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nominations.
“You may not even tell the nicest things about yourself, because you’re telling the truth.”
Loni Anderson, talking about her autobiography
Anderson starred on the big screen alongside Burt Reynold s in the 1983 comedy “Stroker Ace,” and the two later married and became tabloid xtures before their messy breakup in 1994.
Their son, Quinton Reynolds, was “the best decision that we ever made in our entire relationship,” she said during the unveiling of a bronze bust at Reynolds’ Hollywood grave site in 2021.
“I think back to the beginning of our relationship, it was so, oh, gosh, tabloidy. We were just a spectacle all the time. And it was hard to have a relationship in that atmosphere. And somehow, we did it through many ups and downs,” Anderson told The Associated Press.
Anderson detailed their tumultuous marriage in the 1995 autobiography, “My Life in High Heels,” which she said was about “the growth of a woman, a woman who survives.”
“I think if you’re going to write about yourself, you have to do it warts and all,” Anderson told the AP while promoting the book. “You may not even tell the nicest things about yourself be-
cause you’re telling the truth.” She married four times, most recently to Bob Flick in 2008. Anderson was born Aug. 5, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Her father was an environmental chemist, and her mother was a model.
Her rst role as an actress was a small part in the 1966 lm “Nevada Smith,” starring Steve McQueen. Most of her career was spent on the small screen with early guest parts in the 1970s on “S.W.A.T.” and “Police Woman.” After “WKRP,” Anderson starred in the short-lived comedy series “Easy Street” and appeared in made-for-TV movies, including “A Letter to Three Wives” and “White Hot: The Mysterious Murder of Thelma Todd.”
In 2023, she co-starred in Lifetime’s “Ladies Of The 80s: A Divas Christmas” with Linda Gray, Donna Mills, Morgan Fairchild and Nicollette Sheridan.
“I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of the wonderful Loni Anderson!” Fairchild wrote on X. “The sweetest, most gracious lady! I’m just devastated to hear this.” Anderson is survived by Flick, her daughter Deidra and son-in law Charlie Ho man, son Quinton Anderson Reynolds, grandchildren McKenzie and Megan Ho man, stepson Adam Flick and wife Helene, and step-grandchildren Felix and Maximilian.
A private family service is planned at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Kagan said.
DISASTER from page A1
debris. Public assistance damage estimates have already totaled more than $42 million, according to Stein’s o ce.
“In Chatham County, signi cant rainfall led to ash ooding, temporary shelter openings, and support operations managed in conjunction with regional partners,” the letter to Trump said, along with a lengthy list of storm-affected areas. “Moore County, too, reported ash ooding and dam monitoring activity, particularly near the Longleaf Dam and other critical infrastructure.”
Stein’s state-of-emergency declaration three weeks ago in 13 central counties was designed to jump-start the process to seek federal recovery assistance. But the letter notes
Stein’s letter on Tuesday to Trump and FEMA said that Chantal’s rains at the time resulted in more than 100 roads in the region being impassable because of ooding, sinkholes and structural damage.
that response to the storm is “beyond the capabilities of the State” and that federal resources are needed.
Stein’s letter on Tuesday to Trump and FEMA said that Chantal’s rains at the time resulted in more than 100 roads
DEMS from page A1
lacks a singular leader, and recent polling shows Democrats are deeply pessimistic about their party’s future.
Yet many governors reject the narrative that Democrats are reeling.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a 46-year-old rst-term executive, points to his work on economic development, job growth and reducing crime.
“Who was the leader of the Civil Rights Movement? I mean, there were multiple people who had leadership roles,” Moore said. “I mean, if you want to see ... the direction that people should be going, show me a place that’s delivering results.”
“You have to deliver for people”
U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, (D-N.J.) has been in congressional majorities and in the minority. Now she’s the Democratic nominee for governor in one of two 2025 governor’s races. Her former House colleague Abigail Spanberger is the Democratic nominee in Virginia.
“I can tell you what attracted me to run for governor is that there’s no ability to blame anything on anybody else,” Sherrill said. “You have a vision as governor, and you have to deliver for people.”
ing as a way to help the GOP hold more House seats in 2026.
But Sherrill and others say being a Democratic governor is not simply about opposing Trump on a personal or partisan level.
“People are furious that a president who ran on a ordability is actually raising costs on everyone,” she said.
She cited Trump’s trade wars and the GOP’s tax cuts that are tilted to the wealthy while their safety net program cuts hit the poor and working class. Democrats, she said, must level attacks based on how policies affect voters, then o er plausible alternatives.
“I’m talking to thousands of New Jerseyans every day, and what I’m hearing is, ‘I just need somebody who’s going to go to Trenton and deliver for me,’” Sherrill said.
Republicans have defended their bill, saying it was crucial because there would’ve been a massive tax increase after December when tax breaks from Trump’s rst term would expire.
“People are willing to split their ballots because they connect the results they see on the ground with their governors.”
Emily’s List President Jessica Mackler, whose organization backs Democratic women for public o ce, praised Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a possible 2028 presidential contender, and Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, who is seeking reelection in 2026, for canceling some medical debts.
Anderson Clayton, NC Democrats
Bradley Beychok, a Democratic consultant and co-founder of the American Bridge super political action committee, said the dynamics in Washington are frustrating.
in the region being impassable because of ooding, sinkholes and structural damage.
Dozens of ood-related rescues were carried out in Durham and Orange counties. Water service was interrupted in Mebane, and Hillsborough’s water treatment plant was oline for several days. Many displaced residents ended up in hotels.
Individual aid from the state for items such as rental housing assistance, personal property replacement and medical expenses can be sought at disaster recovery centers in Orange, Durham and Alamance counties. Home and business owners already can seek U.S. Small Business Administration loans.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Pritzker secured a $15 per hour state minimum wage. In Kansas, Democratic Governors Association chair and twoterm Gov. Laura Kelly worked with Republican legislative majorities to reduce and nally eliminate state sales taxes on groceries. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, who is running for the Senate, expanded Medicaid insurance coverage in states with Republican legislative majorities.
“Governors are so important because they are on the front lines,” Mackler said.
Democratic governors, she added, have shored up abortion access after the Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs decision ended a national right to the procedure, and they’ve defended access to health care for transgender patients, even in conservative states. That includes Kentucky’s Beshear, elected twice in a state Trump carried three times.
It’s about more than Trump
Some governors stand out as aggressive Trump critics, including some possible 2028 contenders.
“Our democracy is on the line,” Pritzker said at the North Carolina event. “Are you ready to ght?”
California Gov. Gavin Newsom jousts with the Trump administration on social media, and he’s produced podcasts aimed at Trump voters. Newsom and Pritzker both have asserted themselves in the partisan battle over redistricting congressional district boundaries, a matter Trump is push-
“When you lose a presidential election and the House and the Senate, no one is happy, and they shouldn’t be,” he said. But, Beychok added, “the reality is we lost a close election” and had key down-ballot wins. Republicans had the so-called Washington trifecta at the start of Trump’s rst term, and Democrats bottomed out then at just 15 out of 50 governors. But in succeeding years they ipped nine governors’ seats. Only one Democratic incumbent governor has lost since, and their current slate of 23 includes ve of seven presidential battlegrounds Trump swept in 2024.
“People are willing to split their ballots because they connect the results they see on the ground with their governors,” said Clayton, who celebrated a win in North Carolina by Democratic Gov. Josh Stein despite Trump carrying the state. “Now we just have to do a better job of localizing the federal elections the same way.”
A Spanberger win in Virginia would give Democrats 24 governors heading into 2026, when 36 executive seats will be on midterm ballots. New Jersey currently has a Democratic governor.
Governors can swing the presidential pendulum
History suggests a base of state power bodes well for opposition parties in Washington.
Bill Clinton was a longtime governor in 1992 when he ended Republicans’ winning streak of three presidential election landslides. His successor, George W. Bush, was among the many Republicans governors elected in the GOP’s 1994 midterm sweep. Before Clinton and Bush, Republican Ronald Reagan and Democrat Jimmy Carter won the presidency as former governors.
Many current Democratic executives have visited early nominating states or, like Pritzker, general election battlegrounds. Most of them, Maryland’s Moore included, dismiss 2028 speculation.
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Notice is hereby given that a conveyance of real property has been made in Chatham County, North Carolina. The Chatham County Board of Commissioners conveyed real property located at 774 Gees Grove Road, Siler City, North Carolina, on Monday, July 21, 2025 to the Chatham Habitat for Humanity. Property Description: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Matthews Township, Chatham County, North Carolina, and more particularly described as follows: Containing 30,816 square feet and being all of Lot 4 on that plat entitled “Property of Wade H. Paschal” by William G. Joyner recorded in Plat Book A, Page 773, Chatham County Registry. Subject to restrictive covenants and easements of record. Parcel Number: 0062007
This notice serves to inform the public of the aforementioned conveyance of real property in accordance with Section160A-279 of the North Carolina General Statutes regarding real property transfers. This the 7th day of August, 2025. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 160A-20 of the General Statutes of North Carolina /s/ Jenifer Johnson Clerk to the Board of Commissioners County of Chatham, North Carolina PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
A public hearing will be held by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners on Monday, August 18, 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 Conditional District rezoning from Residential R-1 to CD-IL (CD-Light Industrial) for a major utility, Wastewater Treatment Plant, to be located within the Conservancy at Jordan Lake subdivision, Parcel 97325, being approximately 21.417 acres, Cape Fear Township. A legislative public hearing requested for a revision to an approved CD-CC (Conditional District – Compact Community), Vicker’s Village, to modify the phasing schedule for Condition Numbers, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 22 of the last modi ed phasing schedule approved in November 2024, located o US 15-501 N and Jack Bennett Road, Williams Township.
A legislative public hearing requested for a Zoning Ordinance text amendment to allow automobile and automobile accessory sales and service to the Table of Permitted Uses, Section 10.13 as “P” Permitted in the Light Industrial zoning districts. 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: August 7th and 14th, 2025
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
LEGAL
25E000371-180 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of James E Beatty late of Chatham County, NC this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before October 27, 2025 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate are noti ed to make immediate payment.
This is the 27th day of July, 2025 James A Beatty 5200 Beechwood Road Milford, OH 45150 Send claims to: Wells Law, Attorneys at Law 380 Knollwood Street, Suite 710 Winston-Salem, NC 27103
336.793.4378 July 24, 31 Aug 7, 14, 2025
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION
Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Muriel Crowley Harris, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly veri ed, to the undersigned at 344 West John Street, Matthews, NC 28105, on or before October 18, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned. This the 17th day of July, 2025. John T. Harris, Executor of the Estate of Muriel Crowley Harris, Chatham County File No. 24E001335-180, c/o Garrity & Gossage, LLP, 344 West John Street, Matthews, NC 28105.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Chatham County 25E000382-180 Having quali ed as Co-Executors of the Estate of Kaja Finkler aka Kay Finkler aka Kaile Nehame Dvora Finkler, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned do hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claim against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned c/o Guido De Maere, P.A. at 100 Europa Drive, Suite 160, P.O. Box 3591, Chapel Hill, NC 27515 on or before the 31st day of October, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 31st day of July, 2025. Guido De Maere and Dan Oren, Co-Executors of the Estate of Kaja Finkler aka Kay Finkler aka Kaile Nehame Dvora Finkler Attorney for the Estate: Guido De Maere, P.A. P.O. Box 3591 Chapel Hill, NC 27515-3591
To be published: July 31, August 7, 14 & 21, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having quali ed as Co-Executors of the Estate of Eleanor Joyce Moore, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, do hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ces of Tillman, Whichard & Cagle, PLLC, 501 Eastowne Drive, Suite 130, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, on or before the 24th day of October, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 24th day of July, 2025. JENNIFER JOYCE MOORE AND SUSANNA MCHUGH MOORE, CO-EXECUTORS, ESTATE OF ELEANOR JOYCE MOORE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Chatham County Board of Commissioners shall conduct a public hearing on August 18, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Historic Chatham County Courthouse, 9 Hillsboro Street, Second Floor Courtroom, Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312, concerning the execution and delivery of the Second Amendment, the proposed re nancing of the Refunded Projects, and any other transactions associated therewith. The County of Chatham, North Carolina (the “County”) previously entered into an Installment Financing Contract dated as of January 1, 2013 (the “2013 Contract”), as amended by Amendment Number One to the Installment Financing Contract dated as of August 1, 2021 (the “First Amendment”), each with the Chatham County Public Facilities Corporation, a North Carolina nonpro t corporation (the “Corporation”), to nance and re nance the projects described therein.
To secure its obligations under the 2013 Contract, as amended, the County previously executed and delivered a Deed of Trust, Security Agreement and Fixture Filing dated as of January 1, 2013, as extended by a Notice of Extension of Deed of Trust to Additional Property dated as of August 1, 2021 (collectively, the “Deed of Trust”), pursuant to which the County granted a lien on the County’s fee simple interest in the real property on which the Chatham County Detention Center and the County’s Emergency Operations Center are located, together with the improvements thereon and appurtenances thereto (collectively, the “Mortgaged Property”). The Chatham County Detention Center is located at 627 Renaissance Dr., Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312. The Emergency Operations Center is located at 112 Innovation Way, Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312.
At its August 18, 2025 meeting, the Board of Commissioners of the County will consider the adoption of a resolution which would authorize the County to re nance the County’s installment payment obligations related to an Installment Financing Contract, dated as of October 15, 2014 and an Installment Financing Contract, dated as of July 1, 2015, each between the County and the Corporation, the proceeds of which were used to nance and re nance the projects described therein (collectively, the “Refunded Projects”), pursuant to Amendment Number Two to the Installment Financing Contract (the “Second Amendment” and together with the 2013 Contract and the First Amendment, the “Contract”), between the County and the Corporation, in a principal amount not to exceed $30,000,000, under which the County will make certain installment payments to make the Refunded Projects available to the County. On the County’s payment of all installment payments due under the Contract, including any future amendments to nance or re nance projects, any lien the Deed of Trust created will terminate and the County’s title to the Mortgaged Property will be unencumbered. The Contract and the Deed of Trust permit the County to enter into amendments to nance additional projects and re nance projects using the Mortgaged Property as collateral and the County may or may not grant additional collateral in connection with such amendments.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 160A-20 of the General Statutes of North Carolina, that on August 18, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Historic Chatham County Courthouse, 9 Hillsboro Street, Second Floor Courtroom, Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312, a public hearing will be conducted concerning the approval of the execution and delivery of the Second Amendment and the County’s re nancing of the Refunded Projects. All interested parties are invited to present comments at the public hearing regarding the Second Amendment and the Refunded Projects to be re nanced thereby.
/s/ Jenifer Johnson Clerk to the Board of Commissioners County of Chatham, North Carolina Published: August 7, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Jacobus E. de Vries aka Jacobus Egbert de Vries, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ces of Tillman, Whichard & Cagle, PLLC, 501 Eastowne Drive, Suite 130, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, on or before the 24th day of October, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 24th day of July, 2025.
SARAH ELIZABETH TILLMAN, EXECUTOR ESTATE OF JACOBUS E. DE VRIES AKA JACOBUS EGBERT DE VRIES
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Richard Drayton 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 16th day of October, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 9th day of July, 2025.
Linda P. Crabtree, Administrator CTA of the Estate of Richard Drayton 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 OF ADMINISTRATION
Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Margot Ann Friedrich, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them, duly veri ed, to the undersigned at 344 West John Street, Matthews, NC 28105, on or before October 17, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned. This the 17th day of July, 2025. Heather N. Anschuetz-Je ers, Executor of the Estate of Margot Ann Friedrich, Chatham County File No. 25E000357-180, c/o Garrity & Gossage, LLP, 344 West John Street, Matthews, NC 28105.
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA WAKE COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION 25CV014284-910 NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §1A-1, Rule 4(j1) ULADA ANDREYEVNA HARANINA, Plainti , vs. NICHOLAS JAMES DANIEL, DEFENDANT. TO: NICHOLAS JAMES DANIEL, Defendant Pursuant to N.C.G.S §50-6, take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is an absolute divorce. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than September 14, 2025, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. This the 31th day of July, 2025. Ulada Haranina Plainti 316 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601 Telephone: 336-639-2817 July 31, August 7, 14; 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of RICHARD JAMES MARION, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ces of Munson Law Firm
PLLC, P.O. Box 1811 Pittsboro, NC 27312, on or before the 24th day of October, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment.
This 24th day of July, 2025.
LYNN MARION, ADMINISTRATOR ESTATE OF RICHARD MARION NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS
CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Nancy Paschal Price 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 16th day of October, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
This the 9th day of July, 2025.
Thomas King Price, III, Executor of the Estate of Nancy Paschal Price 301 South Dogwood Siler City, North Carolina 27344
MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE
ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
All persons having claims against the estate of Nancy Meltzer, of Chatham County, NC, who died on July 11, 2022 are noti ed to present them on or before October 15, 2025 to Robert N. Maitand, II, Executor, c/o Maitland & Sti er Law Firm, 2 Couch Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery.
Michele L. Sti er MAITLAND & STIFFLER LAW FIRM 2 Couch Road Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Attorney for the Estate
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Nina W. Moore quali ed before the Chatham County Clerk of Court on July 17, 2025 as The Executor of The Estate of Richard Devon Moore, 11229 Siler City Glendon Road, Bear Creek, NC 27207. This is to notify all persons, rms and corporations, as required by NCGS 28A-14-1, having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the attorney designated below on or before the 31st Day of October, 2025 or this notice will be pled in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payments to the undersigned. Payments and claims should be presented to M. Andrew Lucas, P.O. Box 1045, Sanford, NC 27331-1045. Please Publish: July 31st, August 7th, 14th, 21st, 2025
Notice to Creditors
All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Edith Fomby Gibbons, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before October 20, 2025 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 17th day of July, 2025.
Donna M. Beaudoin, Administrator c/o W. Thomas McCuiston 200 Towne Village Drive Cary, NC 27513
Notice to Creditors
All persons, rms and corporations having claims against William Charles Swan, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before November 10, 2025 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 7th day of August, 2025.
Susan Hodge, Administrator c/o W. Thomas McCuiston
200 Towne Village Drive Cary, NC 27513
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25000253-180 The undersigned, JEROME LEE FORSTER, having quali ed on the 6th Day of MAY, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ANDREA CLAUDINE FORSTER, 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 24TH Day OF OCTOBER 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 24TH DAY OF JULY 2025.
JEROME LEE FORSTER, EXECUTOR 261 JIM GILLILAND RD. SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: Jy24,31,A7,14p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000365-180 The undersigned, MELYNNA JOHNSON DOWD, having quali ed on the 9th Day of JULY, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of FAYDEENE R. 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 17TH Day OF OCTOBER 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 17TH DAY OF JULY 2025.
MELYNNA JOHNSON DOWD, EXECUTOR 148 VALLEY OAK COURT LEXINGTON, NC 27295 Run dates: Jy17,24,31A7p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000390-180 ALL persons having claims against Matthew Gerard Cecil, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Nov 07 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
This the 7th day of August, 2025. Stephen Gerard Cecil, Executor C/O Lenfestey, Maxie & Burger, PLLC 5640 Dillard Drive, Suite 101 Cary, North Carolina 27518 A7, 14, 21 and 28
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000323-180
ALL persons having claims against Darrell Lloyd Cole, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Oct 24 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
This the 24th day of July, 2025.
Alesia J Purvis, Executor C/O Bowen Law Firm PC 590 New Waverly Pl Ste 120 Cary, NC 27518 J24, 31, 7 and 14
NOTICE
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, CHATHAM COUNTY VIRGINIA LYNN NEAL, Petitioner v. TIMOTHY MICHAEL HOGAN and AMY FORDHAM COOK, Respondents (25SP000046-180) TO: AMY FORDHAM COOK Take notice that a petition seeking relief against you was led on March 19, 2025 in the above partition action. The nature of this action is as follows: petition for partition and sale of real property. You are required to make defense to such petition no later than 40 days after the date of the rst publication of this Notice and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. Wesley A. Stewart, Esq., 5410 Trinity Rd., Ste. 210, Raleigh, NC, 27607, Petitioner’s Attorney. J24, 31 and 7
claims against Kevin
NOTICE
PERSONS, rms, and corporations
NOTICE
North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to him on or before the 31ST Day OF OCTOBER 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 31st DAY OF JULY 2025. HOLLY MEREDITH O’NEILL, EXECUTOR 427 MILLINGPORT LANE NEW LONDON, NC 28127 Run dates: Jy31,A7,14,21p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#23E000694-180 The undersigned, ANGELA VENDEN WALKER, having quali ed on the 16th Day of JULY, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JOYCE LILIAN BERRY, 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 31ST Day OF OCTOBER 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 31ST DAY OF JULY 2025. ANGELA VENDEN WALKER, EXECUTOR 955 BEAVER DAM RD. CHAPEL HILL, NC 27517 Run dates: Jy31,A7,14,21p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000401-180 The undersigned, MICHAEL ALFRED JAMES MOORE, having quali ed on the 28TH Day of JULY, 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of MICHAEL THOMAS MOORE 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 7TH Day NOVEMBER 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 7TH DAY OF AUGUST 2025. MICHAEL ALFRED JAMES MOORE, ADMINISTRATOR 1705 ELMER MOORE RD. SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: A7,14,21,28p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000306-180 The undersigned, RICHARD DAVID WOOD, having quali ed on the 2ND Day of JULY, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of RICHARD JOHN WOOD, 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 31ST Day OF OCTOBER 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 31st DAY OF JULY 2025. RICHARD DAVID WOOD, EXECUTOR 65571 AVENIDA CADENA DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA 92240 Run dates: Jy31,A7,14,21p
Gerrymandering is legal and very, very common
By David A. Lieb
The Associated Press
WHEN
DEMOCRATIC
lawmakers left Texas to try to prevent the Republican-led Legislature from redrawing the state’s congressional districts, it marked the latest episode in a long national history of gerrymandering.
The word “gerrymander” was coined in America more than 200 years ago as an unattering means of describing political manipulation in legislative map-making.
The word has stood the test of time, in part, because American politics has remained ercely competitive.
Who is responsible for gerrymandering?
In many states, like Texas, the state legislature is responsible for drawing congressional districts, subject to the approval or veto of the governor. District maps must be redrawn every 10 years, after each census, to balance the population in districts.
But in some states, nothing prevents legislatures from conducting redistricting more often.
In an e ort to limit gerrymandering, some states have entrusted redistricting to special commissions composed of citizens or bipartisan panels of politicians. Democratic o cials in some states with commissions are now talking of trying to sidestep them to counter Republican redistricting in Texas.
How does a gerrymander work?
map of U.S Congressional
The term dates to 1812, when Massachusetts Gov. Elbridge Gerry signed a bill redrawing state Senate districts to bene t the Democratic-Republican Party. Some thought an oddly shaped district looked like a salamander.
Massachusetts Gov. Elbridge Gerry signed a bill redrawing state Senate districts to benet the Democratic-Republican Party. Some thought an oddly shaped district looked like a salamander. A newspaper illustration dubbed it “The Gerry-mander” — a term that later came to describe any district drawn for political advantage. Gerry lost reelection as governor in 1812 but won election that same year as vice president with President James Madison. Is political gerrymandering illegal?
cluding North Carolina’s highest court, have ruled that they also have no authority to decide partisan gerrymandering claims.
Are there any limits on redistricting?
Yes. Though it’s di cult to challenge legislative districts on political grounds, the Supreme Court has upheld challenges on racial grounds. In a 2023 case from Alabama, the high court said the congressional districts drawn by the state’s Republican-led Legislature likely violated the Voting Rights Act by diluting the voting strength of black residents. The court let a similar claim proceed in Louisiana. Both states subsequently redrew their districts.
What does data show about gerrymandering?
One common method of gerrymandering is for a majority party to draw maps that pack voters who support the opposing party into a few districts, thus allowing the majority party to win a greater number of surrounding districts.
Another common method is for the majority party to dilute the power of an opposing party’s voters by spreading them among multiple districts.
Why is it called gerrymandering?
If a political party controls both the legislature and governor’s o ce — or has such a large legislative majority that it can override vetoes — it can e ectively draw districts to its advantage.
The term dates to 1812, when
They’ll spend six months on the station
By Marcia Dunn
The Associated Press
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — SpaceX delivered a fresh crew to the International Space Station on Saturday, making the trip in a quick 15 hours.
The four U.S., Russian and Japanese astronauts pulled up in their SpaceX capsule after launching from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. They will spend at least six months at the orbiting lab, swapping places with colleagues up there since March.
Moving in are NASA’s Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Japan’s Kimiya Yui and Russia’s Oleg Platonov — each of whom
had been originally assigned to other missions. “Hello, space station!” Fincke radioed as soon as the capsule docked high above the South Paci c.
Cardman and another astronaut were pulled from a SpaceX ight last year to make room for NASA’s two stuck astronauts, Boeing Starliner test pilots Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, whose space station stay went from one week to more than nine months. Fincke and Yui had been training for the next Starliner mission. But with Starliner grounded by thruster and other problems until 2026, the two switched to SpaceX.
Platonov was bumped from the Soyuz launch lineup a couple of years ago because of an undisclosed illness.
Not under the U.S. Constitution. The Supreme Court, in a 2019 case originating from North Carolina, ruled that federal courts have no authority to decide whether partisan gerrymandering goes too far. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote: “The Constitution supplies no objective measure for assessing whether a districting map treats a political party fairly.” The Supreme Court noted that partisan gerrymandering claims could continue to be decided in state courts under their own constitutions and laws. But some state courts, in-
Statisticians and political scientists have developed a variety of ways to try to quantify the partisan advantage that may be attributable to gerrymandering. Republicans, who control redistricting in more states than Democrats, used the 2010 census data to create a strong gerrymander. An Associated Press analysis of that decade’s redistricting found that Republicans enjoyed a greater political advantage in more states than either party had in the past 50 years.
But Democrats responded to match Republican gerrymandering after the 2020 census. The adoption of redistricting commissions also limited gerrymandering in some states.
An AP analysis of the 2022 elections — the rst under new maps — found that Republicans won just one more U.S. House seat than would have been expected based on the average share of the vote they received nationwide. That was one of the most politically balanced outcomes in years.
Their arrival temporarily puts the space station population at 11.
“It was such an unbelievably beautiful sight to see the space station come into our view for the rst time,” Cardman said once on board.
While their taxi ight was speedy by U.S. standards, the Russians hold the record for the fastest trip to the space station — a lightning-fast three hours.
“It was such an unbelievably beautiful sight to see the space station come into our view for the rst time.”
Zena Cardman, NASA astronaut
These experienced players look to increase their impact this fall
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
THE 2025-26 high school sports season o cially started last week, and Chatham County’s football teams got to work.
After a summer of workouts, 7-on-7s and individual and team camps, the local teamsnally got the chance to go all out as the pads came on and competition began to heat up.
As they are every preseason, teams are looking to ll holes
left behind from graduation and transfers. There’ll be plenty of new faces making plays this fall, but at the same time, there’ll be some reloaded pieces looking to improve.
The county has numerous players from last fall poised to break out or build on their past impact. Based on last season and projected roles in 2025, here are the top varsity returners to look out for this season:
Duncan Parker (Seaforth, QB)
Seaforth junior Duncan Parker will once again hold the keys to the Hawks’ o ense after
throwing for more than 1,200 yards and six touchdowns while rushing for 700 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024. With returning weapons and a speedy receiver in sophomore Noah Fuller, Parker may have an even bigger year as a passer.
Grayson Cox (Northwood, QB)
After throwing for nearly 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns in his rst season as a full-time starter last year, Northwood senior Grayson Cox will look to carry an even greater load for the Chargers’ o ense. Northwood lost a lot of receiv-
The inductees will be recognized Oct. 3
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
NORTHWOOD HIGH School announced its 2025 athletics Hall of Fame class on July 31. The newest inductees include Wanda Jackson Bland (class of 1981), Abdul Gha ar (1986), Brian Harrington (1991), Benji Johnson (2004), Joaquin Green (2008) and Eric Williams (2011). They will be recognized Oct. 3 during North-
1,128 rushing yards for Tripp in 2024
ing power from last season (Isaiah Blair, Beau Harvey, Antoine Brewington), giving Cox an opportunity to further establish himself as a big play creator.
Brooks Albright (Chatham Central, QB)
Sophomore quarterback Brooks Albright got thrown
into the re last season and held his own. He threw for 60 yards per game and had one of the best completion percentages in 1A. After a full oseason as the head of the offense, Albright is poised to help the Bears win some games this season.
Robert Tripp (Northwood, RB)
Northwood senior Robert Tripp was all about the gains last year as he rushed for 1,128 yards and 15 touchdowns (6.7 yards per carry). He’ll likely
Seaforth repeats as 2A Wells Fargo Cup champs
Chatham Charter and the Hawks win Conference Cups
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
SEAFORTH HIGH School
was the best in 2A once again.
The Hawks won the 2024 -25 North Carolina High School Athletic Association 2A Wells Fargo Cup, claiming the top spot for the second straight year. The school also won the Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference Wells Fargo Conference Cup.
Chatham Charter won the Conference Cup for the Central Tar Heel 1A conference for the fourth year in a row. Wells Fargo Cup points are determined by performance in state championship events. Schools that nish in the top eight positions (including ties) earn points, and in playo events involving teams from more than one classi cation, points are awarded based on the school’s nal position in that championship. Schools get 50 points for rst place, 45 for second, 40 for third, 35 for fourth, 30 for fth, 25 for sixth, 20 for seventh and 15 for eighth. Five points are awarded for each sanctioned sport in which a school makes the playo s.
The Conference Cup is based on regular season performances within conference play. It follows the same standardized
527.5 Points for Seaforth in the
point system as the statewide cup, but each conference can also determine its own system for awarding points.
Seaforth nished the athletic season with 527.5 statewide points, which was nearly 84 points ahead of second-place Pine Lake Prep and the second most in the state.
The Hawks won team titles in individual wrestling and boys’ indoor and outdoor track and eld. They nished as state runner-up in volleyball, dual team wrestling and boys’ and girls’ cross-country. In basketball, the girls made a run to the regional nal, and the boys earned a playo bid. The girls’ tennis team made the dual team playo s, and the boys’ tennis team was one of the last eight teams standing in its respective dual team bracket.
Seaforth’s boys’ swimming team nished third in the state championship meet, and the girls’ soccer team made it to the regional semi nal round. The boys’ golf team nished third in the state championship.
Within the Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference, the
West Chatham 12U All Stars, baseball
Caden Nicodemus of the West Chatham 12U All Stars earns athlete of the week honors for the week of July 28.
In the DYB World Series last weekend, Nicodemus hit a home run in two di erent games. Against Florida in pool play, Nicodemus ended a 10-0 run rule win with a grand slam.
During the rst round of the tournament against South Carolina, Nicodemus changed the momentum of the game. After South Carolina rallied back to within one run in the top of the fth inning, Nicodemus, the rst batter due up, smashed a homer to center eld. West Chatham went on to win 7-4 and advanced to the second round.
The former South Davidson AD will replace Tommy Peele
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
CHATHAM CENTRAL athletics will be under new leadership for the upcoming school year.
Kevin Park, the former South Davidson athletic director, was approved by the Chatham County Schools Board on July 31 to take on the same position at Chatham Central. Park’s rst day at Chatham Central was Tuesday.
Park is replacing Tommy Peele, who served as the Bears’ AD from 2021 until this spring.
Under Peele, the Bears saw success in numerous sports such as boys’ and girls’ basketball, softball, baseball, volleyball, boys’ and girls’ tennis, wrestling and golf.
Park received a bachelor’s degree in exercise and sports science from UNC Greensboro in 2008 and a master’s degree in
Hawks won titles (or shares of titles) in various sports, including volleyball, boys’ and girls’ cross-country, boys’ and girls’ indoor track, boys’ outdoor track, boys’ wrestling, baseball, girls’ soccer, boys’ lacrosse, girls’ basketball and boys’ and girls’ tennis.
Chatham Charter also had another successful year in the Central Tar Heel 1A conference. The Knights won team conference titles in baseball, girls’ bas-
sport administration from Liberty University in 2012. In addition to his AD duties, Park also coached baseball at South Davidson. Before South Davidson, Park
ketball and girls’ tennis. They nished as runner-up in softball, boys’ basketball, volleyball and boys’ tennis. Awards for athletic performances on the state and conference level could look much di erent this coming season. With the NCHSAA moving to eight classi cations, schools will compete against new opponents, which will change the chances of playo bids for certain programs. Seaforth will be moving to the 5A classi cation, joining North
spent time at Knightdale High School, where he also coached baseball and served as an assistant on the football team.
Park will take over at Chatham Central during a big realignment transition.
After spending the last four seasons in the Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference, Chatham Central will join the Greater Triad 1A/2A conference alongside Bishop McGuinness (2A), South Stokes (2A), College Prep and Leadership, North Stokes, Winston-Salem Prep and South Davidson.
The Bears will have to do a lot of traveling this school year as they are the only Chatham County school in their league.
Lincoln, the latest 3A Wells Fargo Cup champion, and former Mid-Carolina 1A/2A foe Southeast Alamance. The Hawks will compete in the Big Seven 4A/5A conference alongside Carrboro (4A), Cedar Ridge, Durham School of Arts, Orange, South Granville and Webb. For Chatham Charter, not much will change as the Knights will remain in 1A with a familiar Central Tar Heel 1A conference (Central Carolina Academy replaced Triangle Math and Science).
Seaforth’s boys’ outdoor track team celebrates winning the state championship this spring. This victory helped the Hawks secure another Wells Fargo Cup.
The local team started hot against Florida and South Carolina
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
THE WEST Chatham 12U
All Stars got o to a strong start at the DYB World Series before being eliminated Monday.
After taking its rst loss of the tournament, West Chatham, representing North Carolina, fell to Texas 7-6 to end its World Series run.
West Chatham jumped out to a 6-1 lead through three innings, but Texas scored six unanswered runs in the fourth and the fth to complete the comeback.
To start the tournament, West Chatham run ruled Florida 10-0 in its pool play game Friday. Caden Nicodemus
have a similar, if not larger, impact this season as he’ll once again be a focal point of the Chargers’ o ense.
Jakari Blue (Jordan-Matthews, RB)
Jordan-Matthews senior Jakari Blue was the heart and soul of the Jets’ rushing attack last season and a key defender as a middle linebacker. According to Jordan-Matthews coach Kermit Carter, Blue will play at a lighter weight this season, which could make for some breakaway runs from the back, who was already hard to tackle.
Nick Glover (Chatham Central, ATH)
Senior Nick Glover was the everything man for Chatham Central last season as he played multiple roles on both sides of the ball. He accounted for 1,379 yards of o ense in 2025 as a receiver, rusher and quarterback. Should Albright stay healthy, Glover should be able to showcase more with the ball in his hands in space.
Raje Torres (Northwood, WR)
Junior Raje Torres was a reliable short game, outside run and special teams weapon for
Home runs for Caden Nicodemus
led the team with four RBIs, scored two runs and combined with Trey Carmac to allow zero hits on the mound.
With West Chatham up 6-0 with bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the fourth inning, Nicodemus smashed a grand slam to right eld, ending the game as he touched home plate.
West Chatham went on to play South Carolina in the rst round of bracket play the next day. After trailing 5-2 through the fourth inning, South Caro -
the Chargers last year with his speed and elusiveness in space. As the Northwood receiving corps welcomes new faces, Torres will look to be a primary playmaker this season and put up larger numbers.
Nolan Mitchell (Jordan-Matthews, WR)
Jordan-Matthews sophomore Nolan Mitchell is one of the many Jets moving around this season. He put his speed on display as the Jets’ quarterback last year, but with Kamarie Hadley set to take over, he can be a threat at receiver and defensive back, especially with standout Kenneth Dula transferring to Chapel Hill.
Max Hinchman (Seaforth, WR)
Seaforth junior Max Hinchman will look to build on a breakout season in which he caught 23 passes for 518 yards and six touchdowns and made big plays in the defensive backeld. He’ll be a key target should Seaforth throw the ball more this year.
Nick Gregory (Seaforth, CB)
Senior cornerback Nick Gregory has been a dude in the Seaforth secondary for multiple seasons, and that won’t change this year. He’ll look to lead a more experienced sec -
The West Chatham 12U All Stars are all smiles after the pool play win over Florida at the DYB World Series.
lina cut the de cit to one run in the top of the fth. The momentum didn’t last for long,
ondary after recording 54 tackles and two interceptions in 2024.
Patrick Miller (Seaforth, S)
Senior safety Patrick Miller came away with 72 tackles and four interceptions in 2024. With some key changes in the box, Miller may have an even bigger year in the run game while continuing to be a ball hawk behind the Seaforth defense.
Omar Sanford (Jordan-Matthews, LB)
Junior Omar Sanford was one of the many Jets who had to play big minutes as a young player last season. After emerging as one of Jordan-Matthews better defensive pieces last season, Sanford is set to make a bigger splash this year alongside Blue in the linebacker corps.
Aiden Hohenwarter (Northwood, LB)
Northwood senior Aiden Hohenwarter was one of the Chargers leading tacklers in 2024, recording 54 tackles and a forced fumble as a linebacker. With a lot of key pieces in the box exiting after last season, Hohenwarter will step in as one of the Chargers’ main playmakers as they try to replace last year’s production.
though. Nicodemus, the rst batter due up in the bottom of the fth inning, hit his second
home run of the tournament to center eld to put West Chatham ahead by two runs. Later in the inning, Carmac singled to send Wyatt Clewis home.
West Chatham’s Witten Burton picked up the win on the mound after he struck out ve batters, walked one and gave up two hits and two earned runs.
After a scoreless two innings, West Chatham’s second round matchup against Mississippi was postponed Sunday and completed Monday morning.
In a low-scoring battle, Mississippi walked o a 2-1 win over West Chatham. With the game tied at 1-1 in the bottom of the sixth inning, Mississippi loaded the bases with two singles and an intentional walk. Following a strikeout, Mississippi’s catcher hit a ground ball to send the winning run home.
Wave-riding canines compete in the World Dog Sur ng Championships
By Audrey McAvoy The Associated Press
CHARLIE THE 10-year-old yellow lab likes sur ng so much, he will grab his surfboard and run toward the water. His humans sometimes have to hide his board if they want to chat with friends on the beach.
Charlie joined about 15 to 20 other canine wave riders in Pacica, 14 miles south of San Francisco, on Saturday at the World Dog Sur ng Championships, an annual contest that draws thousands of spectators to Paci ca State Beach.
“Charlie does what Charlie wants to do once we’re in the water.”
Je Nieboer, co-owner of dog surfer Charlie
Pooches competed against similarly sized peers for a chance to appear in the nals. Additional heats featured multiple dogs sur ng tandem or riding with people. Labs, terriers and spaniels in monogrammed life vests dog-paddled out into the Pacific. Once out on the waves, their owners helped them hop on colorful boards and hang ten as the crowd cheered from the beach.
Judges scrutinized how long the dogs remained on their boards, how long they held their balance and whether they performed any tricks, like turning around while riding.
Iza, a 5-year-old French bulldog, won the single surfer heat for medium-size dogs for the rst time this year, her owner David Fasoli said.
Fasoli found “pure joy” during the pandemic when he brought home a surfboard from his job at Costco and taught Iza to balance in the swimming pool. The two soon started swimming in the ocean and learning to ride waves as passersby at the beach watched in awe. Now their competitions are all about defying expectations.
“I have a disability — I only
have one hand — so a nonsporting human combined with a nonsporting dog breed, we are kind of phenomenal, defying the odds of what people think we’re capable of doing,” Fasoli said after Saturday’s competition.
Charlie, who has his own Instagram page, entered the extra-large single surfer heat. He also rode tandem with two other dogs in what their humans called “The Dream Team.”
“He loves the crowd,” owner Maria Nieboer said. Charlie and Nieboer’s husband, Je Nieboer, prepare for waves together. When Je spots a good one, he turns the board around and tells Charlie to “get ready.”
He pushes the board forward, and Charlie scrunches down and rides the wave as long as he can.
Charlie can even steer the board by leaning and surfs toward an awaiting Maria on shore.
He doesn’t have to be rewarded with treats for any of it.
“Charlie does what Charlie wants to do once we’re in the water,” Je said. Contest winners received medals and bragging rights.
Charlie’s “Dream Team” compatriot, fellow yellow lab Rosie, was in four heats. The 4-yearold’s owner, Steve Drottar, said she is “stoked” after they go surfing, which they do four to ve times a week back home in Santa Cruz.
“It’s like, hey, we actually did something today, right? We did something together as a team,” Drottar said. “And the fact that you can do something as a team with your dog creates a di erent bond than you have when you just take your dog for a walk.” He can tell Rosie feels a sense of accomplishment afterward because she is extra happy, wags her tail extra hard and snuggles even more than usual.
“It’s like we go home on the couch and it feels like she’s saying, ‘Thank you,’ ” Drottar said.
Coconut is pushed through the breakers during the World Dog Sur ng Championships
Team has battled illness, underperformed at world championships
By Stephen Wade
The Associated Press
SINGAPORE — Rowdy
Gaines, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, minces few words when he broadcasts swimming for NBC.
And he didn’t hold back in an interview with The Associated Press over the shaky state of American swimming. He’s calling for big-time changes as the Americans struggled at the world championships in Singapore.
The American team isn’t winning as much as expected or dominating, it’s battling a case of “acute gastroenteritis” picked up at training camp in Thailand before arriving in Singapore, and the governing body — USA Swimming — has been without a CEO for a year.
The Americans did recover on Saturday, the second-to-last day of the championships, with three gold medals. They now have eight gold to lead Australia with seven.
But that does not change the big picture. Gaines called the governing body ”rudderless.”
“Can you imagine any corporation going for a year without a CEO?” Gaines asked.
The Americans were also underwhelming a year ago at the Paris Olympics. They led the medal table but won eight gold
HOF from page B1
As a batter, Johnson broke the school single-season record with 32 RBIs and tied the home run record with 10 in his junior season. The next year, he broke more school records with 25 walks and a .605 on-base percentage. Johnson went on to play catcher and rst base at UNC, where he helped the Tar Heels to two College World Series runner-up nishes in 2006 and 2007. As a sophomore, he ranked second on the team in home runs (14).
“We’re
far from killing it. It’s a major struggle, and we can’t hide our heads in the sand and say this is just a blip.”
Rowdy
Gaines
medals, the lowest total since the 1988 Seoul Olympics.
“We’re far from killing it,” said Gaines in a telephone interview from the United States.
“It’s a major struggle, and we can’t hide our heads in the sand and say this is just a blip.”
Gaines said he’s been texting frequently with Greg Meehan, the national team director who was appointed four months ago. Meehan is also the head coach in Singapore.
The American haven’t said how many swimmers have fallen ill, but in an interview Meehan said “the overwhelming majority of the team has gone through something” at the championship.”
He called Meehan a good choice and said he’s had too little time to turn things around. Gaines also pointed out that the focus is the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. These world championships, less so.
“I think he’s (Meehan) going to be great,” Gaines said. “He’s got that calm reserve. He had great success at Stanford. He’s coached some of the best swim-
The Atlanta Braves selected Johnson in the 17th round of the MLB Draft. He played seven seasons in the minors. Williams, a standout runner at Northwood, won the NCHSAA 2A cross-country state title in 2010. He also earned all-state honors in the indoor 4x800 meter relay and the outdoor 3,200, 4x800 and 1,000. At UNC Greensboro, Williams helped the Spartans win the 2011 Southern Conference cross-country title. In the 2012 outdoor season, Williams earned conference
mers ever. I think he’s a good choice, he’s just walking into a bit of a landmine.”
Like many, Gaines questioned why the Americans picked Thailand as a training camp site and noted that global swimming now has dozens of countries that can beat the Americans, and many of their elite athletes train in the States.
“You can blame it on the illness, you can blame it on the inexperience — most of these kids have never been in this situation — and you can blame it on lo -
all-freshman honors in the 3,000 steeplechase. Green was a talented quarterback and defensive back under former football coach Bill Hall. As a senior, he led the Chargers to a 12-2 record and a third round appearance in the 2007 2AA playo s. At Saint Augustine’s University, Green was named the 2009 CIAA o ensive rookie of the year after completing 113 of 233 passes for 1,318 yards, 12 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. That season, he threw six scores in a loss to Charleston (West Virginia), tying an
gistics,” Gaines said. “Thailand doesn’t make sense to me in the rst place.”
He also put some blame on what he called the “state of today’s athletes.”
“I think in some cases there’s an entitlement for a lot of these kids, they feel like, ‘I should be in the nals of the world championships. And I can still do the peripheral stu and not worry about making it all the way.’
“I think there needs to be a more focused attitude on the task at hand.”
NCAA Division II freshman record for single-game passing touchdowns. Harrington played football at Northwood and went on to play at North Carolina A&T. After college, he spent 22 years as a Northwood assistant coach, including 14 years as the defensive coordinator. Harrington succeeded Hall as head coach in 2015. In his four seasons as the head coach, Harrington led the Chargers to a 23-23 record and three playo appearances. His best season came in 2017, when Northwood went 7-5 overall
Gaines said much of the problem is that USA Swimming has gone for a year without a leader. Tim Hinchey resigned as the CEO a year ago. He was replaced by Chrissi Rawak, who stepped down after just a few days.
“I do think changes need to be made, there needs to be a complete reset,” Gaines said “But I don’t think the sky is falling. But there needs to be some great leadership. Whoever they hire as CEO needs to be the leader that is sorely needed.”
and 4-2 in the Big Eight 3A conference. Harrington also coached boys’ and girls’ basketball and track and eld at Northwood. Before winning multiple championships as a middle school basketball coach, Bland was a standout basketball player at Northwood. She was named the school’s female athlete of the year. Gha ar excelled on the basketball court at Northwood. After high school, he continued his playing career at UNC Pembroke (Pembroke State at the time).
NFL Cowboys owner dismisses Parsons’ trade request as negotiation talk
Dallas Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones does not intend to trade Micah Parsons after the star defensive end said he wants to leave the team amid a breakdown in negotiating a contract extension. Parsons remains at training camp after writing on social media to request a trade. He has yet to practice because of a back injury. No stranger to public and prolonged disputes with standout players, Jones insisted the stando with Parsons is no di erent than past situations.
MLB Wrigley Field chosen to host 2027 All-Star Game
Chicago The Friendly Con nes are set to host The Midsummer Classic. Commissioner Rob Manfred announced the 2027 All-Star Game will be held at Wrigley Field. The announcement came during a news conference at home plate with Chicago Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts, Gov. JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson. Baseball’s second- oldest ballpark hasn’t hosted an All-Star Game since 1990. Manfred cited the “amazing transformation” of the ballpark and surrounding streets in the past decade as part of a massive renovation by the Ricketts family.
NBA Former NBA star Arenas, 5 others charged with running illegal poker games
Los Angeles
Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas was arrested along with ve other people on suspicion of hosting illegal high-stakes poker games at a Los Angeles mansion owned by Arenas. The U.S. Attorney’s O ce said all six defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business and one count of operating an illegal gambling business. The 43-year-old Arenas is also charged with making false statements to federal investigators.
Sprinter Richardson arrested at Washington airport on domestic violence o ense
Seattle Reigning 100-meter
world champion Sha’Carri Richardson was arrested for allegedly assaulting her boyfriend at Seattle Tacoma International Airport. A police report shows Richardson was arrested on a fourth-degree domestic violence o ense. She ran in the opening round of the women’s 100 meters at U.S. track and eld championships in Eugene, Oregon. She has an automatic bye to the world championships in September in Tokyo as the defending champion. USA Track and Field said it is aware of the situation.
The Daytona 500 winner picks up his second victory of the season
By John Bohnekamp
The Associated Press
NEWTON, Iowa — William
Byron admitted he was nervous as he headed into thenal laps of the NASCAR Cup Series race Sunday at Iowa Speedway.
“But I feel like we’ve been on the other side of this in the last month and a half,” he said. Byron fought o fuel worries in the closing laps, going the last 144 laps of the 350-lap race without a stop en route to his second victory of the season — he won the Daytona 500 in February — and 15th overall. He also took the season points lead from Hendrick Motorsports teammate Chase Elliott. Byron, who was second last season in Iowa, lost gambles on fuel twice this season, at Michigan and Indianapolis, but held on with the help of a cau-
tion- lled nal stage to win by 1.192 seconds over pole-sitter Chase Briscoe.
“I really feel we needed to win a race,” said Byron, who led 141 laps. “We deserved to win a race.”
Byron led the rst 67 laps during a caution-free rst stage but had to scramble with strategy as the cautions piled up.
“You never expect it to be a fuel-mileage race,” he said, “but there were so many weird cautions.”
The drivers behind Byron, who knew he was saving fuel, tried to catch him.
“It was just the way the yellows fell,” said Brad Keselowski, who nished third. “There were so many yellows there in stage 3 that it got (Byron) and (Briscoe) there where they could make it on fuel pitting way outside the window, and we couldn’t get by them. ”
“The strategies just got weird with all of those cautions,” said Ryan Blaney, last year’s winner who nished fourth. “Those guys who pit-
“I really feel we needed to win a race. We deserved to win a race.”
ted earlier, it saved them some laps. So it just got kind of funky there, and we were on the back end of it.”
Rudy Fugle, Byron’s crew chief, said he wasn’t sure until about eight laps to go whether Byron would be able to make it.
“From 30 to go until eight to go, we were able to save a really big chunk and get close,” Fugle said. “And then you’re just hoping you pick everything up.”
Briscoe thought he was in good position if Byron ran out of fuel.
“There at the end, I thought I was running William down,” he said. “I thought I was really in the catbird seat there. I just got there and kind of stalled out.”
Keselowski, who came into
the race needing a win to get into the playo s, swept the rst two stages for the rst time since 2019. He led 68 laps trying for his rst win since the May race at Darlington last season. Ryan Preece, Keselowski’s teammate at RFK Racing, was fth.
There were 12 caution ags. The rst yellow ag for any on-track incident didn’t come out until Shane Van Gisbergen’s spin on Lap 169. From that point, the race became a cascade of caution ags as the cars began to stack up and drivers scrambled for position.
Iowa sweep
Byron has now won at Iowa Speedway in all three of NASCAR’s major series. He won in the Trucks Series in 2016 and in the X nity Series in 2017. That success, he said, was built much earlier.
“When I was a kid, the iRacing schedule would always line up with the race tracks in the summer,” Byron said. “That’s when I would have the most time to run the races, in the summer. So I would race this track a ton in iRacing. I feel like that’s why it’s a good track for me — I just have thousands of laps kind of in my head with how the rhythm of this place goes.”
Overtime, onside kicks and replay were also changed
By Josh Dubow The Associated Press
THE NFL’S one-year experiment with the new kicko rule becomes permanent this season with a new tweak that the league hopes will lead to a bigger increase in the rate of returns.
The league also approved changes to the overtime rule, expanded replay assist and made a few other technical changes for this season. The NFL’s Hawk-Eye virtual measuring also replaces the chains to determine rst downs.
There was no change in the tush push play that Philadelphia used so successfully on the way to winning the Super Bowl last season.
Here’s an explanation of some of the new rules that will be in place.
What’s new with the kicko ?
The league was mostly pleased with the experimental kicko put in place for 2024 that led to the rate of kicko returns increasing from a record-low 21.8% in 2023 to 32.8% last season, while reducing the rate of injuries on what had been the game’s most dangerous play.
The rule made kicko s more like scrimmage plays by placing the coverage players and blockers close together to eliminate the high-speed collisions that had contributed to
so many injuries on the play.
The league said the rate of concussions dropped 43% on returns, with a signi cant reduction as well in lower-body injuries.
By moving the touchback to the 35, the league projects that the return rate will rise to somewhere between 60% and 70%, with a similar increase in long returns, adding more excitement to the game.
How about onside kicks?
Teams will still need to declare their intention to try an onside kick because of the different formation. But a new change will allow trailing teams to try one before the start of the fourth quarter.
Coverage players will also be allowed to line up one yard closer in hopes of increasing the rate of recovery from about 6% over the past three seasons to at least 10%.
How will overtime change?
The league approved a proposal to make the regular season overtime more like the postseason, with both teams getting a chance at a possession, even if the team that gets the ball rst scores a touchdown. According to Sportradar, six of the 16 overtime games last season ended on an opening-drive touchdown for the most overtime games ended on the rst drive since the rule change went into e ect in 2010.
In all, teams that won the overtime toss won 75% of the time last season, according to Sportradar, and have a .606 winning percentage in overtime since it was cut to 10 minutes.
The league kept the 10-minute overtime period instead of expanding it back to 15 minutes.
Replay assist
The NFL expanded its replay assist system to overturn objective calls if there was “clear and obvious” evidence that a foul didn’t occur. The calls could include facemask penalties, whether there was forcible contact to the head or neck area, horse-collar tackles and tripping. Replay also would be able to overturn a roughing-the-kicker or running-into-the-kicker penalty if video showed the defender made contact with the ball.
The Competition Committee says there’s no interest in allowing replay assists to call penalties on plays missed by o cials on the eld.
Other changes
Referees will no longer use the chains to determine rst downs, opting instead for a virtual measuring system. There were some procedural rules changed in regards to injured reserve. Teams can place two players on injured reserve with the designation to return when rosters are reduced to 53 players instead of after. Playo teams also will be granted twoadditional return from IR designations.
Buddy Guy keeps blues alive through ‘Sinners,’ his music — but it hasn’t been easy
His new album, “Ain’t Done With the Blues,” features guitar legends Joe Walsh and Peter Frampton
By Maria Sherman The Associated Press
NEW YORK — For Buddy Guy — a stalwart and staunch defender of the blues — there’s nothing more important than keeping his chosen genre at the forefront of conversation. It comes naturally: Guy is one of America’s greatest guitar players, a singular artist with a thick roster of A-list super fans — Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page and Gary Clark Jr. among them.
The list also includes innovative writer and director Ryan Coogler, who tapped Guy for his critically acclaimed lm “Sinners” earlier this year, and artists like Peter Frampton and the Eagles’ Joe Walsh, who feature on his new album “Ain’t Done with the Blues.” It was released last Wednesday, on Guy’s 89th birthday.
For the eight-time Grammy Award-winning musician, those recognitions aren’t priority. The longevity of the music that made his life is his primary concern. “Like I promised B.B. King, Muddy Waters and all of them,” he said, “I do the best I can to keep the blues alive.”
He’s concerned that radio stations no longer play the blues, and that the genre might miss out on connecting with younger listeners. It’s one of the reasons “Ain’t Done with the Blues” is a strong collection of classics that run the risk of being forgotten — like “Talk to Your Daughter,” a rendition of the J.B. Lenoir tune.
In Guy’s performance, there’s an undeniable universality.
“Blues is based on everyday life,” he said.
Or another way Guy explains it: “Music is like a bowl of real good gumbo. They got all kinds of meat in there. You got chicken in there; you got sausage in there. You got a seafood in it. ... When we play music, we put everything in there.”
It’s resonating. In its 2025 midyear report, Luminate, an industry data and analytics company, found that U.S. on-demand audio streams of blues music have climbed this year due to the success of “Sinners.”
Jaime Marconette, Luminate’s vice president of music insights and industry relations, describes the current moment as a “resurgence of the blues,” following “Sinners.”
“Several artists featured on the lm’s soundtrack, which includes works from real-life blues, folk and country musicians, saw spikes the week of the lm’s theatrical release,” he ex-
“Like I promised B.B. King, Muddy Waters and all of them, I do the best I can to keep the blues alive.”
Buddy Guy
plains. “And they’re all enjoying a sustained rise in listenership even two-plus months following release.”
Guy has noticed the shift, too.
“I walk in the grocery store, or the drugstore and people recognize me. ‘Man, you know, I heard that ‘Sinners’ music, man. Man, it sounds good,’” he said. That’s part of the reason why Guy decided to participate in the movie in the rst place.
“I hope this will give the blues a boost because my worry right now is, like I said, a young person don’t know how good a gumbo is — you’ve got to taste it,” he’s said.
For now, he’s excited to see how people respond to his new album, “Ain’t Done with the Blues” — but he’s not listening to it.
“I listen to everything but Buddy Guy,” he said. “I already know Buddy Guy. I can’t learn anything from that.”
U.S. drops atom bomb on Nagasaki, Manson cult strikes, Ruth Bader Ginsburg sworn in, Mickey Mantle dies
The Associated Press
AUG. 7
1789: The U.S. Department of War was established by Congress.
1942: U.S. and other allied forces landed at Guadalcanal, marking the start of the rst major allied o ensive in the Paci c during World War II.
1974: Philippe Petit performed an unapproved tightrope walk between the World Trade Center towers, more than 1,300 feet up; it was featured in the Oscar-winning “Man on Wire.”
AUG. 8
1814: During the War of 1812, peace talks between the United States and Britain began in Ghent, Belgium.
1876: Thomas Edison received a patent for his electric pen — the forerunner of the mimeograph machine.
1908: Wilbur Wright made the Wright Brothers’ rst public ying demonstration at Le Mans racecourse in France.
1963: Britain’s “Great Train Robbery” took place as thieves made o with 2.6 million pounds in banknotes.
AUG. 9
1173: Construction began on the campanile of Pisa Cathedral—better known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
1854: Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden” was rst published.
1936: Jesse Owens won his fourth gold medal at the Berlin Olympics.
1945: Three days after Hiroshima, a U.S. B-29 dropped a nuclear device on Nagasaki, killing an estimated 74,000 people from the bombing and radiation.
1969: Actor Sharon Tate and four others were found murdered at her Los Angeles home; cult leader Charles Manson and his followers were later convicted.
AUG. 10
1792: During the French Revolution, mobs in Paris attacked the Tuileries Palace, where King Louis XVI resided.
1821: Missouri became the 24th state admitted to the Union.
1945: A day after the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, Imperial Japan conveyed its willing-
1956: Abstract painter Jackson Pollock died in an automobile accident at age 44.
1965: Rioting that claimed 34 lives and lasted six days broke out in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles.
2014: Academy Award-winning actor and comedian Robin Williams died at age 63.
AUG. 12
1898: Fighting in the Spanish-American War came to an end.
ness to surrender provided the status of Emperor Hirohito remained unchanged.
1969: Leno and Rosemary LaBianca were murdered in their Los Angeles home by members of Charles Manson’s cult, one day after actor Sharon Tate and four other people were slain.
1993: Ruth Bader Ginsburg was sworn in as the second female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.
AUG. 11
1919: Germany’s Weimar Constitution was signed by President Friedrich Ebert.
1934: The rst federal prisoners arrived at Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay.
1909: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the Indianapolis 500, rst opened.
1953: The Soviet Union conducted a secret test of its rst hydrogen bomb.
1981: IBM introduced its rst personal computer, the model 5150, at a press conference in New York.
AUG. 13
1792: French revolutionaries arrested and imprisoned King Louis XVI; he would be executed by guillotine the following January.
1952: Big Mama Thornton rst recorded the song “Hound Dog,” four years before Elvis Presley’s famous version was released.
1995: Baseball Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle died at age 63.
Deadheads have ocked to San Francisco for the proli c band’s 60th anniversary
By Janie Har The Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO — A few hundred people gathered last Friday to name a tiny San Francisco street after legendary Grateful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia on what would have been his 83rd birthday and as part of a citywide celebration to mark the band’s 60th anniversary. Harrington Street, which is one block long, will also be called “Jerry Garcia Street.” He died in 1995, but the band’s popularity has only grown as younger generations discover the Dead’s improvisational music, which blended rock, blues, folk and other styles.
Garcia spent part of his childhood in a modest home in the city’s diverse Excelsior neighborhood. He lived with his grandparents after the death of his father, Jose Ramon “Joe” Garcia.
“I hope that you all get a chance to enjoy the music, dance, hug, smile,” said daughter Trixie Garcia, growing emotional during her brief remarks. “Cherish what’s valuable, what’s signi cant in life.”
Tens of thousands of fans are in San Francisco to commemorate the Grateful Dead’s 60th
“Cherish what’s valuable, what’s signi cant in life.”
Trixie Garcia
anniversary with concerts and other activities throughout the city.
The latest iteration of the band, Dead & Company, with original Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart, will play Golden Gate Park’s Polo Field for three days starting Friday. An estimated 60,000 attendees are expected each day.
Formed in 1965, the Grateful Dead played often and for free in their early years while living in a cheap Victorian home in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. The band later became a signi cant part of 1967’s Summer of Love, and the Grateful Dead has become synonymous with San Francisco and its bohemian counterculture.
Fans in rainbow tie-dye and Grateful Dead T-shirts whooped and cheered as the sign was unveiled last Friday. Nonfans with shopping bags and some using walking canes maneuvered around the crowd on what was for them just another foggy day in the working-class neighborhood.
Afterward, devotees peeled o to pose for photos in front of Garcia’s childhood home.
Jared Yankee, 23, got the
GODOFREDO A. VÁSQUEZ / AP PHOTO
Trixie Garcia, second from right, poses for sel es with Grateful Dead fans following the unveiling of Jerry Garcia Street last Friday in San Francisco.
crowd to join him in singing
“Happy Birthday.” Yankee said he ew in from Rhode Island for
the shows. He got into the music about a decade ago.
“It’s a human thing,” he said
of his impromptu singing. “I gure everyone knows the words to ‘Happy Birthday.’”
RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION / AP PHOTO
Rosanna Arquette arrives at the premiere of “Mrs. Davis” in 2023 at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles. The actor turns 66 on Sunday.
Dustin Ho man is 88, Mark Knop er turns 76, Former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders celebrates 92
The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.
AUG. 7
Actor John Glover (“Smallville”) is 81. Actor David Rasche (“Sledge Hammer!”) is 81. Actor Wayne Knight (“Seinfeld”) is 70. Actor David Duchovny (“Californication,” ″The X-Files”) is 65.
AUG. 8
Actor Dustin Ho man is 88. Actor Connie Stevens is 87. Actor Keith Carradine (“Madam Secretary”) is 76. Guitarist The Edge of U2 is 64.
AUG. 9
Actor Sam Elliott is 81. Actor Melanie Gri th is 68. Former “Today” co-host Hoda Kotb is 61. Actor Eric Bana (“Star Trek,” “The Hulk”) is 57.
AUG. 10
Singer Patti Austin is 75. Actor Rosanna Arquette is 66. Actor Antonio Banderas is 65. Former boxer Riddick Bowe is 58.
AUG.11
Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak is 75. Musician Joe Jackson is 71. Actor Viola Davis is 60. Actor-host Joe Rogan is 58.
AUG. 12
Singer-musician Mark Knop er (Dire Straits) is 76. Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny is 71. Rapper Sir Mix-A-Lot is 62. Tennis Hall of Famer Pete Sampras is 54. Actor-comedian Michael Ian Black is 54.
AUG. 13
Former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders is 92. Opera singer Kathleen Battle is 77. Hockey Hall of Famer Bobby Clarke is 76. Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders is 43.
Eddie Murphy,
‘King of the Hill,’ ‘Wednesday’
“Outlander: Blood of My Blood” debuts on Starz
The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS legend Big Freedia returning with a new gospel album and the acting trio of Eddie Murphy, Pete Davidson and Keke Palmer teaming up for the armored truck action comedy “The Pickup” are some of the new television, lms, music and games headed to a device near you.
Also, among the streaming o erings worth your time: The animated “King of the Hill” returns after a 15-year pause, the rst half of season two of “Wednesday” lands on Net ix, and the “Welcome to Wrexham” spino “NECAXA” premieres with Eva Longoria.
MOVIES TO STREAM
Murphy and Davidson are armored truck drivers coerced into a heist in the action-comedy “The Pickup.” Palmer plays the criminal mastermind who disrupts their routine drive. Longoria, Andrew Dice Clay and Marshawn Lynch co-star in the movie, which made headlines during its Atlanta production after several crew members were injured in a collision during the shoot. It’s streaming now on Prime Video.
Filmmaker Osgood Perkins’ latest horror “The Monkey” will be streaming on Hulu starting Thursday. The follow-up to his breakout hit “Longlegs” was inspired by a 1980 Stephen King story. Theo James plays twin brothers whose lives turn to chaos when a demonic toy monkey causes deaths around them. In her review for The Associated Press, Jocelyn Noveck wrote that it felt “uneven.” She added, “surely there will be an audience for the creatively rendered gore. The rest of us may feel left with a witty, visually arresting, highly inventive quasi-mess on our hands.”
If you haven’t had enough Pedro Pascal this year, he’s a key part of Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s “Freaky Tales,” streaming on HBO Max on Friday. The anthology action comedy follows four interconnected stories in Oakland, California, in 1987. Before the lm’s Sundance debut in 2024, Boden told the AP that “It’s a movie lover’s movie. … It has one foot in reality and then one foot just launches o into fantasy.”
Pedro Pascal appears in a scene from the late ’80s-set,
“(“Freaky Tales”) is a movie lover’s movie. … It has one foot in reality and then one foot just launches o into fantasy.”
Anna Boden, “Freaky Tales” co-director
New Orleans legend Big Freedia, the queen of bounce music (and a notable Beyoncé collaborator, lest anyone forget the zeitgeist-shifting “Renaissance”), is back with a new album. But “Pressing Onward” is new territory for the artist. It’s her rst gospel album, and it still manages to induce as much booty-shaking as ever before. The di erence this time is that her vibrant sonic celebrations are all about faith. Start with “Holy Shu e” featuring Billy Porter or “Sunday Best” with Tamar Braxton. It’s good for the soul.
SERIES TO STREAM
Would you believe it’s been 15 years since “King of the Hill” went o the air? The animated comedy returns with a new 14th season on its new home, Hulu. All 10-episodes drop at once for bingeing. The show picks up give
or take 10 years after the events of season 13. Hank and Peggy are both retired after returning from Saudi Arabia, where Hank had been working. Their kids are now grown. Adjusting to life as retirees and in the current political climate in America presents challenges for the couple.
Another long wait comes to an end when the rst half of season two of “Wednesday” premieres on Net ix. The show follows teen Wednesday Addams (played by Jenna Ortega) as she studies at a boarding school called Nevermore Academy. Ortega’s deliciously deadpan delivery earned her an Emmy Award nomination for her work on Season 1. Catherine Zeta-Jones and Luis Guzmán play Wednesday’s parents, Morticia and Gomez. Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne proved that yes, men and women can be just friends in the rst season of their Apple TV+ comedy called “Platonic. “ The codependent buddies, Will and Syl-
via are back with a new season. We meet them again and Will is engaged to his boss — who doesn’t like Sylvia. And Sylvia is planning their wedding. Will is struggling to open his bar, and Sylvia’s event-planning business has yet to take o . More than two years ago, AMC Networks pulled the plug on its sci- comedy “Demascus “as a cost-cutting measure even though production was already completed. Tubi has rescued the show, starring Okieriete Onaodowan, and it premieres Thursday. It’s about a man who begins using an experimental technology that allows him to experience di erent timelines of his life. The “Outlander” prequel “Outlander: Blood of My Blood” debuts on Starz on Friday. It’s about the parents of Claire and Jamie from “Outlander.” Unlike its predecessor, “Blood of My Blood” does not have source material by author Diana Gabaldon, but its showrunner, Matthew B. Roberts, also works on “Outlander” and is very familiar with the lore. The cast is already lming a second season. It streams on the Starz App or through platforms like Hulu and Prime Video.
The “Welcome to Wrexham” spino “NECAXA” premieres Thursday on FX on Hulu. After
their success owning the Welsh soccer team Wrexham AFC, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney join Eva Longoria and buy a stake in a Mexican club, NECAXA, “It’s more than winning games. We’re gonna win hearts. We’re gonna inspire pride. We’re gonna empower the team,” Longoria says in the trailer.
The Ma a series from 2K Games has moved from 1930s Chicago to 1940s New York to 1960s New Orleans, but now it’s going back in time and space. Ma a: The Old Country aims to deliver an origin story of sorts, traveling to 1900s Sicily. Enzo Favara is a young man who’s su ered a rough childhood, and he is hoping to improve his status by working for the Torrisi crime family. That means pulling o heists, punching out rivals and killing anyone who might threaten the Don. The cars may be slower and the weapons may not be as slick, but if you’re bummed out about having to wait for the next Grand Theft Auto, you might want to spend some time with the original gangsters. It arrives Friday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S and PC.