the BRIEF this week
Iran war hitting home as gas prices fuel in ation surge of 3.8% in U.S.
U.S. consumer prices climbed sharply again last month as the 10-week war with Iran pushed energy prices higher. The Labor Department reported Tuesday that its consumer price index rose 3.8% from April 2025. On a month-to -month basis, April prices were up 0.6% from March as gasoline prices rose 5.4%. Excluding volatile food and energy costs, so-called consumer core prices were up 0.4% last month from March and 2.8% from April 2025, relatively modest readings that suggest the energy price burst isn’t yet spilling over much into other prices.
Trump FDA chief leaving after angering pharma CEOs, vaping lobbyists and anti-abortion groups
Marty Makary is resigning as President Donald Trump’s Food and Drug Administration head, according to a White House o cial who was not authorized to speak before an o cial announcement and insisted on anonymity Tuesday. The surgeon and health researcher’s tenure had drawn complaints from health industry executives, anti-abortion activists and other Trump allies. Makary was an outspoken critic of COVID-19 health measures during the pandemic, but at the FDA, Makary failed to win the sta ’s con dence after mass layo s, leadership changes and a series of controversies.
Pittsboro holds public hearing for recommended budget
Town sta has proposed maintaining the current property tax rate of 44 cents per $100 valuation
By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record
PITTSBORO — The Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on the manager’s recommended
FY 2026-27 operating budget.
The recommended general fund budget is balanced at approximately $13.8 million, which is less than last year’s budget, which came in around $14.1 million.
“This isn’t actually a decrease to what our current scal year budget is because we are not appropriating any fund balance,” said Finance Director Heather Meacham.
Last year, the town appropriated about $1.2 million from its fund balance to help balance the operating budget.
Some of the biggest budgetary
increases for this year include an estimated 18% increase in major medical expenses, a 3% COLA adjustment and a 5% increase in retirement contributions.
“Costs do continue to increase both for personnel expenses and other operating expenses,” Meacham said.
Chapel Hill not likely to implement tax increase in upcoming scal year
The town’s recommended budget is based on the tax rate remaining the same
By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record
CHAPEL HILL — The Chapel Hill Town Council was presented with the town’s FY
strategic priorities while sustaining high-quality services and reinforcing long-term scal stability,” said Town Manager Ted Voorhees.
2026 -27 recommended budget at its May 6 meeting.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work the town team has done with this budget to align ournancial plans with the council’s
get, the general fund comprises around $100 million of it.
According to Voorhees, the budget is focused on strategic investments across four areas: advancing council strategic priorities, competitive compensation for town workforce, funding, $2.00
The recommended budget is balanced at about $169.7 million, which is approximately a 3.4% increase from the previous year, and of that total bud-
Pediatrics group issues new guidance on recess for rst time in 13 years
“Recess is great. We all kind of need recess.”
Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, Mass General Brigham childhood obesity expert
Pediatricians renewed a commitment to protecting recess as schools continue cutting break time
By Laura Ungar The Associated Press
RECESS ISN’T JUST a fun break for grade schoolers. It’s crucial to good health and good grades for kids of all ages.
That’s the message from a leading pediatricians group, which just released the rst new guidance in 13 years
about this unstructured time at school and how it needs to be protected. The updated policy statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics comes after years of shrinking recesses and worsening children’s health.
The group “has always supported play — free play for kids — but it’s been increasingly threatened over time,” partly by the drive for higher test scores, said Dr. Robert Murray, a lead author. “It has a very powerful bene t if it’s used to the fullest.”
THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
The plaque for Bynum Historic District, added to the National Register of Historic Places last year, was unveiled Saturday in Bynum.
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
and strengthening core services and continuing progress toward long-term scal sustainability.
The council’s strategic priorities are further broken down to focusing on the complete community vision, environmental resiliency, housing, and organization and scal sustainability.
“Complete community is a bold vision for our community’s future that advances thoughtful growth, multimodal connectivity and vibrant, vital neighborhoods,” Voorhees said. “This budget supports sta in bringing this vision to life.”
The budget also o ers a 4% market pay increase for employees and an increase in retirement and medical insurance contributions.
“Our employees are our greatest asset, and they face real challenges from everyday stress and long-term burnout to the rising costs of living and struggles with work/life balance,” Voorhees said.
In addition, some of the key areas of increase for the budget are a $544,000 increase in operational costs due to in ation, $250,000 investments in both facility needs and street resurfacing as well as a doubled investment in re capital needs from $500,000 to $1 million.
Despite the increase, the budget does not have a recommended tax increase, meaning the town’s property tax rate would remain the same at $0.50 per $100 valuation.
Chapel Hill is expecting to see a 6.9% increase in property tax revenue for the upcoming scal year, or about $4.5 million in additional revenue for the town.
“This expected increase is based on data from Orange County that shows that as a result of a much smaller number of property tax appeals, property values and therefore property tax revenues will exceed earlier projections,” Voorhees said.
The town is also seeing sales tax gures around 5% higher than expected, and there is an additional 3% increase expected in FY 2026-27.
The Chapel Hill Town Council will hold a public hearing on the budget on May 20.
Free water safety class set for Jordan Lake
A two -part Water Con dence Class will be taught by a former Marine
Chatham News & Record sta
PITTSBORO — Chatham County Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources and Safe Kids Chatham County are o ering a free two-part Water Condence Class at Jordan Lake later this month.
The class is open to adults and children ages 12 and older, and
CRIME LOG
May 4
• Justin Ryan Green, 25, was arrested for possession of a rearm by a felon, discharging a rearm in an enclosure to cause fear and assault by pointing a gun, and other charges.
• Kristin Gray Vanravestein, 40, was arrested for contempt of court.
May 5
• Carlos Perez Hernandez, 20, was arrested for defrauding a drug or alcohol test.
• Harold Everett, 23, was arrested for breaking and entering a motor vehicle with theft, felony conspiracy and breaking and entering a motor vehicle, and other charges.
• Adam Daniel Webster, 39, was arrested for violation of a domestic violence protective order.
• Jeannie Lee Blouin, 42, was arrested for obtaining property by false pretense and possession of stolen goods.
• Jacob Ray Phillips, 32, was arrested for possession of a stolen rearm, purchasing a rearm in violation of a domestic violence order and larceny of a motor vehicle, and other charges.
• Bryan Lagunes, 35, was arrested for driving while impaired.
• Morgan Thomas Shaw, 36, was arrested for felony stalking, possession of a stolen rearm and purchasing a rearm while subject to a
Spanish speakers are welcome. There is no cost to attend, but space is limited and registration is required.
Sessions will run from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on two Wednesdays, May 27 and June 3, at Jordan Lake’s Ebenezer Swim Beach. Rain dates are Thursdays, May 28 and June 4.
The interactive class will focus on practical, life-saving techniques and on helping participants become more comfortable in natural bodies of water. Participants will practice foun-
dational skills such as oating, water orientation and basic survival strokes. Topics may also include identifying water hazards, boating safety and proper use of life preservers.
Organizers said the class is well-suited for people who did not learn to swim as children or who have a fear of water.
The class will be led by David Cantong, a former Marine combat instructor of water survival and Army Special Forces combat diver. Cantong overcame his own fear of water after a near-drowning experience during childhood.
To register, contact Mallory Peterson, program supervisor for Chatham County Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources, at 919-642-7086 or mallory.peterson@chathamcountync.gov.
CHATHAM
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
May 14
Dorian Devins and Lou Rainone Live Performance
1 p.m.
Local musicians Dorian Devins and Lou Rainone perform jazz, bossa nova, blues and more at the Chatham Community Library. The free performance is open to the public.
domestic violence order, and other charges.
May 6
• Andrea Michelle Toman, 45, was arrested for violation of a domestic violence protective order.
• Hope Luck Walters, 54, was arrested for assault on a government o cial or employee, simple assault and resisting a public o cer.
• Brian Kent Moore, 31, was arrested for felony possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
May 7
• William Lawrence Strickland, 61, was arrested for ctitious or altered title, registration card or tag; no liability insurance; and no operator’s license.
May 8
• Kaleb Clay Dixon, 23, was arrested for breaking and entering, misdemeanor larceny and injury to real property.
• Davonte Lequarius Jedihah Brown, 22, was arrested for breaking and entering a motor vehicle with theft, felony conspiracy and breaking and entering a motor vehicle, and other charges.
• Brian Edwin Elkins, 52, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance on prison or jail premises, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug
Teachers, are you looking for new opportunities to fund projects for your classroom?
Central Electric is awarding up to $15,000 in Bright Ideas education grants to local educators in K-12 classrooms for the 2026-27 school year. Educators in K-12 classrooms with creative ideas for learning projects are encouraged to apply for a grant up to $2,000.
Grant applications will be accepted through Sept. 15. However, it pays to apply early.
paraphernalia.
• John Patrick McPherson, 46, was arrested for larceny of a motor vehicle.
• Brandon Dean Beal, 30, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana paraphernalia and driving on a revoked license, and other charges.
• John Joseph Cruz Pablo, 24, was arrested for seconddegree kidnapping.
May 9
• Gregory Issac Harris, 41, was arrested for larceny of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen motor vehicle and nancial card fraud, and other charges.
• Aleaha Renne Marr, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired.
• Marie Rosabelle Morgan, 44, was arrested for breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering and possession of stolen goods, and other charges.
May 10
• Justin Daniel Stiles, 47, was arrested for assault on a government o cial or employee, communicating threats and resisting a public o cer, and other charges.
• Jonathan James Livingston, 37, was arrested for driving while impaired.
• Cameron MacKenzie Cagle, 29, was arrested for simple assault, communicating threats and injury to real property.
All teachers who submit their applications by the early bird deadline of Aug. 15 will be entered into a drawing for one of ve $100 Visa gi cards. Scan the QR code or visit NCBrightIdeas.com for more information or to apply!
Chatham Community Library
197 N.C. Highway 87 N Pittsboro
May 15
Beach Music Series: Blackwater Band
7 p.m.
Blackwater Band performs in the MOSAIC at Chatham Park outdoor Beach Music Series, a biweekly spring concert series at Chatham Park’s community commons. Admission is free with advance ticket registration at the MOSAIC website; the event lawn opens at 6 p.m.
MOSAIC at Chatham Park 367 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro
May 16
Special Olympics
Chatham County Texas Hold ’em Fundraiser
3 p.m.
A charity Texas Hold ’em tournament at The Mod bene ts Special Olympics Chatham County, Camp Royall, and the Carolina Living and Learning Center. The $20 buy-in provides 20,000 chips; rebuys are available, and spectators may attend at no charge.
The Mod 46 Sanford Rd. Pittsboro
Triangle Japanese Chorus Club Concert
2 p.m.
The Triangle Japanese Chorus Club presents a free concert of traditional and modern Japanese choral works at the Chatham Community Library. No registration is required.
Chatham Community Library
197 N.C. Highway 87 N Pittsboro
May 17
Chatham Artists Guild Spring Art Festival
11 a.m.
The inaugural Chatham Artists Guild Spring Art Festival features Guild members displaying and selling original artwork at The Plant’s 17-acre eco-industrial grounds in Pittsboro. The free, family-friendly event includes live music throughout the day, plus food and beverage vendors.
The Plant 220 Lorax Lane Pittsboro
THE CONVERSATION
Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
Cosmic metaphors for motherhood
Seeking metaphors for parenthood, I’m not suggesting that children are hollow, emptyheaded rocks.
THE MOON IS slowly drifting away from Mother Earth at a little over an inch per year. As I understand it, the Sun will explode in 5 billion years or so before the moon could actually leave the Earth’s gravitational pull — not something one needs to worry about.
But as I write on the day after Mother’s Day, a slowly drifting moon seems like a metaphor for the baby steps that children take from their mother. It’s only natural that time leads to more physical separation. Of course, by the time they can toddle, a child can cover far more than inches in a matter of seconds. This speed can be terrifying around street tra c, but in the safety of a backyard, it is often the cause of much amusement as the little one tumbles headlong across the grass in pursuit of butter ies, the shooting stars of suburban landscape.
It turns out that the Earth’s mass is more than 80 times greater than the moon’s
COLUMN | BOB WACHS
even though it’s only about four times wider. Seeking metaphors for parenthood, I’m not suggesting that children are hollow, empty-headed rocks; what does seem relevant is that many mothers and mother-like gures exert the most force by their power within.
Mars has two moons; one will drift o into deep space, and the other will be pulled into a collision with the red planet. Children can be very di erent from each other, including their relationships to the planet, I mean, parent. Yet neither of these Martian moon trajectories seems like a positive metaphor. Then again, I doubt that any parent would name their o spring Phobos and Deimos, which mean “Fear” and “Dread.”
Jupiter has 101 moons, which is even more than your Catholic great-grandmother. In addition, there are thousands of small objects rotating in this gas giant’s orbit, kind of like neighborhood children around the
pool. The force of my wife’s chocolate-chip cookies pulls a gaggle of kids into our home. Those cookies are delicious to their core.
I might have thought that tiny Pluto wouldn’t even have a moon, but it turns out it is orbited by ve moons. Its largest, Charon, is tidally locked with Pluto; unlike the moons of Mars, Charon will neither pull toward nor away over time but remain in its whirling dance with its planet until acted upon by something much larger (like an exploding star). I look for those sweet balances in life, however eeting they are, like when our three children orbit my twirling wife in the living room after dinner as they all boogie to the wonderfully cosmic James Brown.
Andrew Taylor-Troutman’s newest book is “This Is the Day”. He serves as pastor of Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church as well as a writer, pizza maker, co ee drinker and student of joy.
Driving toward helping take care of our friends
I’m not sure where deer fall in the animal kingdom ranking of bright beings but if I had to say, I’d say not at the top.
I HAVE A HIGH regard for life — the living, breathing, moving kind.
Doesn’t matter if it’s plant, animal or human, most of the time I’m into “live and let live.”
Now that doesn’t mean I cultivate poison ivy or am against drawing a bead on a coyote with my ri e, especially if he’s hanging out around some baby calves. I’m also not averse to doing away with the yellow jacket that just stung me. And if a y gets into my soup he’s not going to stay there long. But it does mean that I sort of live in a place that says, “I didn’t create or give life, so as a normal mode of operation, I’m not going to do away with it just because I can.”
But lest my vegan, nonmeat, nonegg or milk or other dairy product-eating friends raise their eyebrows, I’m also not talking about the New York strip I like to see on my plate once in a while. I’m talking about the random wanton destruction of life that conveys, I think, an attitude of “I-don’tcare.”
One of the places we see that is on the highways and byways of our world, especially for those of us who avoid the concrete sidewalks of urban life.
Obviously sometimes it can’t be helped, this taking of wildlife life. Bambi and her friends lead the list or are right there at the top. I’m not sure where deer fall in the animal kingdom ranking of bright beings, but if I had to say, I’d say not at the top. If they did, they wouldn’t try to cross the road in front of a semi hauling a load of hogs.
One year, my better half and I nailed ve
of the white-tailed eet-footed creatures, including the one that saw us, turned back away toward the woods from which she came and then did an about-face and broad-sided us. Maybe she was having a bad day, or maybe she saw and remembered when we got one of the other four. … I don’t know, but I do know it was not a good decision on her part.
In addition to the deer, Mr. Squirrel is also on the list of roadway endangered species. If you’ve ever driven up behind one of the furry little rodents lollygagging in the middle of the road, you see them — as soon as they see you — run here and there, take a couple of steps to the left, then zig right before trying to outrun you or bolting o to the other side.
Most of them make it but not all; but, hey, Mr. Buzzard also has to eat.
The bottom line, I think, is this: People and animals share much of the same territory. Most of the time, we’re bigger than they are, so it pays to pay attention. Don’t have a wreck trying to avoid Mr. Possum, and it’s not a good idea to get out of your vehicle to move something.
I’ve hit my share of animals through 60-plus years of driving and still remember how sick it made me when years ago I couldn’t avoid a dog that appeared from a grassy shoulder and tried to outrun me before I could slow down to miss him.
But — and here’s the big but — it’s not cool to go out of your way to smush something. On a nearby paved road the other day, I saw a perfect example of that random wanton destruction of life. Mr. Turtle did not make it on his journey
from one side to the other. I’ve always heard those folks cross the road on their travels looking for water. Unfortunately for them, it can take a while to complete the task, and they either need a better travel agent or to ask the chicken how to cross the road.
The thing that struck me as I motored on was that Mr. Turtle met his end not on the edge of the pavement or near the center line where the left wheels would ride. Instead, he was lying there in bits and pieces dead (no pun intended) in the middle of the travel lane. I’m pretty sure unless the o ending driver was skimming along in something only 2 inches above ground that he could have spared Mr. Turtle over to another day.
That was especially noticeable and galling to me because earlier in my travels on that same road, while going in the opposite direction, I had observed Mr. Turtle in the middle of a lane just sort of hanging out, apparently enjoying life as a turtle.
So why do it? Don’t know. … Maybe a sense of power and control, maybe because the driver is a jerk. I do know it’s not a nice thing to do.
As you come and go on the highways and byways, drive safely; make sure you get home.
And do your best to make sure the critters get home to their families, as well.
Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.
Picking up the vibes?
The one commonality I heard shared, over and over, was that people felt seen and heard by my mother.
JUST COGITATING … Where did my raucous laugh come from? My inclination to butt into social interactions, juicing them up to a higher level of shared laughter? Gabbing away and joking with the attendants at the recycling center; stopping an older woman (older than me, anyhow) who appears lost in our neighborhood. Who -is-this-voluble-person? Omg, it’s me! I’m the one gabbing, joking, inquiring, intervening, waving to everyone. It’s me. How did this happen? How? I, Jan, am an introvert. My numerous Myers-Briggs personality tests over the years would never — let me repeat, never — have predicted this. We’ve all had labels applied to us at one time or another. Mine was introvert. Supposedly infallible personality tests shouted from the rooftops, “Jan is a reserved, internally focused person who revels in solitude.” Just in case you haven’t gotten it, I was routinely labeled as, guess what … an introvert. OK, OK, you probably have gotten it by now. How the hell did this apparent transformation occur? It sure as heck wasn’t conscious. At least, I don’t think so. But how? … Ah, that’s what happened. Blame it on my late mother. It’s her fault. I used to wince when shopping with her as she magically pulled other customers’ life
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
stories out of them while we waited in the checkout line. Get me out of there. She’d talk to anybody! Asking about their lives … sheer embarrassment on my part. “No, no, I don’t know her!”
My mother, on whom I’m pinning this egregious blame, died many years ago. At her memorial service — and later, as I readied her house for the market — people popped up out of nowhere, people I’d never heard of, sharing their essential memories of my mother. And, damn, the one commonality I heard shared, over and over, was that people felt seen and heard by my mother. She didn’t talk about herself but took a few short moments to inquire about the lives of others, leaving them feeling gifted and seen by her attention.
Whoa, and I do mean, whoa! I couldn’t see my mother’s gift of acknowledging others from a kid’s point of view. I just wanted her to be quiet and not embarrass me. Oy!
I don’t know how I feel about heaven or an afterlife. However, for many years now, I’ve been spreading the seeds of my mother’s gift, micromoments of loving attention, to all and sundry. Wherever you are, Mom, I hope you’re picking up my vibes.
Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.
The race-obsessed left complains when the Supreme Court issues a colorblind ruling
But many Democrat politicians do not want a colorblind society. They want a colorcoordinated one — as long as they oversee the coordination.
SUPREME COURT Associate Justice Clarence Thomas wrote a concurring opinion, joined by Justice Neil Gorsuch, in the recent case that restricted the use of race in designing a Louisiana congressional district.
Thomas wrote: “This Court should never have interpreted (Section) 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to e ectively give racial groups ‘an entitlement to roughly proportional representation.’ ... By doing so, the Court led legislatures and courts to ‘systematically divid(e) the country into electoral districts along racial lines.’ ... ‘Blacks (we)re drawn into ‘black districts’ and given ‘black representatives’; Hispanics (we)re drawn into Hispanic districts and given ‘Hispanic representatives’; and so on. That interpretation rendered (Section) 2 ‘repugnant to any nation that strives for the ideal of a color-blind Constitution.’ ... Today’s decision should largely put an end to this ‘disastrous misadventure’ in votingrights jurisprudence.”
Critics argue the ruling is not colorblind in e ect because race -neutral districting can dilute minority voting power. But this assumes a) non-black and non-Hispanic voters would not vote for black or Hispanic candidates; and b) the interests of black and Hispanic voters can only be pursued by black and Hispanic members of Congress. For Democrats, the e ect of this ruling could be politically catastrophic. A report from Fair Fight Action and Black Voters Matter Fund said, “Combined with Republicans’ mid- decade gerrymandering, a ruling gutting Section 2 could help secure an additional 27 safe Republican U.S. House seats when compared to the 2024 House maps — at least 19 directly tied to the loss of Section 2.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Je ries said, “Instead of protecting the ability for American citizens to freely cast their ballot, Republican extremists have embraced voter suppression and racial gerrymandering to desperately cling to power. The corrupt conservative majority on the Supreme Court appointed by Donald Trump has taken a blowtorch to the Voting Rights Act. Why? The extremists need to cheat to win.”
It is not clear how removing race as a criterion in constructing congressional districts amounts to “cheating.” Nor is it clear how this majority of justices, nominated by Republican presidents, renders the court “corrupt.”
As for “Republican extremists embracing voter suppression,” Je ries presumably means voter ID laws. But polls show a large majority of blacks support voter ID
BE IN TOUCH
Medicaid millionaires are hiding in plain sight
FRAUD IN GOVERNMENT programs is often treated like an urban legend — something that happens in faraway blue cities run by corrupt political machines. But the truth is more unsettling: Some of the most brazen theft of taxpayer money is happening in places governed by Republicans, right under their noses.
Right now, Medicaid is serving scammers — and taxpayers are footing the bill.
Consider Ohio. At one address in Columbus, investigators found 94 di erent companies registered in the same building. The windows were covered. The o ces appeared empty. Yet according to The Daily Wire investigative team led by Luke Rosiak, that single address has billed taxpayers more than $66 million. This is not a minor accounting error. It is not mere “waste.” It is a system being exploited.
Rosiak’s reporting exposes an ecosystem of “Medicaid millionaires”: not the poor recipients of bene ts but the companies and middlemen who pro t o them. Under the guise of “home health care,” Ohio pays people to visit Medicaid bene ciaries’ homes to perform “homemaking” services — cooking, cleaning and chores — tasks that don’t require medical training and often don’t receive meaningful oversight.
Ohio spent roughly $1 billion on home health care in 2024. The incentives are obvious: If government is handing out checks for loosely de ned services, the people best positioned to get rich are not the disabled or elderly — it’s the billing operations.
by percentages close to those of whites. Georgia, in 2021, enacted voter ID and voter-integrity laws called by President Joe Biden “worse than Jim Crow — it’s Jim Eagle.” But the percentage of blacks who voted exceeded the black voting percentages of most pre -2021 Georgia elections.
Let’s turn to Je ries’ accusation about Republicans’ supposed use of “racial gerrymandering.” In 2017, Politico wrote: “Former (Obama) Attorney General Eric Holder on Thursday o cially launched the National Democratic Redistricting Committee ... as the center of Democratic rebuilding in the era of President- elect Donald Trump and as Democrats’ main hope to roll back Republican gains in state legislatures and prepare for redistricting in 2021. The end goal: House majorities in Congresses elected after 2020.”
To that end, Eric Holder supported race-conscious redistricting e orts designed to increase black electoral in uence. About a district in Alabama in 2024, for example, The Associated Press wrote: “The National Democratic Redistricting Committee, which Holder chairs, supported the legal battle that led to the district being redrawn into a competitive seat where Black voters have the opportunity to in uence the outcome.”
Finally, about voters voting based on race, there are four black Republican members of the U.S. House, none of whom represents a majority-black district. Even Democrat Maxine Waters, a harsh critic of the court ruling and a co -founder of the Congressional Black Caucus, represents a district that is only about 20% black. Rep. Steve Cohen, who is white, succeeded Rep. Harold Ford Jr., who is black, in representing a majority-black district. And a recent Gallup poll nds Trump’s approval rating among blacks at 16%, up from 12% in his rst term.
Contrary to what many Democratic politicians say and how they act, this is not their grandfather’s America. But many Democrat politicians do not want a colorblind society. They want a colorcoordinated one — as long as they oversee the coordination.
My advice to Democrats after this ruling is simple: calm down. The days of poll taxes, literacy tests and grandfather clauses are long over. As Thomas Sowell says, “When people get used to preferential treatment, equal treatment seems like discrimination.”
Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
The pattern is almost comical in its boldness: Cover the windows, hang a sheet of paper with a generic company name ending in “Home Health LLC,” and if someone asks questions, claim the employees “stepped out.” Why cover the windows? Because there is nothing inside.
Dig into the companies and you nd unpaid taxes, shady ownership structures and a bizarre number of LLCs registered in unrelated industries. The deeper you look, the clearer it becomes that government is not equipped to monitor who it is writing million-dollar checks to.
The business model is disturbingly simple. A 40 -year- old man becomes an “employee” of a Medicaid-billing rm and gets paid to “care for” his 65 -year- old mother. But the only patient is Mom, and the only person who could con rm whether services are being provided is Mom herself. If she doesn’t want to rat out her son — or if she’s receiving a kickback — the state has no practical way to verify anything.
When Rosiak questioned one operator about what his company did, he was met with threats. The man reportedly dismissed the inquiry and then pivoted to the modern all-purpose defense: “I’m going to tell everybody you guys are racist.”
And there it is — the magic trick.
Steal millions. Exploit the system. Then accuse anyone investigating you of bigotry.
Unlike food stamps and other capped welfare programs, this Medicaid service has no meaningful ceiling. It expands as far as doctors are willing to sign forms. One doctor willing to approve enough paperwork can bankrupt a state.
For decades, the public couldn’t see this because Medicaid billing data was a black box. That changed in February, when the Department of Justice quietly released new data. In one case, a landlord whose buildings housed hundreds of Medicaid companies billed the federal government $250 million.
Now the question is whether leaders will act.
Ohio has Republican leadership, and nationally President Donald Trump has made waste, fraud and abuse a central theme of his administration. That focus matters because this problem won’t be solved with speeches or “task forces.” It requires audits, subpoenas, prosecutions and real accountability.
If government programs are going to exist, the bare minimum requirement is that they serve the people they claim to serve.
Right now, Medicaid is serving scammers — and taxpayers are footing the bill.
Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School.
(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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Contact a writer or columnist: connect@northstatejournal.com
derby day
Bennett Recreation held its third annual Home Run Derby on Saturday, complete with concessions, a bounce house, silent cake auction and, of course, some home runs.
Church News
OAKLEY BAPTIST CHURCH
As Oakley Baptist Church (2300 Siler CityGlendon Road, Siler City) seeks to begin its next chapter, we are enjoying hearing a word from the Lord from various old and new friends. Our service begins at 10:30 a.m., but we also have Sunday School classes for every member of the family at 9:30 a.m. We would be blessed if you joined us for any and all of these speakers in the coming weeks.
May 17 – John Strider
May 24 – Tim Howell May 31 – Gary Mccollough
We look forward to meeting you at any of these services and in the future, and invite you to pray with us as we seek a new pastor. To learn more, go to oakleybaptist.org or email us at oakleybaptistchurch@gmail.com.
Homecoming at Oakley will be Sunday, May 24 beginning at 10 a.m. for special music and 10:30 a.m. for worship service. Tim Howell will be our guest speaker.
A covered dish lunch will be provided after the service.
Please come and bring a friend! Everyone is welcome!
HOUSE OF PRAYER FELLOWSHIP CHURCH
The House of Prayer Fellowship Church, located at 549 Horton Road in Goldston, is excited to announce that we will be celebrating the 48th anniversary of our beloved pastor, Annie C. Glover, on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17.
The new guidance, published Monday in the journal Pediatrics, is similar to the previous policy statement but cites the latest research on why these breaks are essential for kids’ academic success and mental, physical, social and emotional growth.
For example, new evidence shows that kids need pauses between concentrated bouts of learning so the brain can hold and store the information. Researchers also say recess gives kids a chance to navigate relationships and build con dence, which is just as important for older kids as younger ones.
Murray and his colleagues also stressed the importance of physical activity in preventing obesity, a condition that now affects about 1 in 5 U.S. children and teens.
Given these bene ts, they recommend that recess be protected and never withheld for academic or punitive reasons, as sometimes happens in schools.
“If the child is disruptive or rude and disrespectful, recess is one of the things that teachers use to punish kids,” Murray said, adding that students struggling with behavioral issues or grades are often the ones who need recess most.
But those students aren’t the only ones losing out. Recess has been waning for all kids. Since the mid-2000s, up to 40% of school districts nationally have reduced or eliminated recess, according to data from the group Springboard to Active Schools in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Today, the duration of recess varies widely across U.S. schools, ranging from less than 10 minutes to more than an hour a day, the pediatrics group said. Older kids generally get less time than younger ones.
Ideally, studies show, kids should get a minimum of 20 minutes a day and multiple breaks. In other countries such as Denmark, Japan and
the United Kingdom, students get breaks after every 45 minutes to 50 minutes of classroom instruction.
“They should get a long enough period of time where they can destress and blow o steam and prepare for the next class,” Murray said.
Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, a childhood obesity expert at Mass General Brigham for Children in Boston, said she’s glad about the updated recess recommendations. She’s seen the importance of recess as both a doctor and mother of two. She recalled how her 8-year-old son learned how to play basketball at recess and now loves the game.
Fiechtner, who wasn’t involved in creating the guidance, agrees with the recommendation that middle and high school students need recess, too.
“As kids get older, they’re more on their screens. So it’s really helpful, I think, for outdoor activity and recess to be happening,” she said. “Recess is great. We all kind of need recess.”
We cordially invite you to join us for this special occasion. On Saturday, May 16 at 5 p.m., we will be honored to have the Rev. Stanley Burnette from Ward Memorial Church in Sanford as our guest speaker.
Then, on Sunday, May 17 at 11 a.m., Minister Je Covington Sr. from the House of Prayer Fellowship Church will be delivering a powerful message.
Following the Sunday morning service, dinner will be served. We extend a warm invitation to everyone to come and be a part of this wonderful celebration! We look forward to seeing each of you. Please come worship with us and bring a friend.
MATT YORK / AP PHOTO
Whittier Elementary School students enjoy recess in October 2022 in Mesa, Arizona.
PHOTOS COURTESY BENNETT RECREATION
obituaries
Patricia Ann Mann Glosson
Aug. 20, 1940 – May 5, 2026
Patricia Ann Mann Glosson, age 85, of Pittsboro, North Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, May 5th, after a long illness.
Pat, as she was lovingly known, made her home at 9680 Hwy 87 North in Pittsboro. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother whose life was centered around her family and her faith.
She is survived by her loving husband, John Glosson; her two children, Carla Hardin Copeland and Charles Gregory
Jeanette Christine Durham
Dec. 7, 1935 – May 4, 2026
Jeannette Christine Durham, age 90, a lifelong resident of Chatham County, passed away peacefully at the home of her son and daughterin-law, where she had been cared for the last few years.
Jeannette was born on
Irene Gertrude
Feb. 24, 1930 – May 6, 2026
Irene Gertrude Gray, 96, of Chatham County, went to her Heavenly home on Wednesday, May 6th, 2026, at her home surrounded by family.
Irene was born on February 24th, 1930, in Guilford County, to the late Emery and Bertha Skeen Gray. She is preceded in death by her parents, Emery and Bertha Gray; her husband, James L. Gray; and her sons, Thomas Gray and James R. Gray. Irene worked as an LPN at Chatham Hospital until she retired. She was a member of Gideons and the Silk Hope Ladies Club. She was a faithful church member. In her spare time, she liked farming and canning, and gardening. She loved nursing and helping people. She also liked doing ceramics.
Hardin; ve grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her great joy and pride. She is also survived by her brother, Bobby Mann.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Annie Mae Edwards Mann and John Julian Mann, as well as her brother, Johnny Mann.
Pat loved her family deeply and cherished every moment spent with them. She loved the Lord and lived a life rooted in faith, service, and devotion. She faithfully served her church and her community, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.
She will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, and the love she shared so freely. Her legacy of faith and family will continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
The family will receive friends during a visitation at 1:00 PM on Monday, May 11th, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM at Donaldson Funeral Home in Pittsboro, North Carolina.
In lieu of owers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
December 7, 1935, to the late James Durham and Jenney Hackney (Durham, Clark). She was also a longtime assistant manager/attendant at Service Distributors’ gas station in Pittsboro and worked in food services at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill.
She is survived by her sons, Rocky Wright of Sanford, Rick Stambach and wife Medelia of Pittsboro; granddaughters Melanie Festa and husband Raymond of San Francisco, CA, Miriam Larsson and husband Daniel of Cary; and her sister, Gaynell Martin, and brother Bobby Durham A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Lee Memory Garden in Sanford, with Pastor Mario Reatequi o ciating.
Online condolences may be made at PinesFunerals.com.
Fry & Prickett Funeral Home is serving the Durham family.
Left to cherish Irene’s memory are her daughter, Shirley Freeman and her husband, Bill of Siler City; her daughter-in-law, Charlene White of High Point; her brother, Roy L. Gray and his wife, Gloria Jean of Greensboro; her sister, Caroline Frazier and her husband, Dale of Randleman; her grandchildren, Travis and his wife, Christine of Trinity, Amanda and her husband, Mike of Thomasville, and Drew and his wife, Kristen of Franklinville; her great grandchildren, Savannah, Josh, Chandler, Callen, Sutton, Kinley, Abel, and Harrison; and her great great grandchildren, Aria, Adaline, and Anakin. A funeral service will be held Monday, May 11th, 2026, at 12:30 pm, at Faith Baptist Church in Siler City. A visitation will be held at 11 am to 12:30 pm prior to the service. Burial will follow at Westminster Gardens in Greensboro at 2:30 pm. Services will be o ciated by Reverend Bobby Shutt and Reverend Jay O’Dell. In lieu of owers, memorials can be made to The Gideons at https://gideons.org/donate in Irene’s name, or to Faith Baptist Church, 303 Hillbrook Blvd, Siler City, NC 27344. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Gray family. Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh. com
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Chatham News & Record at obits@chathamnewsrecord.com
John Gilbert Buckner
Dec. 26, 1933 – May 5, 2026
John Gilbert Buckner, 92, of Ramseur passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at his home in Ramseur. Gilbert was born on December 26, 1933 in Chatham County to parents Aubrey Buckner and Ollie Mae Fox Buckner.
He was a graduate of NC State University, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering. He went on to serve his country faithfully in the United States Army. Gilbert was the co-owner and President
IN MEMORY
of Auto Systems and Service in Ramseur, where he worked for 27 years.
In his early days, Gilbert worked to develop technology that would be used in the Lunar Rover during the space program of the 1960’s. Mr. Buckner loved traveling, visiting 49 out of 50 states in his motor home with his wife, Gilda. He loved spending time at the beach and hunting for sea shells, where he was referred to by his grandchildren as a “Professional Seasheller”.
He was a long time member and deacon of First Baptist Church of Ramseur. Most of all, Mr. Buckner loved his family and will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and “Pa”.
In addition to his parents, Gilbert was preceded in death by his siblings, Colleen Sykes, Katy Buckner, Wanda Ellis, and Doyle Buckner. Mr. Buckner is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Gilda Councilman Buckner of the home; children, Jasmin Buckner Cox and husband Derrick of Ramseur, Copper Bass and husband Glen of Willow Springs, Shannon Lee Lindley and wife Christy of Lake Tillary,
TOMMY LAWRENCE
MAY 6, 2026
Tommy Lawrence, age 91 of Cameron, NC, passed away on Wednesday (5/6/2026) at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, NC. Tommy was born in Wake County, NC. Son of Elie Lawrence and Cora Elsie Goodwin Lawrence. Tommy was a member of the Good Shepherd Baptist Church in Cameron, NC. One of Tommy’s favorite pastimes was shing from a pier at the coast. He also enjoyed shing in di erent ponds. Tommy enjoyed spending time at home and loved to listen to Bluegrass Gospel Music. He enjoyed spending his free time working word search books and watching “Tic Toc Video’s”.
Tommy was preceded in death by his parents: Elie Lawrence and Cora Elise Goodwin Lawrence. His wife Nancy Taylor Davis Lawrence. His daughter Jaconna “Connie” Grae Lawrence. Son William Arnold Lawrence.Two brothers; Robert Clifton Lawrence and John D. Lawrence. One sister Marie Lynn Potter.
Funeral Services will be conducted at 2 PM on Monday (5/11/2026) at Good Shepherd Baptist Church, 246 Flynn McPherson Road, Cameron, NC, with Pastor Donald Flynn and Pastor Jim Brady, O ciating.
Burial will follow in the Merry Oaks Cemetery in Moncure, NC.
Jonna Buckner Denning and husband Jack of Baltimore, MD, and Brandy Buckner Kramer and husband Tod of Denver Co; grandchildren, Claudia Kramer, Alden Kramer, Gri n Kramer, Nash Lindley, Stedson Lindley and wife Chase, Ilse Denning, Will Cox and wife Leighanna, Wyatt Cox, Westin Cox, Willow Cox, Destiny Spangler-Periera and husband Nevin, and Journey Bass; great-grandchild, Henry Cox; and brothers, Ed Buckner of Charlotte, Jerry Buckner and wife Diann of Greensboro, Ormond Buckner and wife Pat of Australia, and Donald Buckner.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, May 11, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Ramseur with Rev. Wayne Dunn o ciating.
The family will receive friends prior to the service for a time of visitation and refreshments from 12:30 until 1:45 pm in the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. Burial will follow the service at Rocky River Baptist Church in Siler City. Lo in Funeral Home of Ramseur is honored to serve the Buckner family.
ESTHER MEARL DUNLAP HUNDLEY
AUG. 20, 1944 – MAY 7, 2026
Esther Mearl Dunlap Hundley, 81, of Robbins, passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at FirstHealth Moore Regional. The private graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Union Grove Baptist Church with Dr. Ron Chaney presiding. Esther was born In Moore County on August 20, 1944 to Howard and Stella Rouse Dunlap. She was formerly employed as a waitress at Westmoore. She enjoyed cooking, canning, singing and life in general. She loved owers and cherished her time spent with her grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Earl Hundley; son, Earl Ray Hundley; two brothers, one sister and her son-in-law. Esther is survived by her daughters, Cheryl K. Prince, of Franklinville, Donna H. Perry (Jim), of Robbins and Robyn R. Roberts (Bo), of Asheboro; brother, E. Ray Dunlap, of Robbins; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; special nephew, Jackie Ray Dunlap (Kim), of Robbins and a host of family and friends.
Gray
CNN founder Ted Turner, brash and outspoken television pioneer, dead at age 87
The media mogul transformed cable news while amassing sports teams, ranches and billions
By David Bauder
The Associated Press
NEW YORK — Ted Turn-
er, a brash television pioneer who raced yachts, owned huge chunks of the American West and transformed the news business by launching CNN and introducing the 24 -hour cable news cycle, died last Wednesday. He was 87.
Turner died surrounded by his family, according to Turner Enterprises, the company that oversees his vast business interests. Turner owned professional sports teams in Atlanta, defended the America’s Cup in yachting in 1977 and donated a stunning $1 billion to United Nations charities. He married three women — most famously actor Jane Fonda — and earned the nicknames “Captain Outrageous” and “The Mouth of the South.”
He once bragged: “If only I had a little humility, I’d be perfect.”
He was slowed in later years by Lewy body dementia. Long out of the television business, he concentrated on philanthropy.
His garrulous personality sometimes overshadowed a risk-taking business acumen. By the time he sold his Turner Broadcasting System to Time Warner Inc. in 1996, Turner had turned his late father’s billboard company into a global conglomerate that included seven major cable networks, three professional sports teams and a pair of hit movie studios.
President Donald Trump, reacting to Turner’s death, called him “one of the Greats of All Time.”
The creation of CNN
Turner’s signature achievement was creating the Cable News Network, the rst 24 -hour, all-news television network in 1980. In part, Turner’s own frustration with television news was the instigator. He often worked past 8 p.m., after the ABC, CBS and NBC nightly newscasts had already gone o the air.
He took a chance by starting the operation in the early days of cable television, living in an apartment above its Atlanta o ce.
CNN’s breakthrough moment came during the Gulf War with Iraq in 1991. Most television journalists had ed Baghdad but CNN stayed, capturing arresting images of a war’s outbreak.
Turner was promised a continued role in CNN after his company’s sale to Time Warner but was gradually pushed out, much to his regret.
“The mistake I made was losing control of the company,” he later said.
Building TBS SuperStation
Robert Edward Turner III was born Nov. 19, 1938, in Cincinnati. When he was 9, his family moved to Savannah, Georgia, where he grew up. After being expelled from Brown University, Turner came to Atlanta to work for his domineering father’s billboard company, Turner Advertising.
After his father’s 1963 suicide, Turner took over the company. In 1970, he bought an independent
UHF station with a weak signal that didn’t even cover Atlanta. On Dec. 17, 1976, he began transmitting the station to cable systems across the country via satellite. It became the TBS SuperStation.
TBS’s motley collection of old movies and sitcom reruns was augmented by Turner’s acquisition of baseball’s Atlanta Braves. Perennial doormats, the Braves slowly attracted fans nationwide through their superstation exposure. In the 1980s, Turner went deeply into debt to buy MGM, a move again greeted with skepticism. But the acquisition gave his company a library of vintage movies that eventually were parlayed into the TNT and Turner Classic Movies networks.
He revealed his ambitions as a younger man: “I used to tell people I wanted to become the world’s greatest sailor, businessman and lover all at the same time.”
Acquiring sports teams and land
For much of his life a partying roustabout who wooed beautiful women, the lean, mustachioed sportsman married three times. He was married to Fonda from 1991 to 2001. She tired of his philandering and divorced him, although they remained friends.
Perhaps Turner’s greatest love
BUDGET from page A1
The budget also includes funding for four new positions: assistant project manager, development services division manager, senior planner, and downtown marketing and operations coordinator.
According to Meacham, the town’s goals for the upcoming scal year are to continue the current service levels with an aim toward e ciency and improvement, to retain, attract and provide educational and training opportunities for high-performing sta , and to do all of that with no increase to the tax rate and no appropriation of fund balance.
On that note, town sta is recommending maintaining the current property tax rate at $0.44 per $100 valuation.
The town has maintained that tax rate for the last four years, although it’s essen-
was for the land. He acquired millions of acres in ranches complete with roaming bu alo and was Nebraska’s largest private landholder. Researchers at Texas A&M University credited his donation of a few bulls in 2005 with helping increase the genetic diversity of the last herd of southern Plains bison.
He had a net worth of $2.5 billion in 2023 but had dropped o Forbes magazine’s ranking of the 400 richest Americans in 2021.
“See, my life is more an adventure than a quest to make money,” Turner once said.
Turner managed to insult many with his shoot-from-thelip style. An atheist since his only sister died of lupus at age 17, he called Christians “losers” and “Jesus freaks,” later apologizing for both remarks.
Dedication to various causes
Turner, the father of ve children, grabbed a leadership role in American philanthropy with his Sept. 18, 1997, pledge to give $1 billion to United Nations charities.
He promoted a range of humanitarian causes. Turner joined former U.S. Sen. Sam Nunn to start the Nuclear Threat Initiative, a U.S.-based nonpro t dedicated to reducing the threat of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons.
As he poured millions into nonpro ts on a global scale, Turner was also fond of spreading his wealth in small ways. He once gave $500 to a volunteer re department that helped extinguish a blaze on one of his ranches.
tially been nearly the same for the previous 10 years because from 2016-22, the tax rate was $0.4333 per $100 valuation.
“The only change in the last 10 years has been to round up the tax rate in 2022,” Meacham said.
According to Meacham, currently one penny of tax assessment is estimated to equal around $185,000 in revenue for the town, about an 8% increase from the prior year, which highlights the growth of the town.
“We want to maintain a responsible fund balance and a disciplined approach to align our limited resources with our highest priorities,” Meacham said. The nal budget will be presented to the board for approval in June.
The Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners will next meet June 8.
JOHN BAZEMORE / AP PHOTO
Ted Turner speaks during the CNN World Report Contributors banquet in Atlanta on May 4, 1995.
REAL ESTATE
LEARN ABOUT LAND - Chatham Land Experts, www.learnaboutland.com - 919-3626999.
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FOR RENT
FOR RENT – 2BDR/2BA MOBILE HOME FOR RENT IN Bonlee Elementary and Chatham Central High School District – No Pets – Call 919-837-5689 and leave a message. 2tp
POWELL SPRINGS APTS. Evergreen Construction introduces its newest independent living community for adults 55 years or older, 1 and 2 bedroom applications now being accepted. O ce hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 919533-6319 for more information, TDD #1800-735-2962, Equal housing opportunity, Handicapped accessible. A2,tfnc
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS now for onebedroom apartments, adults 55 years or older. Water included, appliances furnished, on-site laundry, elevator, keyless entry. Section 8 accepted. No security deposit. Application fee $25 per adult. Call Braxton Manor, 919-663-1877. Handicap accessible. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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AUCTIONS
RICKY ELLINGTON AUCTIONEERSEquipment, business, liquidation, estates, land, houses, antiques, personal property, coins, furniture, consignments, bene ts, etc., NCAL #7706, 919-548-3684, 919-663-3556. Jy6,tfnc
SERVICES
RAINBOW WATER FILTERED VACUUMS, Alice Cox, Cox’s Distributing - Rainbow - Cell: 919548-4314, Sales, Services, Supplies. Serving public for 35 years. Rada Cutlery is also available.
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JUNK CARS PICKED UP Free of charge. Due to many months of low steel prices and unstable steel markets, we cannot pay for cars at this time. Cars, trucks, and machinery will be transported and environmentally correctly recycled at no charge. 919-5422803.
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LETT’S TREE SERVICE - tree removal, stump grinding, lot clearing. Visa & Master Card accepted. Timber. Free estimates. 919-2583594.
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CASH PAID FOR JUNK CARS AND PICKUPS –Call – 336-581-3423
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FOR SALE
1975 Ford 4000 Diesel Tractor – (Needs Work), RC 200-72 Bush Hog, 72” cut, Runs Good and in Good Shape, and a Hay Pick. $1,800 for all three! Call 336-508-0356. 5tp
dishwasher are included in the rent. Rent starts at $630 and up. 400 Honeysuckle Dr., Pittsboro, NC 27312 919-542-5410 TDD 1-800-735-2962 Email: pittsborovillage@ECCMGT.com
TAKE NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
CHATHAM COUNTY ABC The Proposed Budget for the Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027 has been submitted to the Chatham County ABC Board. A copy of the proposed Budget is available for public inspection in the o ce of the general manager of the Chatham County ABC Board at 10435 US 64 HWY E. Apex, NC 27523, and may be reviewed by the public during normal working hours. Interested citizens are invited to make comments orally at a Public Hearing to be held on Wednesday, May 27th, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at the Chatham County ABC o ce located at 10435 US 64 HWY E. Apex, NC 27523. Written comments may be submitted prior to that date and should be addressed to the Chatham County ABC Board at 10435 US 64 HWY E. Apex, NC 27523. Matthew Williams General Manager Chatham County ABC
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM In the Chatham County General Court of Justice District Court Division Ocampo v. Ocampo File No: 26CV000448-180
NOTICE
Anthemnet, Inc proposes to build a 199foot monopine communications tower at the approx. vicinity of 1879 Andrews Store Road, Pittsboro, Chatham County, NC 27312 [Lat: 35-48-57.5, Long: -797-29.36]. Public comments regarding potential e ects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Trileaf Corp, Hannah Dell, h.dell@trileaf. com, 1775 The Exchange SE, Suite 525, Atlanta, GA 30339, 314-492-3468.
NOTICE
CHATHAM COUNTY FY27 BUDGET
HEARING NOTICE
The Chatham County budget for FY202627 has been submitted to the Board of Commissioners and is available for public inspection on the Chatham County website or in the o ce of the Clerk to the Board, located at 12 East Street in Pittsboro. The Chatham County Board of Commissioners will hold two public hearings on the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Budget on Monday, May 18, 2026 at 6:00pm and Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 6:00pm. The public is invited to attend the hearing to express their viewpoints. The hearing on May 18, 2026 will be held at the Historic Courthouse located at 9 Hillsboro Street in Pittsboro at 6:00pm. The hearing on May 19, 2026 will be held at Siler City Town Hall located at 311 North Second Avenue in Siler City at 6:00pm. To speak sign up on the county website or submit written comments to Clerk to the Board Jenifer Johnson at PO Box 1809, Pittsboro, NC 27312 or jenifer.johnson@ chathamcountync.gov.
NOTICE ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against Cathy Blair Regan, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before July 23rd, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 23rd day of April 2026. Kimberly Wallace, Executor Estate of Cathy Blair Regan c/o Roberson Law Firm 1829 E. Franklin St., Ste. 800C Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Run Dates: 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM LEGAL NOTICE
The undersigned, Kenneth Hilliard, having quali ed on April 20, 2026 as Executor of the Estate of Arthur Jackson Hilliard, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned’s Attorney, Tyler F. Chriscoe, at 135 West New Hampshire Avenue, P. O. Box 371, Southern Pines, North Carolina 28388-0371 on or before the 3rd day of August, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 30th day of April, 2026. Kenneth Hilliard, Executor Estate of Arthur Jackson Hilliard Tyler F. Chriscoe Attorney for the Estate Poyner Spruill LLP
Attorneys at Law
P. O. Box 371 Southern Pines, N. C. 28388-0371
4: 30, and 5: 7, 14, 21, 2026
Notice to Creditors
Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of MICHAEL JOSEPH MCCORMICK, late of Chatham County, North Carolina (26E000177-180), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 10th day of August, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 7th day of May 2026. Daniel Dylan McCormick Administrator of the Estate of Michael Joseph McCormick
c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law
P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 05/07, 05/14, 05/21, 05/28/26)
CREDITOR’S NOTICE
Having quali ed on the 23rd day of April 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Sammy Franklin Dickinson, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of July 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment. This is the 23rd day of April 2026. Jan Rene Boydstun, Executor of the Estate of Sammy Franklin Dickinson 226 Haven Creek Road Apt 101 Pittsboro, N.C., 27312 Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: April 30, May 7, 14 and 21 of 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Chatham County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF DONNA OLSEN–26E000167-180 Having quali ed as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of Donna Olsen, aka Donna Kullman Olsen deceased, Chattam Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 5th day of August 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 7 th day of May, 2026. AMY OLSEN, ADMINISTRATOR DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717
CREDITOR’S NOTICE
Having quali ed on the 17th day of April 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Benner Henry Stinson, Jr., deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 23rd day of July 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment. This is the 20th day of April 2026. Margaret S, Stinson, Executor of the Estate of Benner Henry Stinson, Jr. 904 Delphus Stinson Road Goldston, NC 27252
Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330
Publish On: April 23, 30, and May 7, 14, 2026
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING
The proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Budget for the Town of Siler City has been presented to the Town Board of Commissioners and is available for public inspection. To view the proposed budget, please visit www.silercity.org or contact Town Clerk Briana Martinez at 919-7424731 or bmartinez@silercity.gov
A Public Hearing will be held on the budget ordinance for Fiscal Year 20262027 at the Board of Commissioners Special Meeting Monday May 18, 2026, at 6:00pm in the Town of Siler City-City Hall Courtroom located at 311 North Second Ave. Citizens are invited to submit written comments to Town Clerk Briana Martinez @ bmartinez@silercity.gov or or by mail at PO Box 769, Siler City NC 27344
CREDITOR’S NOTICE
Having quali ed on the 28th day of April 2026, as Co-Executors of the Estate of Margie W. Johnson, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 7st day of August, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment. This is the 29th day of April 2026. Eric Johnson, Co-Executor of the Estate of Margie W. Johnson 5090 Butner Drive Hickory, NC 28602 Brad Johnson, Co-Executor of the Estate of Margie W. Johnson 6307 Whedbee Road Julian, NC 27283
Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: May 7th, 14th 21st and 28th 2026.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
A public hearing will be held by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners on Monday, May 18, 2026, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The public hearing will be held in the courtroom of the Historic Courthouse in Pittsboro, North Carolina at 9 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro NC 27312. Additional information is available at the Chatham County Planning Department o ce. Speakers are requested to sign up at the meeting prior to the hearing. You may also sign up on the county website prior to the meeting at www. chathamcountync.gov by selecting the heading County Government, then Commissioner Meetings, then Public Comment. The public hearing may be continued to another date at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive input, both written and oral, on the issues listed below. Testimony is required to be given under oath during the evidentiary hearing for the following item: Quasi-Judicial Request: A quasi-judicial public hearing requested by Margus Properties, LLC and The Towers, LLC for a Special Use Permit Wireless Telecommunications tower of 199 ft, on Parcel 65693, located at 460 Murchison Rd., Goldston, Gulf Township.
Substantial changes may be made following the public hearing due to verbal or written comments received or based on the Board’s discussions. Notice to people with special needs: If you have audio or visual impairment, unique accessibility requirements or need language assistance, please call the number listed below prior to the hearing and assistance may be provided. If you have any questions or comments concerning these issues, please call the Chatham County Planning Department at 919-542-8204, or write to P.O. Box 54, Pittsboro N.C. 27312. Please run in your paper: May 7th and 14th, 2026
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The proposed budget for the Town of Goldston for scal year 2026/2027 has been presented to the town council and is available for public inspection at the Town Hall Building, 40 Coral Avenue, Goldston, NC, by appointment, after 5:00 pm weekdays. The Town of Goldston will hold a public hearing on June 1, 2026 at 7:00 pm at the Goldston Municipal Center, 40 Coral Avenue, Goldston NC for the purpose of receiving comments on the proposed budget. Citizens are invited to make oral or written comments. Jonathan W Hensley Mayor of Goldston
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against THOMAS BRIEN NEFF, deceased, of Chatham County, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before, the 30th day of July, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This 30th day of April, 2026. PAMELA STRAUB NEFF, Executrix
THOMAS BRIEN NEFF
c/o Tillman, Whichard & Cagle, PLLC 501 Eastowne Drive, Suite 130 Chapel Hill, NC 27514
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE
SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION
CASE NO 26E000235-180
Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Juan Carlos Gonzalez, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Juan Carlos Gonzalez, to present them to the undersigned on or before the 12th day of August, 2026 (this date being 3 months from the rst publication date of this notice) or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 14th day of May, 2026. Susana Gonzalez Administrator of the Estate of Juan Carlos Gonzalez 2865 1st Street Vero Beach, FL 32968
Attorney’s Address: Stephanie M. LeBlanc, Esq. LeBlanc Law Firm, PLLC 1 Page Avenue, Suite 229 - Grove Arcade Asheville, NC 28801
Publication Dates: May 14, May 21, May 28, June 04, 2026.
NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS File No: 26E000078-180
Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of MERLE LEE FEATHERS, deceased, of 13 Danbury Ct., Chatham County, Pittsboro, NC 27312, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned in care of the attorney for the estate on or before July 31, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 30th day of April, 2026. Je rey L. Austin Executor of the Estate of Merle Lee Feathers c/o Law O ce of Je rey L. Austin, PLLC 500 Westover Dr. #32043 Sanford, NC 27330 FOR PUBLICATION: The Chatham News & Record 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, and 5/21/2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Thomas Bayard Hollingsworth, Jr., deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before 07/31/2026 or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All claims must be presented in writing and delivered or mailed to:
James D. Hollingsworth, Executor 1309 Snyder Street Durham, NC 27713 This the 26th day of April, 2026. James D. Hollingsworth Executor of the Estate of Thomas Bayard Hollingsworth, Jr. Chatham County Estate File No.: 26E000039-180 Publication Dates (once a week for four consecutive weeks): 4/30/2026 / 5/7/2026] / 05/14/2026 /05/21/2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ESTATE OF GEORGE DANIEL JOHNSON FILE NO. 26E000201-180
All persons, rms and corporations having claims against GEORGE DANIEL JOHNSON, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before August 7, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in the bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment.
This the 30th day of April, 2026. KELLY L JOHNSON, Executor C/O Caitlin Stone, Attorney for the Estate Pierce Law Group, PLLC 3020 S. Miami Blvd, Ste 201 Durham, NC 27703 A30, 7, 14 and 21
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA
CHATHAM COUNTY
26E000222-180 ALL persons having claims against Lois Jane Helburn, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before July 30, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 30th day of April, 2026.
BRUCE JAMES STEINHARDT, Administrator C/O Pierce Law Group, PLLC 3020 S Miami Blvd, Suite 201 Durham, NC 27703 April 30, May 7, 14, 21 A30, 7, 14 and 21
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
26E000189-180 ALL persons having claims against Joyce Ellis Clark, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Jul 23 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 23rd day of April, 2026.
MELVIN ALAN CLARK C/O SIMPSON LAW FIRM, Executor C/O Simpson Law Firm 1188 Stonecrest Blvd, Suite #105 Fort Mill, SC 29708 A23, 30, 7 and 14
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
FILE#26E000250-180 The undersigned DOROTHY TAYLOR, having quali ed on the 29TH Day of APRIL 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of MATTHEW TAYLOR, JR., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 7TH Day OF AUGUST 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 7TH DAY OF MAY 2026. DOROTHY TAYLOR, EXECUTOR 300 RIVER BEND ROAD SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: M7,14,21,28p
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY Special Proceedings No. 25SP000214-180
Substitute Trustee: Philip A. Glass RE-NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
Date of Sale: May 19, 2026
Time of Sale: 2:00 p.m. Place of Sale: Chatham County Courthouse
Description of Property: See Attached
Description Record Owners: Travis Ellis Coleman Address of Property: 49 High Forty Road, Siler City, NC 27344Deed of Trust: Book : 2320 Page: 739
Dated: August 16, 2022 Grantors: Travis Ellis Coleman an unmarried person Original Bene ciary: Local Government Federal Credit Union CONDITIONS OF SALE: This sale is made subject to all unpaid taxes and superior liens or encumbrances of record and assessments, if any, against the said property, and any recorded leases. This sale is also subject to any applicable county land transfer tax, and the successful third party bidder shall be required to make payment for any such county land transfer tax. It is the intent of the holder of the above Deed of Trust that the execution, delivery and recordation of a Trustee Deed to the holder as high bidder shall not merge with any superior Deeds of Trust held by the holder of the above Deed of Trust,
to this Notice of Sale is being o ered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS.” THERE ARE NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES relating to the title or to any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. A cash deposit of 5% of the purchase price will be required at the time of the sale. Remote bidding will not be accepted pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes Section 45-21.25 (a). Credit bids on behalf of the Noteholder will be accepted. Any successful bidder shall be required to tender the full balance of the purchase price so bid in cash or certi ed check at the time the Substitute Trustee tenders to him a deed for the property or attempts to tender such deed, and should said successful bidder fail to pay the full balance purchase price so bid at that time, he shall remain liable on his bid as provided for in North Carolina General Statutes Section 45-21.30 (d) and (e). This sale will be held open ten (10) days for upset bids as required by law. Residential real property with less than 15 rental units, including single-family residential real property: an order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be e ective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the e ective date of the termination. Philip A. Glass, Substitute Trustee Nodell, Glass & Haskell, L.L.P. Real Property located in the City of SILER CITY, County of CHATHAM, State of NORTH CAROLINA, described as follows: Lying and being In Bear Creek Township, Chatham County, North Carolina, and being all of Parcel #1, containing 1.57 acres, including a Right of Way for High Forty Road, as shown on a Plat dated February 6, 2003, recorded in Plat Book 2003 at page 48, Chatham County Registry, as drawn by Mark Terry & Associates, Inc., P.C. entitled, “Minor Subdivision for John Wesley Coleman”. Reference Is hereby made to said Plat for more accuracy and certainty of description. BEING all of that certain property conveyed to John Wesley Coleman, from George Robert Ellis and wife, Nora Lee Ellis, by Deed dated February 27, 2003, and recorded on March 6, 2003, at Book 1001, Page 333, of the o cial records. Subject to easements, restrictions and rights of way of record, and utility lines and rights of way in existence over, under or upon the above-described property. PIN:863700719624 Property Address: 49 High Forty Rd. Siler City, NC 27344 M7 and 14
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY
26E000227-180 ALL persons having claims against Mary T Schaumburg-Bo nger, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Aug 07 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 7th day of May, 2026. John R Knauf, Executor C/O Beth W Bowen 590 New Waverly Place, Suite 120 Cary, NC 27518 M7, 14, 21 and 28
NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM Having quali ed as Personal Representative of the Estate of Joe David Styres aka Joe D. Styres, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to present them to the undersigned attorney for the estate on or before August 7, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations in debted to the said estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 7th day of May 2026 Karen Louise Styres aka Karen L. Styres Personal Representative Adam G. Kerr Kerr Law, PLLC PO Box 10941 Greensboro, NC 27404 Telephone: (336) 808-5028 Fax: (336) 464-2819 May 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000175-180 The undersigned LATOYA FOX, having quali ed on the 30TH Day of MARCH 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of ALYEASE FOX, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day OF JULY 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 23RD DAY OF APRIL 2026. LATOYA FOX, ADMINISTRATOR 97 RILEY LANE SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: A23,30,M7,14p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000661-180 The undersigned JONATHAN K. MCMILLAN, having quali ed on the 20TH Day of APRIL 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BOBBY EUGENE MCMILLAN, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 30TH Day OF JULY 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 30TH DAY OF APRIL 2026. JONATHAN K. MCMILLAN, EXECUTOR 188 LORI LANE SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: A30,M7,14,21p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000257-180 The undersigned GANG NAM YOO, having quali ed on the 30TH Day of APRIL 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of CHUN CHA YOO., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 7TH Day OF AUGUST 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 7TH DAY OF MAY 2026. GANG NAM YOO, ADMINISTRATOR 354 SKY LANE PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: M7,14,21,28p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000146-180 The undersigned AMY LYNDON, having quali ed on the 27TH Day of MARCH 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JAMES M. LYNDON, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 30TH Day OF JULY 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 30TH DAY OF APRIL 2026. AMY LYNDON, EXECUTOR 17302 BELMONT STAKES LANE CHARLOTTE, NC 28278 Run dates: A30,M7,14,21p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000229-180 The undersigned WANDA STAFFORD AND JAMES HADLEY, having quali ed on the 20TH Day of APRIL 2026 as COEXECUTORS of the Estate of JEANETTE LINDLEY HADLEY, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 30TH Day OF JULY 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 30TH DAY OF APRIL 2026. WANDA STAFFORD, CO-EXECUTOR 4457 SILK HOPE LINDLEY MILL RD. SNOW CAMP, NC 27349 JAMES HADLEY, CO-EXECUTOR 4305 SILK HOPE LINDLEY MILL RD. SNOW CAMP, NC 27349 Run dates: A30,M7,14,21p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000242-180 The undersigned TAMARA TICKLE, having quali ed on the 23RD Day of APRIL 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of ROBERT L. MIMS, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 30TH Day OF JULY 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 30TH DAY OF APRIL 2026. TAMARA TICKLE, ADMINISTRATOR 309 PINEYWOOD CHURCH RD. CAMERON, NC 28326 Run dates: A30,M7,14,21p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000230-180 The undersigned DWIGHT W. WALKER, having quali ed on the 20TH Day of APRIL 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of STANLEY PARRISH WALKER, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 7TH Day OF AUGUST 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 7TH DAY OF MAY 2026. DWIGHT W. WALKER, ADMINISTRATOR 2706 VESTAL ST. GREENSBORO, NC 27406 Run dates: M7,14,21,28p
Virginia Supreme Court strikes down Democrats’ redrawn US House maps, giving Republicans win
Combined with weakened voting rights protections, the ruling strengthens Republican gerrymandering e orts
By David A. Lieb and Geo Mulvihill
The Associated Press
THE VIRGINIA Supreme Court on Friday struck down a voter-approved Democratic congressional redistricting plan, delivering another major setback to the party in a nationwide battle against Republicans for an edge in this year’s midterm elections.
The court ruled 4-3 that the state’s Democratic-led legislature violated procedural requirements when it placed the constitutional amendment on the ballot to authorize mid-decade redistricting. Voters narrowly approved the amendment on April 21, but the court’s ruling renders the vote’s result meaningless.
Writing for the majority, Justice D. Arthur Kelsey wrote that the legislature submitted the proposed constitutional amendment to voters “in an unprecedented manner.”
“This violation irreparably undermines the integrity of the resulting referendum vote and renders it null and void,” he wrote.
Democrats had hoped to win as many as four additional U.S. House seats under Virginia’s redrawn map as part of an attempt to o set Republican redistricting done elsewhere at the urging of President Donald Trump. Later Friday, Virginia Democrats said in a ling that they intended to le an emergency appeal of the state high court’s decision with the U.S. Supreme Court.
Friday’s ruling, combined with a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that severely weakened the Voting Rights Act, has supercharged Republicans’ congressional gerrymandering advantage heading into this year’s midterm elections.
“Huge win for the Republican Party, and America, in Virginia,” Trump said about the decision on his social media account.
Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, said the ruling was another sign of GOP momentum heading into the midterms.
TAKE NOTICE
26SP000008-180
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
NORTH CAROLINA, CHATHAM COUNTY
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale
contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Anthony Scott Murray, Unmarried Man to Blue Door Homes LLC, Trustee(s), which was dated March 17, 2021 and recorded on March 17, 2021 in Book 2197 at Page 399, Chatham County Registry, North Carolina.
Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on May 28, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Chatham County, North Carolina, to wit:
BEING all of Unit No. 49 in The Cottages
Condominium I, as shown on plat recorded
“We’re on o ense, and we’re going to win,” he said in a statement.
Don Scott, the Democratic speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, said Democrats respect the court’s opinion but lamented that it overturned the will of the voters: “They voted yes because they wanted to ght back against the Trump power grab.”
Suzan DelBene, chairwoman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, criticized the court majority for what she said was a decision that “cast aside the will of the voters,” but she said the people will have the nal say.
“In November, they will, and they’ll power Democrats to the House majority,” she said in a statement.
A longshot Democratic appeal
Democrats are taking a legal longshot in asking the nation’s highest court to reverse the Virginia ruling. The U.S. Supreme Court tries to avoid second-guessing state courts’ interpretations of their own constitutions. In 2023, it turned down a request by North Carolina Republicans to overrule a state Supreme Court decision that blocked the GOP’s congressional map.
Still, even an unsuccessful appeal would let Democrats try to blame their failure on the conservative majority that dominates the nation’s highest court, which has already infuriated the party and civil rights groups
“They voted yes because they wanted to ght back against the Trump power grab.”
Don Scott, Virginia House of Delegates speaker
by neutering the Voting Rights Act.
Legislative voting districts typically are redrawn once a decade after each census to account for population changes. But Trump sparked an unusual urry of mid-decade redistricting last year by encouraging Republican o cials in Texas to redraw districts in a bid to win several additional U.S. House seats and hold on to their party’s narrow majority in the midterm elections.
California responded with new voter-approved districts drawn to Democrats’ advantage, and Utah’s top court imposed a new congressional map that also helps Democrats. Meanwhile, Republicans stand to gain from new House districts passed in Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio and Tennessee. They could add even more after the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the Voting Rights Act case, which has prompted some other Republican states to consider redrawing their maps in time for this year’s elections.
Virginia is currently represented in the U.S. House by six Democrats and ve Republicans, all elected from districts
in the o ce of the Register of Deeds for Chatham County, North Carolina, in Condominium Book 1, Pages 91 through 93, and Pages 97 through 103, together with an undivided interest in the Common Elements and all rights, obligations and interests appurtenant to the Unit as set forth in the Declaration of Condominium for The Cottages Condominium I recorded in the o ce of the Register of Deeds for Chatham County, North Carolina, in Book 2098, Page 1057, as amended by First Supplemental Declaration to Declaration of Condominium for The Cottages Condominium I recorded in Book 2108, Page 884; as amended by Second Supplemental Declaration to Declaration of Condominium for The Cottages Condominium I recorded in Book 2114, Page 435; as amended by Third Supplemental Declaration to Declaration of Condominium for The Cottages Condominium I recorded in Book 2133, Page 329; as amended by Fourth Supplemental Declaration to Declaration of Condominium for The Cottages Condominium I recorded in Book 2178, Page 200, and any additional amendments or supplemental declarations thereto. Parcel ID# 0094092
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
Said property is commonly known as 286 Cottage Way, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
A Certi ed Check ONLY (no personal checks) of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
Said property to be o ered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being o ered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current
imposed by a court following a bipartisan redistricting commission’s failure to agree on a map after the 2020 census. The new districts could have given Democrats an improved chance to win all but one of the state’s 11 congressional seats.
The state Supreme Court’s majority was critical of the state’s redrawing of the congressional maps to bene t one political party. Those justices noted that 47% of the state’s voters supported GOP congressional candidates in 2024, but the new map could result in Democrats making up 91% of the state’s House delegation.
What was in the Democrats’ map
Under the Democratic-drawn map, ve districts would have been anchored in the Democratic stronghold of northern Virginia. Revisions to four other districts across Richmond, southern Virginia and Hampton Roads would have diluted the voting power of conservative blocs in those areas. And a reshaped district in parts of western Virginia would have lumped together three Democratic-leaning college towns to o set other Republican voters.
The state Supreme Court’s seven justices are appointed by the state legislature, which has toggled back and forth between Democratic, Republican and split control over recent years. Legal experts say the body doesn’t have a set ideological pro le.
The case before the court focused not on the shape of the new districts but rather on the process the General Assembly used to authorize them.
Because the state’s redistricting commission was established by a voter-approved constitutional amendment, lawmakers had to propose an amendment to redraw the districts. That required approval of a resolution in two separate legislative sessions, with a state election sandwiched in between, to place the amendment on the ballot.
The legislature’s initial approval of the amendment occurred last October, during early voting for the general election, before it concluded. The legislature’s second vote on the amendment occurred after a new legislative session began in January. Lawmakers also approved a sep-
owner(s) of the property is/are Anthony Scott Murray.
An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be e ective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the e ective date of the termination.
Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be
arate bill in February laying out the new districts, subject to voter approval of the constitutional amendment.
Arguments over the de nition of “election”
Judicial arguments focused on whether the legislature’s initial approval of the amendment came too late because early voting already had begun.
Attorney Matthew Seligman, who defended the legislature, argued that the “election” should be de ned narrowly to mean the Tuesday of the general election. In that case, the legislature’s rst vote on the redistricting amendment occurred before the election and was constitutional, he told justices.
But in its ruling, the Supreme Court said, “this view appears to be wholly unprecedented in Virginia’s history.”
An attorney for the plainti s, Thomas McCarthy, argued an “election” should be interpreted to cover the entire period during which voters can cast ballots, which lasts several weeks in Virginia. If that’s the case, he told justices, then the legislature’s initial endorsement of the redistricting amendment came too late to comply with the state constitution.
The Supreme Court agreed with that argument, writing: “The General Assembly passed the proposed constitutional amendment for the rst time well after voters had begun casting ballots during the 2025 general election.”
By the time lawmakers initially endorsed the amendment, voters already had cast more than 1.3 million ballots in the general election, about 40% of the total votes ultimately cast, the court said.
The Supreme Court’s ruling a rms a decision by a judge in rural Tazewell County, in southwestern Virginia. The court had placed a hold on that ruling and allowed the redistricting vote to proceed before hearing arguments on the case.
In the dissent to Friday’s ruling, Chief Justice Cleo Powell said the election for the purpose of considering the amendment does not include the early voting period.
“The majority’s de nition creates an in nite voting loop that appears to have no established beginning,” she wrote, “only a de nitive end: Election Day.”
ALLEN G. BREED / AP PHOTO
State Senate Minority Leader Ryan McDougle, right, speaks outside the Supreme Court of Virginia after arguments were heard in a redistricting-related case at the court in Richmond, Virginia, on April 27.
CHATHAM SPORTS
Northwood’s Mabel Collins runs toward the ball against Southwestern Randolph on May 7.
Northwood girls’ soccer wins share of conference crown
The Chargers share the Four Rivers 3A/4A title with Uwharrie Charter
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
PITTSBORO — For the rst time in nearly three decades, the Northwood girls’ soccer
team is conference champion.
In their regular seasonnale, the Chargers defeated Southwestern Randolph 4-0 on May 7 to clinch a share of the Four Rivers 3A/4A crown and their rst conference championship since 1997. They share the title with Uwharrie Charter after both nished the year 9-1 in conference play.
“It’s a great achievement this year,” senior Amelia Cherry said. “A bunch of injuries, but I’m glad we could pull through and do it. I think it’s really deserved by this team, and I think that many people look at us as underdogs because of this and that, but honestly, I think that we deserved this.”
Senior Sulema Arias record-
SOFTBALL PLAYOFFS ROUNDUP: ROUNDS 1-2
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
Second round
In the 5A East bracket, No. 5 Seaforth advanced to the third round for the second straight year by defeating No. 12 Western Alamance 3-0 Friday. Pitcher Emma Grace Hill dominated the Warriors, striking out 13 batters and allowing two hits in a complete game.
Seaforth led 1-0 with two outs in the bottom of the fth inning when Alyssa Harris hit a two-run homer. Harris led the Hawks’ o ensive e ort, going 2 for 3 with three RBIs. No. 10 Northwood pulled o an upset over No. 7 Martin County 11-2 in the 3A East playo s, advancing to the third round for the rst time since 2016. Senior Allison Bryant had a big night at the plate with a two-run home run in the fourth inning. Bryant went 3 for 4 with three RBIs. Freshman Ruby Parks recorded team highs of three runs and four stolen bases.
Northwood blew the game open with six runs in the fourth inning. No. 3 Chatham Central’s season ended in the rst round of the 1A West playo s with a
“This
Ascary Arias
ed a goal and an assist in the win. Cherry, senior Mabel Collins and sophomore Addison Walker also scored a goal each. Arias scored the rst goal of the game 12 minutes into the rst half. The Chargers, who took 13 shots in the rst period, created many scoring opportunities early, but they just didn’t fall. One of those was a shot by Cherry that appeared to have gone in through the back left corner of the net. The ball rolled out of the net through a hole, but the goal was not counted.
“The side netting’s loose, so when it went in, it went out,” Cherry said. “Side ref just wasn’t on it today, but it happens,
BASEBALL PLAYOFF ROUNDUP: ROUNDS 1-2 Seaforth, 1A teams stay alive for round 3
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
Second round
Chatham Charter, the No. 2 seed in the West region, reached the third round of the 1A state playo s for the third time in four seasons with a 2-1 second round win over No. 10 Bethany Community Friday. In a defensive battle, senior pitcher Garrison Clark earned the win after striking out ve batters and allowing three hits and one earned run in the rst four innings. Sophomore Jax Young earned the save on the mound with four strikeouts and zero hits allowed in the last three innings. Chatham Charter was outhit 3-2. Bethany Community struck rst in the top of the third inning with an RBI double by senior Gavin Washburn.
In the bottom of the fourth, Clark, facing two outs, tripled for the Knights’ rst hit of the game. After senior Tyner Williams was walked in the following at-bat, Young hit a two-RBI single, sending Williams and Bryson Green (Clark’s pinch runner) home for the lead. Further down the 1A West bracket, No. 5 Chatham Central punched its ticket to the third round for the rst time
Career wins for Chatham Central coach Brett Walden after a second round win
since 2022 after defeating No. 4 Clover Garden 3-0. On his birthday, Chatham Central coach Brett Walden notched his 100th career win. Junior pitcher Brett Phillips stonewalled the Grizzlies’ o ense as he struck out six batters and allowed two hits in a complete game.
Up 1-0, the Bears gave themselves some more cushion with two runs in the top of the sixth inning. After a sacrice bunt by sophomore Blake Ritter scored junior Carson Jackson, junior Wilson Hinshaw recorded an RBI single to send senior Brayden Brewer home for a three-run lead. No. 9 Seaforth used a late -game burst to defeat No. 8 South Brunswick 6-1 in the second round of the 5A East playo s. The Hawks reached the third round for the third consecutive season. Facing one out with a 2-1
B3 See SOFTBALL, page B4
this week in history
Mickey Mouse debuts, SCOTUS rules on Brown v. Board of Education, Mount St. Helens erupts
The Associated Press
MAY 14
1607: Jamestown, the rst permanent English settlement in North America, was established by members of the Virginia Company.
1804: The Lewis and Clark expedition, organized to explore the Louisiana Territory and the Paci c Northwest, began its journey near present-day Hartford, Illinois.
1948: The independent state of Israel was proclaimed in Tel Aviv by David Ben-Gurion, who became its rst prime minister.
MAY 15
1800: President John Adams ordered government ofces to relocate from Philadelphia to the newly constructed city of Washington in the federal District of Columbia.
1862: President Abraham Lincoln signed an act establishing the Department of Agriculture.
1928: Mickey Mouse made his rst public appearance in a test screening of the short “Plane Crazy.” (He made his formal debut six months later in “Steamboat Willie.”)
MAY 16
1929: The rst Academy Awards were presented. “Wings” won Outstanding Picture, while Emil Jannings and Janet Gaynor were named best actor and best actress.
1943: The Warsaw Ghetto Uprising came to an end as German forces crushed the Jewish resistance and destroyed the Great Synagogue.
1966: The Chinese Communist Party issued the May 16 Noti cation, criticizing “counterrevolutionary revisionists” and marking the start of the Cultural Revolution.
MAY 17
1792: The Buttonwood Agreement, a document codifying rules for securities trading, was signed by 24 New York stockbrokers, marking the formation of the New York Stock Exchange.
1875: The rst Kentucky Derby was held; Aristides won the race, ridden by jockey Oliver Lewis.
1954: The U.S. Supreme Court, in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, ruled unanimously that racially segregated public schools were inherently unequal and unconstitutional.
MAY 18
1863: The Siege of Vicksburg began during the Civil War; it ended July 4 with a Union victory that gave its forces control of the Mississippi River.
1933: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a measure creating the Tennessee Valley Authority, the nation’s largest public utility.
1980: Mount St. Helens in Washington state erupted, leaving an estimated 57 people dead or missing.
MAY 19
1536: Anne Boleyn, the second wife of England’s King Henry VIII, was beheaded at the Tower of London after being convicted of adultery.
1883: William Cody staged the rst of his “Bu alo Bill’s Wild West” shows in Omaha, Nebraska.
1920: Ten people were killed in a gunbattle in Mate-
On May 17, 1954, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously in Brown v. Board of Education that segregated public schools were unconstitutional, striking down the “separate but equal” doctrine.
wan, West Virginia, between coal miners — led by a local police chief — and private security guards hired to evict them for joining a union.
MAY 20
1861: North Carolina seceded from the Union, becoming the 10th state to join the Confederacy early in the Civil War.
1862: President Abraham Lincoln signed the Homestead Act, encouraging settlement west of the Mississippi River by making federal land available for private ownership and farming; by 1934, about 10% of the nation’s land — roughly 270 million acres — had been privatized.
1873: Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis received a U.S. patent for riveted work pants, leading to the large-scale production of denim blue jeans.
1956: The United States exploded the rst airborne hydrogen bomb over Bikini Atoll in the Paci c.
AP PHOTO
AP PHOTO
Mount St. Helens in Washington state is shown in various stages of eruption on May 18, 1980.
Tony Award for educators won by Ga. teacher who stresses self-empowerment
His students include “Saturday Night Live” star Kenan Thompson
By Mark Kennedy The Associated Press
NEW YORK— At this year’s Tony Awards, sound designer Justin Ellington and performer-producer Kandi Burruss have gotten nominations to theater’s biggest prize. A man who helped both get there is also being highlighted.
Freddie Hendricks, a middle school theater teacher at Utopian Academy for the Arts in Ellenwood, Georgia, and who founded the Youth Ensemble of Atlanta, is getting the special Tony Award that honors educators.
“It feels really great to know that they’re succeeding on that level and that I had a little to do with it,” he told The Associated Press ahead of the announcement on Monday. “It’s just a beautiful thing.”
Hendricks has been an arts educator for more than 30 years and was an honorable mention for the special Tony in 2023 and 2024. He estimates between 20
Freddie Hendricks, a middle school theater teacher at Utopian Academy for the Arts in Ellenwood, Georgia, poses at the school on May 6.
and 30 of his students have gone on to Broadway, including Tony-nominated Saycon Sengbloh.
“I’ve always had a passion for theater. I’m an actor myself and when I got into teaching years and years and years and years ago, it became my passion,” he said.
Ellington, who has earned his third Tony nomination for “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” credits Hendricks as “the rst person to show me the importance of storytelling in theater.” Ellington watched as shy kids who
started quiet at the beginning of Hendricks’ class were by the end the featured singer or performer.
Hendricks is artistic director, writer and teacher for the Youth Ensemble of Atlanta, which is comprised of students ranging from 11-20. At Utopian, Hendricks trains students in a “rigorous, ensemble-based program of acting, movement and storytelling.”
“A lot of kids these days, they don’t love themselves,” he said. “They don’t know who they are, for one thing. And I just kind of start with that and then go with loving themselves for who they are and letting them know up front, ‘In here, this is a safe space. You’re loved in here. You’re accepted in here. This is your home.’”
Hendricks is known for encouraging his students to come up with topics they care about — poverty, gun violence, teen pregnancy, apartheid or AIDS — and building performances around their ideas from their perspective.
“That just empowered these kids so much,” says Ellington.
The annual Excellence in Theatre Education Award bestowed by the Tony Awards and
“It feels really great to know that they’re succeeding on that level and that I had a little to do with it. It’s just a beautiful thing.”
Freddie Hendricks
Carnegie Mellon University recognizes U.S. educators who have “demonstrated exemplary impact on the lives of students and who embodies the highest standards of the profession.”
Hendricks imparts the importance of theater skills — like collaborating, listening, interpreting, storytelling, checking your ego and taking criticism — even if his pupils go on to careers outside the arts.
“I just want to let them know that life is great out there and the key to success is to never stop the pursuit of it. Whatever you want, keep going. It’s not going to happen tomorrow. It’s not going to happen next year. Or if it does, you may lose it, but it will come again if you continue to pursue whatever it is that you desire.”
Late actor Perry’s ‘Friends’ keepsakes, artwork up for auction
The sitcom star died of a drug overdose in 2023 at age 54
By Andrew Dalton
The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES — “Friends” memorabilia, artwork and other valuables from the estate of Matthew Perry are being put up for sale at an auction to bene t the charitable foundation established in the actor’s name soon after his 2023 death.
The June 5 event put on by Heritage Auctions will benet the Matthew Perry Foundation, which works to destigmatize addiction and aid in recovery from substance abuse.
“Matthew believed addiction should be met with compassion and science, not stigma and silence,” the foundation’s CEO Lisa Kasteler Calio said in a statement. “This auction fuels the Foundation’s work to expand access to evidence-based care and confront stigma. It is one more way we ensure that no one has to ght this disease alone.”
Items from Matthew Perry’s collection that will be sold
• A collection of 26 of Perry’s “Friends” scripts from key episodes, including “The One With
“Matthew believed addiction should be met with compassion and science, not stigma and silence.”
Lisa Kasteler Calio, Matthew Perry Foundation CEO
Ross’s Tan,” “The One Where Joey Speaks French” and the two-part series nale.
• Scripts from the pilot and part one of the series nale signed by Perry and co-stars Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer, donated by Warner Bros., which produced the series.
• A 1995 Screen Actors Guild Award, which Perry won for best performance by an ensemble in a comedy series.
• Perry’s personal replica of the yellow peephole frame from Monica and Rachel’s apartment on “Friends.”
• Perry’s “Friends” photo album, titled “The One With the Last Supper.”
• Works of art by Banksy and Mel Bochner that Perry owned.
About the Matthew Perry charity auction
The auction site opened last
HERITAGE AUCTIONS
A Screen Actors Guild Award belonging to Matthew Perry and a cast-signed copy of the “Friends” pilot are among items for sale bene ting the late actor’s foundation.
Tuesday. Items will be on display from May 18 to May 29 in Beverly Hills before the June 5 auction that will be held at Heritage Auctions’ Dallas showroom and online.
Net proceeds will go to initiatives supported by the foundation. They include the Matthew Perry Fellowship in Addic-
tion Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, grants to organizations that work directly with recovering addicts, and Healing Appalachia, a recovery-focused sober music festival.
Perry played Chandler Bing for a decade from 1994 to 2004 on NBC’s culture-changing
sitcom “Friends.” It made him one of the biggest television stars of his generation. Perry was found dead in the hot tub of his Hollywood home at age 54 on Oct. 28, 2023. The medical examiner determined that the acute e ects of the anesthetic ketamine were the primary cause.
VIA AP
VINNY VARSALONA VIA AP
famous birthdays this week
George Lucas celebrates 82, Janet Jackson hits 60, Sugar Ray Leonard turns 70, Pete Townshend is 81
THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.
MAY 14
Baseball Hall of Famer Tony Pérez is 84. Filmmaker George Lucas is 82. Filmmaker Robert Zemeckis is 75. Musician David Byrne is 74. Actor Tim Roth is 65. Actor Cate Blanchett is 57. Filmmaker So a Coppola is 55. Former NFL running back Frank Gore is 43. Actor Amber Tamblyn is 43. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is 42.
MAY 15
Artist Jasper Johns is 96. Counterculture icon Wavy Gravy is 90. Actor-singer Lainie Kazan is 86. Basketball Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson is 86. Musician Brian Eno is 78. Actor Chazz Palminteri is 74.
MAY 16
Actor Danny Trejo is 82. Actor Pierce Brosnan is 73. Olympic gymnastics gold medalist Olga Korbut is 71. Baseball Hall of Famer Jack Morris is 71. Actor Debra Winger is 71. Singer Janet Jackson is 60.
MAY 17
Musician Taj Mahal is 84. Boxing Hall of Famer Sugar Ray Leonard is 70. Sports announcer Jim Nantz is 67. Singer-composer Enya is 65. TV host-comedian Craig Ferguson is 64. Musician Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails) is 61.
MAY 18
Baseball Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson is 80. Musician Rick Wakeman (Yes) is 77. Musician-composer Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo) is 76. Country musician George Strait is 74. Actor Chow Yun-Fat is 71. Comedian-writer Tina Fey is 56.
MAY 19
TV personality David Hartman is 91. Musician-composer Pete Townshend (The Who) is 81. Singer-actor Grace Jones is 78. Former racing driver Dario
Jackson
Franchitti is 53. Basketball Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett is 50. Country musician-producer Shooter Jennings is 47.
MAY 20
Japanese baseball star Sadaharu Oh is 86. Singer-actor Cher is 80. Actor-comedian Dave Thomas is 77. Republican Sen. Mike Crapo of Idaho is 75. Political commentator Ron Reagan is 68. Musician Jane Wiedlin (The Go-Go’s) is 68. Actor Bronson Pinchot is 67.
EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO Cher turns 80 on Wednesday.
SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO
Reggie
turns 80 on Monday.
GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO
George Strait turns 74 on Monday.
‘Dutton
Ranch,’ Colin Jost plays games, Maluma, Stanley Tucci, ‘The Crash’
“Pop Culture Jeopardy!” gets a second season
The Associated Press
THE LONG-AWAITED
“Yellowstone” spino “Dutton Ranch” and a fresh collection from the Colombian superstar Maluma, are some of the new television, lms, music and games headed to a device near you. Also, among the streaming o erings worth your time this week: The Net ix true crime documentary “The Crash,” pop -punk paragons The All-American Rejects return with their fth studio album and Season 2 of Stanley Tucci’s gastronomic tour “Tucci in Italy” lands on Disney+
MOVIES TO STREAM
Théodore Pellerin slyly in ltrates the inner circle of Archie Madekwe’s pop musician Oliver in the psychological thriller “Lurker,” streaming on HBO Max on Friday. The lm explores the parasocial relationship of internet fandoms and the power dynamics within the entourage of an on-the-cusp star. It was written and directed by Emmy-winner Alex Russell (“The Bear,” “Beef”), who looked to “obsessive thrillers” like “Whiplash” and “Black Swan” for inspiration.
The Net ix true crime documentary “The Crash” looks into a 2022 car crash in Ohio, in which 17-year-old Mackenzie Shirilla slammed her car into a brick building at 100 mph, killing her boyfriend and his friend, and the con icting narratives around that night. It begins streaming Friday. Also coming to Net ix? “Black Phone 2,” streaming on Saturday, which sees the return of Ethan Hawke’s The Grabber (who, yes, was killed in the rst movie), who is intent on getting revenge against Mason Thames four years later.
MUSIC TO STREAM
On Friday, a new collection from
er,” drops. It’s a celebration of his culture and then some: from the reggaetón/dancehall
“Con El Corazón” with the late great Yeison Jiménez and everything in between, these are songs that celebrate his roots
while modernizing folkloric sounds.
Pop-punk paragons The All-American Rejects are back, preparing to release their fth studio album and rst full-length in nearly 15 years, since 2012’s “Kids in the Street.” Expect what they’re known for: big hooks, big chords, big choruses and bigger fun.
SERIES TO STREAM
“Pop Culture Jeopardy!” has a new home for its second season. The game show, hosted by Colin Jost, makes the jump to Netix, with a new episode dropping each weekday through June 5. Sample categories include “bummer movie endings,” “Broadway on the big screen” and “TV of the 2010s.” If trending topics make up your FYP on TikTok, this one’s for you. Tucci is fresh o a world tour to promote “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” and now he’s taking us to Italy for season two of “Tuc-
“The sandbox is thirsty / Outside, the bombs are bursting.”
The All-American Rejects
ci in Italy.” In the new episodes, the actor visits regions like Sicily, Campania and Sardinia to meet with locals and eat food native to those areas. Travel along on Disney+ and Hulu. Fans have to wait until 2027 for a new season of “Heated Rivalry” but there’s another series available in the hockey romance genre. “O Campus” debuts its rst season on Prime Video. It’s about the love lives of a group of college hockey players. Each season follows a di erent relationship. The leads of Season 1 are Belmont Cameli and Ella Bright, while Season 2, starring Antonio Cipriano and India Fowler, begins lming very soon.
Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser’s long-awaited “Yellowstone” spino debuts Friday on Paramount+. “Dutton Ranch” takes place one year after the events of the series nale of “Yellowstone,” and characters Beth and Rip have relocated to Texas. They’ve got a new ranch now, but if we’ve learned anything from the other shows, owning land can be very dangerous. Annette Bening and Ed Harris also star.
VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
U.K. developer Supermassive Games has built its reputation on horror gems like “Until Dawn” and “The Quarry” that evoked classic movies like “Friday the 13th.” For its latest thriller, “Directive 8020,” the inspiration appears to be “Alien” and “The Thing.” You are 12 light years from Earth when your colony ship crashes on Tau Ceti f. The organisms there aren’t happy to meet you, and they are quite adept at imitating their prey. Can you trust your crewmates? Can you prevent the predators from hitching a ride when you try to return home? Get squishy on
the Colombian superstar Maluma, titled “Loco x Volv-
hybrid “Pa’ la seca” with Ryan Castro to
PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S and PC.
EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO Felicity Blunt, left, and Stanley Tucci arrive at The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute bene t gala on May 4 in New York. Season two of “Tucci in Italy” is streaming now on Hulu.
CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO
Alex Orlovsky, from left, Lee Sung Jin and Marc Marrie accept the award for best rst feature for “Lurker” during the Film Independent Spirit Awards at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO
Maluma arrives at The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute bene t gala on May 4 in New York. The Colombian pop star drops his new album, “Loco x Volver,” on Friday.
Lucy Poitras
Woods Charter, girls’ soccer
Woods Charter junior Lucy Poitras earns athlete of the week honors for the week of May 4.
Poitras recorded a hat trick and two assists in Woods Charter’s 9-0 win over Southern Wake on May 6. Two nights before that, she was a major contributor in the Wolves’ 6-1 victory over Clover Garden, logging a goal and an assist.
This year, Poitras has been one of Woods Charter’s key o ensive players. She led the team in shots (79) and nished second in goals (31), points (77) and assists per match (0.9) during the regular season.
J-M athletes make decisions o cial at signing ceremony 3
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
SILER CITY — Jordan-Matthews’ new set of college athletes put ink to paper on May 6.
In the school’s library, seniors Landon Moser, Kamarie Hadley, Deantaye “Jojo” Smith and Jakari Blue signed celebratory signing forms for their respective college programs.
Moser, a catcher and rst baseman on the baseball team, signed to Guilford. He was recruited to the program as a catcher but could also play as a corner in elder.
“From what I heard about the school through guys I’ve gotten to play with here and there, I’ve heard nothing but great things,” Moser said. “All those things were a reality when I got there. I love the coaches, love the school, and I’m just super excited.”
Moser was a bright spot for the Jets this season, leading the team in batting average (.508), on-base percentage (.628), home runs (four), runs (21), hits (31), RBIs (20), slugging percentage (.984) and doubles (15). After enduring a winless season in 2025, he steered the team to a six-win improvement and a playo appearance this spring. Over his four seasons, Moser earned multiple all-conference honors and was part of the Jets’ conference-champion squad as a freshman in 2023.
“It was great to see us be good, come in as a freshman to a pretty solid team and really learn how it is to win,” Moser said. “We went through a couple of rough spots, but to be able to be a leader and to kind of get us back on
the up track, that’s a great feeling. And personally, I’ve grown so much not only as a player, but as a student. And it’s been a very, very, very good journey.”
Hadley and Smith signed to the Methodist football program. The two will continue as teammates on the gridiron, while Hadley will also compete with the track and eld team.
Before last fall, Hadley didn’t play a down of football in high school, but he led Jordan-Matthews to its best record since 2012 and its rst playo appearance since 2013. He recorded 650 passing yards and six passing touchdowns with 425 yards and ve scores on the ground.
“I just kept working,” Hadley said. “Watched lm, saw what I had to do that was di erent, saw what I did wrong and just got my head ready.”
Hadley was recruited to Methodist as a wide receiver and defensive back. Smith will play as either an edge rusher or outside linebacker. Last fall, Smith recorded 45 tackles with 10 tackles for loss and eight sacks.
“I went to see one of their morning practices, and I just like the way they get at it and compete with each other,” Smith said. “I feel like that’s what I want to be around. That’s the kind of brotherly love I want to feel.”
Blue is headed to North Carolina Wesleyan as a running back. He was a huge part of the Jets’ success this past season, rush-
ing for 750 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also had a receiving touchdown.
“Just seeing the way they went through things and how all of them checked up on each other but also competed at the same level is something I want to be around,” Blue said.
Blue will get to share the eld with Hadley and Smith again, but as a conference rival instead of a teammate. NC Wesleyan and Methodist are both in the USA South conference at the NCAA Division III level.
The guys have already shared pleasantries about the matchup. Smith said Methodist will win by 40, and Blue thinks “it’s not even going to be close.”
Together, though, the Jets’ three football signees could be a sign of better days for the program, especially after the success they had last season.
Jordan-Matthews last had multiple seniors on one team move on to college football programs after the 2023 season (Aaron Seitz and Giancarlo Aguila), but it’s been a while since the team celebrated more than one college decision in one sitting.
“It means a lot,” Blue said. “Just seeing people that’s coming from J-M, especially over the couple of years, it hasn’t been so great, but seeing athletes actually come and be able to have the chance to compete at the next level, it’s amazing.”
For football coach Kermit Carter, he doesn’t see the results of this past season as a “revival,” but he sees improvement in the program.
“We got guys working hard, and hopefully, this lets these guys know hard work does pay o ,” Carter said. “We have to put something in to get to where these guys are going to go.”
Landon Moser will play baseball at Guilford College
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Football players who will play at the Division III level
ASHEEBO ROJAS / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
From left, Jakari Blue, Deantaye Smith, Kamarie Hadley and Landon Moser get ready to sign celebratory forms during their ceremony on May 6.
Van Gisbergen remains NASCAR’s road-course ace with Watkins Glen win from pole
The Trackhouse Racing driver wiped out a half-minute de cit to win
The Associated Press
WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. — Shane van Gisbergen insists his NASCAR Cup Series roadcourse dominance is harder than it looks and that he feels “a lot of pressure” to beat the best in stock-car racing.
But the Trackhouse Racing driver was in another league Sunday, schooling the stars of the Cup Series at Watkins Glen International.
Starting from the pole position, van Gisbergen scored his seventh Cup Series victory — all on road or street courses — and his second consecutive on the 2.45-mile track by leading 74 of 100 laps in his No. 97 Chevrolet.
“We weren’t very good in practice, and then qualifying was amazing, and then today, what a race car,” van Gisbergen said. “And then (crew chief) Stephen (Doran) made great calls. I wasn’t sure how it was going to work, and then to run them down like that, it’s very, very special to do two in a row.”
BASEBALL from page B1
lead in the top of the seventh inning, Seaforth put ve straight runners on base. The rst three were from the help of South Brunswick as junior Jaedyn Rader was intentionally walked, sophomore Jack Simpson reached rst due to catcher’s interference and senior Colin Dorney made it to rst on an error, which also scored a run. Consecutive singles from sophomores Bryce Huneycutt and Easton Sykes scored three more runs before the end of the inning.
In the second round of the 3A East bracket, a disastrous rst inning for No. 11 Northwood’s defense resulted in an 11-1 loss to No. 6 Midway.
The Chargers walked three straight batters to start their rst defensive turn. Midway senior Wyatt Scott sent a runner home with a single. Then, junior Harry Johnson sent another runner in with a sacrice y. An error in the Chargers’ in eld on the same play allowed another run to score, putting Northwood in a 3-0 hole. But with two outs, four more Midway batters reached rst base (two walks and two singles), leading to a 6-0 de cit
Pitting from the lead under green with 24 laps remaining, van Gisbergen emerged in 24th and was nearly 30 seconds behind leader Ty Gibbs.
Extending his Cup record of wins by a driver born outside the United States, the New Zealand native needed only 17 laps to retake the lead from Gibbs, winning by 7.288 seconds over Michael McDowell.
“He’s made it pretty clear, especially at these tracks, he likes to be on o ense, so we put him there and just let him go do his thing,” Doran said of the call to make a late stop for four tires instead of pitting earlier and conserving fuel as many others did.
Gibbs nished third, followed by Chase Briscoe and points leader Tyler Reddick.
McDowell, who started second, also had to charge through the pack after falling to 27th on his last pit stop. He occasionally thought he could keep pace with the race winner but soon realized van Gisbergen was playing possum.
“It felt like he was just pacing himself o me, and he’d take back o ,” McDowell said.
“We still got a little work to do, but it’s a good building block.”
Dating to Mexico City last June, van Gisbergen has now won six of the past seven races on road or street courses in Cup.
“It’s not easy,” van Gisbergen said. “Everyone’s really good. McDowell was good. Connor (Zilisch) was good. Tyler Reddick. There were some really good guys and a lot of pressure. So just stoked to execute every facet of our game. And speechless. This is so cool.”
Trackhouse sweep
The win by van Gisbergen came a day after a win in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series by rookie teammate Zilisch, who nished 20th Sunday after a tire problem late in the race. It still was a strong showing for Trackhouse, which quali ed all three of its cars in the top ve after compiling only four top-10 nishes in the rst 11 races.
“Just frustrating because we had a really good day going,” Zilisch said. “At worst, we were going to get ourselves our rst top ve and walk out of here with something. But congrats to Shane, Trackhouse and everybody who makes this happen.”
PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Chatham Charter coach Bill Slaughter, right, talks to his team during a 2026 game. The Knights are in the third round once again.
going into the second inning. Northwood mustered two hits to Midway’s 13. The loss marked the Chargers’ second double-digit defeat in three games. They nished the season 15-11 overall.
First round
Chatham Charter scored 17 rst-inning runs and recorded 25 hits to defeat No. 15 Millennium Charter 22-0 in the rst round. Senior Brandon Rives went 4 for 4 with four RBIs and three runs. The game ended after ve innings.
Brewer went 2 for 3 with a team-high three RBIs to lead Chatham Central to a 12-0 win over No. 12 Rosman.
Seaforth held o a late rally attempt from No. 24 Richlands in a 4-2 win. Simpson and freshman Banks Elmore both went 2 for 3 with a combined two RBIs. Northwood junior Finn Sullivan struck out 12 batters and allowed three hits in a complete game to lead the Chargers over No. 22 North Moore 6-0.
In the 4A East bracket, No. 24 Jordan-Matthews fell to No. 9 Clinton 7-3.
Fowler commits to Davidson-Davie CC
The Northwood standout averaged 22.3 points as a senior
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
CHATHAM COUNTY’S top basketball senior has made his college decision.
Northwood’s Cam Fowler committed to Davidson-Davie Community College, according to his social media.
The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 22.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 2.1 steals per game this past winter. Following his senior season, he was named the Four Rivers 3A/4A conference Player of the Year, and he earned rst team All-District 4 honors. He was also named the 2025-26 Chatham News & Record Boys’ Basketball Player of the Year.
Over his four seasons, Fowler helped Northwood make two state championship appearances (2023 and 2025). He made huge jumps in his rst three years, going from averaging 4.3 points as a freshman to 11.1
51
points is a school record held by Fowler
points as a sophomore and 20.5 points as a junior. In his junior season, Fowler became the Chargers’ leading scorer and was the driving force in their run to the 2A state championship game.
As a senior, Fowler took his scoring to another level. He averaged 25.2 points in Northwood’s nal 15 games of the season, a stretch that included a school-record 51 points against North Moore on senior night.
Davidson-Davie competes in the NJCAA Region 10 Division II. This past winter, the Storm went 28-8 overall and 20-4 in league play. They won the South Atlantic District title and earned a bid to the 2026 NJCAA DII National Tournament.
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Cam Fowler nishes strong at the rim against Jordan-Matthews in 2026.
Locals qualify for track and eld state championships
By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record
Girls’ soccer
Woods Charter defeated Clover Garden 6-1 on May 4 behind three goals and an assist from junior Annabel Unah. Lucy Poitras also logged a hat trick and two assists in the Wolves’ 9-0 win over Southern Wake to end the regular season. Woods Charter nished the year as the Central Tar Heel 1A conference champions, going 18-0 overall and 12-0 in conference play. The Wolves have gone 52-0 in conference games over the last ve seasons.
Seaforth senior So a Viana scored four goals in the Hawks’ 8-0 win over South Granville on May 5. Sophomores Olivia Parker and Amara Darden and senior Regan Willauer each scored a goal in Seaforth’s 3-1 regular season-ending win over Orange the following night.
After an 8-1 loss to Uwharrie Charter on May 4, Jordan-Matthews snapped a four-game skid with a 4-1 win over Eastern Randolph. Freshman Ariadnne Gomez notched a hat trik with an assist.
Sophomore Emily Scheidt scored Chatham Charter’s only goal in its 1-0 win over River Mill on May 4. After a 5-2 loss to Ascend Leadership on May 6, the Knights picked up a forfeit win against Southern Wake to end the regular season.
Final conference standings (overall, conference) *conference champion
Central Tar Heel 1A: 1. Woods Charter* (18-0, 12-0); T2. Clover Garden (10-7, 9-3); T2. Ascend Leadership (10 - 4, 9-3); T4. Chatham Charter (6 -14, 5-7); T4. Central Carolina (6-10, 5-7); 6. River Mill (2 -14 -2, 1-10-1); 7. Southern Wake (0-11-1, 0-11-1)
Four Rivers 3A/4A: T1. Northwood* (13-7-2, 9-1); T1. Uwharrie Charter* (13-2-1, 9-1); 3. North Moore (12-7-1, 5-5); 4. Southwestern Randolph (5-14 -1, 4-6); 5. Jordan-Matthews (7-13, 3-7); 6. Eastern Randolph (0-18-1, 0-10)
Big Seven 4A/5A: 1. Carrboro* (17-1-3, 12-0); 2. Seaforth (12-6-1, 9-2); 3. Cedar Ridge (8 -12-1, 6-5-1); 4. Durham School of the Arts (11-8-1, 6-6); 5. Orange (6-8-3, 5-6-1); 6. South Granville (4-15, 2-10); 7. J.F. Webb (2-13-2, 0-11)
Boys’ tennis (state playo s)
Dual team: Chatham Charter fell to Franklin Academy 5-4 in the third round of the 1A/2A bracket. Northwood lost to Greene Central 6-0 in the third round of the 3A tournament.
Individual: Seaforth’s Joaquin Hernandez Gonzalez, Chatham County’s lone individual state quali er, fell to Graham Powers in the rst round of the 5A singles tournament 6-1.
SOCCER from page B1
and it’s a goal in our minds.” Cherry said. Nevertheless, Arias repaid Cherry with an assist on a free kick with less than a minute before halftime. Northwood immediately put its foot on the gas out of the break. Two minutes into the second half, Collins broke free with the ball deep in Southwestern Randolph territory, but she fell on her shot attempt. Walker, who was trailing Collins, cleaned up the play by kicking the loose ball
SOFTBALL from page B1
1-0 loss to No. 6 Bethany Community.
Bethany Community scored its only run on an RBI single by Peyton Weavil in the top of the fourth inning. Due to a 13-strikeout performance by Chatham Central junior Maddie Kaczmarczyk, the Wolves were outhit 6-4. However, the Bears struggled to bring runners home.
In the sixth inning, the Bears had freshman Lillie Poe
Boys’ lacrosse
Boys’ golf
Chatham Central nished second in the 1A Central regional tournament last week. Senior Tyler Measamer won the individual regional title with a score of 82 (10 over par). Chatham Charter nished third in the same tournament.
Seaforth nished second behind Oak Grove in the 5A Central regional. State championship quali ers by classi cation (location):
1A (Gates Four CC): Tyler Measamer (Chatham Central); Gavin Vanderford (Chatham Central); Jesse Eskelund (Chatham Central); Brett Phillips (Chatham Central); Colby King (Chatham Central); Channing Jordan (Chatham Charter).
3A (Longleaf Golf and Family): Ben Porter (Northwood)
5A (Sapona Golf Club): Ty Willoughby (Seaforth), Campbell Meador (Seaforth), Alex Ferm (Seaforth), James Wright (Seaforth), Ryan Powell (Seaforth)
through the net for a 3-0 lead. With 24 minutes left to play, Collins got another chance by corralling the rebound o a corner kick, and she scored the Chargers’ nal goal. For Northwood, the win was its nal step in getting over the hump. In the last two seasons, the Chargers nished second in the Mid-Carolina 1A/2A conference, falling short to those dominant Seaforth teams.
This season presented a new challenge for the conference crown. The night before the win over Southwestern Randolph,
on third base, but a strikeout in the next at-bat left the game-tying run stranded. Chatham Central couldn’t get on base in its nal at-bats and ended the season with a 22-5 record. Further down the 1A West bracket, No. 7 Chatham Charter fell short of knocking o No. 2 Oxford Prep 4-2. The game was tied 2-2 when the Gri ns took the lead with a two-RBI single from freshman Kadence Chase. Chatham Charter tried to
Northwood ended its regular season with an 11-10 win over 8A opponent Pinecrest on May 7, marking its fourth straight win. Seniors Grayson Cox and Jackson Glinski scored three goals each, and Cox had two assists. Senior goalkeeper James Flanagan notched 13 saves. Final conference standings (overall, conference)
*conference champion
Conference 2: 1. Orange* (14-5, 7-1); 2. Carrboro (127, 5-3); T3. Northwood (12-8, 4-4); T3. Seaforth (6-8, 4-4); 5. Cedar Ridge (5-13, 0-8)
Girls’ lacrosse
Seaforth defeated Riverside-Durham 16-2 on May 4 behind four goals and an assist from junior Natalie Boecke. Boecke followed that with eight goals to help the Hawks defeat Union Pines 19-13 the next night.
Northwood lost to Carrboro 18-4 in its regular season nale. Final conference standings (overall, conference)
*conference champion
Conference 6: T1. Chapel Hill* (18-4, 9-1); T1. East Chapel Hill* (12-5, 9-1); 3. Seaforth (10-7, 7-4); 4. Carrboro (9-8, 2-6); 5. Northwood (2-9, 1-6);
Northwood defeated rst-place Uwharrie Charter 2-1 in double-overtime to keep its championship hopes alive. Collins and sophomore Madelyn Bolejack scored, while senior goalkeeper Gwen Williams recorded eight saves.
Uwharrie Charter ended up receiving a forfeited win from North Moore in the conference play nale on May 7. Had Northwood not beaten the Eagles, it would’ve nished in second place once again.
But now that doesn’t matter. The Chargers’ senior class
rally in the seventh inning as a Kynzie Jordan double put a runner on third. However, a yout and a ground out following the hit ended the game. The Knights nished the year with a 13-9 record. In the 4A East playo s, No. 10 Jordan-Matthews fell to No. 7 Ledford 17-6. Ledford took advantage of two errors by the Jets to take a 6-0 lead in the rst inning. Jordan-Matthews responded with hits of its own to bring the decit to four runs, but the Pan-
6. Riverside-Durham (0 -17, 0-9)
Track and eld
State quali ers by classi cation: 1A: Tyler Congrove (Chatham Central, boys’ 100 and 200); Isaac Hayhurst (Chatham Charter, boys’ 200); Torris Price (Chatham Charter, boys’ 800, 1,600 and 3,200, 1A Central regional champion in all events); Eli Coleman (Chatham Charter, boys’ 800 and 1,600); Chatham Charter (boys’ 4x400); Woods Charter (boys’ 4x800); Joshua Hayes (Chatham Charter, boys’ high jump); Breylan Harris (Chatham Charter, boys’ high jump, long jump and triple jump); Jeremiah Young (Chatham Central, boys’ long jump); Emily Scheidt (Chatham Charter, girls’ 800 and 1,600, 1A Central regional champion in 1,600); So a Rodriguez (Woods Charter, girls’ 1,600 and 3,200, 1A Central regional champion in 3,200); Grace Murphy (Woods Charter, girls’ 3,200); Addison Vickrey (Chatham Charter, girls’ 3,200 and 1,600); Chatham Charter (girls’ 4x100); Addie Williams (Chatham Central, girls’ high jump); Bella Thomas (Chatham Central, girls’ high jump); Aaliyah Walden (Chatham Charter, girls’ high jump); Ivy Nuss (Woods Charter, girls’ discus)
3A: Ezra Roebuck (North-
capped o their transformative regular season careers with a banner after nishing each of their four years with a winning record.
The year before their freshman season, Northwood went 7-13 and missed the postseason.
“I’ve always worked a lot on helping the girls progress (and) develop,” Northwood coach Ascary Arias said. “Winning is nice, but really our focus has been to develop.”
Said Arias, “It’s a testament of the hard work they’ve been doing for four years.”
thers, who nished the game with 14 hits, never let up. The game ended in ve innings. Jordan-Matthews nished the year with a 12-10 record.
First round
Chatham Central dominated No. 14 Andrews 17-0 in the rst round. Sophomore Addison Goldston went 2 for 2 with three RBIs, and Kaczmarczyk struck out seven batters and allowed one hit in the game’s three innings.
wood, boys’ 200 and 400, 3A Central regional champion in 400); Tequone Moore (Northwood, boys’ 400); Ben Altenburg (Northwood, boys’ long jump, 110 hurdles and pole vault, 3A Central regional champion in both events); Liam Patterson (Northwood, boys’ 3,200), Northwood (boys’ 4x200, 4x800 and 4x400, 3A Central regional champion in 4x400); Titus Moore (Northwood, boys’ long jump); Jamison Brown (Northwood, boys’ shot put); Synai Palmer (Northwood, girls’ 100); Sydney Gray (Northwood, girls’ 1,600, 3,200, 3A Central regional champion); Taylor Perry (Northwood, girls’ 100 hurdles); Chloe Waldstein (Northwood, girls’ pole vault); Jada Everson (Northwood, girls’ discus and shot put); Northwood (girls’ 4x800) 4A: Kamarie Hadley (Jordan-Matthews, boys’ triple jump); Yadiel Zayas (Jordan-Matthews, boys’ 300 hurdles); Juanita Perez (Jordan-Matthews, girls’ triple jump); Khamya Woods (Jordan-Matthews, girls’ 300 hurdles)
5A: Ryan Yoder (Seaforth, boys’ pole vault, 5A Central regional champion); Dylan Watkins (Seaforth, boys’ discus and shot put); Amber Brown (Seaforth, girls’ 400, and long jump 5A Central regional champion in 400); Sasha Helmer (Seaforth, girls’ 800); Emily Jump (Seaforth, girls’ 800); Caidence Bazemore (Seaforth, girls’ 3,200); Seaforth (girls’ 4x800)
Yet when identifying what makes this year’s group di erent from previous Northwood squads, Arias pointed to the team’s personality rather than its tangible skills.
“I’ve had a lot of very good players,” Arias said. “A ton, like really, really good players. But we’ve always missed a little bit of character. I think technique, ability, all that stu , natural ability, will take you only so far. Like last night, at some point, you either have character or you don’t. And this team has a lot of character.”
Junior Allie McLeod went 3 for 4 with an RBI and two runs to lead Chatham Charter over No. 10 Rosman 5-0. Northwood got o to a hot start to defeat No. 23 Eastern Randolph 11-1. Junior Madalyn Holton hit a two-run homer in the rst inning and nished the game with two runs. Jordan-Matthews logged 14 hits to down No. 23 Clinton 14 - 4. Freshman Ella Parks went 3 for 4 with three RBIs and a run.
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Woods Charter coach Graeme Stewart instructs his players before a 2026 game. The Wolves nished the regular season 18-0.
Consecutive conference wins for Woods Charter girls’ soccer
SIDELINE REPORT
NBA Washington wins NBA Draft lottery, chance to pick rst on June 23
Chicago The league’s worst team this season is getting the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft. The Washington Wizards won the draft lottery and will pick rst overall for the rst time since choosing John Wall in 2010. Wall was the Wizards’ on-stage representative for the lottery. Washington had a 14% chance of winning No. 1, tied with Brooklyn and Indiana for the best odds. Utah will pick No. 2, Memphis will pick No. 3 and Chicago will pick No. 4.
MLB Orioles hold Tupac bobblehead night, sister throws out ceremonial rst pitch
Baltimore Fans lined up well before the gates opened at Camden Yards in anticipation of a Tupac Shakur bobblehead giveaway. Shakur was raised in New York and Baltimore before moving to the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 1980s. That made the matchup between the Orioles and Athletics an appropriate time to honor the rap icon, who was killed in 1996. The ri from “California Love” was played while the starting lineup for the A’s — who left Oakland last season — was announced.
NFL Domestic battery case against Chiefs assistant Merritt dismissed without prejudice
Kansas City, Mo. A misdemeanor domestic battery case against Chiefs assistant Dave Merritt has been dismissed without prejudice. It comes less than three weeks after Merritt entered a plea of not guilty. The 54-year-old former NC State player has been with the Chiefs since 2019 and has helped teams win ve Super Bowls, including his time with the Giants. He participated in the Chiefs’ rookie minicamp last weekend. Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Merritt has been very up-front about the situation.
NHL Maple Leafs win lottery for No. 1 pick in 2026 NHL Draft
Secaucus, N.J.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have won the lottery for the rst pick in the NHL Draft. The victory comes at a critical time for Toronto after hiring John Chayka as general manager and franchise legend Mats Sundin as a hockey operations adviser. The future of captain and best player Auston Matthews is the biggest question after missing the playo s for the rst time in his career. It’s the rst time the Maple Leafs have won the lottery since taking Matthews with the No. 1 pick in 2016. The San Jose Sharks won the lottery for the second pick.
NCAA FOOTBALL
Ex- Ohio State players, including NFL veterans, join sexual abuse lawsuit against school
Thirty former Ohio State football players, including former NFL players, joined a federal lawsuit against the university over sexual abuse of student-athletes decades ago by a team doctor. Ohio State is accused of failing to stop abuse by Dr. Richard Strauss. Hundreds say they were abused by him. Some other former football players have settled in sealed agreements. Ohio State says it has tried to reconcile with survivors through settlements, counseling services and medical treatment.
Al Washington, Ray Ellis and Keith Ferguson, three members of the 1980 team, are the only plainti s to go public.
MLB’s rookie class making impressive impact
Young prospects are making an impact faster than in the past
By David Brandt The Associated Press
PHOENIX — Pittsburgh Pirates phenom Konnor Grifn stepped to the plate against the Arizona Diamondbacks and ripped a 110.1-mph laser high o the center- eld wall at Chase Field, cruising into second base for a double.
“Twenty years old and driving the ball o the center eld wall,” D-backs manager Torey Lovullo said. “Let’s go back to being 20 years old. I was just getting hair under my armpits, and this guy’s in a bigleague baseball game. It’s impressive.”
Gri n — who just turned 20 a few weeks ago — is part of an MLB rookie class that’s made an instant impact. He’s batting .256 with two homers, 16 RBIs and is 8 for 8 on stolen bases, all while playing shortstop at a high level. No wonder the Pirates were comfortable handing him a $140 million, nine-year deal in April.
Lovullo has been the manager of the D-backs for 10 seasons and said he’s noticed a huge di erence in the readiness of young players when they get to the big leagues.
The data backs that up too.
As measured by Wins Above Replacement, three of the ve most productive classes of rookie hitters since 1950 graduated in the past four years, in 2023 (67.5 WAR), 2022 (53.7) and 2024 (49). This year’s class is on pace for 47, which would rank fth.
Even the 2025 class, which wasn’t as deep, featured examples of players ready to make an unusually fast impact. Nick Kurtz got just 210 at-bats in the minor leagues before joining the Athletics, then batted .290 with 36 homers and 86 RBIs over 117 games to win American League Rookie of the Year in 2025.
“Everything is fast-forwarded now, everything’s on speed dial, everything happens really quick,” Lovullo said. “These kids are developing.”
Here’s a look at some of the other top rookies in the big leagues through the season’s rst 11⁄2 months.
Kevin McGonigle, SS, Detroit Tigers
The 21-year-old made the big-league club with a strong spring performance and continues to impress, batting .299 with two homers, 16 RBIs and an .845 OPS while splitting time between shortstop and third base. That’s why Detroit was comfortable signing him to a $150 million, eight-year deal in April.
“Let’s go back to being 20 years old. I was just getting hair under my armpits, and this guy’s in a big-league baseball game. It’s impressive.”
Torey Lovullo on Konnor Gri n
JJ Wetherholt, 2B, St. Louis Cardinals
The No. 7 overall pick in 2024, Wetherholt has popped seven homers for a Cardinals team that’s been a pleasant surprise in the NL Central.
Chase DeLauter, OF, Cleveland Guardians
DeLauter actually made his MLB debut last season when he became one of the few players in big league history to get his rst call-up in the playo s. So far this spring, he’s shown why the Guardians had enough con dence to bring him up for those pressure-packed games, batting .306 with six homers and 23 RBIs.
Munetaka Murikami, 1B, Chicago White Sox
The veteran Japanese slugger has made an instant im-
pact in the big leagues, crushing 14 homers in just 37 games. He needs to cut down on the strikeouts and may never consistently hit for high average, but there’s no doubt the power is legit, and he’s still just 26 years old.
Kazuma Okamoto, 3B, Toronto Blue Jays
The 29-year-old is older than all of the other players on this list and had a slow start while making the transition from Japan. But he’s picked up the pace over the past few weeks and is batting .246 with 10 homers and 23 RBIs.
Sal Stewart, 1B, Cincinnati Reds
The 22-year-old made a good impression during a short stint last season and has continued to hit this spring. Playing mostly rst base, he’s batting .245 with 10 homers and 30 RBIs.
Nolan McLean, RHP, New York Mets
McLean, a Garner High alum, has been one of the Mets’ few bright spots. He dazzled in an eight-start cameo last season and has pitched well so far in 2026. The 24-year-old has a 2.97 ERA and 51 strikeouts in 391⁄3 innings through seven starts.
Parker Messick, LHP, Cleveland Guardians
The left-hander has been one of the best pitchers in the American League this season with a 3-1 record and a 2.40 ERA through seven starts.
Cox, Hall of Fame Braves manager, dead at 84
He managed Atlanta for 25 years, bringing the city its rst World Series title
By Charles Odum The Associated Press
ATLANTA — Bobby Cox, the folksy manager of the Atlanta Braves whose teams ruled the National League during the 1990s and gave the city its rst major title as well as World Series trips that fell short, died Saturday at 84 in Marietta, Georgia. He had a stroke in 2019 and heart issues that complicated his recovery.
“Bobby was the best manager to ever wear a Braves uniform. He led our team to 14 straight division titles, ve National League pennants, and the unforgettable World Series title in 1995. His Braves managerial legacy will never be matched,” the Braves said in a statement.
Cox took over a last-place team in June 1990 and led the Braves to a worst-to- rst nish in 1991, losing the World Series to the Minnesota Twins in seven games. That was the start of what was to become a record 14 consecutive division titles, a feat no professional team in any sport had accomplished.
He managed the Braves for 25 years and led Atlanta to its rst World Series title in 1995, retired after the 2010 season and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014.
“Honestly, I’m just doing my job. I let everything else fall where it may.”
Bobby Cox
ing him back to the Braves as a bench coach, was asked if he might get tossed in Cox’s honor.
“It’s a di erent game now, you know, a very di erent era,” Weiss said. “Nobody can do it like Bobby, believe me.”
The Braves retired Cox’s No. 6 jersey in 2011, when he joined the team’s Hall of Fame.
Cox ranks fourth all-time with 2,504 wins, fth with 4,508 games, rst with 15 division titles including a record 14 in a row, rst with 16 playo appearances and fourth with 67 playo victories. Only Connie Mack, John McGraw and Tony La Russa had more regular-season wins than Cox.
“He was the rst one to the park every day,” Atlanta manager Walt Weiss said of Cox. “He’d have his spikes on at 12 o’clock. I never saw a manager wear spikes, but that was one of Bobby’s trademarks. He just loved the game. He loved the game, and he loved leading a group of men trying to win a championship.”
Cox also was rst in being ejected from 158 regular-season games. Weiss, who called Cox instrumental in bring-
“RIP my second father,” Andruw Jones wrote on social media. The 10-time Gold Glove winner with Atlanta in July will become the sixth who played for Cox with the Braves to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Cox spent 29 seasons as a major league manager, including four with Toronto. He managed 16 postseason teams. He brought an old-school approach to the dugout. He always wore spikes and stirrups, and his fatherly demeanor inspired loyalty from his players.
Hall of Fame pitcher Greg Maddux said players around the league always wanted to know what it was like playing for Bobby Cox.
“The rst word that comes to mind is respect,” Maddux
said. “He had that from players. When Bobby talked, we listened. We wanted to play for him.”
Cox was the rst NL manager to win at least 100 games in a season ve times. He was Manager of the Year four times and the only one to win in consecutive years (2004, 2005). He also had close ties with his successors, Fredi González and Brian Snitker. Despite all his regular-season success, Cox won only the one World Series title in ve tries. He led the Braves to Atlanta’s rst major professional sports championship in 1995, beating the Cleveland Indians in six games to win the World Series. Cox said critics usually focused on the World Series losses instead.
“It’s a game of breaks when you get down to a four-game, must-win series,” Cox said. “We’ve played well. We’re proud of what we’ve done. They always ask that, though. It is irritating, to be honest with you.”
“He lived a great life,” said Dodgers rst baseman Freddie Freeman, who played the rst 12 seasons of his career with the Braves. “Everyone loved him in baseball. Braves country loved him.” Cox usually shied away from the limelight and was uncomfortable when talking about himself.
“Honestly, I’m just doing my job. I let everything else fall where it may,” he said.
ED REINKE / AP PHOTO
Atlanta Braves manager
Bobby Cox smiles while talking to reporters during team practice.
TOM E. PUSKAR / AP PHOTO
Pittsburgh Pirates’ Konnor Gri n is greeted by his teammates after scoring.