Promotion day
Sheri Mike Roberson and the Chatham County Sheri ’s O ce held a pinning ceremony last Thursday, giving oaths of o ce, promotions and awards to deputies and sta .
the BRIEF this week
Trump says Space Command to move from Colorado to Alabama
U.S. Space Command will be located in Huntsville, Alabama, President Donald Trump announced Tuesday afternoon, reversing a Biden-era decision to keep it at its temporary headquarters in Colorado. Alabama and Colorado have long battled to claim Space Command because it has signi cant implications for the local economy. The site also has been a political prize, with elected o cials from both states asserting theirs as the better location.
Judge orders search shakeup in Google monopoly case, keeps hands o Chrome, default search deals
A federal judge ordered a shake-up of Google’s search business in an attempt to curb the corrosive power of an illegal monopoly, but rebu ed the U.S. government’s attempt to break up the company and impose other restraints. The 226-page decision made by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta in Washington, D.C., will likely ripple across the technological landscape at a time when the industry is being reshaped by arti cial intelligence breakthroughs — including conversational “answer engines” as companies like ChatGPT and Perplexity try to upend Google’s long-held position as the internet’s main gateway. Google will remain the default search engine on Apple’s iPhone and other devices, for example, in exchange for billions of dollars per year in payments.
Chatham schools, CCCC team up on teacher licensure program
The teams say they risk going out of business
By Jenna Fryer The Associated Press
CHARLOTTE — The bit-
ter ght between NASCAR and two of its teams who have
led a federal antitrust lawsuit against the stock-racing giant spilled into public view last Thursday during an acrimonious hearing that included the disclosure of expletive-laden
The new program helps school employees become licensed teachers
Chatham News & Record sta PITTSBORO — Chatham County Schools and Central Carolina Community College have partnered to create a new pathway for nonlicensed elementary school employees to become certi ed teachers while continuing to work in the classroom. The program will allow
teacher assistants, substitute teachers and other school employees who already have bachelor’s degrees to earn their teaching licenses without having to quit their jobs or pursue traditional student teaching. O cials from both institutions signed an agreement Aug. 28, at CCCC’s Sanford campus to launch the Elementary Education Residency Licensure Certi cate Program. The agreement was signed by CCS Superintendent Anthony See SCHOOLS, page A7
emails and text messages from team owner Michael Jordan and other high-pro le litigants.
In one exchange, the retired NBA Hall of Famer and co-owner of the 23XI Racing Team used disparaging language about Joe Gibbs Racing and the 13 other teams that
NC native representing self in Trump assassination attempt trial
Jury selection begins Sept. 8 for Ryan Routh
By David Fischer The Associated Press
FORT PIERCE, Fla. — A
Greensboro native charged with trying to assassinate President Donald Trump last year in South Florida will represent himself in his trial.
Barring any delays, jury selection is scheduled to begin Sept. 8 in Fort Pierce federal court for the case against Ryan Routh. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon signed o on Routh’s request to represent himself in July but said court-appointed attorneys need
to remain as standby counsel.
The trial will begin nearly a year after prosecutors say a U.S. Secret Service agent thwarted Routh’s attempt to shoot Trump as he played golf. Routh, 59, has pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal o cer and several rearm violations. Prosecutors have said Routh methodically plotted to kill Trump for weeks before aiming a ri e through the shrubbery as Trump played golf on Sept. 15, 2024, at his West Palm Beach country club. A Secret Service agent spotted Routh before Trump came into view. O cials
signed NASCAR’s new charter agreements last September.
“Teams are going to regret not joining us,” Jordan wrote in a text message to Curtis Polk, his business manager who, along with Jordan and
See NASCAR, page A3
THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
COURTESY CHATHAM COUNTY SCHOOLS
CCS Superintendent Anthony Jackson and CCCC President Lisa M. Chapman sign the agreement.
COURTESY SHERIFF MIKE ROBERSON
CRIME LOG
Aug. 24
• Tyler Owen Melville, 23, of Pittsboro, was arrested for larceny of motor vehicle.
Aug. 25
• Summer O’Neal Sanders, 36, of Siler City, was arrested for possession of marijuana, maintaining vehicle/dwelling/ place for controlled substances, and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.
• Ricky Dustin Oldham, 40, of Bear Creek, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.
Aug. 26
• Billy Farrell Kiser, 57, homeless, was arrested for second-degree trespass, littering, and resisting a public o cer.
Aug. 27
• Jacob Melaku Phillips, 24, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for driving while license revoked with impaired revocation and expired registration.
• Joshua Wayne Jordan, 40, of Ramseur, was arrested for assault in icting serious injury.
• Michael Patrick Gleason Jr., 42, of Beckley, West Virginia, was arrested for family o ense, domestic violence protective order violation, cyberstalking, communicating threats, and harassing phone calls.
• John Wayne Gerteisen, 73, of Sanford, was arrested for failure to register as sex o ender.
Aug. 29
• Alvaro Hernandez-Tepetia, 48, of Siler City, was arrested for child support violation.
Aug. 30
• Cedric Laval Vinson, 36, of Cary, was arrested for eeing or eluding arrest with motor vehicle, ctitious/altered title/ registration, reckless driving, driving while license revoked, speeding, injury to real property, resisting a public o cer, failure to maintain lane control, driving without two headlamps, failure to heed light or siren, and additional charges of eeing or eluding arrest with motor vehicle and driving while license revoked.
Chatham County to host second annual Healthy Aging Expo on Sept. 18
The free event features vendors, educational sessions and more
Chatham News & Record sta
PITTSBORO — Chatham County Aging Services will host its second annual Healthy Aging Expo on Thursday, Sept. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center at 1192 U.S. 64 Business West in Pittsboro.
The free event requires advance registration and will feature vendor booths, educational sessions and a keynote address by wellness facilitator Rhonda Mack. Last year’s inaugural expo drew a capacity crowd of older adults and aging professionals.
“We are excited to announce the return of our Healthy Aging Expo,” said Ashlyn Martin, Chatham County Aging Services director. “The desire and demand for this event was overwhelming in our inaugural year, and we are prepared
to take what we learned and apply it to a more streamlined experience in 2025.”
Martin said the expo aims to empower older adults with information to help them reach their individual goals. The event is also open to aging professionals.
The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with a 90-minute resource fair featuring vendor booths in the center’s main exhibit hall. Mack will deliver the keynote address at 10:15 a.m., followed by the rst of three
The expo aims to empower older adults with information to help them reach their individual goals.
45-minute educational sessions at 11:15 a.m.
Lunch will be served at noon, with additional time to visit vendor booths. Two more sessions are scheduled for 1:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.
Registration is available at the Pittsboro Center for Active Living at 365 Highway 87 North, and the Siler City Center for Active Living at 112 Village Lake Drive. Online registration is available at chathamcountync.gov/agingservices under the “Healthy Aging Expo” tab.
Registration is limited and will close once lled.
For more information, visit the website or the Chatham County Aging Services Facebook page.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
Sept. 5
Moonlit Movie Series: “Avatar: The Way of the Water”
8:30-10:30 p.m.
Movie on the lawn with food and beverages available for purchase onsite. Pets are welcome. Tickets are free.
Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons 457 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro
Sept. 6
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
Sanford Farmers Market
8:30 a.m. to noon
An ideal place for local food producers to build connections within the community while giving the public a place to sample and purchase foods and crafts made by their neighbors. Experience the ultimate in food, fun and fellowship in the Sandhills region.
115 Chatham St. Chatham
Sept. 10
Jazz Night at The Sycamore at Chatham Mills
6-9 p.m.
Every Wednesday night, The Sycamore hosts live Jazz Nights. The series features a rotating list of local musicians. Visitors can order their choice of appetizers from the Lounge Menu in the dining room each night. Reservations are highly recommended.
480 Hillsboro St. Suite 500 Pittsboro
Sept. 13
Mill Town Yarns at BFM –“Sing Me a Story” 7-8:30 p.m.
Live acoustic performances by a variety of local musicians. Admission is free; donations are welcome.
Porch,
PHOTOS BY SHAWN KREST / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Hayley Bales Steakhouse
o ers trip back in time
Fine dining, reasonable prices and that childhood vacation feel
By Shawn Krest Chatham News & Record
THE ONLY REASON Hayley Bales Steakhouse can’t be called a “diamond in the rough” is that the area around it isn’t all that bad. Still, the fancy big brother of sister restaurant Bestfood Cafeteria is a hidden gem tucked into a Siler City strip mall.
The pair of family-owned restaurants share the same Gift Gallery storefront. Visitors enter, exit and pay for their meal at gift shop that occupies most of the building’s square footage. It o ers everything from designer handbags to blue jeans to bottles of hot sauce. Think a classier South of the Border or a higher-quality Cracker Barrel.
Unlike Cracker Barrel, however, there won’t be any logo controversy at Hayley Bales. Save a sign out front, there’s little to no evidence there’s steakhouse on the premises, just a darkened doorway o to one side. Even the menus don’t have a logo, or even a name at the top. If you know, their business plan seems to have concluded, you know.
Hayley Bales makes high-quality food for a surprisingly reasonable price. Whether it’s a special occasion or a family dinner out, the steakhouse seems to be the place to go.
The restaurant is cleverly laid out, with seat locations and lighting making it seem like your table is the only one in the place. Diners passing our table with doggie bags on the way out were the only people we encountered who weren’t collecting a Haley Bales paycheck.
The restaurant boasts that it o ers seven meats and 10 veggies a day, including seafood, chicken, ribs, pork chops and, of course, steak, in a wide variety of cuts and sizes. The meat is cooked over an open ame and bursts with avor. The ribeyes range from Caleb’s cut (8 ounces) to PaPa’s (12). Not to accuse anyone of false advertising, but, having ordered from steakhouses large and small, around the country, either ev-
PHOTOS BY SHAWN KREST / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Hayley Bales is a throwback — a quirky, friendly place to get a ne meal without blowing your paycheck.
eryone else is lying or Hayley Bales gives you an ounce or two more than you ordered. Each steak comes with a side, which include many of those 10 veggies. The stu ed potato, which is a cheesy combination of a casserole and potato skin appetizer, is the one they recommended as their specialty. The meals also come with a house salad that is a meal upon itself. It reminds me of those 1980s restaurant salad bars that charged by the trip, so diners packed their plates with
heaping mountains of lettuce and a rainbow of side vegetables. It even had the packages of crackers that always seemed to wind up on the salad plate. The hearty salad was a suitable foreshadowing of what was to come.
It seems near impossible to leave Hayley Bales still hungry, or without leftovers. It’s generous portions of fresh, tasty high-end comfort food. And the price is lower than a night out at a far less ful lling chain place. We could stop and ll our gas tank on the way home and still spend less than we would at the Outback or Roadhouse.
Hayley Bales is a throwback — a quirky, friendly place to get a ne meal without blowing your paycheck. It reminded me of that rst “fancy dinner out” with mom and dad on a family vacation.
It’s de nitely a diamond, even if it’s not surrounded by much rough.
three -time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin own 23XI Racing. That organization and Front Row Motorsports were the only two teams that refused to sign extension agreements on charter agreements, the equivalent of franchises in other sports. The two teams then sued NASCAR, accusing it of being a bully and monopoly in a brawl that has played out all year and prompted both teams to say they risk going out of business if the series sells their charters out from under them.
Nothing, however, has been as explosive as the details that came to light for the rst time last Thursday as documents related to discovery were disclosed. NASCAR is privately owned by the Florida-based France family, with founder Bill France Sr.’s son, Jim, the current chairman. His granddaughter, Lesa France Kennedy, is the executive vice chair and was in court for the rst time since the case began.
Steve Lauletta, the president of 23XI, at one point wrote “Jim dying is probably the answer” to teams getting better terms on a charter agreement while, Hamlin said “my despise for the France family runs deep... (but) please let’s not sabotage our own business.”
In a partially redacted text conversation between Jordan and Polk, presumably about the price of charters, Jordan wrote, “I’m not selling even if they were for sale (redacted). What would we do?” Polk replies, “This is just a hobby!!!” and Jordan responds, “Only can play but so much golf.” In a second exchange, Jordan discusses with Polk the cost of signing a driver whose name is redacted.
“I have lost that in a casino. Lets do it,” Jordan replied.
NASCAR had its own expletive-laden email exchange among top executives disclosed. Commissioner Steve Phelps in one email wrote that talks had not been productive and argued an early charter proposal o ered “zero wins for the teams.” In another message, he wrote the charters “must re ect a middle position or we are dead in the water — they will sign them but we are (expletive) moving forward.”
Steve O’Donnell, the president of NASCAR, also didn’t like an early version because it would return NASCAR’s model to 1996 terms with an attitude of “(Expletive) the teams, dictatorship, motorsport, redneck, southern, tiny sport,” he wrote. Je rey Kessler, the attorney for 23XI and Front Row, contended that the NASCAR exchanges as well as contingency plans on how NASCAR could prevent rival competition prove NASCAR is monopolizing the stock car racing market.
NASCAR has maintained in legal lings that 23XI and
“I have lost that in a casino. Lets do it.”
Michael Jordan’s text on the price of signing a new driver
Front Row relinquished any rights they have to six combined charters when they refused to sign the extensions last September. The teams started the season recognized as chartered, which guarantees 36 chartered teams entry into the 40-car eld each week. Chartered teams also receive a substantially higher percentage of payouts.
The order that recognized the six cars as chartered has been overturned and they are currently competing as “open” teams. 23XI Racing driver Tyler Reddick has a clause in his contract that says he can leave if his car is not chartered; Kessler indicated that Reddick and sponsors have given notice that 23XI is in breach.
U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell warned during the hearing that NASCAR’s charter system is at stake, depending on the outcome of the case. The arguments before Bell were focused on the teams’ urgent request to restore their status as chartered teams through the end of the season ahead of a trial scheduled for Dec. 1. NASCAR has indicated it plans to immediately begin selling o the charters. Bell asked NASCAR’s attorney that if there is indeed such an eager buyer, why couldn’t the series sell one of the four open slots and then gure out how to address it once the case is settled. NASCAR has maintained that it can’t be forced to do business with teams it does not want to work with.
The judge said he would rule on the request next week after the rst playo race of the season. Reddick and Bubba Wallace are in the playo eld for 23IX and so is Hamlin, who drives for JGR.
Outside court, Jordan said he has been open to a settlement but is willing to see the case go to trial. Kessler warned if 23XI and Front Row do not receive their charters back they will go out of business in 2026.
“Look, I’ve been a fan of the game for a long period of time,” Jordan said. “When we rst started this whole process, I’ve always said I want to ght for the betterment of the sport. Even though they tried to point out that we’ve made some money, we had a successful business. That’s not the point. The point is that the sport itself needs to continually change for the fans as well as for the teams.
“As well as as for NASCAR, too, if they understand that,” Jordan said. “I feel like we made a good statement today about that, and I look forward to going down with re. If I have to ght this to the end, for the betterment of the sport, I will do that.”
THE CONVERSATION
Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
Dear Donald
My desire for attention tells me that true humility is about reaching toward those less fortunate, not for reward or recognition.
Dear Donald,
PLEASE FORGIVE the audacity of addressing the president of the United States on a rst-name basis. I also realize that you are often known by your last name — Trump — that is so famous as to be its own brand.
Yet I address you by your rst, or Christian, name because I recently learned that you “want to try to get to heaven” but that you acknowledge you are “really at the bottom of the totem pole.” Your candor about existential questions of life after death made you more relatable to me.
As a pastor, I am often asked about the afterlife, including questions about who is going where. Someone’s eternal fate is not up to me — thank God! As Anne Lamott once said, if you think God condemns all the same people that you do, then you can be sure you’ve made God in your image or think you are a god.
What did Jesus say about the afterlife? He told a parable about a group of people who helped people at the bottom of the totem pole — the sick, hungry and poor; the immigrant and the incarcerated. These helpers are the people going to heaven: “You who are blessed by my Father, take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” (Matthew 25:34).
But Jesus told another parable to “some who were con dent of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else” (Luke 18:9). A Pharisee, a religious leader, went to the temple and recited his righteous resume before God: how he fasted, tithed and didn’t commit
| BOB WACHS
COLUMN
adultery, theft or any major sin. Then, a tax collector, who was despised by the religious community as a fraud and cheat, asked God for mercy. It was that sinner who was justi ed before God! Jesus delivers the punchline: “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14).
I confess, Donald, that, while I try and help the people at the bottom of the totem pole mentioned in the rst parable, I can also be self-righteous like the religious person in the second parable. My desire for attention tells me that true humility is about reaching toward those less fortunate, not for reward or recognition. Humility realizes, even embraces, the fact that we will never receive proper praise for our noblest work, and yet the e ort to be our best selves on behalf of others can make a di erence, if not noticeable in this world, then perhaps in the next one.
“Judge not,” taught Jesus, “lest ye be judged.” I hope that you will join in helping those less fortunate — not for praise or reward — but to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8).
Humbly, Andrew
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.
When did ‘labor’ become a bad word?
Part of what I’m feeling, I think, is the shift away from emphasizing work and the importance and value of it.
YEARS AGO, when I was a teenager and dinosaurs roamed the earth, I always moaned — inwardly, of course, for my health’s sake — when my parents or someone the age I am now would start a conversation or lecture with the immortal words, “When I was your age.”
Now I think I understand what they were trying to say. Let me say right up front, I’m not opposed to youth and young folks, although I do nd myself agreeing more and more with Mark Twain’s notion that “youth is wasted on the young.” The energy I once had, which never did lead the activity meter, has now given way to pacing myself and trying to leave something undone so there’ll be something to do tomorrow.
All of this deep philosophy and meditation comes about as I consider the recently observed Labor Day and the holiday that comes with it, and what it all means. For some folks, it’s the last hurrah of summer, one more chance to go to the beach or mountains or lake, or backyard. Nothing wrong with that. Vacations and leisure are good, and I’m going to try some sooner than later, I hope.
For others, the weekend is the start of the new school year or close to it, a time when new clothes are bought, old ones are dusted o , supplies are bought and buses start roaming the roads.
Part of what I’m feeling, I think, is the shift away from emphasizing work and the importance and value of it, not just in economic reward but also in personal growth and development. Our society places such an emphasis on leisure that work is coming to have a bad connotation, something even to be avoided if possible.
I know we still make some things in this country, but more and more of our employment is found in service industries. And, yes, the folks who do those things provide
a service and work while they’re doing it.
But I nd myself more and more longing for those days when the old folks did say, “When I was your age ...”
Lest you think me a cold, inconsiderate old fogey, let me say that one thing that has happened is that seemingly there are not as many jobs available today, not only for teens and youth but older folk, as well.
Fewer and fewer farmers, for instance, produce square bales of hay anymore, bales that need teenage boys to pick them up out of the elds. Instead, the growers make use of large round balers that produce bales that are transported by tractor. So which came rst — the round balers that one person could handle and that eliminated the need for labor, or the fact that teenage boys didn’t want to work in the hot sun anymore and farmers had to do something di erent?
Cigarettes and other tobacco products are taboo now, which, although perhaps healthier for us all, wiped out a large portion of summer labor opportunities. Fewer and fewer drug stores have soda fountains now, and instead of being soda jerks, we just become jerks.
You get the idea, I think, and I know it’s dangerous to generalize, but, again, as I become the person I once loathed, I see folks saying they’re bored or that life has no meaning or similar thoughts and ideas. When you add in that too often our government makes it easier not to work and get paid for it than to do something like “an honest day’s pay for an honest day’s work.”
The old saying, “Hard work never killed anybody,” has been relegated to antiquity in favor of, “I’d rather somebody kill me than to have to work hard.”
Pity.
Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.
COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN
It
came from where?
Those whisperings sounded like, just maybe, they were really, truly and authentically, her own voice, the one she’d been looking for all her life.
YOU LIKE TRANSFORMATION stories? Okey-doke, here we go! Once upon a time, there was a woman, who, from girlhood on, didn’t perceive herself as having the ability to write — anything. Writing was a bit like staring at a snake. “Run, run! Get outta here! Somebody else take care of that snake! I can’t.” This young woman felt so bereft of writing skills that she even talked a friend into helping her compose a graduate school application. (OMG, do you think there’s a statute of limitations on such graduate school heresy? Will they take away her degree? What if she promises never, ever, to sing Michigan’s ght song, “Hail to the Victors,” out of tune again?) ... So, where were we? Ah, yes, the aforementioned fearful human caught in her longtime prison of “I can’t write.” From other friends, who were more comfortable writers, she’d heard rumblings about having an inner authentic voice guiding them on the writing path. She assumed she didn’t have access to an authentic inner voice, nally making peace with that belief. Yeah, yeah, she had other gifts to share with the world, but still felt haunted by a felt incapacity to write.
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
Years passed (they do that) and she began hearing whisperings and stirrings within. Those whisperings sounded like, just maybe, they were really, truly and authentically, her own voice, the one she’d been looking for all her life. Oh, wow! But wait, the voice sounded so young at times! So youthful, full of “whoopees” and “wows.” An unrestrained joyful kid. Kind of embarrassing to have a voice within, one that feels so authentic, but sounding like a celebratory child. You know?
But, wow, could that young voice write! She wrote, owingly, from the heart with great humor, wisdom, re ecting deep aliveness. This now-woman felt captured by the life bursting out of this child-like inner voice, replete with wows, OMGs, and yays; language of which she was initially ashamed, since it sounded so childlike.
Yes, ’tis me …
Yours truly feels incredibly fortunate, as an adult, to have been captured by a spirited child whose voice of wisdom comes from god-knows-where. I’m listening … and writing.
Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.
How the White House takes power from Congress
The funds Trump canceled were largely intended for USAID.
RUSSELL VOUGHT IS the ultimate Trumper. The head of the O ce of Management and Budget just anointed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio to wind down the U.S. Agency for International Development (“wind down” being one of his favorite words) had a new stunt to try out this week to subvert constitutional separation of powers. You remember — Congress has the power of the purse. It must be on the citizenship exam. The answer should have an asterisk for President Donald Trump.
Trump’s new trick this week is called the pocket rescission. The beauty of this one, unlike your usual rescission (of PBS funding, for instance) is that Congress doesn’t have to do anything. The president just asks for the money to be rescinded — which freezes it automatically for the next 45 days, and if that should coincide with the end of the scal year, the money goes poof! And Congress’ power of the purse is rendered a nullity.
So sayeth Mr. Vought: “Last night, President Trump CANCELLED $4.9 billion in America Last foreign aid using a pocket rescission,” the White House O ce of Management and Budget posted on X.
Even some Republicans spoke up. “Congress has the responsibility for the power of the purse,” Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), the Senate Appropriations chair, said in a statement. “Any e ort to rescind appropriated funds without congressional approval is a clear violation of the law.”
The funds Trump canceled were largely intended for USAID, a global peacekeeping and anti-poverty agency that Trump has done everything he can to destroy; so it continues.
This was the script for the second term, and it is being carried out in every quarter. Accumulate power in the executive. Use it aggressively. Make of it a veritable show.
BE IN TOUCH
Belittle and cast doubt on the courts and their authority. Undercut their esteem. Play chicken. And, of course, Congress. Play chicken and win.
Watching it, day by day, trick by trick, it is easy to miss the whole picture.
Is this what it looks like when a dictator moves in to take over?
Trump has been musing, aloud of course, about himself as dictator. “The line is that I’m a dictator, but I stop crime,” Trump said during a Cabinet meeting, “So a lot of people say, ‘You know, if that’s the case, I’d rather have a dictator.’”
He later added: “Most people say ... if he stops crime, he can be whatever he wants.”
Not that Trump wants to be a dictator. He made that clear, sort of, the night before, albeit still fascinated with the idea that people might prefer dictators.
“’He’s a dictator. He’s a dictator,’” Trump said of his critics. “A lot of people are saying, ‘Maybe we’d like a dictator.’ I don’t like a dictator. I’m not a dictator.”
Really? Asking permission to rescind is all that it takes?
Vought, a self-described Christian nationalist, had this same job at the end of the rst Trump administration. He was a key contributor to Project 2025, which as you recall was all about this, and some of us didn’t want to believe it then, so here it is again. He said then that his nal goal of Project 2025 was to “bend or break the bureaucracy to the presidential will” and use it to send power from Washington, D.C., back to America’s families, churches, local governments and states. He has said that he wants to “traumatize” federal employees. He comes from the Heritage Foundation.
Just this week’s stunt. Just $5 billion in aid. I wouldn’t bet against him. And I can only imagine what’s next.
Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator.
The left’s misdefinition of Americanism
THIS WEEK, AXIOS ran a fascinating piece about the supposed “rede nition” of Americanism under President Donald Trump. Titled “Inside Trump’s American identity project,” Axios posited that “President Trump is wielding government power to enforce a more rigid, exclusionary de nition of what it means to be American.” What would this new de nition entail?
“In MAGA’s telling, America is the heir to ancient European civilizations, built on a Judeo-Christian foundation of white identity, meritocracy, traditional gender roles and the nuclear family,” says Axios. “These tenets are cast as universal truths — and mantras such as ‘America is an idea’ or ‘diversity is our strength’ are dismissed as liberal ctions.”
First o , America is heir to ancient European civilizations — particularly with reference to private property, the common law system, traditions of free speech and freedom of religion, among others. Second, America is built on a Judeo-Christian foundation. Third, America is built on the meritocracy, which argues that the best and most productive ought to succeed in a free system. America is built on traditional gender roles and the nuclear family, as is every successful society in history. While America is an idea — or a set of ideas — those ideas must be rei ed in institutions and human behavior. And the notion that any nation can be built on a completely specious phrase like “diversity is our strength” is counterintuitive at best.
So what is Axios attempting to do? Axios is attempting to link actual traditional de nitions of Americanism with white supremacy. Never mind that all the ideas Axios cites as “traditional” fundamentally reject ethnic identitarianism: equality before law, for example, presumes racial indi erence; Judeo-Christian religion rejects racial classi cation; the meritocracy is de nitionally opposed to racial preferences; and traditional gender roles and the nuclear family are institutions held in common by people of all races. The goal is simple: a forced choice between “racism” and a leftwing de nition of Americanism that bears zero weight.
This, presumably, is the real drive behind the left’s opposition to much of Trump’s policy. The same Axios piece posits that the Trump administration’s decision to screen incoming immigrants for “anti-American” ideology ought to be seen as an outgrowth of nativism rather than common sense; that opposition to radical sexual politics in our nation’s military is a manifestation of bigotry rather than reason; that restoration of classicism in architecture represents a return to racial exclusivity rather than taste. As the authors write, “MAGA’s utopia looks a lot like America in the 1950s — before the sexual revolution, mass immigration, the Civil Rights Act and expanded LGBTQ rights reshaped the country’s culture and demographics.”
Well, actually, MAGA’s utopia looks mostly like what most Americans think of as the American dream: upward mobility, solid family structure, safety in the streets, decent education, and a vibrant social fabric complete with community and church. The fact that so many on the left — and in the media — nd this vision to be irredeemably “racist” demonstrates their utter disconnect with most Americans. And it’s why Trump is president for the second time.
Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show” and co -founder of Daily Wire+.
Letters to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or mailed to 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.
Contact a writer or columnist: connect@northstatejournal.com
obituaries
Martha Foster Fox
Oct. 6, 1938 – Aug. 15, 2025
Martha Foster Fox, 86 of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025.
Martha was born on October 6, 1938, in Siler City, NC. She was a daughter of the late Myrtle Olivia (Williams) Foster and Samuel Floyd Foster. She graduated from Siler City High School in 1956 and attended Women’s College in Greensboro (UNC Greensboro).
She rst worked as a bookkeeper in Greensboro but later pursued her true passion utilizing her artistic skills. She went to work for a jeweler in Greensboro where she sketched the designs for custom jewelry. She then worked as a commercial artist for the Todd Company of Burroughs in Greensboro. There, she designed and created corporate logos, graphics and artwork on checks and other business forms. She had a natural talent for sketching, drawing and painting. Over the years, she created many family portraits and other paintings of nature scenes. She also enjoyed sewing from a young age where she sewed her own doll clothes. Later she sewed her own clothes as well as clothes for her children. She also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, playing piano and was an avid reader. She enjoyed traveling with her husband and family and was fortunate to have traveled to numerous places in Europe,
IN MEMORY
the Caribbean, Canada and Hawaii where she met and had her photo taken with Willie Nelson.
Martha was outgoing and could do anything she set her mind on. She enjoyed talking with friends; many of which were childhood friends who she had kept in touch with over the years up to her nal days. She was an incredible mother to her two children, a loving grandmother to two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
At the time of her death, she lived in Mount Pleasant, SC and was a member of Isle of Palms First United Methodist Church. She was a previous member of The First United Methodist Church in Siler City, NC.
Martha is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Floyd and Myrtle Olivia (Williams) Foster; husband, Frank Lee Fox. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Fox Cox (Vance); son, Lewis Je erson Fox II (Kelly); grandson, Evan Seely Wyco ; granddaughter, Kenleigh Olivia Wyco Edwards (Colby); and great granddaughters, Sawyer Olivia Brown and Lily Terese Edwards; sister, Sandra Foster Goldsby (Grier); niece, Pamela Teague Holloway (the late Paul); and nephew, Daniel Goldsby.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Rocky River Baptist Church in Siler City, North Carolina. Burial will follow immediately after the service.
In lieu of owers, memorial contributions may be made to Rocky River Baptist Church. https:// rockyriverbaptist.org 4436 Siler City-Snow Camp Rd., Siler City, NC 27344.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Smith & Buckner Funeral Home, 230 N. Second Ave, Siler City, NC 27344 (919)742-2151 https:// www.smithbucknerfh.com/ locations/smithbuckner
DONALD CARSON OLDHAM
AUG. 26, 2025
Donald Carson Oldham, age 88, of Goldston, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill. He was born in Chatham County the son of the late John Carson Oldham and Gladys Martindale Oldham. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Mary Catherine Huguelet Oldham and son John Clinton Oldham. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his degree and proudly played on the Tar Heel baseball team. His passion for the game continued beyond his playing days as he went on to serve as an assistant coach for the UNC baseball program. He was a devoted educator, administrator, and coach having served schools in Hamlet and Lee County. A man of deep faith and unwavering integrity, he dedicated his life to serving others—both in the classroom and on the athletic eld. Throughout his career, Mr. Oldham touched countless lives as a teacher, school administrator, coach, and mentor. His leadership was marked by a steady commitment to excellence and a genuine care for every student and athlete he encountered. He also enjoyed coaching American Legion Baseball, where he inspired young athletes, instilling in them the values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. He was a member of Carbonton Community Church where he was a devoted Sunday School teacher for many years. Mr. Oldham loved spending time with his grandsons, whether it was playing ball in the yard, working on math problems, playing checkers, or making grilled cheese sandwiches and soup for them. He enjoyed watching them grow up and was so proud of their accomplishments in the classroom, on the ball eld, and in life in general. He is survived by his children Catherine O. Hughes of Sanford, Donald C. Oldham, Jr. of Goldston and Marie O. Johnson of Sanford; sisters Nancy Upchurch of Lemon Springs and Brenda Harris and husband Clyde of Wilson and three grandchildren Hunter Johnson and wife Odalis, Colin, and Landon Johnson. He was blessed to have wonderful caregivers in his later years who truly loved him and became part of the family (Lori Spinks, Loretta McSwain, Anita Matthews, and Cozy Wilkie).
MARGARET “EVELYN” GARRETT MOODY
APRIL 23, 1926 – AUG. 31, 2025
Margaret “Evelyn” Garrett Moody, 99, of Siler City, went to her Heavenly home on Sunday, August 31st, 2025, at Siler City Center. Evelyn was born on April 23rd, 1926, in Alamance County, to the late William W. and Eula Holt Garrett. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Marley Joseph Moody; her sons, Larry Moody, Monte Moody, and Danny Moody; her brothers, Jack, James, Bobby, & Robert “Hoover” Garrett; her grandson, Andy Moody; and her great grandson, Austin Parnell. Evelyn worked in the cloth room as a mender at Collins & Aikman. She loved her family, and they were the most important to her, and she enjoyed spending time with her family and making memories. She loved to cook for her family Sunday dinner every Sunday. She loved to go shing and traveling to the mountains. She was always on the go. She was a member of Rives Chapel Baptist Church and loved her church family.
Charles Bierbauer, longtime CNN correspondent, dead at age 83
The former White House correspondent became USC communications dean
The Associated Press
CHAPIN, S.C. — Charles Bierbauer, former CNN correspondent and a past president of the White House Correspondents Association who later became dean of the University of South Carolina’s journalism program, has died. He was 83.
Bierbauer died last Friday at his home in Spruce Pine in Mitchell County, where he had been living in retirement, according to university spokesman Je Stensland. No direct cause was given, but the family’s obituary said “his generous heart gave out after a good, long life.”
Bierbauer’s journalism career began in his native Pennsylvania, where early on he was a weekend reporter for media outlet WKAP. After a year as a reporter for The Associated Press in Pittsburgh, Bierbauer worked for several other outlets, winning an Overseas Press Club Award in 1973 for his reporting on the Yom Kippur War. According to his family, Bierbauer was once detained in Moscow’s Red Square while lming an anti-Soviet demonstration. While covering Muhammed Ali’s 1978 travels in the Soviet Union, Bierbauer was denounced by the Soviet press for “asking impertinent questions.”
After four years with ABC News, Bierbauer began two decades at CNN, starting just a year after the network’s inception. Over the next 20 years, Bierbauer would cover the Pentagon, White House, the U.S. Supreme Court and an array of political stories and presidential campaigns. He also hosted the weekly current events show “Newsmaker Saturday” for a decade and regularly traveled with presidents across the country and to dozens of foreign nations.
Afterward, Bierbauer moved to South Carolina, where he became the rst dean of the state agship university’s College of Information and Communications, a merger of the mass communications and library science programs. Launching Cocky’s Reading Express, a childhood literacy initiative, Bierbauer also led a multimillion-dollar fundraising and renovation e ort that moved the school from the outdated Carolina Coliseum to a state-of-theart building on South Carolina’s historic Horseshoe.
While in academia, Bierbauer continued his passion for broadcasting by hosting a weekly current events program and moderating scores of debates among political candidates vying for ofces in the state, through a partnership with SCETV.
Jay Bender, a former attorney for the South Carolina Press Association and retired professor who served under Bierbauer, remembered him as a distinguished broadcaster and educator.
“His contributions to the USC Journalism School as dean were signi cant,” Bender said, speci cally mentioning the project that modernized the school and moved it to its current location.
Tom Reichert, who succeed-
ed Bierbauer as communications dean, echoed Bender’s sentiments, recalling his predecessor’s “profound impact on the program.”
“He is fondly remembered for many achievements, including fundraising and supporting students who went on to win Pulitzer Prizes,” Reichert said in a statement to The Associated Press. “He will be deeply missed.”
Bierbauer was married to Susanne Schafer, a longtime military a airs reporter for the AP. He earned degrees in journalism and Russian from Penn State University and is survived by Schafer, as well as four children, several grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
In a statement to the AP, a network spokesperson remembered Bierbauer as “a cherished member of the CNN family” and “tireless reporter and wonderful colleague.”
“Charles inspired me and helped me throughout my assignments at the Pentagon and the White House,” Wolf Blitzer, Bierbauer’s former CNN colleague, told the AP in a statement. “He was a good friend, colleague, and mentor, and I will certainly miss him.”
Angela Mortimer Barrett, former Wimbledon champ, dead at 93
Mortimer Barrett won three Grand Slam titles despite partial deafness
The Associated Press
LONDON — Angela Mortimer Barrett, who overcame partial deafness and an intestinal infection to win three Grand Slam singles titles including 1961 Wimbledon, died last Monday at age 93.
The All England Club made the announcement.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Angela Mortimer Barrett, Wimbledon’s oldest surviving ladies’ singles champion,” club chair Deborah Jevans said.
A late bloomer to tennis at 14, Mortimer Barrett was ready to play the Grand Slam events by 19 and won her rst major title at the 1955 French Championships, beating Dorothy Knode of the U.S. 2-6, 7-5, 10-8 in the nal. At 8-8 in the last set, she said she knew she was going to win when she heard Knode ask for a brandy.
By then, Mortimer Barrett’s hearing was failing. Being able to hear the ball coming o the strings is a major aid to most.
“I could hear the applause of the crowd but not much else,” Mortimer told the International Tennis Hall of Fame website. “It helped me concentrate, shutting out distractions. When I hear players say they need to hear the ball, I smile. I couldn’t.”
She returned to the French nal in 1956 but lost to Althea Gibson.
Former Wimbledon champions Angela Mortimer Barrett, left, of 1961, and Anne Jones, right, of 1969, ank a bust of fellow champion Virginia Wade at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in London in 2004.
Recurring bouts of illness were eventually diagnosed as entomoebic dysentry. She cured it with a three-week starvation diet but lost a lot of weight that made her weak.
Mortimer Barrett’s comeback included her only trip to Australia in 1958, when she won her second Grand Slam singles title, beating fellow Brit Lorraine Coghlan 6-3, 6-4 in the nal, and also reached the nals of the doubles and mixed doubles. Later that year, she got to her rst Wimbledon nal unseeded — only ve women have done so — but lost to Gibson. Against the odds, again, she advanced to the 1961 nal. She upset top-seeded Sandra
Reynolds of South Africa 119, 6-3 in the semi nals. In the rst all-British nal since 1914, Christine Truman led 6-4, 4-3 but fell and lost momentum. Mortimer Barrett ground out a 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 victory.
Two months later, she reached the semi nals of the U.S. Championships, her best nish at that event. It was the only year she reached No. 1.
She also won the 1955 Wimbledon doubles title with Anne Shilcock.
Mortimer Barrett was inducted into the International Hall of Fame in 1993, followed by her husband John Barrett in 2014. The only other married couple in the Hall is Ste Graf and Andre Agassi.
JEFFREY COLLINS / AP PHOTO
U.S. Supreme Court Justices Antonin Scalia, left, and Stephen Breyer, center, talk to moderator Charles Bierbauer, right, at a debate before the South Carolina Bar on Jan. 21, 2012, in Columbia, South Carolina.
DAVE CAULKIN / AP PHOTO
PBS, NPR stations struggle with Trump-fueled government funding cuts
Emergency fundraising e orts show
strong support from viewers
By David Bauder
The Associated Press
NEW YORK — Coping with a sudden loss in federal funding, PBS a liate KSPS in Spokane, Washington, faced a surprise extra hurdle. Many of its contributing members — at one point almost half — lived in Canada, and they were withdrawing support out of anger at President Donald Trump’s desire to make the country the 51st member of the United States.
When Congress decided this summer to eliminate $1.1 billion allocated to public broadcasting, it left some 330 PBS and 246 NPR stations, each with unique issues related to their communities and history, to gure out what that means.
Many launched emergency fund drives and are heartened by the response. The national NPR and PBS networks are reducing expected dues payments, and a philanthropic effort focused on the hardest-hit stations is taking shape. No stations have shut down, but job and programming cuts are already beginning.
In Spokane, KSPS has al-
ways tried to keep its requests for member donations separate from appeals for public funding. Not anymore. Congress left the station with a $1.2 million hole to ll, about 18% of its budget, and the station is using that as a pretext to seek help from listeners.
“We have de nitely seen some attrition from our Canadian members,” said Skyler Reep, the station’s interim general manager.
Pleas for donations exceed expectations in many parts of country
Long suspicious of a liberal bent to public media news coverage, Republicans in Congress responded to President Donald Trump’s wishes in July and eliminated funding for the systems. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which distributes the funding, has taken steps to shut down.
In some parts of the country, the answer to pleas for help have exceeded expectations. Public radio station WHQR in Wilmington raised more than $200,000 in three days, lling a $174,000 hole and then some. It’s a small community growing fast with an in ux of retirees, many who depend on the station’s news to learn about their new home, said
general manager Kevin Crane. With $525,000 gone from its budget, Hawaii Public Radio has already raised $650,000 in an emergency fund drive. “It’s a validation that what you’re doing is essential to the community and is appreciated by the community,” said Meredith Artley, president and CEO. The 2023 wild res in Maui and their aftermath were covered steadily by Hawaii Public Radio news reporters.
“The initial response in terms of support for both stations and the NPR network has been extraordinary,” said Katherine Maher, NPR president. “People did a lot of work leading up to the vote, in actions and calls. When that did not prove convincing, they turned to direct support.”
Stations across the country have stories that make them smile: the youngster from Florida who collected money for public stations in Alaska, sending a note written in crayon; the regular $300 donor who came in to PBS SoCal with a $100,000 check, one of three six- gure donations the station has received.
Most stations aren’t in areas with so many wealthy donors. Most station managers are like Je Hanks of PBS’s LPTV in Lakeland, Minnesota. He lies
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nearly two dozen radio and television stations in the largest state, said he’ll be seeking money from this fund.
awake wondering where he will nd $1 million to pay for things like his station’s nightly newscast, a primary news source for central and northern Minnesota.
“These are extremely, extremely challenging times,” Hanks said.
He knows membership donations won’t make up for what is missing. Both PBS and NPR have taken steps to reduce the annual dues that stations pay for programming and other services. At PBS, it’s an average 15% reduction, but needy stations get more — in one case, more than half of next year’s dues will be forgiven, said PBS president Paula Kerger.
Adopting stations in poorer, more rural areas
NPR is encouraging donors in wealthier areas to adopt stations in poorer ones, perhaps in an area where a contributor has emotional ties.
Public media leaders are also working with a group of philanthropists led by the Knight and MacArthur foundations that is hoping to raise some $50 million to support stations in areas hardest hit be the cuts. Ed Ulman, president and CEO of Alaska Public Media, which represents
SCHOOLS from page A1
Jackson and CCCC President Lisa M. Chapman. Participants can pursue state licensure while remaining in their current roles, combining academic coursework with their daily classroom experience counting toward certi cation requirements.
“This partnership re ects our commitment to grow and retain talent from within our own community,” Jackson said. “By investing in those already serving in our schools, we are ensuring that our students are taught by educators who are not only quali ed, but deeply connected to Chatham County’s values, culture, and future.”
The initiative comes as North Carolina faces a growing teacher shortage and represents part of a broader regional e ort that also includes Lee and Harnett county schools working with CCCC to
Ulman said he’s been buoyed by the response from Alaskans in their e ort to raise $15 million through various sources by October. The services their stations provide is free, and citizens see its value.
“I’ve never been worried about the future of public television or radio because our community needs us,” he said, “and what we’ve seen in Alaska is an outcry about that.”
Still, Alaska Public Media has suspended the weekly public a airs television show “Alaska Insight,” and the future of “Indie Alaska,” a weekly video series highlighting the lives of Alaskans, is also in danger.
Some stations are already making the di cult decisions of cutting sta , In Spokane, 12 of KSPS’s 35 sta members have either been laid o , had their hours reduced or seen their pay cut. Reep is also considering that future seasons of local shows like “Northwest Pro les” or the arts showcase “Inland Sessions” will have fewer episodes. Similar programming decisions are also being weighed on a national level. While several upcoming shows, like Ken Burns’ six-part miniseries “The American Revolution” scheduled for November, are completed, PBS will have to consider making shorter seasons of its series, Kerger said.
“We’re working very hard so that the public doesn’t feel that there’s a change,” Kerger said.
“This partnership re ects our commitment to grow and retain talent from within our own community.”
Anthony Jackson, Chatham County Schools superintendent
address the sta ng challenges through localized certi cation pathways.
To qualify for the program, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA, be employed or have a commitment of employment from a partnering school district, meet content requirements through coursework or passing scores on state-required exams, and complete required professional development.
TRIAL from page A1
said Routh aimed his ri e at the agent, who opened re, causing Routh to drop his weapon and ee without ring a shot.
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Law enforcement obtained help from a witness who prosecutors said informed o cers that he saw a person eeing. The witness was then own in a police helicopter to a nearby interstate where Routh was arrested, and the witnesses con rmed it was the person he had seen, prosecutors have said. The judge last Tuesday unsealed prosecutor’s 33-page list of exhibits that could be introduced as evidence at the trial. It says prosecutors have photos of Routh holding the same model of semi-automatic ri e found at Trump’s club. The document also lists numerous electronic messages sent from a cellphone investigators found in Routh’s car. One message dated about two months before his arrest is described as Routh requesting a “missile launcher.”
It says that in August 2024, the month before his arrest, Routh sent messages seeking “help ensuring that (Trump) does not get elected” and offering to pay an unnamed person to use ight tracking apps to check the whereabouts of Trump’s airplane.
The exhibit list cites evidence from Routh’s phone of an electronic “chat about
sniper concealment” during President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. And it lists internet searches for how long gunpower residue stays on clothing and articles on U.S. Secret Service responses to assassination plots.
Routh was a North Carolina construction worker who in recent years had moved to Hawaii. A self-styled mercenary leader, Routh spoke out to anyone who would listen about his dangerous, sometimes violent plans to insert himself into con icts around the world, witnesses have told The Associated Press.
In the early days of the war in Ukraine, Routh tried to recruit soldiers from Afghanistan, Moldova and Taiwan to ght the Russians. In his native Greensboro, he had a 2002 arrest for eluding a tra c stop and barricading himself from o cers with a fully automatic machine gun and a “weapon of mass destruction,” which turned out to be an explosive with a 10-inch-long fuse.
In 2010, police searched a warehouse Routh owned and found more than 100 stolen items, from power tools and building supplies to kayaks and spa tubs. In both felony cases, judges gave Routh either probation or a suspended sentence.
In addition to the federal charges, Routh also has pleaded not guilty to state charges of terrorism and attempted murder.
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aspx?CatID=17, or companies may call 919-777-1122 for the quali cation requirements. Submittals are due by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 6, 2025.
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The City of Sanford is seeking quali ed companies to provide janitorial services for city owned buildings in the TriRiver Water service area. After the selection and award, selected rms will submit pricing proposals. This Request for Quali cations and others can be found on the TriRiver Water “Bid Opportunity” webpage at https://www.tririverwater.com/Bids.
aspx?CatID=17, or companies may call 919-777-1122 for the quali cation requirements. Submittals are due by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 6, 2025.
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The City of Sanford is seeking quali ed companies to provide lawn maintenance services for facilities in the TriRiver Water service area. After the selection and award, selected rms will submit pricing proposals. This Request for Quali cations and others can be found on the TriRiver Water “Bid Opportunity” webpage at https://www.tririverwater.com/Bids.
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NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION
CHATHAM COUNTY FILE NO. 15CvD000063-180 COUNTY OF CHATHAM Plainti , vs. ADA NOBLE a/k/a ADA NOBLES, et al Defendants.
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
TO: The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of JOHNNY MCKINNEY a/k/a JOHN RAY MCKINNEY a/k/a JONNY MCKINNEY and spouse, if any, which may include JOHNNY MCKINNEY, JR. and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of ERNEST MCKINNEY and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of PATRICIA A. MCKINNEY and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of JAMES THOMAS MCKINNEY and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; and The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of WILLIE DAVIS a/k/a DELORES DAVIS a/k/a DELORIS DAVIS and spouse, if any, which may include MALCOLM L. DAVIS and spouse, if any, and EBONY M. DAVIS and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder
A pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action and notice of service of process by publication began on September 4, 2025. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Foreclosure on tax parcel(s) more completely described in the Complaint, to collect delinquent ad valorem taxes (assessments). Plainti seeks to extinguish any and all claim or interest that you may have in said property.
You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the rst publication of notice stated above, exclusive of such date, being forty (40) days after September 4, 2025, or by October 14, 2025, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service of process by publication will apply to the Court for relief sought. This the 26th day of August, 2025.
ZACCHAEUS LEGAL SERVICES
By: ____________________________________
Mark D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill
Attorney for Plainti NC Bar #12852/56782
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having quali ed on the 13th day of August, 2025, as Co-Executors of the Estate of Elizabeth Fletcher, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 21st day of November, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This 21st day of August, 2025. Kathryn Bethune and Ramon Gomez, Co-Executors of the Estate of Elizabeth Fletcher c/o Candace B. Minjares, Kennon Craver, PLLC 4011 University Drive, Suite 300 Durham, North Carolina 27707
THE CHATHAM NEWS: 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, and 9/11/2025
NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
NOTICE TO CREDITORS COUNTY OF CHATHAM
THE UNDERSIGNED, having quali ed on the 15th day of August, 2025, as Executor of the ESTATE OF JOHN HOYT KELLEY, Deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the November 22, 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 21st day of August 2025. Sandra Loen Kelley EXECUTOR ESTATE OF John Hoyt Kelley c/o Richard G. Long III, Attorney Walker Lambe, PLLC Post O ce Box 51549 Durham, North Carolina 27717
NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
NOTICE TO CREDITORS COUNTY OF CHATHAM THE UNDERSIGNED, having quali ed on the 13th day of August, 2025, as Co-Executors of the ESTATE OF GRETCHEN R. BRUCE, Deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 29th day of 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 28th day of August, 2025. Christopher Bruce and Robin Bruce CO-EXECUTORS ESTATE OF GRETCHEN R. BRUCE c/o Richard G. Long III, Attorney Walker Lambe, PLLC Post O ce Box 51549 Durham, North Carolina 27717
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION CHATHAM COUNTY FILE NO. 11CvD000961-180
COUNTY OF CHATHAM Plainti , vs. GERRARD LEWIS GRADY, et al Defendants.
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION TO: GERRARD LEWIS GRADY and ANY HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of GERRARD LEWIS GRADY or any other person or entity claiming thereunder, and The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of ED DEGGRAFFENDREIDT a/k/a EDDIE DEGRAFFENREAIDT and spouse, if any, which may include KATHERINE MARIE FOUSHEE and spouse, if any, COLUMBUS SHERMAN FOUSHEE and spouse, if any, and IRA FOUSHEE or any other person or entity claiming thereunder
A pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action and notice of service of process by publication began on September 4, 2025.
The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Foreclosure on tax parcel(s) more completely described in the Complaint, to collect delinquent ad valorem taxes (assessments). Plainti seeks to extinguish any and all claim or interest that you may have in said property.
You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the rst publication of notice stated above, exclusive of such date, being forty (40) days after September 4, 2025, or by October14, 2025, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service of process by publication will apply to the Court for relief sought.
This the 26th day of August, 2025.
ZACCHAEUS LEGAL SERVICES
By: ____________________________________ Mark D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill
Attorney for Plainti NC Bar #12852/56782 310 W. Jones St. P. O. Box 25 Trenton, North Carolina 28585 Telephone: (252) 448-4541
Publication dates:
September 4, 2025 September 11, 2025 September 18, 2025
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Lewis Keith Kidd 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 27th day of November, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
This the 21st day of August, 2025. Kayla Kidd Humphries, Executor of the Estate of Lewis Keith Kidd 313 Sanctuary Way, Apt. 105 Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
TOWN OF PITTSBORO, NC
On Monday, September 8, 2025 at 6:00 pm, the Pittsboro Board of Commissioners will hold the following public hearing in person at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center at 1192 Hwy 64 Business West, Pittsboro, NC: A public hearing to receive comments on the proposed acquisition and nance plan of real property located at 274 Pittsboro Elementary School Road, Pittsboro, NC for the purpose of expanding municipal facilities. The proposed acquisition is anticipated to be nanced through installment nancing. The estimated maximum amount of nancing required is $1,050,000.00. The hearing will be held in person. The public can also watch the hearing live on the Town’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@townofpittsboronc/ streams. Members of the public must attend in person if they wish to speak at a hearing. Contact the Town Clerk, Carrie Bailey, by 4 pm on September 8, 2025 to sign up to speak at the hearing at cbailey@pittsboronc.gov, (984) 282-6647, or PO Box 759, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
All persons having claims against Nanette Swift Melcher, of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present them to Mathew Melcher, Executor of the Estate of Nanette Melcher, to Brittany N. Porter of NextGen Estate Solutions, 1340 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27517 or before November 28th, 2025. Failure to present a claim in timely fashion will result in this Notice being pleaded in bar of recovery against the estate, the Personal Representative, and the devisees of Nanette Melcher. Those indebted to Nanette Melcher are asked to make prompt payment to the Estate. Matthew Melcher, Executor of the Estate of Nannette Melcher Brittany N. Porter, Attorney NextGen Estate Solutions 1340 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27517
PUBLIC NOTICE
State of North Carolina County of Chatham The annual meeting of the North Chatham Volunteer Fire Department Inc., will be held at North Chatham Volunteer Fire Department Station #1, U.S. 15501 North, on Monday, September 8, 2025 at 7:00 PM for the purpose of electing (2) Directors of the Corporation and such other business as may properly come before the meeting. All residents of the North Chatham Fire Protection District eighteen (18) years of age or older and live in Chatham County are entitled to attend and vote at said meeting. The Directors are residents of the North Chatham Fire Protection District in Chatham County and shall fairly be representative of the geographic areas and populations served by the corporation.
This 26th day of August 2025.
Chuck Quinlan, President North Chatham Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of John Kevin Conlon aka John K. Conlon, 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 21st day of November, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 21st day of August, 2025.
DONNA CONLON, EXECUTOR ESTATE OF JOHN KEVIN CONLON AKA JOHN K. CONLON
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY
HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Frankie C. Mueller 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 4th day of December, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.
This the 28th day of August, 2025.
Je Mueller, Executor of the Estate Of Frankie C. Mueller 170 Dewitt Smith Road Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312
MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of Louise Prudence Kessler
Having quali ed as Limited Personal Representative of the Estate of Louise Prudence Kessler, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 100 Europa Drive, Suite 271, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27517, on or before the 23rd day of November 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This is the 21st day of August 2025. Michelle Calderone Widmann Limited Personal Representative of the Estate of Louise Prudence Kessler Timothy A. Nordgren Schell Bray PLLC Attorney for the Estate 100 Europa Drive, Suite 271 Chapel Hill, NC, 27517 FOR PUBLICATION: 8/21, 8/28, 9/04, 9/11, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000463-180
ALL persons having claims against John Charles Angelillo, Jr., deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Dec 04 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
This the 4th day of September, 2025.
JOSEPH A. ANGELILLO, Administrator
C/O Howard Stallings Law Firm PO Box 12347 Raleigh, NC 27605
S4, 11, 18 and 25
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000415-180
ALL persons having claims against Patricia Byrne Terry, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Dec 04 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 4th day of September, 2025. Christina T. Morris, Executor C/O Privette Legacy Planning 1400 Crescent Green, Suite G-100 Cary, NC 27518 S4, 11, 18 and 25
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Max Allen Maples, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to exhibit them on or before the 21st day of November 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. Published on the 21st day of August 2025. Shanda Hardin, Administrator, 5216 Eastview Lane, Ramseur, NC 27316.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 25E000267-180 ALL persons having claims against William Davis Brown, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned
Notice
of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 4th day of September, 2025. Christina T. Morris, Administrator CTA C/O Privette Legacy Planning 137 Highpointe Drive Pittsboro, NC 27312 S4, 11, 18 and 25
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000342-180 The undersigned, KENNETH EUGENE POWELL, having quali ed on the 1ST Day of AUGUST, 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of CAROLYN JEAN MILLER POWELL, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 21ST 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 21ST DAY OF AUGUST 2025. KENNETH EUGENE POWELL, ADMINISTRATOR 3933 HIGHLAND CREEK CT. PFAFFTOWN, NC 27040 Run dates: A21,28,S4,11p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000455-180
The undersigned, KENNETH A HENDERSON, having quali ed on the 18TH Day of AUGUST, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of DEBRA LYNN HENDERSON, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 28TH 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 28TH DAY OF AUGUST 2025. KENNETH A HENDERSON, EXECUTOR 2294 US 64 BUSINESS W. PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: A28,S4,11,18p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000470-180
The undersigned, CINDY S. STUYVESANT, having quali ed on the 25TH Day of AUGUST, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of GERALD K. STUYVESANT, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 4TH Day DECEMBER 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 4TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2025. CINDY S. STUYVESANT, EXECUTOR 6320 N KOLMAR AVE. CHICAGO, IL 60646 Run dates: S4,11,18,25p
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 4, 2025
Uwharrie Bigfoot Festival
TAKE NOTICE
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP001120-180 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jeremy K. Thompson and Lycrecia V. Thompson (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jeremy K. Thompson) to David L. Brunk, Trustee(s), dated June 25, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 1344, at Page 638 in Chatham County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modi ed by the following: A Loan Modi cation recorded on February 27, 2024, in Book No. 2402, at Page 210, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the O ce of the Register of Deeds Chatham County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Pittsboro, Chatham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on September 11, 2025 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Pittsboro in the County of Chatham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain property situated in the County of Chatham and state of North Carolina, being more fully described in a Deed dated 02/28/2001 and recorded 03/01/2001, among the land records of the County of State set forth above, in Deed Volume 856 and Page 136. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 220 Blakes Drive, Pittsboro, North Carolina.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Clockwise from top right:
A woman watches as festivalgoers ride a Sasquatch-themed monster truck at Denton Farmpark on Sunday at the inaugural Uwharrie Bigfoot Festival. Fall-themed crafts were for sale by several vendors during the three-day event. Denton Farmpark hosted the inaugural Uwharrie Bigfoot Festival last weekend.
Tax Map or Parcel ID NO.: 0062241
Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E000416-180
The undersigned, DONALD WAYNE CHAMBERS, having quali ed on the 8TH Day of AUGUST, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ROYCE DILLARD CHAMBERS 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 14TH 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 14TH DAY OF AUGUST 2025.
DONALD WAYNE CHAMBERS, EXECUTOR 111 POLKS LANDING RD. CHAPEL HILL, NC 27516 Run dates: A14,21,28,S4p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#25E00187-180
The undersigned, STEPHEN THOMAS WILLETT, having quali ed on the 18TH Day of AUGUST, 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of STEPHEN LEROY WILLETT, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 28TH 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 28TH DAY OF AUGUST 2025.
STEPHEN THOMAS WILLETT, EXECUTOR
to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be e ective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the e ective date of the termination.
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC.
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslaw rm.com Firm Case No: 7393 - 106520 TAKE NOTICE
CREDITOR’S NOTICE
Having quali ed on the 15th day of August, 2025, as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Frances Dowd Payne, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 28th day of November, 2025,
Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: August 28th, September 4th, 11th and 18th 2025.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000424-180 The undersigned, JAMES RAY HOLDER, JR., having quali ed on the 4TH Day of AUGUST, 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR, CTA of the Estate of THERESA E. HOLDER 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 21ST 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 21ST OF AUGUST 2025. JAMES RAY HOLDER, JR., ADMINISTRATOR CTA 462 DUBLIN DR. SANFORD, NC 27330 Run dates: A21,28,S4,11p
AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA
Sección 5311 (ADTAP), 5310, 5339, 5307 y nanciamiento estatal aplicable, o una combinación de las mismas.
Esto es para informar al público de que se hará una audiencia pública sobre
la solicitud de Compra de capital de servicio para el año scal 2027 para el Programa de transporte comunitario que se presentará al Departamento de Transporte de Carolina del Norte a más tardar el 3 de octubre de 2025.
La audiencia pública se hará el 15 de septiembre de 2025 a las 6 p. m. ante la Junta de Comisionados del condado de Chatham. Las personas interesadas en asistir a la audiencia pública y que necesiten ayudas y servicios auxiliares según la Ley de Americanos con Discapacidades (Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA) o un traductor deben comunicarse con Zach Deaton a más tardar el 12 de septiembre de 2025, llamando al número de teléfono 919-542-4512 o enviando un correo electrónico a zach.deaton@chathamcountync.gov. El Programa de transporte comunitario da ayuda para coordinar los programas existentes de transporte que operan en el condado de Chatham y opciones de transporte y servicios para las comunidades en esta área de servicio. Estos servicios se prestan actualmente mediante Chatham Transit Network. Cantidad total aproximada que se solicitará para el período del 1 de julio de 2026 al 30 de junio de 2027: NOTA: La cantidad de la parte local está sujeta a la disponibilidad de fondos estatales.
Esta solicitud podrá revisarse en www.chathamcountync.gov/ agingservices a partir del 2 de septiembre de 2025. Los comentarios por escrito deben enviarse a Jenifer Johnson antes del 12 de septiembre de 2025 a jenifer.johnson@chathamcountync.gov.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Section 5311 (ADTAP), 5310, 5339, 5307 and applicable State funding, or combination thereof. This is to inform the public that a public hearing will be held on the proposed FY 2027 Capital Purchase of Service Community Transportation Program Application to be submitted to the North Carolina Department of Transportation no later than October 3, 2025. The public hearing will be held on September 15, 2025 at 6 p.m.
or via email at zach.deaton@chathamcountync.gov The Community Transportation Program provides assistance to coordinate existing transportation programs operating in Chatham County as well as provides transportation options and services for the communities within this service area. These services are currently provided using Chatham Transit Network. The total
in the courtroom of the Historic Courthouse in Pittsboro, North Carolina at 9 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro NC 27312. Additional information is available at the Chatham County Planning Department o ce. Speakers are requested to sign up at the meeting prior to the hearing. You may also sign up on the county website prior to the meeting at www.chathamcountync.gov by selecting the heading County Government, then Commissioner Meetings, then Public Input/ Hearing Sign Up. The public hearing may be continued to another date at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners.
The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive input, both written and oral, on the issues listed below: Legislative Request: A legislative public hearing requested for a general use rezoning by Lockley Holdings LLC dba Bear Creek Fabrication, to rezone Parcel 9390, located at 1656 Campbell Rd, Bear Creek, being approximately
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
25E000272-180 ALL persons having claims against Joan Covey Lawson, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Nov 21 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 21st day of August, 2025. Patrick Lawson, Limited Personal Representative C/O Brady Boyette, PLLC 1025 Dresser Court Raleigh, NC 27609 A21, 28, 4 and 11
NOTICE
ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against Stephanie Ramos, deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before December 7, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 4th day of September 2025. Nilda Ramos, Admin., c/o Clarity Legal Group, PO Box 2207, Chapel Hill, NC 27515.
PHOTOS BY CORY LAVALETTE / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Festivalgoers visit a chainsaw art booth Sunday at the Uwharrie Bigfoot Festival in Davidson County.
CHATHAM SPORTS
Los Jets snap losing skid with
Humberto Vargas recorded a hat trick against the Patriots
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
SILER CITY — Sophomore
Humberto Vargas notched a hat trick to propel Jordan-Matthews’ boys’ soccer team to a 10-1 win over Providence Grove on Aug. 27.
Tied at one goal apiece early in the rst half, Vargas caught up to a cross from the left and knocked in the go-ahead score from close range. He scored twice more in the rst half, including a shot that was blocked up in the air and landed behind the goal line to put the Jets up 4-1 and an assist from Enrique Granados to give his team a four-goal lead.
“We have a lot of expectations for Humberto,” Jor -
“I think this team can do a lot of great things this season.”
Paul Cuadros
dan-Matthews coach Paul Cuadros said. “He’s very fast. He’s very quick. He’s got good vision, and we know he’s going to score goals for us this season, so we’re happy with it.”
Vargas wasn’t the only Jet having himself a night as six of his teammates found the back of the net. Jordan-Matthews kept the ball on its opponent’s side for the majority of the game and created scoring opportunities with ease.
The Jets’ 10 goals were the most they scored in a game since Feb. 11, 2021.
“They were playing back too
much,” Vargas said about Providence Grove’s defense. “So that gave us more of an advantage to play through balls, like over the air, so we could run in and nish.”
COURTESY LEE MOODY
Chatham Central defenders run in for a tackle against JordanMatthews on Aug. 29. The Jets’ rushing attack was led by Jakari Blue and Kamarie Hadley.
Providence Grove struck rst with a goal from sophomore Saul Cortes eight minutes into the game, but just over a minute later, senior Samuel Basilio started the Jets’ onslaught
JordanMatthews coach Paul
addresses his team after beating Providence Grove on Aug. 27.
J-M overpowers Chatham Central, moves to 2-0 for rst time since 2013
Kamarie Hadley threw ve touchdown passes in the win
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
BEAR CREEK — Old feelings were restored in another edition of west Chatham’s football rivalry Friday.
Jordan-Matthews (2-0) went on the road and put Chatham Central (1-1) away in the rst half of a 48-6 blowout win, earning the Jets
their rst 2-0 start since 2013.
Senior quarterback Kamarie Hadley threw ve touchdown passes and had 183 yards on 12 completions.
Sophomore receiver Nolan Mitchell caught three of those scores as part of his ve-reception, 119 -yard night, and senior running back Jakari Blue carried the rushing attack with two touchdowns and 102 yards on 12 carries.
“My line blocking gave me time to read the eld and throw the ball,” Hadley said. “They did good today.”
“Seeing the work we put in through practice work out on the eld, it’s amazing.”
Jakari Blue
Jordan-Matthews jumped out to a 34-6 lead by the end of the rst half. The Jets made a statement from the opening
of goals with a tying score. Following Vargas’ rst score, senior Andres Tepile gave Jordan-Matthews a 3-1 advantage
Dallas Brinton spoiled the Chargers’ rst home game with a big night
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
PITTSBORO — Junior quarterback Dallas Brinton rushed for 193 yards and three touchdowns to power Asheboro (2-0) to a 49-7 blowout road win over Northwood (0-2) on Aug. 28.
Averaging more than 17 yards per carry on 11 rushes, Brinton accumulated all his o ensive production in the rst half.
“He’s our leader on o ense,” Asheboro coach Calvin Brown said. “He gets our offense going from the quarterback position. People want to slow down DJ (Scott) and Connor (Brinton). They do. Dallas is a threat with his legs, so we feel like we’ve got a three-headed monster back there in the back eld.” And that monster roamed all over the Chargers’ eld. Scott, a junior, and sophomore Connor Brinton added a combined 132 yards and three scores (Connor Brinton scored twice) on the ground. Eight di erent Asheboro ball carriers combined for 409 yards, making it the second straight week Northwood allowed more than 250 yards rushing.
“Our o ensive line is the reason for all the yards today,” Dallas Brinton said. “They’re so improved from last year, and they’re just a great group.”
Asheboro’s defense also dominated the line of scrimmage, holding Northwood to under 50 yards rushing. The Blue Comets recorded 10 tackles for loss, including two
“They executed and ran it down us, and we couldn’t stop it.”
Dalton Brown
PHOTOS BY ASHEEBO ROJAS / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Andres Tepile (10) knocks in a goal in Jordan-Matthews’ win over Providence Grove on Aug. 27.
Cuadros
Kamarie Hadley
Jordan-Matthews, football
Jordan-Matthews’ senior quarterback Kamarie Hadley earns athlete of the week honors for the week of Aug. 25.
In the Jets’ blowout win over Chatham Central Friday, Hadley completed 12 passes for 183 yards and ve touchdowns. He also rushed for 84 yards, including a 48-yard run in the second quarter.
Hadley has played two games as a varsity quarterback and is improving week by week. In the season-opening win against Carrboro, Hadley threw his rst touchdown pass and rushed for 104 yards on 13 carries. He’s helped Jordan-Matthews reach a 2-0 record for the rst time since 2013. FALL
Woods Charter volleyball dominates in early conference play
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record Volleyball
SEAFORTH STARTED the week with a 3-1 win over Carrboro on Aug. 26 thanks to team highs of 21 kills from senior Josie Valgus and 39 assists from junior Abigail Valgus. Following that win, the Hawks lost back-to-back games to Chapel Hill, HighSchoolOT’s No. 10 team in the state, 3-1 (Aug. 27) and Cedar Ridge 3-1 (Aug. 28). Seaforth lost consecutive games for the rst time since 2022.
Woods Charter took down Eno River Academy (Aug. 25) and Ascend Leadership (Aug. 28) in straight sets. The Wolves have won four straight games in straight sets as of Monday.
Northwood earned its rst win of the season over Durham School of the Arts 3-0 on Aug. 25. Senior Shae Leighton logged a team-high eight kills, and senior Imani Henderson recorded a team-high 11 assists.
Chatham Central snapped a four-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory at North Stokes on Aug. 25. Sophomore Addison Goldston led the way with 12 kills. Conference standings as of Sunday (overall, conference):
Four Rivers 3A/4A: 1. North Moore (4-1, 0-0); 2. Uwharrie Charter Academy (8-3, 0-0); 3. Southwestern Randolph (4-5, 0-0); 4. Eastern Randolph (2-3, 0-0); 5. Jordan-Matthews (2-6, 0-0); 6. Northwood (1-7, 0-0)
Central Tar Heel 1A: 1. Woods Charter (6-1, 3-0); 2. Clover Garden School (5-1, 2-0); 3. River Mill (4-3, 2-1); 4. Chatham Charter (2-6, 1-1); 5. Ascend Leadership (1-3, 1-2); 6. Southern Wake Academy (1-4, 1-3); 7. Central Carolina Academy (0-4, 0-3)
Greater Triad 1A/2A: 1. Bishop McGuinness (5-2, 2-0); T2. Chatham Central (2-5, 1-0); T2. South Davidson (2-7, 1-0); T4. North Stokes (1-4, 1-1); T4. South Stokes (4-4, 1-1); T6. College Prep and Leadership (1-6, 0-2); T6. Winston-Salem Prep (1-6, 0-2) Big Seven 4A/5A: 1. Cedar Ridge (8-0, 2-0); 2. Durham School of the Arts (5-3, 1-0); T3. Seaforth (4-3, 1-1); T3. Carrboro (4-5, 1-1); 5. Orange (2-5, 0-1); 6. South Granville (1-7, 0-2); 7. J.F. Webb (4-3, 0-0)
Girls’ tennis
Seaforth extended its win streak to three with a 9-0 win over Cedar Ridge (Aug. 25) and a 5-4 win against Durham School
Boys’ soccer
of the Arts (Aug. 27) before falling to East Chapel Hill 9-0 on Aug. 28. After losing 8-1 to Providence Grove on Aug. 25, Jordan-Matthews defeated Chatham Central 6-3 on Aug. 27. Chatham Charter handed the Jets another 8-1 loss on Aug. 28. Conference standings as of Sunday (overall, conference): Four Rivers 3A/4A: 1. Southwestern Randolph (4-2, 0-0); 2. Jordan-Matthews (2-5, 0-0); 3. North Moore (0-3, 0-0); 4. Northwood (0-2, 0-0); 5. Uwharrie Charter (0-0, 0-0) Central Tar Heel 1A: 1. Chatham Charter (2-0, 0-0); 2. Clover Garden School (1-1, 0-0); 3. Southern Wake Academy (0-0, 0-0)
Greater Triad 1A/2A: 1. North Stokes (6-0, 0-0); 2. South Davidson (2-0, 0-0); 3. Bishop McGuinness (0-3, 0-0); 4. Chatham Central (0-2, 0-0); 5. South Stokes (0-5, 0-0)
Before getting vengeance on Providence Grove, Jordan-Matthews lost 1-0 to Currituck County on Saturday. The Knights scored the game’s only goal in the second half. Northwood tied with Graham 1-1 in its only game of the week. Seaforth snapped a three-game losing streak with back-to-back wins. The Hawks beat Eastern Alamance 6-0 on Aug. 25 and shut out Cummings 5-0 on Aug. 27. Conference standings as of Sunday (overall, conference): Four Rivers 3A/4A: 1. Uwharrie Charter (1-0, 0-0); 2. Southwestern Randolph (6-0, 0-0); 3. Northwood (2-1-1, 0-0); 4. North Moore (2-1-1, 0-0); 5. Eastern Randolph (1-1-1, 0-0); 6. Jordan-Matthews (2-3, 0-0) Big Seven 4A/5A: 1. J.F. Webb (2-0, 0-0); 2. South Granville (21-1, 0-0); 3. Cedar Ridge (2-2, 0-0); 4. Orange (3-3, 0-0); 5. Seaforth (2-3, 0-0); 6. Carrboro (1-3-1, 0-0); 7. Durham School of the Arts (0-3-1, 0-0) Girls’ golf
Chatham Central defeated Graham 176-178 on Aug. 26 at Siler City Country Club.
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Assists by Seaforth’s Abigail Valgus against Carrboro
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Woods Charter’s Cecilia Brignati sets up an assist during a game against Chatham Charter on Aug. 21.
CHATHAM COUNTY FOOTBALL ROUNDUP: WEEK 2
Seaforth, Northwood still looking for rst wins in Week 3
The Hawks lost big to Southeast Alamance Friday
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
Southeast Alamance 41, Seaforth 12
SEAFORTH’S BLOWOUT
loss against Southeast Alamance Friday boiled down to it not being able to establish the run.
The Hawks nished the night with minus 19 yards on the ground and didn’t nd the end zone until the fourth quarter.
Meanwhile, Southeast Alamance had itself a night with its all-around o ensive attack.
Sophomore quarterback Tyler Jackson went 11 for 13 with 156 yards and two passing touchdowns. Southeast Alamance rushed for 126 yards on 18 carries as a team with junior DJ Callis recording 89 of those yards and a score.
The Stallions put the game away in the rst half as they took a 28-0 lead before the break.
Week 3: Seaforth (0-2) at Princeton (1-1); Friday at 7 p.m.
Seaforth will look to earn its rst win of the season against 3A opponent Princeton. The Bulldogs are coming o a 42 -20 loss at East Duplin in which they ran for and gave up more than 300 yards rushing.
The Hawks’ defense should prepare for a physical game played mostly in the box. Teo McPhatter, Princeton’s sophomore running back, will be a key player to watch as he’s rushed for 264 yards and three touchdowns in two games.
The biggest point of focus for the Hawks will be their own o ensive production. The unit has struggled with execution and nding the end zone to start the season, especially on short elds. Friday night will be another opportunity for Seaforth to nd an o ensive identity and start playing more complementary football.
Jordan-Matthews
Week 3: Jordan-Matthews (2-0) vs. North Stokes (0-2); Friday at 7 p.m.
Jordan-Matthews has a chance to go 3-0 for the rst time since 2011 when it hosts 1A opponent North Stokes for its home opener Friday. The Vi-
kings are coming o a 39-12 loss to Elkin in which they gave up 321 yards and four scores in the run game. The Jets will have to prepare for a passing attack led by North Stokes’ senior quarterback Noah Bennett. Bennett threw for more than 200 yards and two scores Friday. One of Jordan-Matthews’ strengths is its defensive back eld, so it’ll be interesting to see if the Jets can force turnovers. On the o ensive side of things, Jordan-Matthews should have
no problems running the ball with seniors Jakari Blue and Kamarie Hadley leading the attack. North Stokes has yet to allow less than 300 rushing yards in a game this season.
Northwood
Week 3: Northwood (0-2) vs. Bartlett Yancey (1-1); Friday at 7 p.m. Northwood’s next game against a former Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference opponent is all about redemption.
The Chargers are o to an abysmal start after playing two 6A opponents to start the season, and Friday’s home game is a good chance to ip the script. Last year, Northwood handled the Buccaneers 40 -22 thanks to a solid passing attack led by quarterback Grayson Cox.
This season, Bartlett Yancey is looking to bounce back after a 54-46 three-overtime loss to American Leadership Academy-Johnston on Friday. The Buccaneers started the year
2
2024 rematches for Chatham County teams in Week 3
with a 44-0 win over Northern Durham.
Northwood will need a much improved o ensive showing, including little to no turnovers, to get a repeat of the 2024 meeting.
Chatham Central
Week 3: Chatham Central (1-1) vs. East Columbus (0-2); Friday at 7 p.m.
Chatham Central will get a chance to bounce back from its blowout loss to J-M with a home game against East Columbus Friday.
The Bears beat the Gators 24 -12 in an uno cial game last season. This year, East Columbus has once again struggled out of the gate with lopsided losses to Latta (South Carolina) and Heide Trask.
Chatham Central will have to key in on the Gators’ sophomore receiver Kevon Stackhouse. He’s a 6-foot-5 target who had four receptions for 118 yards and a touchdown in the season opener.
On both sides of the ball, the Bears simply need better execution and consistency to win this game. Chatham Central has already shown its capable of good football with periods of well-run plays and defensive stops in the rst two weeks, but now, it must keep that level of play throughout an entire game. Limiting turnovers and drive-killers, like bad snaps, will also be something of focus for the Bears.
Power rankings (after Week 2)
1. Jordan-Matthews 2. Chatham Central 3. Seaforth 4. Northwood
Week 3 score predictions
Jordan-Matthews 42, North Stokes 12 Chatham Central 27, East Columbus 12 Princeton 21, Seaforth 14 Northwood 28, Bartlett Yancey 21
COURTESY LEE MOODY
Chatham Central’s Tyler Congrove gets tackled in a loss to Jordan-Matthews on Aug. 29. The Bears will host East Columbus on Friday.
Former Charger to start pro basketball career in Ireland
Jalen McAfee-Marion will play for Gri th College Éanna next month
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
WHILE CELEBRATING
alongside his cousin Drake Powell as he was drafted in the rst round of the NBA Draft to the Brooklyn Nets, Jalen McAfee-Marion knew his time was coming, too.
Months later and ve hours ahead of the Eastern time zone, the time is now.
McAfee-Marion, the former Northwood basketball standout, will live out his pro basketball dreams in Dublin, Ireland, with Gri th College Éanna, the senior men’s team of the Éanna Basketball Club that competes in Ireland’s top national league, the Super League. While playing basketball, McAfee-Marion will pursue his master’s in business administration at Gri th College.
The season will begin Oct. 3.
“It doesn’t feel real because you dream of doing something, and then you nally get there,” McAfee-Marion said. “When I got over here, I was just like, ‘Man.’ This is what I’ve really spent 17, 18 years working to get.”
For McAfee-Marion, the road to becoming a pro was assisted with the generosity of the Powell family.
McAfee-Marion faced issues with stability growing up, experiencing couch sur ng and an eviction.
“The Powell family took me in like a son for real, even though
SOCCER from page B1
as he corralled a corner kick that bounced around to a few players and scored from close range.
After building a 5-1 lead in the rst half, Cuadros was able to let his second unit in on the action. Junior Cristian Avalos came o the bench and scored twice in the second half, including an impressive goal in which he corraled a free kick
ASHEBORO from page B1
sacks from senior defensive lineman Jewel Barrett. Barrett came up with a sack fumble late in the second quarter that was recovered by Asheboro and led to a 6-yard touchdown run by Scott. That score gave the Blue Comets a 35-7 lead right before halftime. Junior linebacker Shane Immel picked o Northwood quarterback Finn Sullivan in the fourth quarter.
“We struggled a little bit early on in the rst quarter,” Brown said. “Then it started clicking with them, and we started ying around, and we started making plays. We were physical. It started up front. Jewel, Zak (Blakwell), Boone (Hinsely), Jaavan (Andrews), those guys up front really carried us. And then our backers Cole (Trogdon), (Ayden) Letterlough and (Luke) Brumley were ying to the football.”
Northwood’s rst turnover of the night, a lost fumble in the rst quarter, led to a 25-yard touchdown run by Dallas Brinton and a 7-0 lead for Asheboro.
they’re my aunts, my cousins, my uncles,” McAfee-Marion said. “I stayed with them for a long time when I went to Northwood. Aunt Cherice and Uncle Dedric, they’ve done a lot for me. They’ve been very involved with my life.”
At Northwood, McAfee-Marion (class of 2020) helped the Chargers to two playo appearances, including a trip to the 3A Final Four in 2020. He averaged 12.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game as a senior. He played with Aaron Ross, another Charger who recently joined La Ceja, a professional team play-
out of the air and used a bicycle kick to knock the ball in the net.
“I saw no one around me,” Avalos said. “I was messing around yesterday trying to do it for fun, and I guess it just came naturally.”
Jordan-Matthews ended the game nearly three minutes early thanks to three late-game goals from Victor Velazquez, Granados and Joseph Barrera.
The Jets had good reason to
ing in the Elite Basketball Cup in Antioquia, Colombia.
McAfee-Marion went on to play four seasons of college basketball across three di erent schools. He played his rst two seasons at Cape Fear Community College and then transferred to St. Andrews.
McAfee-Marion sat out his rst season with the Knights, but he returned the next year and played his best college season, averaging 14.6 points per game, including a 37.8% 3-point shooting clip. He transferred for one last season at University of the Southwest, where
put on its best performance of the season.
At Providence Grove on Aug. 20, the Patriots edged out Jordan-Matthews 5-4, starting a three-game losing streak heading into last week. The Jets hadn’t given up ve goals since losing to Southeast Alamance on Oct. 16, 2024, and that was also the last time they scored at least three goals and still lost.
“To be honest, the rst game, we were not locked in,” Basil-
he averaged 8.1 points per game.
During his Cape Fear CC days, McAfee-Marion started planting seeds toward playing overseas. McAfee-Marion applied to the Rome City Institute, an opportunity to study abroad in Italy and receive professional basketball training, and in the process, he met his agent, Trent May eld.
Although McAfee-Marion stayed in the U.S. to play college basketball, May eld stayed in touch with McAfee-Marion from 2022 to this year.
“He called on me, checked on me, checked on my seasons,”
io said. “We were kind of focused on other things. We were playing around. I think wenally locked in today and realized that we need to beat these guys.”
Even with the big win, Jordan-Matthews is still nding itself after losing 11 seniors from the 2024 squad. Younger players are stepping into larger roles and others have moved around to nd what best ts, but Cuadros believes they can still
The Chargers responded with a fumble recovery on their own early in the second quarter, and senior quarterback Grayson Cox cashed that in by rolling out to his right and hitting a streaking Nick Armstrong down the sideline for a 46-yard game-tying score. But things went quickly downhill after that for Northwood.
J-M from page B1
kicko as a fumble by Chatham Central returner Nick Glover was recovered at the Bears’ 24 -yard line and later cashed in by Blue with a 7-yard touchdown run. From there, the Jets never stopped capitalizing on big defensive stops and Chatham Central mistakes. On the next drive, the Jets recovered a high snap (a recurring problem for the Bears all night) once again deep in Chatham Central territory, and Blue extended the lead to 12-0 with a 1-yard score. After Jordan-Matthews’ defense forced a turnover on downs on the following possession, Hadley threw to Mitchell on one of many wide receiver
“This is what I’ve really spent 17, 18 years working to get.”
Jalen McAfee-Marion
McAfee-Marion said. “After that last season at University of the Southwest, me and him got on that phone call, and he was like, ‘Is it time?’ And I was just like ‘Yeah, I kind of want to experience and see with it’s about now.’”
McAfee-Marion sent lm out to colleges and pro teams in late March, and after a quiet two months, he got a call from the new Éanna coach.
“He expressed to me how much he liked my game and the opportunities I had over here waiting for me if I wanted it,” McAfee-Marion said.
With another year of college in the U.S. still a possibility, McAfee-Marion had a decision to make. The day after an NBA Finals game in June, McAfee-Marion talked to NC Central coach LeVelle Moton and Éanna, and from there, he felt more “comfortable” with going to Ireland.
“I think it’s just the fact that I have a chance to go somewhere that I probably wouldn’t typically,” McAfee-Marion said. “I’m young. I’m 23. I’ve always had people tell me you’re about to do something that most people never get to do, no matter what age. I’ve never been over there. My parents telling me they’re proud. They’re telling me I’m showing them that it’s just always better out there if you keep going.”
have another successful season. “I think this team can do a lot of great things this season,” Cuadros said. “We want to look at our conference and look at trying to win that and then going and having a good run through the playo s. Everything has changed in high school athletics due to the new divisions, so we’re going to wait and see how that plays out, but I think we have some good potential.”
Asheboro’s Dallas Brinton rushed for 193 yards on 11 carries in the rst half against Northwood during a nonconference game at Northwood high school in Pittsboro on Aug. 28.
two games (14) since 2019 (16).
screens, and he took it 38 yards to the house.
“I just knew I had one man to beat,” Mitchell said. “My receiver, Lennox, he blocked for me, so I knew I was going to be open.”
The screen play created plenty more big plays for the Jets, including an 18-yard rst half score by junior Namir Wiley and a 3-yard touchdown from freshman Jaden Fisher late in the fourth quarter.
“We saw the open eld,” Hadley said. “We just saw green grass. We just said, ‘Run the screen pass and just go.’ It was working every time.”
Mitchell was also a problem down the eld as he caught two scores (12 and 28 yards) in similar spots in the right side of the end zone.
Junior receiver Garrison Cheek ran in the nal touchdown for Asheboro in the third quarter.
“You can’t run the ball, you don’t stop the run, you’re not go-
Asheboro ripped o touchdown runs of 43 yards (Connor Brinton), 27 yards (Dallas Brinton) and 61 yards (also Dallas Brinton) all in the same quarter. Junior defensive back Jackson Freeman came up with the brightest play for the Chargers in that period as he picked o Brinton in the end zone.
Defensively, the Jets’ constant pressure and stout run defense sti ed the Bears. Jordan-Matthews recorded four sacks, and only two Chatham Central rushes went for more than 10 yards.
“Just being a dog,” Blue, who also played linebacker, said. “Having a dog ght and just staying on top.”
At the end of the third quarter, Jordan-Matthews sophomore Matthew Victorino picked o Chatham Central quarterback Brooks Albright to end one of the few drives that made it to the Jets’ side of the eld.
The best play in a disastrous night for the Bears o ense was a 19-yard dot from Albright to junior Hance Rameriez for a touchdown in the second quar-
ing to win a lot of football games,” Northwood coach Dalton Brown said. “That’s what happened tonight. Asheboro, great plan on the ground. They executed and ran it down us, and we couldn’t stop it. And then vice versa, they stopped our run attack.”
Northwood’s o ense has struggled to nd its footing in the rst two games of the season, scoring the fewest points in its rst
ter. Albright dropped the ball right behind the defender, and Rameriez caught it at its low point near his hip.
For the Jets, Friday’s win was another sign that much has improved from the 2024 season.
Jordan-Matthews’ 42-point win was its largest margin of victory against Chatham Central since it beat the Bears 49-0 in 2014.
“It’s amazing,” Blue said. “Seeing the work we put in through practice work out on the eld, it’s amazing.”
The biggest di erence has been the versatility of the offense with Hadley at quarterback. He’s been getting more comfortable as a passer with only two starts under his belt, and he adds another rushing threat (88 yards on the ground
“I think we’re just trying to nd an identity,” Brown said. “We’re young up front, but we have playmakers in certain spots that might not be what they’re used to playing, and it might be best for the team. We’re just trying to nd our footing with new placement and a couple new guys — not new guys, but just the same guys in new places,” Brown said. On the bright side, the Chargers don’t have any more 6A opponents on their schedule while they gure things out. They host a familiar and fellow 3A opponent in Bartlett Yancey next week (formerly a Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference foe). The Buccaneers are 1-1 after a 54-46 triple-overtime loss against American Leadership Academy-Johnston last Friday.
“I just want to see execution,” Brown said. “Execution and build on the positives and xing the mistakes.”
Said Brown, “One thing I just told our guys again, they don’t quit. This group, I don’t think I have to worry about that. They’re not stopping.”
Friday). Converting Wiley and Mitchell to receivers has also added size and speed down the eld.
Jordan-Matthews will look to win its third straight game at home against North Stokes Friday at 7 p.m.
Chatham Central will try to get back on track at home against East Columbus, a team they defeated last season in an extra game, Friday at 7 p.m.
“I told them it’s just like life,” Chatham Central coach Derrin Little said. “You’ve got to get up. You’re going to get knocked down from time to time. Adversity comes to all of us in all di erent shapes, forms and sizes, and you just got to get up.
“I think the biggest key is just staying true to ourself.”
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
COURTESY JALEN MCAFEE-MARION
Jalen McAfee-Marion drives on a defender while at the University of the Southwest last season.
SIDELINE
REPORT
NFL Parsons relishes fresh start in Green Bay Green Bay, Wisc. Micah Parsons says he just went through the hardest four months of his life as he feared his contract stalemate with the Dallas Cowboys would stretch into the season. The matter was settled with a trade to the Green Bay Packers. Now the superstar pass rusher wants to create a legacy be tting one of the league’s most storied franchises.
Parsons arrived in Green Bay one day after the Packers sent two rst-round picks and three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark to Dallas in exchange for him. The Packers are making Parsons the highest-paid non-quarterback in history.
NCAA FOOTBALL
Sanders has sideline bathroom at Colorado, sponsored by Depend Boulder, Col. Colorado introduced a branded sideline bathroom for Deion Sanders in its opening game against Georgia Tech. Friday night’s sponsor is Depend undergarment. Colorado coach Deion Sanders was recently diagnosed with bladder cancer and needs to frequently use the restroom. The portable privacy tent is right next to the Bu aloes’ bench. Sanders spent time away from the team this summer as he went through treatment for bladder cancer. His doctor said he was cured. It was also revealed that a section of his intestine was reconstructed to function as a bladder.
MLB Schwarber has 21st 4-homer game in MLB history, posts Phillies-record 9 RBIs Philadelphia Philadelphia slugger Kyle Schwarber hit four home runs against Atlanta to become the fourth Phillies player and 21st major leaguer to accomplish the feat. Schwarber was 4 for 6 with a Phillies-record nine RBIs in the 19-4 victory. He took the outright National League homer lead with a career-high 49. Schwarber leads the majors with a career-high 119 RBIs. Mike Schmidt was the last Philadelphia player to hit four homers in a game, in 1976. Schwarber had the third four-homer game of the season, following Eugenio Suárez and Nick Kurtz.
NBA
ESPN replaces Burke with Legler for NBA Finals coverage
Bristol, Conn. ESPN demoted basketball analyst Doris Burke from its NBA Finals broadcast team. ESPN announced that Tim Legler would join the lead team with Mike Breen, Richard Je erson and Lisa Salters. This team will cover the NBA Finals on ABC next season, along with other high-pro le games. ESPN also announced a multiyear contract extension for Burke, who will work alongside play-by-play voice Dave Pasch next season. Burke joined ESPN in 1990 and has been involved with the NBA Finals since 2009. She won the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Curt Gowdy Media Award in 2018.
Newmark makes shift from racing exec to UNC’s athletic director-in-waiting
The former racing team president will take over Tar Heel sports in 2026
By Aaron Beard The Associated Press
CHAPEL HILL — Steve Newmark has spent years working in a sport de ned by speed.
Maybe that will have the former NASCAR racing team president prepared for the rapidly shifting landscape of college sports as UNC’s designated next athletic director.
The school announced its succession plan in July, hiring Newmark away from RFK Racing for a transitionary position before becoming Bubba Cunningham’s successor in 2026. Newmark started working alongside Cunningham this month as an executive associate AD, giving him the better part of a year to study the intricacies and quirks of overseeing a power conference athletics program.
“We were joking,” Newmark said of Cunningham, “some of it is just me following Bubba around and learning the ropes here.”
And yet, Newmark’s status as an outsider is exactly why he’s here at this particular moment.
UNC has touted the Chapel Hill native’s experience in sponsorships, marketing and contract negotiations after his 15-year run as president of Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing. That announcement came the same day as the ofcial start of revenue sharing following the $2.8 billion House antitrust settlement, clearing the way for schools to share up to about $20.5 million with their athletes in Year 1.
Starting a transition plan
Paying for all that — along with facing issues for the 28-sport program — will be Newmark’s responsibility by next summer.
Cunningham, UNC’s AD since late 2011, said the two had conversations going back to last summer about differing approaches to generating revenue between auto racing and college sports, particularly with things changing so quickly in the latter since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cunningham described it as “an ongoing conversation,” leading to Newmark working on an advisory committee in the hiring of Bill Belichick as football coach in December before ultimately being named Cunningham’s successor.
“He and I shared the pas-
“He’s a perfect t for us right now.”
Bubba Cunningham, UNC AD
sion for what we were doing and where it was headed,” Cunningham said. “And then thinking about, all right, I’ve got two years left on a contract, I’m ready to do something else, how do we make this transition work for Carolina?
“He’s a perfect t for us right now. There wasn’t anything too magical to it. It was just kind of taking time over a developing relationship between the two of us, and the thought of: ‘How do we continue to get better?’”
Added Newmark: “I don’t think when we started the discussions that that was the objective. I wasn’t looking to leave RFK Racing. I really enjoyed it there.”
Mulling new revenue streams
Rather, Newmark said, he looked at moving to UNC as an opportunity to use his own professional sports experience in a college world looking more pro-like by the day — or hour, for that matter.
Newmark said he’ll spend
the coming months looking at options for generating additional revenues in the long term. And it doesn’t take long to connect his history in auto racing — where sponsors turn cars into high-pro le advertising for their brand — to the possibilities. That’s of particular interest in Chapel Hill, where the school long refused to allow advertising in major athletics venues until roughly two decades ago. Yet now, UNC joins schools across the country in mulling options such as selling naming rights to venues, eld sponsorships or even jersey patches.
“I think it may have been something that would’ve been a shock to the system 20 years ago, but I think everybody has seen the evolution of sports,” Newmark said. “And collegiate athletics is clearly not on the leading edge of doing that. If you look at professional sports, they’ve been much more aggressive in integrating brands and properties.”
Still, Newmark stopped short of planning to replicate those ad-heavy racing looks in that trademark shade of light blue.
“Well, I have committed to several donors that I promise we won’t look like a NASCAR driver’s re suit,” he quipped.
Thielen relishes return home to Vikings after two-year family adventure with Panthers
The Minnesota native was traded after Carolina training camp
By Dave Campbell The Associated Press
EAGAN, Minn. — Adam Thielen naturally kept Minnesota as his family’s o season home after he joined the Carolina Panthers, surrounded by relatives and friends and the familiarity of his native state.
Earlier this summer, just like during the last one, Thielen was invited to join some throwing sessions in the Twin Cities area that included a new Vikings quarterback. How convenient. Those workouts wound up giving Thielen a jump start in his chemistry with J.J. McCarthy, seemingly foreshadowing a return for the 35-year-old wide receiver to his original team and beloved home.
What stood out to Thielen immediately was McCarthy’s work ethic, mindset and communications skill, even in an informal session involving players on di erent teams.
“When we were working out together, there was no thought of actually playing together,”
Thielen said last Thursday after his arrival at Vikings headquarters on the heels of the trade with the Panthers that reunited him with the only other team he’s played for. “But at the time, I had so much respect for him and how he approaches the game, even in the summer months when you don’t really have to do those things.”
Thielen, who was acquired with a conditional 2026 seventh-round draft pick and a 2027 fth-round pick from the Panthers for a 2026 fth-round pick and a 2027 fourth-round pick, has the third-most catches in Vikings history behind Cris Carter and Randy Moss, two Pro Football Hall of Fame members he grew up avidly rooting for.
“I just didn’t think that this was even a possibility. I thought the next time that I would be talking to you guys would be when I was signing a one-day contract and retiring, so this is pretty surreal,” Thielen said to reporters on the indoor practice eld. “I’m going to take advantage of every second I’m going to be back in this building.”
Thielen was careful to clarify he wasn’t looking to leave the Panthers, who went 7-27 over his two seasons. He raved
about the quality of the people he worked with, from quarterback Bryce Young to the kitchen sta at the practice facility. After being released by the Vikings for salary cap relief following the 2022 season, Thielen took his wife and three young children on a temporary relocation to North Carolina they won’t soon forget.
“We grew a lot closer as a family, having to kind of do this little adventure on our own,” Thielen said. “Our whole time in Minnesota, we had family, friends, loved ones right here.” As he bro-hugged his way through the building, Thielen
clearly had a couple of favorites in mind to nd in coach Kevin O’Connell and wide receiver Justin Je erson. He compared the reunion with Je erson to coming back from college and meeting up with a childhood friend.
“It’s like you never left, like it was yesterday. And that’s how I felt with Justin. It was like we’ve never been on a di erent team,” Thielen said. “I love that guy to death and have so much respect for him on and o the eld, and we have such a great relationship. It’s good to be back.”
When the regular season begins on Sept. 8 at Chicago, the Vikings won’t have Jordan Addison because of a three-game suspension. They aren’t sure yet whether Jalen Nailor will be healthy enough to play after injuring his hand in a joint practice with the New England Patriots. Tai Felton is a rookie. Thielen could well join Je erson in the starting lineup, sliding back into O’Connell’s system and catching passes from a kid he’s already worked with.
“I’m going to make sure this emotion doesn’t just fade away,” Thielen said. “It’s going to be hopefully something that lasts my entire time here, just how appreciative I am to be here.”
JACOB KUPFERMAN / AP PHOTO
Then-Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen warms up before a preseason game.
AARON BEARD / AP PHOTO
UNC executive associate athletic director Steve Newmark has been named the successor to current athletic director Bubba Cunningham.
Kitsch’s ‘The Terminal List’ character gets origin story in ‘The Terminal
Real military veterans worked as advisers on the series
By Alicia Rancilio
The Associated Press
TAYLOR KITSCH’S character ends up a villain in 2022’s Chris Pratt-led series, “The Terminal List,” and in a new series, viewers learn how he got that way.
“The Terminal List: Dark Wolf,” now streaming on Prime Video, is set about ve years before the original show. Kitsch plays Ben Edwards, a Navy SEAL deployed to Iraq who is assigned to train local soldiers. He feels a deep loyalty to his comrades but begins to question some of the decisions made above him.
“I take the utmost pride to be authentic and rooted in Ben,” Kitsch said in a recent interview, “but there’s a dark side to service.”
Prime Video is invested in “The Terminal List” universe. Production is underway on a second season starring Pratt, and there are plans for more “Dark Wolf” — and perhaps standalone lms. The franchise is based on novels by former SEAL Jack Carr, who is also a creator and executive producer on its shows.
“Hopefully we can keep swinging,” said Pratt, who describes Carr as “a workhorse” with “no shortage of source material.”
List: Dark Wolf’
“Anytime you get a call where it’s like, ‘Hey, we would love to do a full season and go way deeper into the psyche of the character you built, I mean of course, I was all ears.”
Taylor Kitsch
Kitsch was intrigued to dive back in when he heard Carr and “Terminal List” co-creator and showrunner David DiGilio wanted to do more with his character.
“Anytime you get a call where it’s like, ‘Hey, we would love to do a full season and go way deeper into the psyche of the character you built, I mean of course, I was all ears,” said Kitsch.
How to watch “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf”
The rst four episodes of “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” are now streaming on Prime Video. A new episode will drop weekly on Wednesdays. The nale streams Sept. 24.
Where “Terminal List” got its start
In “The Terminal List,” Pratt plays James Reece, a Navy SEAL lieutenant command-
er who goes on a quest for vengeance after his platoon is ambushed.
“I love playing James Reese,” said Pratt. “But also I think James Reese is reaching that echelon of like a Jack Reacher or a Jack Ryan. There can be multiple iterations of this character over time. He now lives in the ethos of one of the greatest American badass heroes.”
Who else stars?
Besides Kitsch and Pratt, the show also features Luke Hemsworth and Tom Hopper.
“What’s so great about an origin story is we see the doors that these guys walk through and where it takes them,” said Hopper. “I think about that in my life, I look back on my life and go, ‘Oh, if I hadn’t walked through that door, then that would never have happened. I wouldn’t have met that person. It wouldn’t have led me there.’”
Real vets help make ‘Terminal List’
“The Terminal List” employed actual military veterans to work in roles like adviseers and as background actors. They were also employed for “Dark Wolf.” Hemsworth said their presence was an incentive to make something they would be proud of.
“Everyone, particularly us as actors, feel a great weight and responsibility to make sure that it’s done very well.”
Actor Taylor Kitsch stars as Navy SEAL Ben Edwards in “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf,” a prequel of the Chris Pratt-led “The Terminal List.”
this week in history
“On the Road” published, Ford pardons Nixon, Queen Elizabeth II dies
The Associated Press
SEPT. 4
1781: Los Angeles was founded by Spanish settlers under the leadership of Gov. Felipe de Neve.
1957: Arkansas Gov. Orval Faubus ordered Arkansas National Guardsmen to prevent nine black students from entering all-white Central High School in Little Rock.
1972: The longest-running game show in U.S. history, “The Price is Right,” debuted on CBS.
SEPT. 5
1774: The rst Continental Congress assembled in Philadelphia.
1905: The Treaty of Portsmouth was signed, ending the Russo-Japanese war; for mediating the peace negotiations, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt was awarded the Noble Peace Prize the following year.
1957: Jack Kerouac’s novel “On the Road” was published.
1975: President Gerald R. Ford survived an assassination attempt by Lynette “Squeaky”
Brittany Mahomes, NFL, Donald Trump among those praising Swift, Kelce’s engagement
Some well-wishers may come as a surprise
The Associated Press
TAYLOR SWIFT AND Travis Kelce’s engagement following a two-year romance was swiftly praised by stars from the entertainment and sports worlds, British royalty and even the U.S. president.
“Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,” the couple announced in an Instagram post last Tuesday.
The couple took the spotlight after Kelce, a star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs and Super Bowl champion, made a public appeal on his podcast, “New Heights,” two years ago, expressing a desire to meet the superstar singer.
The engagement post has amassed more than 14 million likes in just a couple hours, liked by scores of public gures, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, “Glee” star
Lea Michele, and actors Nikki Glaser and Molly Shannon. Jenny Han, the author behind “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” which notably relies on Swift’s music throughout the Amazon Prime show, also liked the post. Here are some celebrity reactions to the couple’s engagement.
Donald Trump
“I wish them a lot of luck. I think he’s a great player, and he’s a great guy, and I think she’s a terri c person,” Trump said when informed of the engagement during a multi-hour cabinet meeting. The president has at times been critical of Swift.
National Football League
“Congratulations to Travis and Taylor” — on X.
Iga Swiatek
Fromme, a disciple of Charles Manson.
1972: Palestinian militants attacked the Israeli Olympic team in Munich, killing two and taking nine hostages; all hostages and ve militants died.
SEPT. 6
1901: President William McKinley was shot and mortally wounded by anarchist Leon Czolgosz at the Pan-American Exposition in Bu alo, New York.
1975: Eighteen-year-old tennis star Martina Navratilova of Czechoslovakia requested political asylum in the United States.
1997: A public funeral was held for Princess Diana at Westminster Abbey in London.
SEPT. 7
1940: Nazi Germany began The Blitz, an eight-month bombing campaign on Britain that killed more than 40,000 civilians.
1921: The rst Miss America Pageant was held in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
1977: The Panama Canal Treaty, which called for the U.S. to turn over control of the waterway to Panama at the end of 1999, was signed.
1935: Sen. Huey P. Long (D-La.) was fatally shot in the Louisiana State Capitol building.
1974: One month after taking o ce, President Gerald R. Ford granted a “full, free, and absolute pardon” to former President Richard Nixon.
2022: Queen Elizabeth II, who spent more than seven decades on the British throne, died at age 96.
SEPT. 9
1776: The Second Continental Congress formally adopted the name “United States of America.”
1986: Bishop Desmond Tutu was installed as the rst black clergyman to lead the Anglican Church in southern Africa.
SEPT. 8
1504: Michelangelo’s towering marble statue of David was unveiled to the public in Florence, Italy.
1565: Spanish settlers founded St. Augustine, the rst permanent European settlement in North America, in modern day Florida.
1664: The Dutch surrendered New Amsterdam to the British, who renamed it New York.
1919: About 1,100 members of Boston’s 1,500-member police force went on strike.
1971: Prisoners seized control of the maximum-security Attica Correctional Facility in New York, taking 42 sta members hostage and demanding better treatment and living conditions.
SEPT. 10
1608: John Smith was elected president of the Jamestown colony council in Virginia.
1963: Twenty black students entered Alabama public schools following a stando between federal authorities and Gov. George C. Wallace.
Taylor Swift embraces Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce
The couple announced their engagement on last week.
“Obviously she had a lot of boyfriends, so we know all about that. So hopefully this one will, you know, stick forever. Travis seems like a great guy. She seems super happy, so I’m happy for her,” said Swiatek, a Swift fan, who commented right after winning her match Tuesday at the U.S Open.
Brittany Mahomes
solutions
Michael Danna
“Two of the most genuine people meet & fall in love. Just so happy for these two.” — on Instagram. Her husband, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, reposted Kelce and Swift’s announcement.
happy for them, Trav, Taylor. That’s a wonderful time in life, wonderful part of their joint journey,” Chiefs defensive end Michael Danna said during a talk with reporters.
“Great for them. You know, that’s a blessing, I mean, anytime you nd that type of joy, happiness and love, I think that’s a beautiful thing...I’m so
New Heights podcast
“NEW NEWS!!!!! Congrats to @tkelce and @taylorswift13” — on X.
NBC TELEVISION VIA WIKIPEDIA
On Sept. 4, 1972, the game show “The Price Is Right,” hosted by Bill Cullen, debuted on CBS.
JULIO CORTEZ / AP PHOTO
after Super Bowl 58 in 2024.
*Must set up Auto Draft for 2nd Month. Offer valid through February 1st 2024.
famous birthdays this week
Beyonce celebrates 44, Sonny Rollins hits 95, Gloria Gaynor turns 82, Bernie Sanders is 84
The Associated Press
THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.
SEPT. 4
Golf Hall of Famer Raymond Floyd is 83. Golf Hall of Famer Tom Watson is 76. Actor Khandi Alexander is 68. Actor-comedian Damon Wayans Sr. is 65. Baseball Hall of Famer Mike Piazza is 57. Singer-actor Beyoncé is 44.
SEPT. 5
Actor Lucille Soong (“Fresh O the Boat”) is 90. Baseball Hall of Hamer Bill Mazeroski is 89. Actor William Devane is 86. Actor George Lazenby is 86. Film director Werner Herzog is 83. Singer Al Stewart is 80. “Cathy” cartoonist Cathy Guisewite is 75. Actor Michael Keaton is 74.
SEPT. 6
Comedian JoAnne Worley is 88. Country singer-songwriter David Allan Coe is 86. Rock singer-musician Roger Waters (Pink Floyd) is 82. Comedian-actor Jane Curtin is 78. Actor-comedian Je Foxworthy is 67. Actor Rosie Perez is 61.
Former
SEPT. 7
Jazz musician Sonny Rollins is 95. Singer Gloria Gaynor is 82. Actor Julie Kavner is 75. Rock singer Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders) is 74. Actor Corbin Bernsen is 71. Actor Michael Emerson is 71. Evan Rachel Wood is 38.
SEPT. 8
Sen. Bernie Sanders (IVt.), is 84. Civil rights activist Ruby Bridges is 71. Singer Aimee Mann is 65. Alternative country singer Neko Case is 55. TV-radio personality Kennedy is 53. Singer-songwriter Pink is 46.
SEPT. 9
Singer Dee Dee Sharp is 80. Former NFL quarterback Joe Theismann is 76. Actor Hugh Grant is 65. Actor Adam Sandler is 59. Pop-jazz singer Michael Bublé is 50. Actor Michelle Williams is 45.
SEPT. 10
Scientist-author Jared Diamond is 88. Singer José Feliciano is 80. Rock musician Joe Perry (Aerosmith) is 75. Film director Chris Columbus is 67. Rapper Big Daddy Kane is 57. Film director Guy Ritchie is 57. Actor Ryan Phillippe is 51.
STEPHANIE SCARBROUGH / AP PHOTO
Washington quarterback Joe Theismann acknowledges the crowd before an NFL game against the New York Giants in 2023. The Hall of Famer turns 76 on Tuesday.
CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO
Beyonce won the award for best country album to Beyonce for “Cowboy Carter” during the 67th annual Grammy Awards in 2025. The actor-singer turns 44 on Thursday.
“Lilo
‘Lilo & Stitch,’ ‘The Paper,’
MTV Video Music Awards, Hollow Knight sequel
David Byrne drops “Who Is the Sky”
The Associated Press
A FOLLOW-UP TV comedy of “The O ce” called “The Paper” and the buddy live action comedy “Lilo & Stitch” are some of the new television, lms, music and games headed to a device near you.
Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time: Mark Ru alo starring in the new cat-and-mouse thriller “Task,” a sequel to the indie legend video game Hollow Knight arrives and David Byrne releases a new album, “Who Is the Sky?”
MOVIES TO STREAM
“Friendship,” Andrew DeYoung’s auspicious debut feature, makes its streaming debut Saturday on HBO Max, a day after debuting on HBO. The movie tackles modern masculinity and male loneliness with biting satire and humor, taking detours into horror and the surreal. My review said we see Robinson at his awkward best and Rudd at his charismatic best in this quirky look at bromances.
The live-action “Lilo & Stitch,” which in just 17 days made more domestically than the live-action “The Little Mermaid” did in its entire run, is on Disney+. It’s the tale of a 6-year-old lonely Native girl in Hawaii who befriends an alien outcast. In my review, I was unhappy that the original 2002 animated story had been swamped by weird temporal portals, a Jet Ski chase and an overwrought conclusion. Audiences ocked to the movie, which is the year’s biggest hit with more than $1 billion earned at the box o ce.
MUSIC TO STREAM
Byrne, formerly the Talking Heads frontman, is in no way slowing down. On Friday, the 73-year-old idiosyncratic artist will release a new album, “Who Is the Sky?”, a collection of avant-garde pop for fans of his band and beyond. There’s a real joy here.
There are glam rock icons and then there is Marc Bolan, a pioneer of the ’70s movement with
his visionary band T. Rex, a larger-than-life gure now celebrated in a new documentary. “AngelHeaded Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan & T. Rex” hits streaming on Friday. Expect rare footage and to be overwhelmed by a strong desire to purchase sequined pants. It is that time of year again: The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards are right around the corner. The three-hour show will broadcast live on CBS and available to stream on Paramount+ on Sundayat 8 p.m. live from UBS Arena just outside New York City. Lady Gaga leads the nominations, so get ready for some “Mayhem.”
SERIES TO STREAM
show picks up 10 years after de Pablo left “NCIS” with Tony and Ziva — or Tiva as fans call them — living in France and co-parenting their daughter. When they become the target of a conspiracy, the former agents go on the run. This is the sixth spino in the “NCIS” universe and a departure from the procedural format it is known for. “Tony & Ziva” is more of a mixed bag with action, drama, romance and comedy.
Ru alo and Tom Pelphrey star in a new cat-and-mouse thriller for HBO called “Task.” Ru alo plays an FBI agent in Pennsylvania assigned to lead a task force investigating violent robberies. The show is from the creator of the stellar “Mare of Easttown.” It premieres Thursday and streams on Max.
VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
Hollow Knight, a 2D exploration game that came out in 2017, has become an indie legend over the years, selling millions of copies and landing on plenty of best-games-ever lists.
Australian studio Team Cherry announced a sequel in 2019 — and after a long gestation period, Hollow Knight: Silksong has nally arrived. The essence remains the same: Making your way through a lush, vibrant landscape while ghting o the bugs and other nuisances that live there. The protagonist, a princess named Hornet, is more acrobatic than the original hero, but the developer is promising more of the challenging and tightly focused combat fans love. It arrived Thursday on PlayStation 5/4, Xbox X/S/One, Switch and PC.
“The O ce” follow-up called “The Paper” makes its anticipated debut on Peacock this week. On the show, the documentary crew that once lmed the sta of Dunder Mi in paper company in Scranton, Pa., has now begun following the sta of a small newspaper in Toledo, Ohio. To their surprise, one of the accountants who works on sta is none other than Oscar Martinez, a crossover character from ‘The O ce”
by Oscar Nunez.
in a new series about their “NCIS” characters called, “NCIS: Tony & Ziva,” now streaming on Paramount+. The
The developers at Bandai Namco Studios Singapore are known for their bruising work on ghters like Tekken and Soul Calibur, but their new game takes on a more delicate art: origami. Hirogami stars a master of folding named Hiro who can transform into creatures like a soaring bird, a barrier-smashing armadillo and a high-jumping frog. A soundtrack featuring traditional Japanese instruments creates a mellow vibe as Hiro defends his paper-crafted 3D world from “deadly digital invaders.” Know when to fold ‘em now on PlayStation 5 and PC.
played
Domhnall Gleeson (“The Patient”) and Sabrina Impacciatore (“White Lotus” season 2) also star. All 10 episodes are ready to watch.
Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo star
DISNEY VIA AP
The high-grossing live-action movie
& Stitch” is streaming on Disney+.
CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO
Tim Robinson, who won a 2022 Emmy for outstanding actor in a short form comedy or drama series for “I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson,” stars alongside Paul Rudd in the movie “Friendship.”
MATADOR RECORDS VIA AP
David Byrne, founder of the art-rock band Talking Heads, releases his solo album “Who Is the Sky” on Friday.