Chatham News & Record Vol. 148, Issue 46 by North State Journal

VOLUME 148 ISSUE 46 | THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2026

CHATHAMNEWSRECORD.COM

THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Takeoff

Jordan-Matthews senior Kamarie Hadley (1) puts up a shot against Chatham Charter in a game at the SportsTone.net Christmas Invitational on Dec. 30. For more, turn to page B1.

the

BRIEF this week

Trump tells Republicans to be “flexible” on abortion restrictions to get health care deal President Donald Trump wants Republicans to get a deal on health care insurance assistance by being flexible on a long-standing budget policy that bars federal money from being spent on abortion services. Trump made his request during a speech to House Republicans on Tuesday in Washington, D.C. Trump says Republicans can “own health care” as an issue if they get a deal to replace expired subsidies for Affordable Care Act insurance customers. But Trump is essentially asking House Republicans to set aside decades of GOP policy insisting on the Hyde Amendment as part of any health care spending. Some Democrats want to end Hyde restrictions as part of any new agreements on health care subsidies, and anti-abortion rights advocates want Republicans to hold the line.

Security forces clash with protesters in Iran’s main market as dozens killed in demonstrations Protesters angry over Iran’s ailing economy have conducted a sit-in at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar. Security forces fired tear gas and dispersed demonstrators as the market shut down. The protests Tuesday come as Iran’s rial currency fell to a record low. Activists say violence surrounding the protests has killed at least 36 people, with authorities detaining more than 1,200 others.

$2.00

NASCAR commissioner Phelps resigns after inflammatory texts revealed in case He was with the organization for 20 years By Jenna Fryer The Associated Press CHARLOTTE — The fallout from NASCAR’s federal antitrust trial continued into the new year as NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps on Tuesday

announced his resignation after more than 20 years with the top racing series in the United States. His resignation comes after last month’s trial in which inflammatory texts Phelps sent during contentious revenue-sharing negotiations were revealed. Phelps will leave the company at the end of the month, ahead of the start of the

first exhibition race of the season on Feb. 1. He was named NASCAR’s first commissioner last season after a courting process for the same role by golf’s PGA Tour. The opportunity with the PGA was revealed during December testimony of the antitrust trial brought by two race teams against NASCAR, and Phelps testified he pulled out of con-

sideration for that role upon the NASCAR promotion from president. The top executive at NASCAR was deeply bruised during the trial — and the discovery process leading into it — when communications he exchanged with his leadership team were exposed. In one exSee NASCAR, page A10

Big Tech’s fast-expanding plans for data centers running into stiff local opposition The AI boom is having a physical impact in many areas By Marc Levy The Associated Press SPRING CITY, Pa. — Tech companies and developers looking to plunge billions of dollars

into ever-bigger data centers to power artificial intelligence and cloud computing are increasingly losing fights in communities where people don’t want to live next to them, or even near them. Communities across the United States are reading about — and learning from — each other’s battles against data center proposals that are fast multiplying

in number and size to meet steep demand as developers branch out in search of faster connections to power sources. In many cases, municipal boards are trying to figure out whether energy- and water-hungry data centers fit into their zoning framework. Some have entertained waivers or tried to write new ordi-

Duke cuts $299M through buyouts, building closures in response to federal cuts “We should be prepared not only to seek costreductions across the university, but also to re-imagine our work.” Vincent Price, Duke president

The school is looking to reduce its reliance on federal funding By Seyun Park The Chronicle via AP FOLLOWING HIS inauguration in January, President Donald Trump brought along a new team of advisers and a playbook for higher education. The administration unleashed a slew of demands on colleges and universities in what has been seen by higher education leaders as an “overreach” on academic freedom

by the federal government. At the forefront of top political adviser Stephen Miller, a Duke graduate, and Trump’s agenda was mandating universities axe diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, limit international student enrollment and decrease their reliance on federally funded research. The administration also changed student loan policies, cut Medicaid reimbursement rates and increased the tax rate universities would have to pay on their endowment. See DUKE, page A9

nances. Some don’t have zoning. But as more people hear about a data center coming to their community, once-sleepy municipal board meetings in farming towns and growing suburbs now feature crowded rooms of angry residents pressuring local officials to reject the requests. See CENTERS, page A3

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

THURSDAY

1.8.26 #124

HHS to resume sharing some Medicaid data ICE A judge limited the data that can be shared By Ali Swenson The Associated Press

“Join the conversation” Chatham News & Record www.chathamnewsrecord.com

North State Media LLC 303 West Raleigh Street Siler City, North Carolina 27344 Copyright 2026 Trip Hoffend Publisher Jim Sills VP of Local Newspapers Jordan Golson Local News Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Dan Reeves Features Editor Asheebo Rojas Sports Reporter Ryan Henkel Reporter PJ Ward-Brown Photographer BUSINESS David Guy Advertising Manager Chatham News & Record (USPS #101160) is published weekly, 52 weeks a year, by North State Media LLC 303 West Raleigh Street Siler City, NC 27344 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Chatham News & Record PO Box 290 Siler City, NC 27344 CONTACT US For a vacation hold or to report a delivery problem: 919-663-3232 To place a classified or display ad: 919-663-3232; Fax: 919-663-4042 To submit a news tip or correction: 919-663-3232; news@chathamnewsrecord.com

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CRIME LOG

NEW YORK — The nation’s health department starting Monday can resume sharing the personal data of certain Medicaid enrollees with deportation officials, according to a federal judge’s ruling, in a blow to states that had sued the administration over privacy concerns. But the judge’s decision, issued last Monday, strictly limits the scope of data from the 22 plaintiff states that can be shared — for now only allowing the agency to hand over basic biographical information about immigrants residing in the United States illegally. The states’ lawsuit came after an Associated Press report identified the data sharing policy. The ruling from U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco comes after the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said it planned to share the data again as part of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Chhabria in August had initially blocked the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services from sharing the personal data, which includes home addresses, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. In December, he extended that temporary order. Then, last week, Chhabria ruled that after the temporary order expires on Jan. 5, HHS can resume sharing “basic biographical, location and contact information” about immigrants living in the U.S. illegally with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. He wrote in a court filing that this sharing “is clearly authorized by law and the

agencies have adequately explained their decisions.” While the lawsuit plays out, HHS and CMS aren’t allowed to give detailed, sensitive medical information about enrollees to the Department of Homeland Security or ICE, Chhabria wrote. They also can’t hand over Medicaid data about U.S. citizens or legal immigrants in the 22 plaintiff states, he wrote. In explaining why he blocked the broader data sharing, Chhabria wrote that the new federal policies “are totally unclear about what that information would be, why it would be needed for immigration enforcement purposes, and what the risks of sharing it with DHS would be.” It wasn’t clear Monday whether HHS had resumed sharing data on Medicaid recipients living in the U.S. illegally, and a spokesperson didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment. Immigrants illegally living in the U.S., as well as some who are lawfully present, are not allowed to enroll in the Medicaid program that offers nearly free coverage for health services. But federal law requires all states to offer emergency Medicaid, a temporary coverage that pays only for lifesaving services in emergency rooms to anyone, including non-U.S. citizens. Medicaid is a jointly funded program between states and the federal government. HHS first shared the personal data on millions of Medicaid enrollees in a handful of states in June. In July, CMS entered into a new agreement that gave DHS daily access to view the personal data — including Social Security numbers and home address — of all the nation’s 77 million Medicaid enrollees. Neither agreement was announced publicly.

“(The sharing) is clearly authorized by law and the agencies have adequately explained their decisions.” Court ruling The extraordinary disclosure of such personal health data to deportation officials in the Trump administration’s far-reaching immigration crackdown immediately prompted the lawsuit over privacy concerns. Immigration advocates have said the disclosure of personal data could cause alarm among people seeking emergency medical help for themselves or their children. Other efforts to crack down on illegal immigration have made schools, churches, courthouses and other everyday places feel perilous to immigrants and even U.S. citizens who fear getting caught up in a raid. CMS in November said its intention to provide the data to ICE is “consistent with federal laws” and intended “to advance administration priorities related to immigration.” The data sharing comes as the Trump administration has implemented an unprecedented immigration crackdown that has looped in agencies across the federal government and which has included sending the military and immigration agents into multiple Democratic-run cities. The administration has also made other efforts to share data with immigration officials. In May, a federal judge refused to block the Internal Revenue Service from sharing immigrants’ tax data with ICE to help agents locate and detain people living in the U.S. illegally.

Dec. 29 • Avery Jacob Sneed, 22, of Cary, was arrested for going armed to the terror of the people.

Customs and Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino greets a supporter at a gas station during an immigration crackdown, in Kenner, Louisiana, last month.

• Anoar Nelsen Sanchez, 29, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for assault on a female.

Congress defunded the organization last summer

• Theo Samuel Brooks Stacks, 40, was arrested for driving while impaired, reckless driving, driving while license revoked, failure to wear seat belt and failure to maintain lane control.

Jan. 9 Chatham Chamber Lunch and Learn 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each session features a select expert speaker and a catered lunch. For more information, contact Rebecca at 919-771-7530. 120 Mosaic Blvd., Suite 120 Pittsboro

Jan. 10 Bluegrass Jam Circle 10 a.m. to noon This free acoustic jam session is open to musicians and singers of all ages and skill levels. There is no admission fee, and the public is welcome to attend.

GERALD HERBERT / AP PHOTO

• Christopher Lane Pugh, 18, of Siler City, was arrested for simple assault.

• Latasha Anne Reaves, 47, was arrested for driving while impaired.

Front Porch, Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum

The Plant 220 Lorax Lane Pittsboro

Corporation for Public Broadcasting votes itself out of existence

Jan. 3

If you are an area teen with an inner geek — embrace it with kids who have similar interests at this bimonthly event at BFP. There is a virtual reality (VR) headset on-site so you can go beyond this world for a short time. Bring your projects and games and be ready to discuss your personal passion of the moment! Questions? Call Helbragga (John G.) at 919-593-3559.

Original poetry presented by regional artists. For more information, contact Lisa at 919-548-6884.

Dec. 31

• Kyuana Tana Reaves, 46, of Goldston, was arrested for habitual larceny and conspiracy.

Bynum Bite Night at BFP

5-8 p.m.

• Holly Fay Barth, 36, of Siler City, was arrested for possession of stolen goods/ property and larceny.

Jan. 2

Jan. 8

Poetry at The Plant

Dec. 30

Jan. 1

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County.

Jan. 14

• Dakota Lee Williams, 27, was arrested for simple assault.

• Axel Ivan Martinez Beltran, 21, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

happening

Front Porch, Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum

• Algenon Franklin Cain, 35, of Fayetteville, was arrested for second degree trespassing.

• Gerrall Deangelo Johnson, 37, of Moncure, was arrested for harassing by phone call, second degree trespassing and stalking.

CHATHAM

By David Bauder The Associated Press LEADERS OF THE Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private agency that has steered federal funding to PBS, NPR and hundreds of public television and radio stations across the country, voted Monday to dissolve the organization that was created in 1967. CPB had been winding down since Congress acted last summer to defund its operations at the encouragement of President Donald Trump. Its board of directors chose Monday to shutter CPB completely instead of keeping it in existence as a shell. “CPB’s final act would be to protect the integrity of the pub-

“I am convinced that public media will survive, and that a new Congress will address public media’s role in our country.” Ruby Calvert, Corporation for Public Broadcasting director lic media system and the democratic values by dissolving, rather than allowing the organization to remain defunded and vulnerable to additional attacks,” said Patricia Harrison, the organization’s president and CEO. Many Republicans have long accused public broadcasting, particularly its news pro-

gramming, of being biased toward liberals but it wasn’t until the second Trump administration — with full GOP control of Congress — that those criticisms were turned into action. Ruby Calvert, head of CPB’s board of directors, said the federal defunding of public media has been devastating. “Even at this moment, I am convinced that public media will survive, and that a new Congress will address public media’s role in our country because it is critical to our children’s education, our history, culture and democracy to do so,” Calvert said. CPB said it was financially supporting the American Archive of Public Broadcasting in its effort to preserve historic content, and is working with the University of Maryland to maintain its own records.

Jan. 17 Milltown Yarns Presents: Chatham County Stories and Songs at BFP 7-8:30 p.m. Professional storytellers recount tales from Pittsboro, Siler City, Bynum and “Deep Chatham.” Free admission, but donations are encouraged. Front Porch, Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

CENTERS from page A1 “Would you want this built in your backyard?” Larry Shank asked supervisors last month in Pennsylvania’s East Vincent Township. “Because that’s where it’s literally going, is in my backyard.” Opposition spreads as data centers fan out A growing number of proposals are going down in defeat, sounding alarms across the data center constellation of Big Tech firms, real estate developers, electric utilities, labor unions and more. Andy Cvengros, who helps lead the data center practice at commercial real estate giant JLL, counted seven or eight deals he’d worked on in recent months that saw opponents going door to door, handing out shirts or putting signs in people’s yards. “It’s becoming a huge problem,” Cvengros said. Data Center Watch, a project of 10a Labs, an AI security consultancy, said it is seeing a sharp escalation in community, political and regulatory disruptions to data center development. Between April and June alone, its latest reporting period, it counted 20 proposals valued at $98 billion in 11 states that were blocked or delayed amid local opposition and state-level pushback. That amounts to two-thirds of the projects it was tracking. Some environmental and consumer advocacy groups say they’re fielding calls every day, and are working to educate communities on how to protect themselves. “I’ve been doing this work for 16 years, worked on hundreds of campaigns I’d guess, and this by far is the biggest kind of local pushback I’ve ever seen here in Indiana,” said Bryce Gustafson of the Indianapolis-based Citizens Action Coalition. In Indiana alone, Gustafson counted more than a dozen projects that lost rezoning petitions. Similar concerns across different communities For some people angry over steep increases in electric bills, their patience is thin for data centers that could bring still-higher increases. Losing open space, farmland, forest or rural character is

MARC LEVY / AP PHOTO

People opposed to a data center proposal at the former Pennhurst state hospital grounds talk during a break in an East Vincent Township supervisors meeting last month in Spring City, Pennsylvania. a big concern. So is the damage to quality of life, property values or health by on-site diesel generators kicking on or the constant hum of servers. Others worry that wells and aquifers could run dry. Lawsuits are flying — both ways — over whether local governments violated their own rules. Big Tech firms Microsoft, Google, Amazon and Facebook — which are collectively spending hundreds of billions of dollars on data centers across the globe — didn’t answer Associated Press questions about the effect of community pushback. Microsoft, however, has acknowledged the difficulties. In an October securities filing, it listed its operational risks as including “community opposition, local moratoriums, and hyper-local dissent that may impede or delay infrastructure development.” Even with high-level support from state and federal governments, the pushback is having an impact. Maxx Kossof, vice president of investment at Chicago-based developer The Missner Group, said developers worried about los-

ing a zoning fight are considering selling properties once they secure a power source — a highly sought-after commodity that makes a proposal far more viable and valuable. “You might as well take chips off the table,” Kossof said. “The thing is you could have power to a site and it’s futile because you might not get the zoning. You might not get the community support.” Some in the industry are frustrated, saying opponents are spreading falsehoods about data centers — such as polluting water and air — and are difficult to overcome. Still, data center allies say they are urging developers to engage with the public earlier in the process, emphasize economic benefits, sow good will by supporting community initiatives and talk up efforts to conserve water and power and protect ratepayers. “It’s definitely a discussion that the industry is having internally about, ‘Hey, how do we do a better job of community engagement?’” said Dan Diorio of the Data Center Coalition, a trade association that includes Big Tech firms and developers.

Bluefin tuna sells for record $3.2M at first 2026 Tokyo fish market auction The 535-pound fish broke a record from 2019 The Associated Press TOKYO — A massive 535-pound bluefin tuna sold for a record 510 million yen ($3.2 million) at the first auction of 2026 at Tokyo’s Toyosu fish market. The top bidder for the prized tuna at the predawn auction on Monday was Kiyomura Corp., whose owner Kiyoshi Kimura runs the popular Sushi Zanmai chain. Kimura, who has won the annual action many times in the past, broke the previous record

of 334 million yen ($2.1 million) he set in 2019. Kimura later told reporters he was hoping to pay a bit less for it, but “the price shot up before you knew it.” The auction started when the bell rang, and the floor was filled with torpedo-shaped fish with their tails cut off so bidders could examine meat details such as color, texture and fattiness while walking around the rows of tuna. The pricey fish was caught off the coast of Oma in northern Japan, a region widely regarded for producing some of the country’s finest tuna, and cost $6,060 per pound.

“It’s in part for good luck,” Kimura said. “But when I see a good looking tuna, I cannot resist. ... I haven’t sampled it yet, but it’s got to be delicious.” Hundreds of tuna are sold daily at the early morning auction, but prices are significantly higher than usual for the Oma tuna, especially at the celebratory New Year auction. Due to the popularity of tuna for sushi and sashimi, Pacific bluefin tuna was previously a threatened species due to climate change and overfishing, but its stock is recovering following conservation efforts.

Data center opposition dominates local politics Winning over local officials, however, hasn’t translated to winning over residents. Developers pulled a project off an October agenda in the Charlotte suburb of Matthews, North Carolina, after Mayor John Higdon said he informed them it faced unanimous defeat. The project would have funded half the city’s budget and developers promised environmentally friendly features. But town meetings overflowed, and emails, texts and phone calls were overwhelmingly opposed, “999 to one against,” Higdon said. Had council approved it, “every person that voted for it would no longer be in office,” the mayor said. “That’s for sure.” In Hermantown, a suburb of Duluth, Minnesota, a proposed data center campus several times larger than the Mall of America is on hold amid challenges over whether the city’s environmental review was adequate. Residents found each other through social media and, from there, learned to organize, protest, door-knock and get their message out.

They say they felt betrayed and lied to when they discovered that state, county, city and utility officials knew about the proposal for an entire year before the city — responding to a public records request filed by the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy — released internal emails that confirmed it. “It’s the secrecy. The secrecy just drives people crazy,” said Jonathan Thornton, a realtor who lives across a road from the site. Documents revealing the extent of the project emerged days before a city rezoning vote in October. Mortenson, which is developing it for a Fortune 50 company that it hasn’t named, says it is considering changes based on public feedback and that “more engagement with the community is appropriate.” Rebecca Gramdorf found out about it from a Duluth newspaper article, and immediately worried that it would spell the end of her six-acre vegetable farm. She found other opponents online, ordered 100 yard signs and prepared for a struggle. “I don’t think this fight is over at all,” Gramdorf said.

SINS OF THE WORLD! BIBLE STUDY: Matthew 1:18-25 Church of Living Water; Preacher: James Mitchell. There are so many reasons to love and support Israel/ Jews. First, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, was a Jew. The Romans gave the order to crucify Jesus. But didn’t all the sins of the world contribute to -HVXV EHLQJ FUXFL¿HG" <RX EOLQG SHRSOH ZKR KDWH persecute the Jews, God’s judgment is upon you. <RX EOLQG 'HPRFUDWV DQG O\LQJ QHZV PHGLD WKDW persecute Christians, God’s judgment be upon you! But I have great news for all: repent, get off the road to destruction. Ask God to forgive you and save your soul. If you pray from your heart, telling God that you will live for Him as best you can, you will be forgiven for all your sins. Praise you, God, for your mercy and grace! Think about what the birth of Jesus really means for all who are willing. We are so thankful, Heavenly Father, for President Trump, who is working so hard to save America from all the damage Biden, Harris, and the Democrats have done to America! Thank you, Heavenly Father, for our ICE Law Enforcement, which is removing all illegals, criminals, terrorists, and radical Islamists! Let’s vote out more radical politicians who hate America. Deport Omar and all Muslims trying to take over our country. We need more America¿UVW 6HQDWRUV +RXVH RI 5HSUHVHQWDWLYHV *RYHUQRUV DQG 0D\RUV *R RXW YRWH DQG VXSSRUW ¿QDQFLDOO\ VR President Trump can continue making America Great Again. Don’t fear the devils, because greater is God in His children than the devil and his children! Merry Christmas to you! With love, in Jesus’ name!

Share with your community! ••• Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to community@ chathamnewsrecord.com LOUISE DELMOTTE / AP PHOTO

A bluefin tuna that won the highest bid at the annual New Year auction is carried to a Sushi Zanmai restaurant in Tokyo on Monday.

Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | ANDREW RAMONA TAYLOR-TROUTMAN

Advice from a dog: Mean what you say When I sit at the back door and bark, it’s clear what I intend to do.

RAMONA THE DOG here, once again filling in for the old man, who stayed up too late last week and is still recovering. He kept talking about “watching the ball fall,” which I assumed entailed a game of fetch. Now that is something worth counting down to, but I was sadly mistaken. Yet again, I learned that humans do not always mean what they say. Humans talk about “the tail that wags the dog” as if they had actual tails. Their “doggy bags” are not actually for me, and neither are the books whose pages are “dog-eared.” The confusion extends to other creatures as well; for example, being “hungry as a horse” or being told to “hold your horses” has nothing to do with four-legged animals.

No butterflies are actually eaten when they have them in their stomachs, and don’t get me started about “letting the cat out of the bag.” In contrast, when I sit at the back door and bark, it’s clear what I intend to do. They say that I “water the lawn,” but I’m not a garden hose! Perhaps humans talk this way because they don’t always do what they say. Andrew told me an old story about a son who promised his father that he would work in his vineyard but didn’t, and his brother who told the same dad that he wouldn’t work but did. I’m not sure of the point, but I do have a tail. It wags when I’m happy and excited; it goes between my legs when I’m scared or ashamed, like when I “watered” the

upstairs carpet. You might say that I’m an “open book,” but that’s confusing. For Pete’s sake, I’m a dog. And who is Pete? Nobody is perfect. Everyone should try to say what they mean and especially do what they say they will. It might take a long time to housetrain a dog or build trust in a relationship, but it takes even longer to repair a broken one. I think you know exactly what I mean. Thankfully, all is forgiven concerning the upstairs carpet. I understand that “no” means “no.” Ramona’s owner’s latest book is “This Is the Day.” He serves as pastor of Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church as well as a writer, pizza maker, coffee drinker and student of joy.

COLUMN | BOB WACHS

Who says Christmas has to end Dec. 25? When I was a little guy, it took forever and a day for Christmas to come. Maybe the difference lay in the level of my responsibilities.

ALL THE GIFTS are gone from under the tree and soon my better half will disassemble the artificial tree we’ve used for several years. It’s been our tree of choice for some time now, mainly since the real ones got too heavy for my long-gone shoulders to deal with, plus it was getting harder to stand a real one straight in the stand. Funny how time moves … or doesn’t, it sometimes seems. It wasn’t so many days ago that we had right many days to prepare for the day. Then it came, and like the wind that’s been whistling around some lately … whoosh … Christmas Day was gone. And this time, it didn’t help that many folks, my family included, got a case of the flu whether they asked Santa for it or not. When I was a little guy, it took forever and a day for Christmas to come. Maybe the difference lay in the level of my responsibilities. When you’re 8 years old nobody really expects you to do much in the way of preparation. You’re just sort of there to take in Santa and the sweets and say your part in the church’s young folks Christmas program. But when you wind up somewhere on the other side of, oh, say 31, you have phrases like “some assembly required” and “Caution! Sharp objects” to deal with. They’re enough to make a grown man cry. Then comes the time where I live now that no longer requires putting bicycles together and such. Actually I kind of miss that. In many ways, I think, I get my Christmas groove now from anticipating as much as the actual events. The gifts are nice, the shopping can be, the thought going into the gifts that finally make the cut exciting or at least interesting. And the music … outstanding.

BRENNAN LINSLEY / AP PHOTO

Is it too much to ask to have Christmas last all year?

One year, the former little guy about to pass out of his teen years who used to think I hung the moon played Santa Claus for us. Although he was kinda tired by the end of the day, he did his best to open his gifts and help other folks with theirs. His little sister, new that year since the previous Christmas, crawled from one torn paper pile or ribbon to the next while his little cousin, new since the previous day before Halloween, spent most of her time on the sofa taking in the bright lights. Shining bright eyes of children really do seem like a good way to look at the world and everyone and everything in it. But it’s really the feeling, the feeling that for a moment the world can stop being hard to get along with, that people can rise above terrorism and

meanness and hate and finally do the right thing. Then when that euphoric reality strikes we’re overcome with the feeling of “why can’t we do this all year?” Indeed … Why not? Here’s how to do it. If I do some of that where I am and you do some where you are and Fred does some where he is and Mabel does some where she is and so on and so forth, then pretty soon most everybody will be doing it and we’ll be living that spirit instead of drinking spirits. Try it. You might like it. Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

COLUMN | JAN HUTTON

COLUMN VICTOR JOECKS

Monks, ahoy!

I can’t, and won’t even try, to rival the monks’ continuous pilgrimage of kindness, peace and compassion.

I ADMIT IT. I’m a wuss. I prefer not being cold or exposed to seriously unpleasant weather conditions or forgoing footwear that blocks cold and rain. You know? By comparison to my shared foibles above, there are two dozen Buddhist monks walking for peace on a 120-day, 1,400-mile pilgrimage, from Fort Worth, Texas to D.C. Garbed in traditional orange robes, with and without footwear. Accompanied by Aloka, their much loved “peace“ dog in his various warm coats. Recovering from a cold, I’ve been hypnotically glued to my iPad, watching, often through tears, as these peace voyagers are welcomed by crowds throughout the South, escorted by police, in both small towns and large. Such a wide, wide diversity of my fellow Southerners, welcoming strangely garbed beings, sharing tears, flowers, bottles of water and plain ol’ love. Human to human. Oh, and that peace walk thing? Just what the heck is it? Pretty straightforward. Sharing a message of kindness, peace and compassion. No waving of flags, loud chanting, simply monks walking in a single file, bowing to all beings in their path. I have been seriously blown away by seeing

incredible crowds welcoming, videoing and bowing to the monks in their own respective gestures of thanks. Thanking them for nothing more tangible than the monks’ powerful lived message of modeling kindness, peace and compassion. For all. No I can’t, and won’t even try, to rival the monks’ continuous pilgrimage of kindness, peace and compassion. Cold, shoeless. Maybe my next lifetime? What I can do, fitting within the realm of my life now, is to offer peace, piecemeal, wherever I can, and without self-judgment when I’m unable to do so. I can live with being a piecemeal peacemaker, thanks to the loving guidance of Anonymous, below.

universities to find out why on earth he had been rejected. Everywhere it was the same story: Graduate admissions committees around the country had been following the same unspoken protocol as ours.” Could anyone get past this illegal discrimination? “The one exception I found to the general exclusion of white males had begun life as a female,” Hankins wrote. Hankins was one of the mere 3% of Harvard faculty who identify as conservative. Yet even progressive scholars admit there’s a problem. Theda Skocpol, Harvard’s Victor S. Thomas Professor of Government and Sociology, is nobody’s idea of a conservative. In a recent interview published with the journal “Sociologica,” however, Skocpol acknowledged, “We in the universities ... went overboard with trying to boost some groups over others.” That came in the midst of lowering standards — the average GPA at Harvard is now, notoriously, around 3.8: an A-. “We went too far in academia for a decade before (Donald) Trump in giving the impression that students’ feelings matter more than what they learn. ... We’re at the point at Harvard where everybody thinks they should get an A, and they don’t think they should do much to get it.” But how seriously should taxpayers, who foot the bill for much of higher ed’s mischief, take a professor like Skocpol when she says, “I believe in actual equality, applying the same standards to everyone, not using special quotas or excuses for particular groups”? Not very seriously, when in the same interview she said Trump administration officials cracking down on the academy’s follies “all resent some woman — particularly some black woman —who told them what to do or who got what they think they deserved.” Harvard’s last president, Claudine Gay, was a black woman whose scholarship was infected with plagiarism. She’s still employed by Harvard, with a compensation package said to be in the neighborhood of $900,000. The contrast between Gay’s treatment as a black woman and the white male students with exemplary records who have been discriminated against the way Hankins describes should make even a Theda Skocpol question her premises about why conservatives criticize higher ed. Harvard and its peers have replaced Western history with global history — and merit with identity politics. If scholars of Hankins’ caliber keep migrating to the freer and fairer setting of places like Florida, Harvard will at last find itself replaced, too.

SOCIETY HAS SPENT decades telling boys that masculinity is toxic, and now there’s a shortage of skilled tradesmen. The connection should be obvious. Through his on-again, off-again tariff dance, President Donald Trump has made one thing clear: He wants more things built in America. He’s bragged about already securing more investment dollar commitments than former President Joe Biden did during his entire term. And he wants more. Trump has long championed the rural communities devastated by factory shutdowns. It’s one reason that he has enjoyed such strong support in Middle America. In his speech at the Republican National Convention last year, now-Vice President JD Vance detailed the importance of remembering that America is both a “nation” and “our homeland.” The hardworking people I grew up with “love this country, not only because it’s a good idea, but because in their bones they know that this is their home,” he said. He continued, “This is the source of America’s greatness.” This is why Trump and Vance are so determined to rejuvenate American industry. But there’s a major obstacle to accomplishing this — a shortage of skilled workers. “For every five tradespeople that retire, two enter the workforce,” Mike Rowe, host of “Dirty Jobs,” wrote in 2024. “That’s a 5:2 ratio, and the math is simply not sustainable.” It’s not for lack of opportunity. For instance, the Navy Industrial Submarine Base needs to hire 100,000 skilled tradesmen within the next decade. But the companies working there are struggling to find enough qualified employees. One reason is that society has relentlessly pushed students toward college. Former President Ronald Reagan once said, “If you want more of something, subsidize it.” And the government has, dumping trillions of dollars into higher education over the decades. Sure enough, college enrollment more than doubled from 1972 to 2022, growing from 9.2 million to 18.6 million. In 1972, around a quarter of 18- to 24-year-olds were enrolled in college. In 2022, it was 39%. This hasn’t just limited the potential pool of future welders and plumbers. It’s sent the message that those careers are secondrate. That they’re only for people who aren’t smart enough for college. It’s a terrible and false message. It may not earn you a high SAT score, but understanding how wiring, pipes and parts work in the real world is a much-needed type of intelligence. Men working with their hands literally built the country. There’s a more fundamental issue here, too. The skilled trades continue to be dominated by men. This isn’t the result of a patriarchal society but innate differences between men and women. Men are stronger than women. They’re more mechanically minded. They’re more interested in working with their hands. They’re more willing to do dangerous and dirty jobs, like building the Hoover Dam. This doesn’t make men superior to women. It makes men and women different. Women have their own set of strengths, including better language and social skills. Modern feminists rarely praise pregnancy, but growing a baby inside of you is the closest thing human beings have to a superpower. But society doesn’t nurture the unique strengths of boys. Most schools want little boys to act like little girls. Doctors prescribe Ritalin to boys who can’t sit still. Male students see their success in areas like mathematics and engineering dismissed as the result of systemic sexism, not their achievements. Compounding this problem is the growing number of boys living in homes without their fathers. Little wonder so many men — and potential skilled tradesmen — have disengaged. The labor force participation rate for men 25-54 hit 98% in 1954. In November, it was under 90%. Masculinity isn’t toxic. It’s what built this country. And rebuilding American industry requires celebrating masculinity, not attacking it.

Daniel McCarthy is the editor of “Modern Age: A Conservative Review.”

Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn lives around.” Anonymous So there…. Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

Harvard says yes to discrimination, no to Western civilization Mongol hordes aren’t the only protagonists of the new history.

AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY today, professors who teach Western history are history. James Hankins, a specialist in Renaissance thought, was one of the last holdouts. Now Hankins, who has just published a hefty book that teaches what Harvard doesn’t — “The Golden Thread: A History of the Western Tradition. Vol. 1” — has decamped for the University of Florida’s Hamilton School of Classical and Civic Education. It’s not the warmer weather that’s drawn him away from Cambridge, Massachusetts. It’s the contrast in intellectual climates: frozen and dead, where Western history is concerned, at Harvard; full of green shoots at the University of Florida. “We have not hired with tenure a historian in a Western field — ancient, medieval, early modern, or modern — in a decade,” Hankins said about his Harvard department, which in that time “lost eight senior historians in Western fields — all major figures — through death, retirement or departure for other universities. I will be the ninth, and I am not expecting to be replaced.” The loss isn’t just Harvard’s: “The replacement of Western history by global history” has done “serious harm ... to the socialization of young Americans,” the historian warned in Compact magazine. “When you don’t teach the young what civilization is, it turns out, people become uncivilized.” In the 40 years Hankins taught at Harvard, he saw his profession shift its focus from European civilization to cultures once considered barbarian. “In this absurdist rendering of world history, Central Asian peoples,” for example, “are presented as the drivers of cultural innovation, spreading their benign influence east and west via the Silk Road,” he said. This is marketed as “‘de-centering the West,’ where Western countries are literally put in their place as an ugly growth on the back side of Eurasia.” Mongol hordes aren’t the only protagonists of the new history, however: Anyone who isn’t white qualifies. A similar standard applies to elite graduate school admissions, in Hankins’ experience. “I was told informally by a member of the admissions committee” in 2021, he recalled, that “admitting a white male ... was ‘not happening this year.’” As for Harvard’s white male undergraduates, their skin color and sex are obstacles to academic advancement: “The best student at Harvard — he won the prize for the graduating senior with the best overall academic record — was rejected from all the graduate programs to which he applied. He too was a white male,” the historian recounted. “I called around to friends at several

America needs more masculinity

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

obituaries

Richard A. Lineberry Feb. 1, 1933 – Jan. 1, 2026 Richard A. Lineberry, Jr., 92, passed away unexpectedly, at his home in Siler City, January 1, 2026. He was born in Columbus County, NC, February 1, 1933, a son to the late Mabel Crumpler and Richard A. Lineberry, Sr. Mr. Lineberry had a long and fulfilling life. He honorably served in the U.S. Army and retired from the U.S. Post Office after 32 years of faithful service. He loved playing golf and raised sheep and cattle. He was a long-time member of Loves Creek Baptist Church and served in many positions over the years. In addition to his parents,

Carol Triplett Robbins Feb. 1, 1943 – Dec. 4, 2025 On 4 December 2025, Carol Triplett Robbins passed away from cancer at her home in Fearrington Village, North Carolina, with her golden retriever Flora at her side. Herbert Wolff, her beloved husband of forty-five years, preceded her in death in 2021. Born on 1 February 1943 in Baltimore, Maryland, to Elizabeth Triplett Robbins and John Clinton Robbins, Jr. She received her B.A. from Bucknell University and a Master’s Degree in 1974 from Harvard University in City Planning and Public Policy. She served the City of Boston in several capacities before becoming an independent consultant. Her clients ranged from municipalities to the federal government. In 1994, Carol and

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We offer an on-site crematory with many options of Celebration of Life services, Traditional, and Green Burials. Call us to set 396 West St., Pittsboro, NC 27312 | 919-542-3057 | www.donaldsonfunerals.com an appointment to come bydaughter, and learn more. He is survived by his until he sold the business to Richard was preceded in Janet Dunn Frantz, her husband, Carquest in 2002, where he death by his wife of 54 years, James Spencer Frantz, Jr.; proudly worked until the age of Ollie Mae Brewer Lineberry; grandchildren, James Spencer 77. Through D & S, he provided his sister, Ruth Brooks; and Frantz III, and his wife Claire, numerous job opportunities daughter-in-law, Jennifer M. Mary Frantz Roberts and her to many young men in the Lineberry. husband, Andy, Joseph “Jay” community; many of whom are Survivors of Mr. Lineberry, Glenn Dunn III, and his wife still part of his business family. are his sons, Richie C. Lineberry Erica, and Andrew Snider Dunn; He believed deeply in the dignity of Siler City, and his wife, great-grandchildren, Lillian Reid of hard work and showed by Jenny, and Ronald “Ronnie” Frantz, Blaine Lanier Roberts, example that effort, persistence K. Lineberry of Greensboro, and Elizabeth Dixon Frantz. Joe’s and dedication matter. NC and his fiancée, Lori; his unwavering love and devotion A man of true faith and daily daughter, Robin L. Askins have had a profound impact on devotions, Joe was a lifelong of Bear Creek and her his entire family including several member of Sandy Branch Baptist husband, Tally; his sister, nieces and nephews, whom he Church, where he served in many Dorothy L. Daley, of PA; and cherished and treated with deep capacities. He was a man who his six grandchildren, Lauren affection. delighted in good conversation Underwood, Trey Lineberry Oct. 15, 1931 – Dec. 29, 2025 The family is deeply grateful to and never missed a chance to and fiancée, Elizabeth, Morgan Kay Lopossay, Ryan Gaines, and tease, always with a twinkle in Lineberry and fiancé, Trint, Joseph Glenn Dunn, Sr., 94, Carmen Petty for their steadfast his eye and a grin on his face. Holly Askins, Caleb Lineberry passed away peacefully at his support and genuine care, and Laughter came easily to him, and Nathanael Lineberry. home on December 29, 2025, to the staff of UNC Chatham and he loved nothing more than A visitation will be held from after a brief illness. He was born Hospital for their professionalism, connecting with everyone in 2-3:00pm, Monday, January on October 15, 1931, in Chatham compassion, and dedication. meaningful, often lighthearted 5th, 2026 at Loves Creek County, the son of George Funeral service will be held on conversation. He had a lifelong Baptist Church, Siler City, NC. Thomas and Beulah Lloyd Dunn. Saturday, January 10th, 2026, at passion for classic and antique The funeral service will start After graduation from Bonlee 11 am, at Sandy Branch Baptist automobiles, especially his at 3:00pm, with the Rev. Kenny High School, Joe proudly served Church in Bear Creek. Visitation beloved 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air. Black officiating. in the US Army stationed at Fort will follow service in the activities Purchased new, the car held Burial will follow in the Bliss, Texas. He graduated from building. Reverend Dr. Jimmy deep sentimental value. Though church cemetery. Asheboro Business College and Brown will be officiating the he let it go once, he later found it In lieu of flowers, please other than his military service, services. consider a memoriam to Loves Joe lived his entire life in Chatham again fully restored and proudly Joe leaves a legacy of love, bought it back, a testament to his Creek Baptist Church, 1745 E County. strength, compassion, and hard appreciation for craftsmanship, 11th St, Siler City, NC 27344. Ever fascinated by anything work. In lieu of flowers, please history, and things worth holding The family will receive family automotive, Joe began his career consider a donation to Sandy onto. and friends at the home of with Brown’s Auto Supply. Always Branch Baptist Church (715 Sandy He was preceded in death Richie and Jenny Lineberry at the entrepreneur, he started Branch Church Road, Bear Creek, by his parents, his wife, Mary 75 Grady Siler Rd., Siler City, his own business, D & S Auto NC 27207) honoring Joe’s lifelong Gilliland Dunn, and his son, NC. Supply, Inc. with Jack Sipe. Sipe membership, generous spirit, and Joseph “Glenn” Dunn, Jr. The eventually left the partnership, unwavering faith. youngest of six siblings, Joe was and Joe continued to grow the Smith & Buckner Funeral Home predeceased by his brothers, business. In the mid-1970s, will be assisting the Dunn family. Shelton Dunn, Ray Dunn, and Joe partnered with General Online condolences can be his sisters, Mae Dunn Laughon, Parts, Inc to become one of the Herb moved to Kiev, Ukraine, as made at www.smithbucknerfh. Mannie Dunn Emerson, and first Carquest distributors. He an advisor for the U.S. Agency com Georgia Dunn Moore. operated D & S Auto/Carquest for International Development. They came to North Carolina in 1999. Carol was an advocate for her community and of the arts. She served on the Chatham County Board of Assessors. IN MEMORY She founded both Youth Pro Musica, a donor-advised fund at Triangle Community SANDRA JOANN “JOAN” JOHN SLATER MORRIS Foundation, and also Triangle Sings, a regional choral music JUNE 2, 1972 – DEC. 25, 2025 ANDREWS-JOHNSTONE website. Her contribution to OCT. 7, 1934 – DEC. 30, 1934 music and arts education in John Slater Morris, age 53 of Pittsboro, NC general was recognized in passed away on Christmas Day, Thursday Sandra Joann “Joan” Andrews-Johnstone, 91, 2008 when she was named the (12/25/2025) at his home with his family by of Hampstead NC, passed away unexpectedly on North Carolina Music Education his side. John was born in Durham County on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. Advocate of the Year, and again June 2,1972, son of Libron Benjamin Morris Joan was born on October 7, 1934, in Bonlee, in 2015, when she joined the and Shirley Maxine Clark Morris. John had a NC. She was the daughter of Keller Rives and Board of Trustees of Berkshire passion for landscaping. He loved to go fishing Choral International. Dale (Brooks) Andrews. Joan received her MSW and hunting. He never met a stranger, he enjoyed Carol is survived by from Washington University in St. Louis, MO and family and friends. In particular, talking to other people. He enjoyed picking with was in private practice as a Marriage & Family she was a devoted, lifelong others sharing laughs and making memories. Counselor. mentor to Victor Rudd (Munich, John was preceded in death by his parents, his She was proceeded in death by her parents Germany), Deborah Karacozian baby brother Kim Morris. Graveside services will and husband, Dr. Allen Johnstone, M.D. She is (Provincetown, MA), and be conducted at 2 PM on Friday January 2,2026 survived by her children Karon Hinshaw (Ronnie Lilja Gretarsdottir (Reyljavik, at Rock Springs Baptist Church Cemetery Lashaw) and Eric Hinshaw; grandchildren Iceland). Her family endures with the Rev Wesley Thomas, Officiating. John Maria, Morgan, Blake, and Matthew; and 7 great with her brother John Clinton is survived by his wife, Sherry Cooper Morris grandchildren. Roberts III and his wife Cleo of the home. Daughter Amanda Morris Cole (Chadds Fords, Pennsylvania) (Christopher) of Pittsboro, NC; Sister Lisa Morris and their three sons: Clinton (Ithaca, New York), Stephen Fugazzi of Pittsboro, NC. Two brothers, Sammy EDDIE DEAN WILKIE (Phoenix, Arizona), and Peter Morris (Katie) of Raleigh, NC and Rodney Morris APRIL 16, 1961 – JAN. 2, 2026 (Bellingham, Washington). (Bonnie) of Pittsboro, NC. Several nieces and A small, private memorial nephews. The family request no flowers. In lieu Eddie Dean Wilkie, 64, of Siler City, died Friday, service will be held. Donations of flowers the family request that memorial can be made to Youth pro January 2, 2026. donations be made to a charity of your choice in Musica or Triad Golden Eddie was born in Chatham County on April John’s memory. Retriever Rescue. 16, 1961, to the late Lacy G and Edna Martha Hill Wilkie. He was an inspector at Mountaire for many years, he loved to tinker with things. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Eddie is survived by his wife, Carla Gaines Wilkie; sons, Shannon Wilkie of Bear Creek and Dustin Wilkie of Bonlee; stepson, Justin Childress of Goldston; sisters, Jeannett Morris and Mary Lemons (Barry) both of Siler City; and brother, Ricky Wilkie (Angie) of Mayodan; and five grandchildren, Elana, Olivia, and Walker Wilkie and Easton and Hunter Childress. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Providence Methodist Church, from 1:00 - 2:00 PM. The funeral service will take place at 2:00 PM with the burial following in the church cemetery with Josh Conrad officiating.

Joseph Glenn Dunn

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Chatham News & Record at obits@chathamnewsrecord.com

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

Holocaust survivor Eva Schloss, stepsister of Anne Frank, dead at 96 She survived Auschwitz after being betrayed in the Netherlands By Jill Lawless The Associated Press LONDON — Auschwitz survivor Eva Schloss, the stepsister of teenage diarist Anne Frank and a tireless educator about the horrors of the Holocaust, has died. She was 96. The Anne Frank Trust UK, of which Schloss was honorary president, said she died Saturday in London, where she lived. Britain’s King Charles III said he was “privileged and proud” to have known Schloss, who co-founded the charitable trust to help young people challenge prejudice. “The horrors that she endured as a young woman are impossible to comprehend and yet she devoted the rest of her life to overcoming hatred and prejudice, promoting kindness, courage, understanding and resilience through her tireless work for the Anne Frank Trust UK and for Holocaust education across the world,” the king said. Born Eva Geiringer in Vienna in 1929, Schloss fled with her family to Amsterdam after Nazi

Germany annexed Austria. She became friends with another Jewish girl of the same age, Anne Frank, whose diary would become one of the most famous chronicles of the Holocaust. Like the Franks, Eva’s family spent two years in hiding to avoid capture after the Nazis occupied the Netherlands. They were eventually betrayed, arrested and sent to the Auschwitz death camp. Schloss and her mother Fritzi survived until the camp was liberated by Soviet troops in 1945. Her father Erich and brother Heinz died in Auschwitz. After the war, Eva moved to Britain, married German Jewish refugee Zvi Schloss and settled in London. In 1953, her mother married Frank’s father, Otto, the only member of his immediate family to survive. Anne Frank died of typhus in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp at the age of 15, months before the end of the war. Schloss did not speak publicly about her experiences for decades, later saying that wartime trauma had made her withdrawn and unable to connect with others. “I was silent for years, first because I wasn’t allowed to speak. Then I repressed it. I was

CHRIS JACKSON / POOL VIA AP

Britain’s Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, right, and Eva Schloss, stepsister of Anne Frank and honorary president of the Anne Frank Trust UK, take part in a candle lighting ceremony during a reception for the Anne Frank Trust in London in 2022. angry with the world,” she told The Associated Press in 2004. But after she addressed the opening of an Anne Frank exhibition in London in 1986, Schloss made it her mission to educate younger generations about the Nazi genocide. Over the following decades she spoke in schools and prisons, at international conferences and told her story in books including “Eva’s Story: A Survivor’s Tale by the Stepsister of Anne Frank.” She kept campaigning into her 90s. In 2019, she traveled to

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Newport Beach, California, to meet teenagers who were photographed making Nazi salutes at a high school party. The following year she was part of a campaign urging Facebook to remove Holocaust-denying material from the social networking site. “We must never forget the terrible consequences of treating people as ‘other,’” Schloss said in 2024. “We need to respect everybody’s races and religions. We need to live together with our differences. The only way to achieve this is through

education, and the younger we start the better.” Schloss’ family remembered her as “a remarkable woman: an Auschwitz survivor, a devoted Holocaust educator, tireless in her work for remembrance, understanding and peace.” “We hope her legacy will continue to inspire through the books, films and resources she leaves behind,” the family said in a statement. Zvi Schloss died in 2016. Eva Schloss is survived by their three daughters, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rep. Doug LaMalfa of California dies, reducing GOP’s narrow control of the House to 218-213 A special election to replace him could be as late as June By Mike Catalini and Kevin Freking The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Republican Doug LaMalfa, a seven-term U.S. representative from California and a reliable vote on President Donald Trump’s agenda, has died, reducing the GOP’s narrow control of the House. He was 65. A former state lawmaker and rice farmer, LaMalfa had more than a dozen years in Congress, where he regularly helped GOP leaders open the House floor and frequently gave speeches. His death, confirmed by Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Ind.) and National Republican Congressional Committee Chairman Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), trims the Republicans’ margin of control of the House to 218 seats to Democrats’ 213. Trump expressed “tremendous sorrow” over LaMalfa’s death on Tuesday as he addressed a meeting of House Republicans, lamenting the loss of a lawmaker he championed as an ally for his agenda. “I was really saddened by his passing,” Trump said. The president said he considered not giving the speech to honor LaMalfa but decided to go ahead with it “because he would have wanted it that way.” Trump said the late congressman “wasn’t a 3 o’clock in the morning person” like other lawmakers he would call in the wee hours to lobby for their votes. “He voted with me 100% of the time,” Trump said. “With Doug, I never had to call.” Meanwhile, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York called for a moment of silence in honor of LaMalfa at the start of a panel at the Capitol commemorating the fifth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack. Details surrounding LaMalfa’s death were unclear. David Reade, a former chief of staff of LaMalfa’s from the state legislature, became emotional remembering LaMalfa, who he said was committed

“I was really saddened by his passing.” President Donald Trump to his district and proud of his family and Christian faith. “One of my great memories of Doug is that he would show up at the smallest events that were important in people’s lives in this district,” Reade said in a phone interview. “Whether it was a birthday, it was a family gathering, it was the smallest organization in his district, and he would drive literally hundreds and hundreds of miles to be there.” LaMalfa represented Northern California’s 1st District, along the Oregon border, including Redding and reaching just north of Sacramento. He had planned to run for reelection despite his district being dramatically redrawn under a ballot measure passed by California voters in November. The measure, backed by Democrats, was designed to make it harder for LaMalfa and four other Republicans to win reelection. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, must call a special election to replace LaMalfa, his office said. The election could happen as late as June, when California will hold its primary for the 2026 midterm. Hudson, the NRCC chairman, called LaMalfa “a principled conservative and a tireless advocate for the people of Northern California.” “He was never afraid to fight for rural communities, farmers, and working families,” Hudson said. “Doug brought grit, authenticity, and conviction to everything he did in public service.” First elected to Congress in 2012, he was a regular presence on the House floor, helping GOP leadership open the chamber and offer his view local and national affairs. C-SPAN in a recent compilation said he gave at least one set of remarks for the record on 81 days in 2025. Only two other lawmakers spoke on the House floor more frequently.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

NOTICE TO ALL PROPERTY OWNERS Tax Listing Notice All persons owning real, personal and business property on January 1, 2026, have the duty to list property that is subject to Chatham County property taxation. Certain personal property must be listed every year. Real estate listing is not required unless buildings or other improvements having a value in excess of $100 have been acquired, begun, erected, damaged, or destroyed in the year prior to January 1, 2026. Listing Period Begins - January 1, 2026 Listing Period Ends - January 31, 2026 For Business Listings only, requests for an extension must be received in writing by January 31, 2026. Extensions will only be granted until April 15, 2026. Listing Assistance is available at: Chatham County Tax Department 12 East Street, Pittsboro NC 27312 Monday - Friday 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Except Holidays WHAT TO LIST? You are required to list un-licensed vehicles, trailers with multi-year registrations, mobile homes not designated as real property, all types of water craft, aircraft, and items used in a business. Business Property also includes items used for farming, a trade or profession, or furnishings or appliances you provide to a tenant. Except for trailers with multi-year registration, exempted from listing are licensed vehicles, mobile homes (considered real estate,) and household items used for your own residence. Forms may be picked up at the office or obtained from our website at https://www.chathamcountync. gov You may list in person. Bring all detailed information necessary to identify your property and its value. If forms were mailed to you, please bring them with you. Listing by mail is permitted. Listings must bear a U.S. Postal Service postmark on or before January 31, 2026. Penalties apply to late listings. If you have not received your listing forms by January 20, you should make satisfactory arrangements with this office so that you may make a timely listing. Persons who fail to comply are subject to listing penalties and other penalties which are prescribed by N.C. General Statutes. PROPERTY TAX RELIEF: Persons at least 65 years of age or persons that are permanently and totally disabled whose income does not exceed the maximum, may apply for a tax reduction or tax deferment on their permanent residence. The maximum income to qualify for the 2026 tax reduction is $38,800, the maximum income to qualify for 2025 tax deferment is $58,200. If you meet the qualifications your taxes could be significantly lowered. Please contact our office or visit our website for more details on this program and to obtain an application. PROPERTY TAX RELIEF FOR DISABLED VETERANS: This program excludes the first forty-five thousand dollars ($45,000) of the appraised value of a permanent residence owned and occupied by a North Carolina Resident, who is an Honorably Discharged 100% Disabled Veteran, or the unmarried surviving spouse of an Honorable Discharged 100% Disabled Veteran. Please contact our office or visit our website for more details about this program. Chatham County Tax Department P O Box 908, Pittsboro NC 27312 (919) 542-8250

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS

This 18th day of December 2025. Roger W. Arnott, Executor of the Estate of Scobie I. Arnott, Sr. c/o Gwendolyn C. Brooks, Kennon Craver, PLLC 4011 University Drive, Suite 300 Durham, North Carolina 27707 THE CHATHAM NEWS: 12/18; 12/25; 1/1/2026; 1/8/2026

For institutions like Duke that operate both a university and a health system, the lapses in federal funding cut key revenue streams. In response, Duke enacted a $364 million cost-cutting program, becoming one of the first universities to trim its personnel pool amid the federal funding changes and one of the institutions with the largest budgetary cuts. The program has produced $229 million in savings across Duke’s departments and schools for the fiscal year 2026 budget, according to a September Academic Council presentation by Executive Vice President Daniel Ennis and Rachel Satterfield, vice president for finance and treasurer. The goal, though, is to reduce its expense base by $350 million by 2030, which Duke aims to accomplish by saving an additional $47 million in each of the next two years, another $30 million in fiscal year 2029 and $11 million the year after. That leaves Duke with $364 million saved — $14 million above its initial target. Here is how the program started this year. In February the Trump administration sought to cap facilities and administrative reimbursement rates to universities for grants funded through institutions like the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of MATTHEW T. FLYER AKA MATTHEW THOMAS FLYER, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before March 19, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 18th day of December, 2025. Lynn Marie Flyer Executor of the Estate of Matthew T. Flyer aka Matthew Thomas Flyer 177 Pine View Acres P.O. Box 535 Goldstone, NC 27252 Leigh Anne Kasia Wyatt Early Harris Wheeler LLP 1912 Eastchester Drive, Ste 400 High Point, NC 27265 336-884-4444 Publication dates: December 18, 25, 2025; January 1 and 8, 2026.

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY Gladys C. Burnette, Petitioner, vs. Lillian Cabrera, Dorothy Chapman, Thomas Suitt, Sr., William Gattis, Wilma Gattis Brittain, Howard Lee Clark, Jr. Shondrea Thornton, Wanda Clark Fearrington, Norman V. Clark, George Randy Brown, Julius Allen Clark, Johnette Y. Smith Jones Julina Waden, John Dorsey Caldwell, Jr. Linda Clark, Robert Lee Clark, Jr. Andrea Nicky Clark, Sandi Abbo, Rossa V. Clarke-White, Wanda K. Williams, Zipporah W. Clark Baldwin, Macon David Clark, Jr., Amy M. Clark, Wallace Earl Perry, Lillie Perry Atwater, Clyde Douglas Perry, Hampton M. Perry as Guardian for Delaine Perry Norwood, Susan Gayle Perry, LeAnn Golden, Michael J. Sulick as Trustee of the Sulick Family Rev. Trust, Joy Young, Thomas Perry, Phyllis Cameron, Gloria Perry, Julia Perry, Rhonda Perry, and all unknown or missing heirs of Will Perry a/k/a William E. Perry, Respondent. IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE No. 24SP000053-180 NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Pursuant to the Order for Public Sale and Appointing Commissioner filed on October 30, 2025, in the above captioned proceeding, NOTICE is hereby given that the subject property described below will be put up for public sale on January 22, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.; the sale will be held at the Chatham County Courthouse in the designated area for sale. The subject property is commonly referred to as 0 Manns Chapel Road, Pittsboro, NC 27713, Chatham County PIN #0001902, and more particularly described as follows: Bounded on the North by Lamont Norwood; on the East by W.S. Norwood; on the South by Tom Hobby Estate; on the West by William Hamlet, containing ten (10) acres, more or less, and being a part of the Tom Farrar land. A cash deposit from the highest bidder equal to ten percent (5%) of the amount of the bid is required at the time of public sale. Said bid shall be reported to the Court and will remain open for the requisite upset bid period as required by law. The Court reserves the right to approve and reject all bids. THE PROPERTY IS SOLD AS-IS, WHERE-IS, WITH ALL FAULTS. This the 23rd day of December, 2025. ______________________________________ Shelby L. Lennon, Attorney for Commissioner Law Offices of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330

ESTATE OF JERRY WILLIS MOODY FILE NO. 25E000339-180 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Jerry Willis Moody, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before March 18, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 18th day of December 2025. Scarlett M. Blue, Executor 148 Morrison Bridge Rd Vass, NC 28394 The Chatham News December 18, 25, January 1 and 8, 2025

NOTICE Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Annie Faye Braxton, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations, having claims against the said estate to present them to the undersigned at 1153 Huffman Mill Road,Burlington, NC 27215 on or before the 9th day of April, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations, indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment. This the 8th day of January, 2026. Janet F. Braxton, Administrator Seth M. Gerringer, Attorney Deal Law, PLLC 1153 Huffman Mill Road Burlington, NC 27215 Publication Dates: Jan. 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2026

LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TOWN OF PITTSBORO, NC On Monday, January 12, 2026, at 6:00 pm, the Pittsboro Board of Commissioners will hold the following legislative public hearings in person at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center at 1192 Hwy 64 Business West, Pittsboro: ZTA-2025-02 – A town-initiated text amendment codifying the town’s technical review committee in Section 9.7 of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). This committee is made up of internal and external staff tasked with review of multiple types of development processes. This proposed UDO text amendment formalizes the processes and specifies the composition of the committee. 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. embers of the public must attend in person if they wish to speak at the hearing. Contact the Town Clerk, Carrie Bailey, by 4 pm on January 12, 2026, with written comments or to sign up to speak at the legislative hearing. You can contact Carrie Bailey at cbailey@pittsboronc.gov, (919) 5424621 ext. 1104, or PO Box 759, Pittsboro, NC 27312.

NOTICE

The undersigned, having qualified on the 20th day of November 2024, as Executor of the Estate of Scobie I. Arnott, Sr., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of March 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

DUKE from page A1

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS COUNTY OF CHATHAM THE UNDERSIGNED, having qualified on the 18th day of December, 2025, as Executor of the ESTATE OF PETER JAMES MEEHAN, Deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before March 26, 2026, 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 25th day of December, 2025. PRUDENCE F. MEEHAN EXECUTOR ESTATE OF PETER JAMES MEEHAN c/o Jennifer Dalman, Attorney Walker Lambe, PLLC Post Office Box 51549 Durham, North Carolina 27717

to 15%, from their current levels of around 60%. The directive faced legal challenges and is still blocked in the courts. The administration also called upon the funding agencies to terminate all grants related to diversity, equity and inclusion, freeze award money to certain universities at their discretion and decrease the number of grant opportunities available to researchers. In the face of uncertainty, Duke has prepared for the worst, as the move on F&A rates alone would cost it an estimated $194 million per year in lost funding. As part of this effort, in March, Duke President Vincent Price announced the university would embark on a cost-reduction program, which began with a hiring freeze, a review of administrative efficiency and reducing nonpersonnel expenses. At his annual address to faculty a week after the announcement, Price emphasized the cost reduction program’s importance for moving forward, saying that Duke “no longer enjoy(s) at this moment” many of the federal resources it relied upon in the past including support from the American public and the government. “... We should be prepared not only to seek cost-reductions across the university, but also to re-imagine our work and consider how we might strategically realign around our highest priorities,” Price added.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Dianitia Hutcheson, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the Executor does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to F. Gordon Battle, Executor of the Estate of Mary Dianitia Hutcheson, c/o Patrick E. Bradshaw, Attorney for the Estate, at Bradshaw Robinson Slawter & Rainer LLP, PO Box 607, Pittsboro, NC 27312, on or before the 15th day of April, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the Executor. This 8th day of January, 2026. F. Gordon Battle Executor of the Estate of Mary Dianitia Hutcheson Patrick E. Bradshaw Bradshaw Robinson Slawter & Rainer LLP PO Box 607 Pittsboro, NC 27312 (For Publication: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22 and 1/29/2026)

Notice to Creditors ALL Persons firm and corporation having claims against Patsy Louise Wolfe Truelove, deceased of Chatham County, N.C. 24E001659-180, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before March 19, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 18th day of December, 2025. Ralston Lane Truelove, Executor, C/O Horsley Law Firm, P.A. 5720 Six Forks Rd., Ste. 101, Raleigh, NC 27609, 919-847-3880.

In mid-April, university administrators said in a webinar that “employment action” would be “inescapable.” Two weeks later, the university announced a voluntary separation incentive program (VSIP) — buyouts for eligible staff. Ultimately, it extended offers to 939 staff members, of which 599 accepted, constituting 5% of Duke’s full-time staff. At the time, Duke administrators did not respond to The Chronicle’s requests for comment on the breakdown of departures by department, but The Chronicle received multiple reports of broad cuts across the libraries, student affairs, Office of Information Technology and communications. The VSIP targeted staff across a range of seniority levels and tenures who were given 45 days to accept or decline, during which they were largely prohibited from discussing the terms or their decisions with anyone outside their family or legal counsel. Much of the severance package was covered by a nondisclosure agreement, sources who accepted the package said. From the beginning, Duke made clear that if too few staff members accepted voluntary severance packages, nonvoluntary layoffs would follow. In June, Price warned that would “likely” be the case. The layoffs largely took place in mid-August as students were making their way to campus and amounted to 45 employ-

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#09E000257-180 The undersigned SHIRLENE THOMAS, having qualified on the 10TH Day of DECEMBER 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of JAMES ERNEST THOMAS, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 18th Day OF MARCH 2026, 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 18th DAY OF DECEMBER 2025. SHIRLENE THOMAS, ADMINISTRATOR 3800 OLD US #1 NEW HILL, NC 27562 Mail to: ARLENE RAINEY 209 TREVOR RIDGE DR. HOLLY SPRINGS, NC 27540 Run dates: D18,25,J1,8p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000588-180 The undersigned TERRY WALLACE, having qualified on the 24TH Day of OCTOBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JOHN ROMIE WOMBLE, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 18th Day OF MARCH 2026, 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 18th DAY OF DECEMBER 2025. TERRY WALLACE, EXECUTOR 866 JUNO ROAD BROADWAY, NC 27505 Run dates: D18,25,J1,8p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000665-180 The undersigned KEENAN B. JONES, RYAN L. JONES, AND KARA J. OLDHAM, having qualified on the 19TH Day of DECEMBER 2025 as CO-EXECUTORS of the Estate of RODGER L. JONES, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 8th Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 8th DAY OF JANUARY 2026. KEENAN B. JONES, CO-EXECUTOR 1473 ZEB BROOKS ROAD BEAR CREEK, NC 27207 KARA J. OLDHAM, CO-EXECTUTOR 1482 ZEB BROOKS ROAD BEAR CREEK, NC 27207 MAIL AFFIDAVIT TO: RYAN L. JONES, CO-EXECUTOR 1642 ZEB BROOKS ROAD BEAR CREEK, NC 27207 Run dates: J8,15,22,29

ees being laid off by September. “We will, for the foreseeable future, have to be smaller — and do our work with fewer people,” Price said in the June message. Even faculty members were affected by the cuts. In June, Price announced a retirement incentive program for eligible faculty members, which 82 of 273 faculty took. In Duke’s School of Medicine, which was particularly affected by NIH award cuts, tenured faculty members who were underperforming could come to face salary cuts per a summer proposal. The School of Medicine also decommissioned the Jones Research Building in its quest to achieve its own goal of cutting $125 million in yearly expenditures. When students and faculty returned to campus in mid-August, things were different. First-years arriving on campus were greeted not by the typical team of more than 300 volunteer advisers — many of whom had taken the voluntary buyouts — but by a new team of 11 full-time advisers. Faculty who had worked with subject librarians in past years were surprised by the newfound absence of their colleagues, which they say was done without consultation. The unstable communication between university administration and faculty prompted discussions over the meaning of “shared governance” at September’s Arts & Sciences Council meeting, with dean Gary

Bennett acknowledging the need to be “much more clear (and) straightforward about the ways we talk about our finances and our administrative operations.” Throughout the university’s year of cost cutting, various people and groups have called on Duke to change course. In May, the American Association of University Professors called for the university to halt its buyouts and layoffs until faculty and staff can be “fully involved” in decision making, and in June, Duke community members signed a petition calling for Price and other administrators to take pay cuts. After other schools signed agreements with the Trump administration, Duke alumni penned a letter to Price urging him to resist Trump’s “authoritarian intrusions,” and Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams commented to Politico that Duke should “remain firm on their values.” Heading into 2026, the cost cutting has slowed down as Duke expects to operate on a $74 million budget surplus for fiscal year 2026. Per the September Academic Council meeting, the focus now will be on strategic realignment — shifting the allocation of dwindled resources to Duke’s priority areas. “In the aggregate, we’re so much better positioned than had we not taken the action we did,” Ennis said to the council.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

Hegseth censures Kelly after Democrats’ video urging troops to resist unlawful orders Kelly is a retired Navy captain and still subject to some military rules By Konstantin Toropin, Ben Finley and Meg Kinnard The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — War Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Monday that he censured Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona over the former Navy pilot’s participation in a video that called on troops to resist unlawful orders. Hegseth said the censure — by itself simply a formal letter with little practical consequence — was “a necessary process step” to proceedings that could result in a demotion from Kelly’s retired rank of captain and subsequent reduction in retirement pay. Investigating and now punishing a sitting U.S. senator is an extraordinary move for the Pentagon, which until President Donald Trump’s second term had usually gone out of its way to act and appear apolitical. A legal expert says the choice to go after a lawmaker will complicate an already unique case. In a lengthy post on social media, Kelly said he “never expected” what he called an “attack” from Trump and Hegseth, recounting his 25 years of Navy service as well as combat and space missions. Calling Hegseth’s move “outrageous” and “un-American,” Kelly said he would fight the censure “with everything I’ve got — not for myself, but to send a message back that Pete Hegseth and Donald Trump don’t get to decide what Americans in this country get to say about their government.”

ALEX BRANDON / AP PHOTO

Left, Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) refutes efforts by President Donald Trump and War Secretary Pete Hegseth to intimidate him and other lawmakers last month. Right, War Secretary Pete Hegseth listens during a news conference with President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Saturday in Palm Beach, Florida. Hegseth’s action follows video about illegal orders The censure comes after Kelly participated in a video in November with five other Democratic lawmakers — all veterans of the armed services and intelligence community — in which they called on troops to uphold the Constitution and defy “illegal orders.” Trump, a Republican, accused the lawmakers of sedition “punishable by DEATH” in a social media post days later. The 90-second video was first posted from Sen. Elissa Slotkin’s X account. In it, the six lawmakers — Slotkin, Kelly and Reps. Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander and Chrissy Houlahan — speak directly to U.S. service members, whom Slotkin acknowledges are “under enormous stress and pressure right now.” The lawmakers didn’t mention specific circumstances. But their message was released amid a se-

“Captain Kelly’s status as a sitting United States Senator does not exempt him from accountability, and further violations could result in further action.” Pete Hegseth, secretary of War ries of military attacks on boats accused of smuggling drugs in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean and Trump’s attempts to deploy National Guard troops to American cities. The Pentagon announced that it began an investigation of Kelly in late November, citing a federal law that allows retired service members to be recalled to active duty on orders of the defense secretary for possible court-martial or other measures.

US drops number of vaccines it recommends for every child It aligns with what many European countries recommend By Ali Swenson and Lauran Neergaard The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. took the unprecedented step Monday of dropping the number of vaccines it recommends for every child — leaving other immunizations, such as flu shots, open to families to choose but without clear guidance. Officials said the overhaul to the federal vaccine sched-

NASCAR from page A1 change, Phelps called Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress “a stupid redneck” who “needs to be taken out back and flogged.” That led Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, an ardent supporter of both NASCAR and Richard Childress Racing, to write a damning letter demanding Phelps’ removal as commissioner. After he concluded his testimony in the nine-day trial last month, Phelps left the stand with his jaw clenched and face red, and he made no eye contact with NASCAR’s owners as he briskly headed directly out of the courtroom. His fiancée trailed after him as he even refused to look in her direction. NASCAR settled the lawsuit with 23XI Racing, owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports, owned by Bob Jenkins, the day after Morris’ letter went public and two days after Phelps’ testimony. “As a lifelong race fan, it gives me immense pride to have served as NASCAR’s first Commissioner and to lead our great sport through so many incredible challenges, opportunities

ule won’t result in any families losing access or insurance coverage for vaccines, but medical experts slammed the move, saying it could lead to reduced uptake of important vaccinations and increase disease. The change came after President Donald Trump in December asked the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to review how peer nations approach vaccine recommendations and consider revising its guidance to align with theirs. HHS said its comparison to 20 peer nations found that the U.S. was an “outlier” in both the number of vaccinations and the number of doses it recommend-

and firsts over my 20 years,” Phelps said in a statement. “Our sport is built on the passion of our fans, the dedication of our teams and partners, and the commitment of our wonderful employees. “It has been an honor to help synthesize the enthusiasm of long-standing NASCAR stakeholders with that of new entrants to our ecosystem, such as media partners, auto manufacturers, track operators, and incredible racing talent.” He added he will seek “new pursuits in sports and other industries” and thanked colleagues, friends and fans that “played such an important and motivational role in my career.” He also thanked the France family, the founders and owners of NASCAR, who hired him away from the NFL two decades ago and promoted him to a position that could have netted him $5 million annually with bonuses. “Words cannot fully convey the deep appreciation I have for this life-changing experience, for the trust of the France family, and for having a place in NASCAR’s amazing history,” Phelps concluded. Phelps is a native of Vermont, where as a child he became a

“Scientists at FDA, CDC, NIH, CMS and ASPE also contributed to a scientific assessment and recommendation.” Jim O’Neill, HHS deputy secretary ed to all children. Officials with the agency framed the change as a way to increase public trust by recommending only the most important vaccinations for children to receive.

fan of local racing. He graduated from both the University of Vermont, where he set the school record in the 800 meters, and Boston College, where he earned a master’s degree in business administration. NASCAR thanks Phelps for leadership NASCAR said that Phelps’ leadership transformed a stale schedule with new events, “bucket list fan experiences,” and reshaped its strategic vision. Phelps was also lauded for expanding NASCAR’s international footprint, securing long-term media rights and charter agreements, and building a leadership team that is focused on building the future of stock car racing with fan experience at its core. “Steve will forever be remembered as one of NASCAR’s most impactful leaders,” said Jim France, the NASCAR chairman and CEO. “For decades he has worked tirelessly to thrill fans, support teams and execute a vision for the sport that has treated us all to some of the greatest moments in our nearly 80-year history.” Phelps also led NASCAR as it became the first sport to re-

In his post Monday, Hegseth charged that Kelly’s remarks in the video and afterward violated Uniform Code of Military Justice provisions against conduct unbecoming an officer and violating good order and discipline. “Captain Kelly’s status as a sitting United States Senator does not exempt him from accountability, and further violations could result in further action,” Hegseth said. Todd Huntley, a retired Navy captain and judge advocate general, called this is a “novel” situation that raises legal questions. One issue, Huntley said, is whether Kelly’s comments fall under the constitutional

protections of the speech or debate clause, which is intended to protect members of Congress from questioning about official legislative acts. A 1968 Supreme Court decision said the provision’s intent was “to prevent legislative intimidation by and accountability to the other branches of government.” “You can’t punish him for making statements that are consistent with the office he is holding,” said Colby Vokey, a prominent civilian military lawyer and former military prosecutor, citing the Constitution’s speech and debate clause. Huntley said that while the type of process Hegseth is using — known as a retirement grade determination — is fairly routine, “as far as I know, they’ve always been based on conduct during the individual’s active duty service, even if it only came to light after retirement.” “So, I don’t know if conduct totally after retirement would fit the requirement for such a determination,” he added. Vokey also expressed skepticism, saying that while the Navy secretary can reduce a retired officer’s rank and pay grade if it’s determined that good cause exists, “I have no idea what the good cause would be. I think that’s pretty questionable.” According to Hegseth, Kelly now has 30 days to submit a response to the proceedings that will decide if he is demoted. The decision will be made within 45 days, Hegseth’s post added. Huntley noted that Kelly also will have options to appeal the finding both within the military and in federal court. Vokey said a lawsuit in federal court would likely be the more effective course of action for Kelly.

“This decision protects children, respects families, and rebuilds trust in public health,” Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in a statement Monday. Medical experts disagreed, saying the change without public discussion or a transparent review of the data would put children at risk. “Abandoning recommendations for vaccines that prevent influenza, hepatitis and rotavirus, and changing the recommendation for HPV without a public process to weigh the risks and benefits, will lead to more hospitalizations and preventable deaths among American children,” said Michael Osterholm of the Vaccine Integrity Project, based at the University of Minnesota. Deputy HHS Secretary Jim O’Neill explained more behind the change in a post on X on Monday.

“Parents who think that more than 80 doses per child is too many may now consider giving their children the ten vaccines in the international consensus of 20 nations, plus the varicella vaccine,” O’Neill wrote. For other diseases, The CDC continues to recommend immunization for high-risk groups or on a doctor’s recommendation “when population-wide benefits cannot be clearly defined.” All vaccines currently in the schedule will continue to be covered by insurance and through state and federal health programs, O’Neill wrote, noting that parents and physicians can “choose what’s best for each child.” He also noted that he spoke with peers in Japan, Denmark and Germany, and that “scientists at FDA, CDC, NIH, CMS and ASPE also contributed to a scientific assessment and recommendation.”

turn to competition during the COVID-19 shutdown, as well as developing races inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and the downtown streets of Chicago. “Steve leaves NASCAR with a transformative legacy of innovation and collaboration with an unrelenting growth mindset,” France added. Lesa France Kennedy, the NASCAR executive vice chair, said “while his career may take him elsewhere, he’ll always have a place in our NASCAR family.” NASCAR did not announce any additional leadership or personnel changes and said there are no immediate plans to replace him as commissioner or to seek outside leadership. His responsibilities will be delegated internally through NASCAR’s president — now Steve O’Donnell — and the executive leadership team. O’Donnell moved into Phelps’ role as president upon Phelps’ promotion to commissioner. Although the two were mostly in favor of improving revenue-sharing for the teams in over two-plus years of bitter negotiations, the discovery process showed their growing frustration with NASCAR’s board of directors over its refusal to make the charters permanent.

The Childress texts

While all six lawmakers served in the military or the intelligence community, Hegseth previously said Kelly was the only one facing investigation because he is the only one of the lawmakers who formally retired from the military and is still under the Pentagon’s jurisdiction. Kelly said last month that the investigation was part of an effort to silence dissent: “This is just about sending a message to retired service members, active duty service members, government employees — do not speak out against this president or there will be consequences.” Kelly, along with some of the other Democrats in the initial video, have sent out fundraising messages based off Trump’s reaction to their comments, efforts that have gone toward filling their own campaign coffers and further elevating their national-level profiles. What accusations Hegseth is leveling against Kelly

Phelps appeared to be an advocate for more concessions for the race teams, but as the process dragged on, he ultimately fell in line with the France family, and that’s when his communications became more pointed. He testified he felt the teams had received a fair deal on the new charter agreements. But it was the attacks on Childress that drew the most attention, and Phelps said in court he regretted his words, had apologized to Childress and explained he was venting out of frustration. It wasn’t good enough for Morris, a longtime backer of Childress teams. “We can’t help but wonder what would happen if Major League Baseball brought in a new commissioner and he or she trash-talked one of the true legends who built the game like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle or Babe Ruth?” Morris wrote. “Such blatant disrespect would probably not sit well with the fans — such a commissioner most likely wouldn’t, or shouldn’t, keep his or her job for very long!”

CHATHAM SPORTS

ASHEEBO ROJAS / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Jordan-Matthews’ Jakari Blue gains control of a Southwestern Randolph opponent on Dec. 17.

Top local wrestlers from season’s first half Chatham County grapplers win big and often to start the winter By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL wrestlers have made plenty of noise in the first half of the season. Multiple wrestlers have taken the crown at individual tournaments and earned their spot as some of the best in their respective classifications while also helping their teams win dual team matches. Here’s a look at Chatham

No. 1

120-pound wrestler in North Carolina is Seaforth’s Jordan Miller County’s top prep wrestlers before the turn of 2026. Jordan Miller (Seaforth, senior, 120 pounds) Miller has been dominant in his final high school season, achieving a 24-1 record and 14

pins as of Sunday. He’s RankWrestler’s No. 1 120-pounder in the state, and he has finished first in three individual tournaments this season, including the Tiger Holiday Classic In December. Miller, who won a state title at 113 pounds last year, notched his 100th career win this season. Harrison Compton (Seaforth, senior, 190 pounds) Compton, the No. 4 190-pounder in the 5A classification according to RankWrestlers, built a 16-1 record and notched 11 pins before the new

year. He picked up two tournament championship wins at the Wolverine Challenge and the Red Wolf Invitational, at which he pinned three opponents and won the final by a 18-2 technical fall. Compton has the second-best pin percentage (73.3%) amongst RankWrestling’s top five 190-pounders in the 5A classification. Last year, Compton finished third in the state tournament. Carson Williams (Chatham Central, senior, 157 pounds) Williams has been a standout for the Bears with a 16-3 record and eight pins going into

2026. He finished first in the Zack Thornburg Invitational and the Eagle Invitational, pinning all three opponents in the latter. After the first half of the season, Williams is RankWrestlers’ No. 3 157-pounder in the 1A class. He finished fifth in last year’s state tournament at 150 pounds. Jakari Blue (Jordan-Matthews, senior, 190 pounds) Blue has led the Jets this season with a 24-0 record and 19 pins before the new year. See WRESTLERS, page B4

WINTER SPORTS ROUNDUP

J-M boys finish third at SportsTone.net Christmas Invitational By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record Boys’ basketball

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Northwood’s Grant Locklear (2) drives against a Carrboro defender on Dec. 2.

Top local sports storylines heading into new year High school teams hope for success in the season’s second half By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record WITH THE TURN of the new year, the high school sports season is at its halfway point. The start of the 2025-26 season brought another round

of exciting storylines for Chatham County’s teams, including historic seasons, first playoff wins and state championship runs. During the fall season, local teams got their first taste of the new classifications and conferences made with realignment, while the beginning of the winter season gave a preview of what’s to come over the next two months. Here’s some of the top local

high school sports storylines to follow going into the new year. How far will the Northwood boys go? Northwood’s mission to return to the state championship game has been met with more bumps than years past. The Chargers have taken four See STORYLINES, page B4

Jordan-Matthews started Rebounds for J-M’s the SportsTone.net Christmas MaKenzie Martin against Invitational in Asheboro with Chatham Charter a 68-55 win over Eastern Guilford on Dec. 27. In the semifinal round, the Jets fell to Randleman 50-42. (3-6, 1-0); 4. River Mill (1-10, Jordan-Matthews led 42-40 1-1); T5. Ascend Leadership with over three minutes left to (2-12, 0-1); T5. Central Caroliplay, but a 6-0 run by Randle- na Academy (1-7, 0-2); 7. Chaman senior Connor Cassidy tham Charter (8-6, 0-0) Four Rivers 3A/4A: 1. lifted the Tigers to victory. At the same tournament, Northwood (7-4, 1-0); 2. North Chatham Charter won domi- Moore (2-5, 0-1); T3. Eastern nated Trinity in the first round Randolph (2-8, 0-0); T3. Jordan-Matthews (7-6, 0-0); T3. 50-17. The Knights lost a close bat- Southwestern Randolph (5tle to Asheboro 53-44 in the 6, 0-0); T3. Uwharrie Charter semifinal. Chatham Charter, (6-4, 0-0) Greater Triad 1A/2A: T1. which never led, trailed by two with over two minutes left but Bishop McGuinness (8-2, 1-0); T1. South Stokes (9-1, 1-0); T1. couldn’t overcome the deficit. Jordan-Matthews took North Stokes (2-8, 1-0); T4. the third-place crown over Winston-Salem Prep (5-6, 1-1); Chatham Charter 63-44 on T4. Chatham Central (9-3, 1-1); Dec. 30. The Jets jumped out 6. College Prep and Leadership to a 20-8 first quarter lead and (3-10, 1-2); 7. South Davidson (0-10, 0-2) never looked back. Big Seven 4A/5A: T1. SeaConference standings as of Sunday (overall, confer- forth (6-4, 2-0); T1. Orange (2-9, 1-0); T1. J.F. Webb (4-6, ence) Central Tar Heel 1A: T1. 1-0); T1. South Granville (4-4, Southern Wake Academy (7-3, 1-0); T5. Durham School of the 1-0); T1. Woods Charter (5-3, 1-0); T1. Clover Garden School See ROUNDUP, page B3

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Breylan Harris GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Seaforth’s volleyball team poses with its 2025 state runner-up trophy.

Seaforth lands at fourth in fall Wells Fargo Cup standings The NCHSAA also released fall Conference Cup results By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Chatham Charter, boys’ basketball Chatham Charter’s Breylan Harris earns athlete of the week honors for the week of Dec. 29. Harris, a sophomore, led the Knights in scoring during two of their three games in the Sportstone.net Christmas Invitational last week. He recorded 12 points, five rebounds and three steals in a 50-17 win over Trinity, and he logged 13 points and eight rebounds in a 63-44 loss to Jordan-Matthews. As of Sunday, Harris joins sophomore Ryder Murphy in leading the team in scoring (11.3 points per game). He also leads the Knights in rebounds (6.1 per game) and blocks (1.1 per game).

SEAFORTH HIGH SCHOOL is once again in the race to be the best sports program in its classification. The Hawks ranked fourth in the latest North Carolina High School Athletic Association Wells Fargo Cup standings for 5A released after the end of the fall sports season. Seaforth earned 142.5 points, falling behind Orange (155), Hickory (167.5) and East Lincoln (180). Wells Fargo Cup points are awarded to schools that finish in the top eight positions (plus ties) in an NCHSAA state championship event. Schools earn 50 points for first place, 45 for second, 40 for third, 35 for fourth, 30 for fifth, 25 for sixth, 20 for seventh and 15 for eighth. When there’s a tie, schools earn an equal number of points based on the number of teams that tie and the number of teams that finish higher in the standings. Five points are awarded for each sport in which a school competes in the playoffs. In the fall, Seaforth saw another season of team success. The volleyball team reached the state championship game for the second year in a row, falling to Hickory in four sets.

4th

Place for Seaforth in the latest 5A State Cup standings

Points are awarded on the same scale as the State Cup but are only based on participation and standings in conference play. Here are the Conference Cup results for each local conference: Central Tar Heel 1A

In girls’ tennis, the Hawks reached the dual team regional final in which they lost to their conference foe and state runner up Durham School of the Arts. Mackenzie Wray made the state singles tournament and fell short of the eventual state runner up, while Ella Kristiansen and Tatum Dell also made the state doubles tournament. The girls’ cross-country team finished sixth in the state championship race. Seaforth’s boys’ soccer team made it to the second round of the playoffs, and the football team completed a historic season, reaching the playoffs and winning a playoff game for the first time in school history. The school won back-to-back 2A Wells Fargo Cup titles in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. Last year, the Hawks won by the widest margin in the state. Seaforth accumulated 527.5 points, nearly 84 points greater than second-place Pine Lake Prep. The NCHSAA also released Wells Fargo Conference Cup standings at the end of the fall season in November.

Clover Garden (182.5); 2. Woods Charter (155); 3. Chatham Charter (140); 4. Ascend Leadership (132.5); 5. Central Carolina (100); 6. River Mill (92.5); 7. Southern Wake (75) Greater Triad 1A/2A Bishop McGuinness (295); 2. South Stokes (210); 3. South Davidson (195); 4. North Stokes (160); 5. Chatham Central (130); 6. College Prep & Leadership (85); 7. Winston-Salem Preparatory (50) Four Rivers 3A/4A Southwestern Randolph (305); 2. Northwood (290); 3. North Moore (260); 4. Jordan-Matthews (230); 5. Eastern Randolph (215); 6. Uwharrie Charter (200) Big Seven 4A/5A Carrboro (300); 2. Orange (297.5); 3. Seaforth (282.5); 4. Cedar Ridge (265); 5. South Granville (192.5); 6. Durham School of the Arts (190); 7. J.F. Webb (127.5)

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

Powell makes first NBA start The former Northwood star continues to make an impact with the Nets By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record DRAKE POWELL notched an NBA milestone last week. Powell, the former Northwood basketball star, made his first NBA start in the Nets’ 120-96 loss to the Houston Rockets on Jan. 1. The rookie guard entered the starting lineup with the absences of Egor Demin (back), Michael Porter (illness) and Terance Mann (hip). He finished the game with eight points, one assist and one steal while shooting 3 for 9 from the field. In 24 games as of Monday, Powell is averaging 6.3 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists while shooting 48.1% from the floor. Against the Nuggets on Sunday, Powell knocked down a three to help the Nets pull off a 127-115 upset. In a 119-99 loss to Washington Friday, he made five of six shot attempts in a 14-point performance. Powell played a role in five of the Nets’ seven wins in Decem-

48.1% Shooting percentage for Powell as of Monday

ber, recording 13 points and three assists in a 127-82 win over Milwaukee on Dec. 14 and notching 10 points and four assists (tied for his career high) in a 116-103 win over Charlotte on Dec. 1. So far, November has been Powell’s best complete month of the season. During Brooklyn’s November stretch, Powell averaged 6.8 points, two assists, 1.9 rebounds and 0.8 steals per game. He touched his career high of 15 points twice (both losses to New York), and he shot 49.1% from the floor. During NBA Cup group play, Powell’s two steals and nine points on an efficient 75% shooting clip helped the Nets defeat Boston for their third win of the season on Nov. 21. As of Monday, Powell holds Brooklyn’s fourth-best field goal percentage and fourth-best 3-point percentage (36%).

NOAH K. MURRAY / AP PHOTO

Brooklyn Nets guard Drake Powell has his shot blocked by a Houston Rockets forward.

ROUNDUP from page B1 Arts (5-6, 0-1); T5. Cedar Ridge (2-9, 0-2); T5. Carrboro (0-11, 0-2) Power rankings: 1. Northwood; 2. Seaforth; 3. Chatham Central; 4. Jordan-Matthews; 5. Chatham Charter; 6. Woods Charter Last week’s rankings: 1. Northwood; 2. Chatham Charter; 3. Seaforth; 4. Chatham Central; 5. Jordan-Matthews; 6. Woods Charter Girls’ basketball After losing to Asheboro 5415 to open the SportsTone.net Christmas Invitational, Jordan-Matthews defeated Chatham Charter 31-25 on Dec. 29. Sophomore Lizzie Alston scored a team-high seven points, freshman MaKenzie Martin recorded 10 rebounds, and junior Jada Scott, who returned to the Jets’ lineup in the tournament opener, scored four points. In the fifth-place game, Jordan-Matthews fell to Wheatmore 47-35. Prior to the loss to Jordan-Matthews, Chatham Charter fell to Southwestern Randolph 71-29. Despite 20 points from sophomore Peyton York and 14 points from senior Sa-

PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Jordan-Matthews’ Zaeon Auguste goes up for a layup against Chatham Charter in a game Dec. 30. mantha Wilson, the Knights ended the tournament with a 43-42 loss to Trinity in the seventh-place matchup, dropping their fifth straight game. Cha-

tham Charter led 42-41 with 32 seconds left until Trinity senior Ava Nance made the game-winning layup. Conference standings as

of Sunday (overall, conference) Central Tar Heel 1A: T1. Southern Wake Academy (3-2, 1-0); T1. Woods Charter (6-4,

Local Service Directory

1-0); T1. Clover Garden School (5-4, 1-0); 4. River Mill (1-10, 1-1); 5. Ascend Leadership Academy (0-11, 0-1); 6. Central Carolina Academy (1-7, 0-2); 7. Chatham Charter (3-11, 0-0) Four Rivers 3A/4A: 1. Northwood (7-5, 1-0); T2. North Moore (0-8, 0-1); T2. Eastern Randolph (1-8, 0-0); T2. Jordan-Matthews (3-10, 0-0); T2. Southwestern Randolph (9-2, 0-0); T2. Uwharrie Charter (9-1, 0-0) Greater Triad 1A/2A: T1. College Prep and Leadership (13-1, 3-0); T1. North Stokes (3-7, 1-0); T3. South Stokes (4-7, 0-1); T3. South Davidson (0-10, 0-1); T3. Chatham Central (6-5, 0-2); T3. Bishop McGuinness (8-2, 0-0) Big Seven 4A/5A: T1. Durham School of the Arts (5-6, 1-0); T1. Orange (6-4, 1-0); T1. South Granville (4-5, 1-0); T1. Seaforth (7-1, 1-0); T5. J.F. Webb (3-7, 0-1); T5. Cedar Ridge (2-8, 0-1); T5. Carrboro (3-6, 0-2) Power rankings: 1. Seaforth; 2. Northwood; 3. Chatham Central; 4. Woods Charter; 5. Jordan-Matthews; 6. Chatham Charter Last week’s rankings: 1. Seaforth; 2. Northwood; 3. Chatham Central; 4. Woods Charter; Chatham Charter; 5. Jordan-Matthews; 6. Chatham Charter

B4 WRESTLERS from page B1 He finished first in two tournaments so far this season, winning the Zack Thornburg Memorial Invitational at 190 pounds and the Jim King Orange Invitational at 175 pounds. While ranked as RankWrestlers’ fifth-best 190-pounder in the 4A classification, Blue holds a higher pin percentage (90.5%) than the four wrestlers ranked ahead of him. Last year, Blue made his second state tournament appearance. Joel Garner (Jordan-Matthews, sophomore, 106 pounds) Garner has made drastic improvements from his freshman season to now. Last year, he finished the year with a 12-23 record, and halfway through this winter, he’s achieved a 24-10 record. Garner finished third at the Zack Thornburg Memorial Invitational in November and has picked up steam as of late, winning three straight nonforfeited matches to end December. Aiden Cisneros (Northwood, junior, 138 pounds) Cisneros has the most wins for the Chargers, achieving an 18-5 record before the new year. He placed third in the Nick Sgroi Invitational in December, and he has gone 10-1 in dual team matches. Cisneros has also made a huge jump after going 12-11 as a sophomore. Titus Moore (Northwood, junior, 138 pounds) Moore has notched an 11-3 record before 2026, going 10-1 in dual team competition. He has pinned six opponents this season. Alexandra Zumano Garcia (Jordan-Matthews, sophomore, 120 pounds) Garcia has led the Jets’ girls with a 20-3 record and two tournament wins (Red Wolf Invitational and Zack Thornburg Memorial Invitational). She also finished second at the Jim King Orange Invitational in December. Garcia is RankWrestlers’ second-best 120-pounder in the 4A classification. Edith Vargas (Jordan-Matthews, sophomore, 152 pounds) Vargas has achieved a 13-2 record as of Sunday, and she’s earned second place in both the Zack Thornburg Invitational and the Queen of the Mat. Johanna Carter (Jordan-Matthews, freshman, 132 pounds) Carter notched an 18-8 record going into 2026 with a first-place finish in the Queen of the Mat tournament in December. She also finished second in the Zack Thornburg Memorial Invitational. Sarah Tanner (Seaforth, junior, 132 pounds) Tanner has achieved a 7-6 record going into 2026 with multiple podium finishes individual tournaments. She finished fourth at the Rumble in the Jungle and fifth at the Red Wolf Invitational.

STORYLINES from page B1 losses before the new year for the first time since the 2017-18 season and have scored less than 50 points twice after playing some tough nonconference opponents. However, there’s still plenty to be positive about in the second half of the season. Northwood has looked like the best team in the Four Rivers 3A/4A conference, and wins over Southeast Alamance, Chapel Hill and Hillside have proven it can prevail when competition heats up. With Cam Fowler continuing to lead a dangerous offensive attack and the return of forward Chad Graves, keep an eye on the Chargers as they look to turn a rocky start into another deep playoff run.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

Ashford leads Demon Deacons past Mississippi State 43-29 in Duke’s Mayo Bowl Wake Forest got a 300-yard passing game and a kickoff return touchdown to win in Charlotte

“I couldn’t get my wife to do it. She was like, ‘Absolutely not!’”

By Steve Reed The Associated Press

Wake Forest coach Jake Dickert on the postgame mayo shower he had with his kids

CHARLOTTE — Robby Ashford couldn’t have imagined a better way to close out his roller-coaster college career. The six-year redshirt senior quarterback threw for 303 yards and three touchdowns and ran for 50 yards and two scores to take MVP honors, Koredell Bartley scored on a 100-yard kickoff return and Wake Forest beat Mississippi State 43-29 in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl on Friday night. Ashford, who arrived at Wake Forest this season eager for a chance to start, threw touchdown passes of 14 yards to Kamrean Johnson, 64 yards to Jack Foley and 62 yards to Ty Clark III and had scoring runs of 2 and 1 yards for the Demon Deacons (9-4). Wake Forest finished the season winning seven of its final nine games, this one sending coach Jake Dickert to a celebratory mayonnaise bath. “When I got to Wake Forest, I was in a rough spot mentally and physically,” said Ashford, who transferred from South Carolina after also spending time at Oregon and Auburn. “I was kind of down on myself, almost at a point where I didn’t know if I wanted to keep play-

Wake Forest appeared to put it away when Ashford ran for his second touchdown with 4:07 remaining, but Navaeh Sanders blocked the extra point and Kelly Jones scooped it up and scored for 2 points for the Bulldogs to make it 36-29. On the ensuing possession, Mississippi couldn’t manage a first down and Lebby made the curious decision to punt on fourth-and-11 from the Bulldogs 25 with 2:35 left in the game, putting trust in his defense that it would force a three and out and get the offense the ball back. That backfired, as Ashford dumped a pass off to Clark on a third-and-7 and he raced 62 yards untouched to the end zone to seal the win. The bowl game’s unique tradition includes the winning head getting a 5-gallon bucket filled with 421⁄2 pounds of mayonnaise dumped on his head after the game. “I think we have laid a tremendous foundation here,” Dickert said after bringing in 40 new players in the transfer portal. “Nine wins is really, really special.”

SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO

Wake Forest head coach Jake Dickert shared a mayo shower with his children after winning the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. ing. Man, these guys just instilled just so much in me, and, just helped me in so many ways and instilled that confidence back in me.” The end result was a nine-victory season for Dickert, the most wins by a first-year coach in Wake Forest history. The victory also meant having 421⁄2 pounds of mayonaisse dumped over his head. But he had some support, as his three children joined him in the celebration and got doused as well. “I couldn’t get my wife to do it. She was like, ‘Absolutely not!’” laughed Dickert. “But to share that with my kids is something that is going to be a special memory for us for the rest of our lives.” Clark finished with 153

yards from scrimmage after taking over the starting role after second-team All-ACC selection Demond Claiborne opted out of the game after declaring for the NFL draft. After the Bulldogs took an 3-0 lead on the game’s first possession, Bartley fielded the ensuing kickoff at the goal line and weaved his way up the field before turning up the speed and outracing five defenders to the end zone for the longest touchdown in bowl history. Ashford, a sixth-year quarterback playing for his fourth college, put Wake Forest ahead 30-12 in the third quarter on a 2-yard run to make it a three-possession game and the Demon Deacons seemed in cruise control.

Mensah throws for 4 TDs, leads Blue Devils to 42-39 win over Arizona State in Sun Bowl Duke won its fourth straight bowl game

big-time game, both teams gave it all, back and forth, momentum swings. “We got in a position where it was all going against us in the fourth quarter, but our guys have shown time and time again when the easiest thing to do is sit there and say, ‘It’s not our day,’ they find a way to win and make winning plays.” Nate Sheppard led Duke in rushing with 22 carries for 170 yards and a touchdown, while Brown was the top receiver with 10 catches for 178 yards and two scores. “It was a roller coaster,” Brown said of the game. “Com-

ing off that last drive, we didn’t convert on fourth down. Then we saw that fumble, we got on offense. I looked at Darren when we went to the field. If there’s one guy in front of me, no one is stopping me.” The Blue Devils also won nine games for a second consecutive season — only the second time in program history they accomplished the feat. The game, which set Sun Bowl records for combined total offense (1,158 yards), individual team offense (ASU, 619 yards), and most points in a half (52 in the first half), was tied three times and had two lead chang-

es. ASU had three turnovers to one for Duke. The Blue Devils were driving for a go-ahead score and looked to have it on an 8-yard pass from Mensah to Cooper Barkate, but ASU’s Nyland Green knocked the ball out of Barkate’s hands in the end zone. The Sun Devils took over with 2:51 remaining and seemingly in control, but Jason Brown Jr. fumbled at the end of a 14-yard carry on the next play. Kendall Johnson forced the fumble and Ma’Khi Jones recovered for the Blue Devils on the ASU 22-yard line. Two players later, Mensah connected with Brown on a receiver screen to the left side and Brown broke a tackle en route to a 17-yard score that regained the lead for Duke at 42-39. Arizona State got one more crack with just over two minutes to play, but a Sims’ pass over the middle was intercepted by Duke’s Luke Mergott, sealing the win. Duke was a small favorite going into the game, not only because it was the ACC champ, but also because it only had two players who were unavailable. Arizona State was without 22. Duke defensive lineman Aaron Hall was the game’s most valuable lineman, and Blue Devils punter Kade Reynoldson was the most valuable special teams player.

(4A) and Eastern Randolph (3A). Meanwhile, Chatham Charter and Woods Charter will meet at least twice this season with possible implications for a conference title and playoff seeding.

regional final appearances, is now a 2A school. Chatham Central, which graduated four players from last year’s squad, could take another step with a clearer path in the playoffs.

Can Chatham Central softball take the next step?

Local baseball teams look to improve in 2026

Chatham Central’s softball team earned its most wins since 2013 in last year’s 20-4 campaign. Prior to last season, the Bears won 18 and 19 games in 2023 and 2024 respectively, and both times (like last spring), they ‘ve made it past the first round of the playoffs. However, in the past two postseasons, Roxboro Community has stopped the Bears from making a run past the third round. Roxboro Community, which has made back-to-back

Seaforth and Chatham Charter were the only local baseball teams to win playoff games last year. Northwood, which finished 13-10, made the postseason as a 27 seed, and Chatham Central, which finished 8-16, earned a 31 seed in the playoffs. Meanwhile, Jordan-Matthews missed the playoffs after a winless season. With teams starting fresh in 2026, there’s a possibility for big turnarounds and newfound playoff success.

By John Erfort The Associated Press ELPASO, Texas — Darian Mensah threw for 327 yards and four touchdowns to lead Duke to a 42-39 victory over Arizona State in the Sun Bowl. Mensah, the game’s MVP, was 29 of 51 passing with an interception. He helped Duke to its fourth straight win and tied a Sun Bowl record for touchdown passes in a game. That included a 17-yard scoring pass to Que’Sean Brown with 2:10 to play that lifted the Blue Devils to victory. “I was pretty defeated after the fourth down where we didn’t convert,” Mensah said of a late turnover on downs with Duke trailing 39-35. “My teammates did an exceptional job of lifting me up. It’s my teammates. All I have to do is get it to my playmakers.” And although the ACC champion Blue Devils (9-5) would’ve liked to have been in the College Football Playoff, no one was thinking about that after winning this shootout. “That was an instant classic,” Duke head coach Manny Diaz said. “There’s cynicism around bowls, who wants to play, crowds … that was a big-time atmosphere, that was a

Seaforth girls transition to new coach Mike Zeillmann took over as Seaforth’s new girls’ basketball coach before winter break, leading the Hawks to two conference wins over Carrboro and Cedar Ridge. Before Zeillmann, the Hawks went 6-1 and picked up three double-digit victories. Senior Katie Leonard emerged as the team’s offensive engine with some monster scoring performances and juniors Annika Johansson and Lariah Rodgers stepped up to help keep the team afloat in a coaching transition. Now under new leadership, it’ll be interesting to see what will be the same or different with the Hawks as they compete for a conference title.

JACOB KUPFERMAN / AP PHOTO

Duke coach Manny Diaz, left, celebrates with defensive tackle Aaron Hall (99) after Virginia missed a field goal in the ACC championship game.

Chatham boys’ basketball teams in 1A’s RPI rankings’ top 10 Who will make the most noise in 1A basketball? It’s time to pay attention to Chatham County’s 1A boys’ basketball teams. As of Sunday, Chatham Charter (fifth) and Chatham Central (seventh) sit in the top 10 of the classification’s RPI rankings, while Woods Charter sits at 11th. Chatham Central won three straight games entering the winter break, including victories over Jordan-Matthews

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

SIDELINE REPORT NCAA BASKETBALL

Notre Dame coach Shrewsberry apologizes for actions after Cal loss South Bend, Ind. Notre Dame coach Micah Shrewsberry apologized after charging at an official following a controversial loss to Cal. The incident occurred after a four-point play in the final seconds of the game. Shrewsberry expressed regret for his actions in a statement, acknowledging they were inappropriate and not reflective of the leader he aims to be. He apologized to his team, the university, the ACC, and Cal’s coach. Shrewsberry was held back by assistants but later composed himself for postgame handshakes

NFL

Garrett breaks NFL single-season sack record with 23 Cincinnati The Cleveland Browns’ Myles Garrett set the NFL’s single-season sack record with his 23rd. He reached the milestone during the fourth quarter of the season finale against Cincinnati. Garrett sacked Joe Burrow for a 6-yard loss, surpassing the previous record of 221⁄2 sacks shared by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt. Garrett has sacked 51 players over his nine-year NFL career. Burrow is at the top of the list at 12 in 10 meetings.

HORSE RACING

Crump, first female jockey to ride in Kentucky Derby, dead at 77 Washington Diane Crump, who in 1969 became the first woman to ride professionally in a horse race and a year later became the first female jockey in the Kentucky Derby, died at 77, in hospice care in Winchester, Virginia, three months after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. After Crump made history in 1970, it would be 14 more years before another female jockey would ride in the Derby.

NBA

NBA Christmas viewership hits 15-year high with 47M viewers New York The NBA announced its best Christmas Day viewership numbers in 15 years. More than 47 million people in the U.S. watched at least part of the five-game slate, a 45% increase over last year. The Cleveland-New York game became the most-watched Christmas game ever starting at noon Eastern, with 6.4 million viewers. San Antonio-Oklahoma City was the most watched in the 2:30 p.m. slot since 2017. Additionally, the NBA was the “most-viewed brand across social media” on Christmas, with content generating 1.6 billion views.

US hockey picks 4 Nations-heavy roster for Winter Olympics Jason Robertson and Alex DeBrincat were among the players snubbed By Stephen Whyno The Associated Press TAGE THOMPSON and Clayton Keller helped the U.S. win the world hockey championship for the first time since 1933, while Seth Jones was a key part of the Florida Panthers’ second consecutive Stanley Cup run. Those contributions earned them a spot on the U.S. team at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics as the only three additions from the 4 Nations Face-Off early last year. USA Hockey unveiled its roster Friday, with a vast majority of it made up of players who took part in the NHL-run international tournament in February, when the Americans made the final before losing to Canada in overtime. “I liked the way we played: Everybody was together, everybody played the right way,” general manager Bill Guerin said on a video call with reporters. “The biggest thing for me was the chemistry, and I think the chemistry allowed the guys to play the way that they did.” The only ones not back from the 4 Nations are forward Chris Kreider and former New York

PETR DAVID JOSEK / AP PHOTO

United States’ Clayton Keller holds up the trophy after the IIHF World Championships in Stockholm, Sweden. Rangers teammate Adam Fox, the 2021 Norris Trophy winner as the NHL’s top defenseman. Guerin took issue with the perception that Fox was left off because of his role in Connor McDavid’s OT goal 11 months ago. “If you think we made a decision on one play, then you must not think we’re very smart,” Guerin said. “I’m going to keep those conversations private. Our decision was made, and we’re moving forward.” Keller, who’s captain of the Utah Mammoth and tied for their lead in scoring, wore the “C” at worlds. Thompson, who plays for the Buffalo Sabres, was a point-a-game producer.

“He’s 6-foot-6 and can skate like the wind,” Guerin said. “He’s got an incredible shot, scoring ability — he’s got versatility, as well. He can play center, play wing, kill penalties, he’s on the power play. The versatility, size and skill level are a pretty unique package.” The U.S. followed Canada’s lead after its northern neighbor also chose a 4 Nations-heavy roster. But while Canada made some changes in net beyond starter Jordan Binnington, the Americans went with the same three goaltenders: reigning league MVP Connor Hellebuyck, Jake Oettinger and Jeremy Swayman.

Left off were Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars, who’s leads U.S. players in points this season, and a couple other elite goal scorers, Cole Caufield and Alex DeBrincat, who are each 5-foot-8. Asked about size as a factor in decision-making, Guerin said it was a bonus, adding, “It doesn’t help if you’re big and you stink.” “We actually have to build a team,” Guerin said. “We have to fill roles. We have certain responsibilities that go up and down the lineup that we need players that are elite in those categories.” Guerin and his management staff, along with coach Mike Sullivan, prioritized experience and players they knew well. That meant sticking with depth forwards Vincent Trocheck and Brock Nelson over Robertson and others. Jones was a notable exception, after his shutdown prowess was evident in the playoffs last year. “He’s a big strong kid that skates extremely well,” Sullivan said. “He has the ability to play on both side of the puck.” Teams are allowed 25 players at the Olympics, up from 23 at the 4 Nations, and can dress 20 skaters — typically 13 forwards and seven defenseman, along with two goalies. The first U.S. game is Feb. 12 against Latvia.

Unleash the hounds! And terriers and lapdogs. American Kennel Club adds 3 new breeds The additions are a French hunting hound, Russian toy dog and presidential terrier By Jennifer Peltz The Associated Press NEW YORK — They’re ready to embark on 2026. Three more dog breeds joined the American Kennel Club’s roster of recognized breeds on Tuesday, making them eligible for many U.S. dog shows and likely increasing their visibility to the pet-loving public. The basset fauve de Bretagne The stats: 12.5 to 15.5 inches at the base of the neck; 23 to 39 pounds The topline: A hardy, sociable, compact hound that can hunt all day — and needs mental and physical activity. The pronunciation: bahSAY’ fove deh breh-TAHN’-yeh The translation: Fawn-colored, low-set dog from Brittany The history: Versions of these coarse-coated, tan-hued hounds go back at least as far as 16th-century French aristocratic circles. The breed has been championed in the U.S. in recent years by Cindy Hartman, a South Carolina service dog trainer who brought a pair of fauve puppies back from France in 2001. She has since trained and placed about 20 fauves as medical alert dogs for people with diabetes, she said.

AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB VIA AP

Pictured above is the basset fauve de Bretagne, one of three new breeds now recognized by The American Kennel Club. The quote: “They’re wicked smart, and so if you’re wanting a dog that’s just going to lay around all day long, a fauve is not for you,” Hartman said. “But yet, when challenged mentally and physically, they’re happy to come in with you and curl up on the sofa for the evening.” The Teddy Roosevelt terrier The stats: 8 to 14 inches at the base of the neck; 8 to 25 pounds The topline: A solid, energetic small canine that will rid your barn of rodents, alert you to strangers, do dog sports — or just entertain you with its antics. The history: Originally seen as a short-legged variant of the rat terrier, these dogs were deemed a breed of their own in 1999. The breed was named for

President Theodore Roosevelt because of his fondness for dogs, including terriers. The quote: “They know how to get you to laugh,” says Cindy Rickey of Waynesville, North Carolina, the secretary of the American Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Club. While many terrier breeds are known for being independent-minded, her Teddy competes in obedience. “They’re terriers, no doubt about it, but they also have this tremendous desire to please,” she explains. The Russian tsvetnaya bolonka The stats: Up to 10¼ inches at the base of the neck; 7 to 9 pounds The topline: A sweet but clever little companion that wants playful interaction, not just snuggling (though it likes that, too).

The pronunciation: zvitNEYE’-ah boh-LON’-kah The translation: Russian colored lapdog The history: The breed was developed in Soviet-era Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) after World War II as a pet for apartment dwellers. American fans have been working to establish bolonki (the proper plural) in the U.S. since the early 2000s. The quote: “Having a bolonka is like having a 3-year-old kid running around your house. … They can enjoy their time lying on the couch with you, but you’ve got to be prepared to play with them and keep them entertained,” says Denise Dang of Oklahoma City, the secretary of the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka Club of America. Owners also need to care for a thick, wavy coat that’s low-shedding but can get matted. Even if it’s cut fairly short, a bath every couple of weeks is wise, Dang says. The big picture The AKC recognizes 205 breeds, including these three newcomers. Fanciers of many others — though, as yet, no “doodles” or other popular poodle hybrids — have voluntarily entered a pipeline that takes years of breeding, documentation and consensus-building. The club doesn’t limit the number of breeds it might eventually recognize. Spokesperson Brandi Hunter Munden says it’s not “adding dogs indiscriminately,” but rather providing “an established framework for growth, breed standards, competition and education in the U.S.”

PHOTOS BY AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB VIA AP

Left, the Russian tsvetnaya bolonka. Right, the Teddy Roosevelt terrier.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

entertainment Broadway director Timbers achieves rare feat with 4 shows running simultaneously The creator’s work also includes directing David Byrne’s “American Utopia” By Mark Kennedy The Associated Press NEW YORK — Fifteen years ago, rising theater director Alex Timbers achieved a remarkable feat: Still only in his early 30s, he had two shows running simultaneously on Broadway. As 2026 dawns, Timbers has now eclipsed that mark — he has four. Timbers’ latest, “All Out: Comedy About Ambition,” joins his currently running hits “Beetlejuice,” “Just in Time” and “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” the 2020 best musical winner that also earned him a best directing Tony Award. “If I step back and think about what unites the shows, it’s probably they’re all trying to be joy-forward experiences and shows where the audience is acknowledged,” said Timbers, now 47. Previous directors to enjoy four simultaneous Broadway productions include Joe Mantello in 2016, Casey Nicholaw also in 2016 and Susan Stroman in 2001. Trevor Nunn did it twice, in 1988 and 1995. (Timbers’ quadruple ends Saturday when “Beetlejuice” ends its run). Breaking walls Timbers’ works often combines highbrow and lowbrow,

“Where pop and high art meet, I think that’s where a lot of the audiences want to live as well.” Alex Timbers sincerity and subversion. His four current Broadway works span a jukebox musical, a wacky movie adaptation, a spare and starry staged reading and a memory play-meetsbio musical. One of Timbers’ hallmarks is immediately breakingthrough the pretend wall between the actors and the audience, as when the ghoul Beetlejuice appears at the top of his show and comments, “A ballad already! And such a bold departure from the original source material.” Timbers had a breakout season in 2010 when two of his shows made it to Broadway: “The Pee-wee Herman Show” and “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson,” which he wrote and directed. Timbers went on to work on the adaptation of “Rocky” for the stage, the strippeddown Peter Pan story “Peter and the Starcatcher” and with Talking Heads frontman David Byrne on his “America Utopia.” For “Here Lies Love,” the immersive disco tale of Philippine ex-first lady Imelda Marcos, he literally broke the fourth wall by letting the

audience dance with the stars. “I think that there’s something sort of more raucous, more anarchic, that a certain audience wants. Something that’s visceral and joyful,” Timbers said. “Where pop and high art meet, I think that’s where a lot of the audiences want to live as well.” Not one genre Timbers — currently at work on a “The Princess Bride” musical — suspects the audiences of Broadway’s future are looking for the same kind of shows he looks for: out-of-the-box, slightly dangerous things that maximize the skills of the star and deliver joy. “I think that younger audiences and audiences that don’t traditionally go to theater aren’t necessarily looking for shows that sit specifically in one genre. I think they’re looking for things that maximize entertainment and emotion and connection,” he said. Timbers, a student of Broadway history, looks backward to the future, inspired by the long-running “Ziegfeld Follies” from the first half of the 20th century or “Hellzapoppin,” a hugely popular musical revue in the 1930s that had comedy, music, clowns and audience participation. “It was all these different variety elements that felt in a way very populist, but also very sophisticated, like the coolest date night on Broadway,” he said.

EMILIO MADRID VIA AP

Alex Timbers sits with cast members from “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” “Just in Time,” “Beetlejuice” and “All Out: Comedy About Ambition” at the Nederlander Theatre in New York on Dec. 19.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

this week in history

iPhone debuts, Barry Gordy founds Motown, League of Nations established JAN. 8 1790: President George Washington delivered the first State of the Union address in New York City. 1815: The last major engagement of the War of 1812 ended as U.S. forces defeated the British in the Battle of New Orleans, unaware that a peace treaty had been signed the previous December. 1964: President Lyndon B. Johnson, in his State of the Union address, declared an “unconditional war on poverty in America.” JAN. 9

*Must set up Auto Draft for 2nd Month. Offer valid through February 28, 2026.

1861: Mississippi became the second state to secede from the Union as the Star of the West, a merchant ship carrying reinforcements to Fort Sumter, South Carolina, retreated after coming under artillery fire. 1916: The World War I Battle of Gallipoli ended with an Ottoman Empire victory as Allied forces withdrew. 1945: During World War II, American forces began

woman elected to the U.S. Senate. 1959: Berry Gordy Jr. founded Motown Records, originally known as Tamla Records, in Detroit. 1966: “Batman” premiered on ABC, starring Adam West and Burt Ward.

landing at Lingayen Gulf in the Philippines as the Battle of Luzon began, ultimately resulting in an Allied victory over Imperial Japanese forces. 2007: Apple CEO Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone at the Macworld conference in San Francisco. JAN. 10 1776: Thomas Paine anonymously published his influential pamphlet “Common Sense,” arguing for American independence from British rule. 1861: Florida became the third state to secede from the Union ahead of the Civil War. 1863: The London Underground was born as the Metropolitan Railway, the world’s first underground passenger railway, opened to the public between Paddington and Farringdon Street. 1920: The League of Natio JAN. 11 1861: Alabama became the fourth state to secede from the Union. 1908: The Grand Canyon was established as a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt. 1935: Aviator Amelia Ear-

PAUL SAKUMA / AP PHOTO

Apple CEO Steve Jobs holds up an Apple iPhone at the MacWorld Conference in San Francisco on Jan. 9, 2007. hart began what would be the first solo flight from Hawaii to California, completing the 2,400-mile journey to Oakland in just under 19 hours. 1964: U.S. Surgeon General Luther Terry issued “Smoking and Health,” a report concluding that cigarette smoking contributes substantially to mortality from specific diseases and to the overall death rate. JAN. 12 1915: The U.S. House of Representatives rejected a proposed constitutional amendment to grant women nationwide the right to vote. 1932: Hattie W. Caraway of Arkansas became the first

JAN. 13 1733: James Oglethorpe and about 120 English colonists arrived at Charleston, South Carolina, en route to settle in what is now Georgia. 1794: President George Washington approved a measure adding two stars and two stripes to the American f lag following the admission of Vermont and Kentucky to the Union. (The number of stripes was later reduced to 13.) JAN. 14 1784: The United States ratified the Treaty of Paris, ending the Revolutionary War; Britain followed suit in April. 1858: Napoleon III survived an assassination attempt by an Italian revolutionary who threw explosives at the emperor’s carriage in Paris. Though bystanders were killed, the emperor and his wife were unharmed.

Florida Panthers enlist stars for unique cancer fundraiser Wayne Gretzky, Michael Bublé and other icons participated in the cause By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press MIAMI — For their latest project, the Florida Panthers signed Wayne Gretzky, Martina Navratilova, Michael Bublé, Dustin Johnson and the Miami Heat. And they were armed with paintbrushes, not hockey sticks. The Panthers — a few hours before their Winter Classic outdoor game at the Miami Marlins’ ballpark against the New York Rangers — unveiled a couple dozen panther sculptures, all painted in a unique way and now being auctioned off with hopes of raising $1 million for cancer research. Gretzky commissioned a sculpture that displays some of his stats, Johnson arranged one depicting a scene from Augusta National, Bublé’s is adorned in rhinestone braille, the NBA’s Heat commissioned a pair of sculptures with some of the team’s themes, artist Romero Britto painted one as well, and Navratilova didn’t technically paint hers — she dipped tennis balls into paint and served them into the panther, creating a polka-dotted splash of various colors. “To be able to have the priv-

“There’s a reason that everybody gave their time and their talent. And it’s because it works and it’s right.” Bill Zito, Florida Panthers general manager ilege to reach out and make those contacts and have those folks say, ‘Of course,’ what a gift that was,” Panthers general manager and hockey operations president Bill Zito said. “It’s just so neat.” About $700,000 has been raised already, Zito said. The idea for the fundraiser — “Panthers on the Prowl,” they call it — is loosely built around Chicago’s “Cows on Parade” art project. Zito and his wife, Julie, co-chair the Panthers’ project; she is a breast cancer survivor, and Zito has lost a number of relatives to the disease. “It was my wife Julie’s idea,” Zito said. “And we lived in Chicago during ‘Cows on Parade,’ and then Romero Britto said we should auction them. I can’t take credit for any of it.” Many of the panthers were on display at LoanDepot Park on Friday, where about 35,000 fans attending the

solutions

TIM REYNOLDS / AP PHOTO

A Florida Panthers statue painted by tennis star Martina Navratilova is displayed for auction in Miami on Jan. 2 in an effort to raise money to fight cancer. Winter Classic would see them. “There’s a tear and a smile,” Zito said. “And then you think,

you know what, there’s a reason that everybody is engaged. There’s a reason that everybody

gave their time and their talent. And it’s because it works and it’s right.”

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

famous birthdays this week Robby Krieger (The Doors) turns 80, Joan Baez is 85, Pat Benatar hits 73, Rob Zombie celebrates 61 THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. JAN. 8 Singer Shirley Bassey is 89. Fashion designer Carolina Herrera is 87. Country-gospel singer Cristy Lane is 86. Rock musician Robby Krieger (The Doors) is 80. Singer Jenny Lewis is 50. JAN. 9 Musician-activist Joan Baez is 85. Rock musician Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin) is 82. Singer Crystal Gayle is 75. Actor J.K. Simmons is 71. Actor Imelda Staunton is 70. Musician Dave Matthews is 59. Golfer Sergio Garcia is 46. Catherine, Princess of Wales, is 44.

JORDAN STRAUSS / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Julia Louis-Dreyfus arrives at the Academy Women’s Luncheon in 2025 at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. The actor turns 65 on Tuesday.

JAN. 10 Olympic decathlon gold medalist Bill Toomey is 87. Singer Rod Stewart is 81. Rock singer-musician Donald Fagen (Steely Dan) is 78. Singer Pat Benatar is 73. Hall of Fame racing driver and team owner Bobby Rahal is 73. JAN. 11 Filmmaker Alfonso Arau is 94. Golf Hall of Famer Ben Crenshaw is 74. Jazz guitarist Lee Ritenour is 74. Olympic swimming gold medalist Tracy Caulkins is 63. Filmmaker Malcolm D. Lee is 56. Singer Mary J. Blige is 55. Actor Amanda Peet is 54. JAN. 12 Author Haruki Murakami is 77. Filmmaker Wayne Wang is 77. Football Hall of Famer Drew Pearson is 75. Writer Walter Mosley is 74. Media personality Howard Stern is 72. Oliver Platt is 66. Basketball Hall of Famer Dominique Wilkins is 66. Musician-filmmaker Rob Zombie is 61. JAN. 13 Golf Hall of Famer Mark O’Meara is 69. Actor Julia Louis-Dreyfus is 65. Country singer Trace Adkins is 64. Actor Patrick Dempsey is 60. TV produc-

MICHAEL ZORN / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Howard Stern speaks at the 2018 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Cleveland. The radio personality turns 72 on Monday. er-writer Shonda Rhimes is 56. Actor Orlando Bloom is 49. JAN. 14 Drag racer Don “Big Daddy” Garlits is 94. Actor Faye Dunaway is 85. Actor Holland Taylor is 83. Guitarist-producer T-Bone Burnett is 78. Filmmaker Steven Soderbergh is 63. Rapper-actor LL Cool J is 58. Actor Jason Bateman is 57. Rock musician Dave Grohl is 57.

B10

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, January 8, 2026

the stream

Tom Hiddleston, from left, Camila Morrone and Diego Calva pose for photographers upon arrival at the UK premiere of the second season of ‘The Night Manager’ on Dec. 10 in London.

MILLIE TURNER / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Kid Laroi, ‘The Pitt,’ ‘Tron: Ares’ “The Night Manager” returns for a second season

praised Leto and Lee’s performances and said despite being a movie that “bites off too much,” it was worth a watch. A bonus for music fans? The film’s Nine Inch Nails soundtrack with some throwbacks to the original film’s score.

The Associated Press RETURNS TO “The Pitt,” the Grid and music of Kid Laroi are some of the new television, films and music headed to a device near you. The first week of January brings a pair of sophomore efforts: Laroi’s album “Before I Forget” and the second season of the Emmy-winning hospital drama “The Pitt.” This week’s streaming offerings, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists, also include the return of “The Night Manager” after nearly a decade.

MUSIC TO STREAM

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

MOVIES TO STREAM

Noah Wyle accepts the award for outstanding lead actor in a drama series for “The Pitt” during the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards in 2025. The medical drama returns to HBO Max for its second season on Thursday.

Audiences can reenter the Grid with “Tron: Ares” on Disney+. The franchise’s third film stars Jared Leto, Greta Lee and Jodie Turner-Smith and fea-

tures a return of Jeff Bridges. The 1982 original starred Bridges as a hacker who’s transported into a dangerous digital world

and kicked off the cult franchise with then-state-of-the-art computer graphics and special effects. AP critic Mark Kennedy

Grammy-nominated artist the Kid Laroi — a direct inheritor of Justin Bieber’s glossy R&B-informed pop — will release his sophomore album, “Before I Forget,” on Friday. Judging by the previously released singles, listeners can expect slow-burn breakup reflections (“A Perfect World”) and high-hat heavy tracks with lovelorn lyrics (“A Cold Play”). It’s frictionless listening to start the new year. SERIES TO STREAM In what counts as a quick turnaround these days in the world of prestige TV, “The Pitt”

returns for its second season, and second day in the life of a frenetic Pittsburgh emergency room run by Noah Wyle’s beleaguered and beloved Dr. Robby. The first episode of Season 2 premieres Thursday on HBO Max. Expectations will be a lot higher this time. In the 10 months since Season 1 ended, “The Pitt” won the best drama Emmy along with four others, including best actor for Wyle and supporting actress for Katherine LaNasa, who will be returning despite her character vowing to quit after taking a punch. Ten months have also passed in the world of the show, which will again follow a single ER shift, this time on a July Fourth weekend. After a much, much longer absence, “The Night Manager” will return for a second season. It’s been nearly a decade since Tom Hiddleston’s hotel worker-turned-spy stalked a dirty arms dealer on the show based on a novel by John le Carré. It was meant to be a limited series for the BBC and AMC, but its creators are now bringing it back with a new and original story. This time, its airing on Prime Video in the U.S.

2026 starts with ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ at No. 1 “Zootopia 2” landed in second place By Jake Coyle The Associated Press NEW YORK — Hollywood kicked off 2026 with “Avatar: Fire and Ash” atop the box office for the third straight week and with hopes for a blockbuster-filled year after a disappointing 2025. In three weeks of release, “Fire and Ash” has cleared $1 billion worldwide. The third chapter in James Cameron’s Pandora epic collected $40 million over its third weekend in North American theaters, according to studio estimates Sunday. “Fire and Ash” is doing its biggest business overseas; it’s grossed $777.1 million internationally thus far. The Walt Disney Co. on Sunday trumped the $1 billion milestone as “cementing another monumental achievement for James Cameron’s groundbreaking franchise.” But over the holidays, it wasn’t just about the weekend ticket sales. The whole week was a lucrative one for Hollywood, with most schools still out. What drove ticket sales, beyond “Avatar”? Sydney Sweeney, Timothée Chalamet and “Zootopia 2.” The most sustained success

JORDAN STRAUSS / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Amanda Seyfried, left, and Sydney Sweeney arrive at the premiere of “The Housemaid” on Dec. 15 at TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles. over the holiday collider in theaters belonged to a movie that opened all the way back in November. Yet Disney’s “Zootopia 2” has had remarkable staying power. The animated sequel has amassed $1.59 billion in six weeks. That makes “Zootopia 2” Disney’s second highest grossing animated movie ever, trailing only 2019’s photorealistic “The Lion King” ($1.66 billion). “The Housemaid,” the twisty thriller starring Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, also emerged as a holiday-season hit for Li-

onsgate. It collected $14.9 million over the weekend, giving it $75.7 million domestically over three weeks. It dipped only 3% from last weekend. Internationally, “The Housemaid,” which cost a modest $35 million to make, has added $57.3 million. Just as Sweeney’s star power is propelling “The Housemaid,” so is Chalamet’s with “Marty Supreme.” The A24 release also held well in its third weekend, grossing an estimated $12.6 million. After two weeks of wide release, Josh Safdie’s frenetic table tennis tale has grossed

$56 million in North America, passing the director’s previous film, “Uncut Gems” ($50 million worldwide). Just about everything playing in theaters saw small drops from the previous weekend. Sony’s action comedy “Anaconda,” starring Jack Black and Paul Rudd, dipped 31% to collect $10 million in second weekend. Focus Features’ “Song Sung Blue” dropped only 17% in its second weekend with $5.9 million. The Hugh Jackman-Kate Hudson Neil Diamond cover band movie has earned $25 million domestically. With “Avatar: Fire and Ash” and a wide variety of smaller hits, Hollywood started 2026 strongly. Overall sales were up 26.5% from the same weekend in 2025, according to data firm Comscore. The movie industry is coming off a poor 2025, where domestic moviegoing continued to slide. U.S. and Canada ticket sales in 2025 amounted to $8.9 billion, a 2% increase from the year earlier, according to Comscore, but about 20% below pre-pandemic levels. That slight improvement was notably less than anticipated and was also boosted by higher ticket prices. Actual tickets sold declined from more than 800 million in 2024 to around 780 million in 2025. The industry is now awaiting a potentially seismic shift

with Warner Bros., one of the most theatrical-friendly studios, agreeing to sell to Netflix. That $83 billion deal awaits regulatory approval. Top 10 movies by domestic box office With domestic figures released Monday, this list factors in the estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore: 1. “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” $40 million 2. “Zootopia 2,” $19 million 3. “The Housemaid,” $14.9 million 4. “Marty Supreme,” $12.6 million 5. “Anaconda,” $10 million 6. “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants,” $8.2 million 7. “David,” $8 million 8. “Song Sung Blue,” $5.9 million 9. “Wicked: For Good,” $3.3 million 10. “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2,” $2.7 million