North State Journal Vol. 10, Issue 39

the word | Words of Life

The words of Christ are unlike all others. He says they are spirit and life. In one of his parables, he calls them seeds. Seeds may look small and dull beside rare gems, yet they contain life. Plant them, and they grow. So it is with Christ’s words. Other sayings may be brilliant or eloquent, yet they do not change the world. Christ’s words, planted in human hearts, bring new life, new character, new homes lled with grace. It is said that when the Danish sculptor Thorvaldsen carried back from Italy the wonderful pieces of statuary which he had carved in that sunny land, the stones were wrapped in straw. They were unwrapped in the artist’s garden, and the straw was scattered all about the place. Next summer, when the warm rains came, there grew up everywhere countless multitudes of owers that never had grown there before. The seeds had been in the straw that was wrapped about the pieces of marble, and now in far-north Denmark, Italian owers grew in great profusion and beauty.

In a similar way, the Bible — God’s Word — carries heavenly seeds. Wherever it is opened, these seeds take root, producing heavenly fruit in earthly lives. No other book transforms character as Scripture does. Literature can re ne and educate, but it cannot make a life godly or loving. Those who read the Bible reverently and steadily nd their character reshaped. Jesus’ words are indeed spirit and life.

Psalm 19 gives a vivid picture of Scripture’s e ect: it revives the soul, gives wisdom, brings joy, enlightens the eyes, warns against danger, and brings great reward. It is more precious than gold and sweeter than honey. “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul… The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart… By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.”

The Bible is the most wonderful of books. All we know of God comes from it. Yet some are hesitant to be seen reading it, though they freely display the best literature of the world. They do not realize that no book

“Lion of Lucerne,” designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn in 1820–21 by Lukas Ahorn, commemorates the Swiss guards who were killed in 1792 during the French Revolution. In “A Tramp Abroad,” Mark Twain called the sculpture “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.”

gives deeper wisdom than Scripture. It tells the truth about God, about human nature, about life and death, about duty and destiny.

The Words of life give joy to the heart. This is a sorrowful world; science and art cannot teach us how to be truly glad. Scripture does. It speaks comfort into grief and turns sorrow toward hope. There is no burden for which the Bible does not o er strength and consolation.

The Words of life also comfort. A book without comfort would fail most people, for life brings su ering. You may not need consolation today, but many around you do. How barren Scripture would be if it o ered only commands and doctrines without tenderness for the brokenhearted. But God lled it with encouragement for weary souls. Many, however, shut their eyes to this comfort and live as though no light shines for them. It is as if a great sky of brightness waits to pour into their lives, yet they admit only a dim ray through a cracked windowpane. God does not desire us to walk through life unconsoled when his boundless comfort stands waiting.

The Words of life build character. Life’s great task is to grow into Christ’s beauty

and to learn God’s will. Nothing but the divine Word can truly shape us into this likeness. Paul urges, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” We can close our hearts to it, or we can freely open the doors and let it make its home within us. God’s Word must dwell in us, not merely visit like a bird that ies in for a moment and disappears. All Scripture is valuable. Paul says it is inspired and pro table for teaching, reproof, correction, and instruction in right living. Some parts are more directly devotional than others, yet every Word of God has its purpose. Even the seemingly obscure passages have their place in the great whole of divine truth.

A simple story shows how easily Scripture can be neglected. A mother once asked her grown children where their Bibles were. One thought his was in a trunk in the storeroom; another believed hers was upstairs in a drawer. What good were these unread Bibles to their daily lives? In the Old Testament, the Book of the Law was once lost — lost even in the temple itself. When it was rediscovered and read, the people wept for their neglect and returned to God’s ways, and revival followed.

Would it not be blessed if we searched out our unused Bibles, opened them again, and listened to God’s voice? Christ’s Word living in us awakens songs of joy. Paul speaks often of joy as the mark of Christian life; Scripture plants hymns and psalms in a believer’s soul.

The life of Christ was perfect: never discouraged, never impatient, never complaining, never worried, never yielding to temptation. His Word, dwelling in us, shapes us toward this same spirit.

J. R. Miller (1840-1912) was a pastor and former editorial superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication from 1880 to 1911. His works are now in the public domain. This is an edited version of his original.

NC Middle Court les to move libel suit against Harrigan to federal court

Filings include invoking the Federal Tort Claims Act

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — U.S. Attorney for North Carolina’s Middle District Clifton Barrett has led multiple motions in the case involving former Winston-Salem University sta er Bridget Sullivan’s libel lawsuit against Congressman Pat Harrigan (R-Hickory).

Sullivan sued Harrigan over an X post in which Harrigan claimed Wake Forest University told him Sullivan had been red because of her Instagram post about the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk

which read, “He had it coming.”

The lings included a notice of removal to transfer the case from a state superior court to federal court, a motion to substitute the United States as the defendant in place of Harrigan, and a motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

If the U.S. Attorney’s substitution motion is granted, the complaint would be dismissed lacking subject matter jurisdiction.

Additional lings made by Barrett’s o ce include a support memorandum for the motion to dismiss and a similar support memorandum for the motion to substitute.

Overall, the lings argue that Harrigan’s alleged defamatory social media statements about Sullivan were made within the scope of his o cial duties as a member of Congress and

therefore fall under the protections of the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA).

Under the FTCA, which is exclusively for monetary damages, the United States must be substituted as the defendant for such acts, and plainti s are required to exhaust administrative remedies by rst presenting a claim to the relevant federal agency, which is something Barrett’s lings note Sullivan has not done.

“Upon substituting the United States as the defendant in this case, this Court should dismiss the Complaint for lack of subject matter jurisdiction because Plainti has failed to exhaust her administrative remedies pursuant to the FTCA,” states Barrett’s support memorandum for the motion to dismiss.

Additionally, Barrett’s lings contend that the FTCA does not waive sovereign immunity for libel or slander claims, nor does it permit punitive damages. Also, the lack of exhausting administrative remedies would render Sullivan unable to seek monetary damages.

The idea of a possible 3% tuition hike had been oated by UNC Board of Governors Chair Wendy Murphy during that body’s September meeting. Murphy cited in ation as driving a potential tuition hike.

The UNC Chapel Hill Board of Trustees (BOT) initially voted down the tuition increase on Wednesday during the rst day of the BOT’s monthly meeting. That changed during the Thursday meeting when the increase passed by a close vote of 6-5, with four of the 15-member BOT absent.

The increases were presented on day one of the meeting by the BOT by Vice Chancellor for Finance and Operations Nathan Knu man, one of the co-chairs of the university’s Tuition and Fee Advisory Task Force. Knuman asked the board to reconsider its initial vote on day two.

“We do believe this proposal best balances the need for additional resources while also remaining consistent with our long-standing commitment to a ordability,” Knu man told the BOT.

“I want to emphasize a point the chancellor made yesterday with respect to the resident tuition proposal. We remain

concerned about the dynamic where UNC Chapel Hill is requesting a sizable level of enrollment dollars, likely north of $15 million, from the legislature. Yet we’re not using all the options available to us to generate additional dollars.”

BOT member Marty Kotis questioned the in-state rate increases in terms of maintaining in-state student a ordability, citing state statutes, the state

constitution and board policies. He noted that out-of-state rates were still lower than similar other public institutions by $2,000 and said BOG tuition policy 100.11 “requires resident undergraduate tuition and fees to stay in the bottom quartile requires campuses to exhaust all other levers before proposing resident increases.”

“Why at tuition is really the only compliant option is

because raising resident tuition would only generate roughly $800,000 in additional revenue. The other out-of-state increases generate closer to $15-$30 million worth of additional revenue,” Kotis said. “We have not exhausted every other lever unless we do those nonresident increases or look for other sources of revenue through there.”

Other BOT members shared

Kotis’ concerns, including being able to reduce rates in the future and whether all other revenue options have been explored. Member Jim Blaine argued the BOT could “easily go through this budget and nd $800,000” and called the tuition hike the “easy button” and the “lazy way” to gain revenue. The impact of the additional fee increases on students as well as in ation on UNC System costs was also discussed as a factor for the proposed tuition changes.

The tuition and services increases, if given nal approval, would take e ect for the 2026 -27 school year but would not apply to current students due to the state’s xed tuition program established by the General Assembly in 2016.

Not including fees and other campus costs, the current year’s in-state tuition average at UNC System schools is between $4,500 and $4,700. Out of all UNC System schools, UNC Chapel Hill already has the highest in-state tuition rate at $7,019 and $43,152 for out- of-state students.

The various increases proposed by the BOT will still have to get the UNC Board of Governors’ approval, likely early next year.

DOMAIN

NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO

Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-Hickory), pictured in September 2024 before he was elected to o ce, was sued for libel over a social media post about a former Wake Forest University employee.

GERRY BROOME / AP PHOTO

The UNC Chapel Hill Board of Trustees voted in favor of a tuition hike for in-state and out- of-state students. The UNC System Board of Governors will need to approve the increases.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

To whom are you giving thanks?

Jesus was called Immanuel in the Book of Matthew, which literally meant “God with us”

WITH THE HOLIDAY season now upon us, a lot of attention will be focused on “giving thanks,” being with family, “getting gifts,” and eating turkey, ham, sweet potatoes and apple pie.

Suppose you invited folks from a foreign country to your house for the entire holiday season, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. How would you explain any of the symbols or things they will undoubtedly see on TV, social media, or in and around your house and neighborhood?

What if they ask you what all the in atable balloon characters mean to the two major holidays? “Are you giving thanks to a bunch of Peanuts cartoon characters?” they may inquire. “And what about all those balloons of igloos and reindeer and of a big guy in a red suit surrounded by several small people in green velvet suits with pointy-toed shoes with bells on them?” they might also ask with a quizzical look on their face.

How would you answer the following question in very simple terms if these new friends asked you to answer: “To whom are you giving thanks if either of these two important holidays are to make any sense?”

Are we missing the real meaning of thankfulness not only embodied in a federal holiday, Thanksgiving, but also in the religious signi cance of the next holiday, Christmas? How will newcomers to America ever fully appreciate the importance of both to the American experience and to us personally if no one ever tells them or shows them?

Based on what they see, no one could

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

fault them if they think both holidays are just made up by clever American businesspeople to sell a lot of product and get wealthy. After all, the days leading up to Thanksgiving are full of advertisements about not missing the great “Black Friday” deals, which actually start at midnight on Thanksgiving and prompt everyone to rush to their nearby Best Buy or Walmart to stock up on Christmas toys and gifts for the family. Newcomers to the United States might be led to believe that American “thankfulness” is mostly applied in a purely temporal sense, where merchants on Black Friday can attribute their “thankfulness” to their resource allocation and strategic planning, and be thankful they can survive another year. Consumers can be “thankful” they found the latest fad toy at a signi cant discount, and they bought it before everyone else came rushing into the store and wiped out the entire inventory.

But what if the true meaning of the thankfulness behind Thanksgiving and the celebration of Christmas was presented to newcomers with full sincerity and devotion? What would they see and hear instead?

Both Thanksgiving and Christmas are rooted in the fact that Jesus was called Immanuel in the Book of Matthew, which literally meant “God with us.” It ful lled a prophecy in the Old Testament in Isaiah in which a son would be born of a virgin and would be named “Immanuel.” Christmas, when celebrated correctly, has always been a day of reverence about the birth of God’s only son, Jesus. His followers

acknowledge they have been saved from their sin by his sacri ce on the cross. He is still with us through his Holy Spirit, which is what Christians are celebrating when they exchange gifts of love on Christmas morning.

How di erent would both holidays be if everyone would remember the real reasons behind each one? They are not simply ctional settings for clever Hallmark movies or cards. The serious religious reasons for both holidays are profound and have enormous temporal and eternal consequences for anyone who chooses to follow the Christian gospel truths.

There have been hundreds, perhaps thousands, of holidays and festivals over the centuries throughout Europe and America that are now defunct simply because people stopped celebrating the religious signi cance of each event. They disintegrated into a party of bacchanalian proportions or simple observations of the change of seasons focused around harvest or hunting seasons.

When Americans stop believing in the reason people give thanks in the rst place and celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas, both holidays will become empty shells of what they used to be and should be.

The simple statement that “God is with us!” through the birth of his son, Jesus, should be enough to explain to anyone, including visitors from other countries, what the true meaning of this season is all about.

But we have to tell them, maybe after reminding ourselves.

Democrats are ‘defenders of democracy,’ except when they’re not

The tactic was right out of the Chicago machine political playbook.

IF I HAD A DIME for every time

Democrats had declared themselves “defenders of democracy” in some form or another, I probably could have saved up enough for a nice family vacation to the Bahamas at the very least.

It’s been going on for a while now but ramped up after the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. House Democrats impeached President Donald Trump, alleging he “incited” his supporters during a speech he gave at the Ellipse to disrupt the certi cation of the 2020 presidential election at the Capitol building.

But though there are numerous examples to support the contention that Democrats hold no high ground on the issue, we’ll focus on one of the more recent ones.

Rep. Jesús “Chuy” Garcia (D-Ill.) has been serving in Congress since 2019. On Oct. 27, Garcia led to run for reelection in his safe blue district in the heavily gerrymandered, Democrat-run state. Just minutes before the Nov. 3 candidate ling deadline expired, however, his chief of sta , Patty Garcia (no relation), also led to run for the seat, sparking rumors that Rep. Garcia had abruptly decided against running for reelection.

Soon after, Rep. Garcia con rmed those rumors, citing a visit to his cardiologist made on the same day he led to run for reelection. Rep. Garcia said his doctor

told him he needed to slow down and do something other than be a congressman. Rep. Garcia also stated his wife, Evelyn, urged him not to run again after hearing what the doctor had to say.

But Garcia didn’t bow out until after his chief of sta led to run for his seat, which means Patty Garcia will run unopposed in the primary and general election. This was a revelation that has sparked a war of words between Democrats over the wisdom of the decision and how it looks coming from a state that has a notorious history of rigging the system in favor of the Democratic political machine, something even some media outlets acknowledged.

“The tactic was right out of the Chicago machine political playbook, subverting elections to maintain power,” Axios noted, adding, “This was once the norm for Chicago politicians of García’s ilk.”

“Garcia wouldn’t be the rst Chicago politician to make such a move. In 2004, after winning his Democratic primary, Democratic Rep. Bill Lipinski chose not to seek reelection,” Politico reported.

“He convinced the Illinois Democratic Party to substitute his name on the ballot with that of his son, Dan Lipinski, who subsequently won the general election.”

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) was so incensed by Rep. Garcia’s maneuver that, in a rare move, she called for her Democratic colleague to be condemned on the House oor last

Wednesday night ahead of the shutdown deal vote, a move that had some House Democrats, including House Minority Whip Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), fuming. Gluesenkamp Perez’s actions caused Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) to write on X about how Rep. Garcia was allegedly “an unwavering ghter for our democracy” despite ensuring his chief of sta had no competition in what should have been a competitive race to replace him.

One Illinois Democrat, however, got to the heart of the matter of why there was outrage: because it exposed Democrats and their hypocrisy on the matter.

“It becomes a bit rich when progressive Democrats decry President Donald Trump or Republicans for ‘threatening democracy’ while turning around and engaging in or tolerating moves that weaken democratic choice from within,”

Lyons Township (Cook County, Ill.)

supervisor Chris Getty wrote in an op-ed published in the Chicago Tribune. “If our side does not uphold a transparent and open process, then we forfeit our moral standing.”

As the old saying goes, truer words were never spoken.

North Carolina native Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah and is a media analyst and regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

Celebrating our Native American history

November is recognized as Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor and celebrate the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Native American peoples in North Carolina. The state is home to eight distinct Native American tribes, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee and the Lumbee, among others. These communities have deep roots in the region, with histories that span thousands of years. During Native American Heritage Month, there are numerous opportunities that raise awareness about the ongoing issues a ecting Native peoples, especially preserving language and traditions. Various events, ceremonies and educational programs are held throughout the state, highlighting the enduring legacy and diverse contributions of Native Americans to North Carolina’s history and culture. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump directed the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to develop a plan for a pathway toward full recognition for the N.C. Lumbee Tribe, bringing the Tribe one step closer in a decades-long e ort to be fully vested within the Federal Register of Native American nations.

After a near-record start to the ski season last week, Cataloochee Ski Area is suspending ski access to catch up on some necessary operations and ensure that all systems are in place for the expected extended cold coming in the next few weeks. Employees explained the decision in an Instagram post, saying, in part, “We never turn down an opportunity to re up the snow guns and we’re grateful to have been able to provide an unexpected and earlier than normal opportunity for many of you to get on the snow.” They said they have decided to cease operations from Nov. 17-21. Cataloochee plans to welcome skiers back out to the slopes on Saturday. Other area slopes have opened earlier than usual as well, with Sugar Mountain, the ski area with the most vertical drop in North Carolina, seeing its earliest opening day since the 201920 season.

broke out and continued to play.

WBTV

10-month-old found safe after Amber Alert

Mecklenburg County

Jones & Blount

WGHP

NSJ will continue with new leadership and a new name. The ve-week summer music program will return to Greensboro next year at Guilford College under the name Eastern Festival of Music.

A 10-month-old girl was found safe after an Amber Alert was issued Sunday morning, according to the CharlotteMecklenburg Police Department. Nalaya Crew was located, and two suspects, Michelle Hemphill, 19, and her boyfriend, Timothy Lee Smith Jr., 23, were arrested. Crew was reported missing Saturday after she was allegedly taken by Hemphill, a distant family member, and Smith. The family believed Crew was in danger with Hemphill, who they say is homeless and has no means to provide for the infant.

NSJ

Mebane city leaders and state leaders came together to celebrate two major milestones tied to water and wastewater upgrades. Last week, the city held a ribbon cutting for its new elevated 1 million-gallon water tank, followed by a groundbreaking for the water resource recovery facility expansion. The water infrastructure improvements are a part of the city’s e orts to keep up with rapid growth. “We are excited. We want to provide the greatest service and the best for all our citizens of Mebane, and we foresaw that this was a big need as we grow,” Mebane Mayor Ed Hooks told local outlets. The city’s new water tank increases storage capacity to 4.3 million gallons. O cials also noted that the upgrades at its water resource recovery facility site will increase treatment capacity from 2.5 million gallons per day to 4 million gallons per day, preparing for growth over 15 to 20 years.

NSJ

a rming that Stiles beat Jones by one vote. Jones led an election protest after claims that some voters were turned away and not o ered provisional ballots, and election o cials will decide next week whether to allow the appeal.

WNCT

Jones County sex o ender caught crossing border into Mexico

Jones County A sex o ender wanted in Jones County has been taken into custody after he illegally crossed the border into Mexico. The Jones County Sheri ’s O ce says George Bar eld was under probation and parole supervision when he did not show up to the probation o ce a few months ago. Bar eld was placed on the sex o ender registry

between UnitedHealthcare and WakeMed one plan has expired, leaving some North Carolinians without coverage should they choose to go to one of the local hospitals’ locations. WakeMed Health and Hospitals said Saturday in a press statement that the UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage contract had expired as of Saturday after WakeMed said UnitedHealthcare “decided to remove Medicare Advantage” from negotiations. Meanwhile, UnitedHealthcare noted in a press statement that WakeMed left its network. Now that the WakeMed contract with UnitedHealthcare has expired, hospitals, outpatient clinics, urgent care facilities and more will be considered out of network. The end of UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage acceptance at WakeMed facilities put patients at risk of losing access to providers by potentially being priced out. However, the health care provider and insurer are still negotiating commercial contracts, WakeMed told local outlets.

NSJ

“The Guilford County Democratic Party has selected Amanda Cook to serve the remainder of the term.” Guilford County Democratic Party on Facebook

Amanda Cook

NATION & WORLD

Judge scolds DOJ for ‘investigative missteps’ in Comey case

The opinion questions the actions of U.S. Attorney

Lindsey Halligan

By Eric Tucker The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Justice Department engaged in a “disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps” in the process of securing an indictment against former FBI Director James Comey, a federal judge ruled Monday in directing prosecutors to produce to defense lawyers all grand jury materials from the case.

Those problems, wrote Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick, include “fundamental misstatements of the law” by a prosecutor to the grand jury that indicted Comey in September, the use of potentially privileged communications during the investigation and unexplained irregularities in the transcript of the grand jury proceedings.

“The Court recognizes that the relief sought by the defense is rarely granted,” Fitzpatrick wrote. “However, the record points to a disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps, missteps that led an FBI agent and a prosecutor to potentially undermine the integrity of the grand jury proceeding.”

The 24-page opinion is the most blistering assessment yet by a judge of the Justice Department’s actions leading up to the Comey indictment. That case and a separate prosecution of New York Attorney General Letitia James have stirred concerns that the Justice Department is being weaponized to pursue President Donald Trump’s political opponents.

Both defendants have led multiple motions to dismiss the

cases against them before trial, arguing that the prosecutions are improperly vindictive and that the prosecutor who led the charges, Lindsey Halligan, was illegally appointed.

Comey’s lawyers had sought the grand jury materials out of concerns that irregularities in the process may have tainted the case. The sole prosecutor who defense lawyers say presented the case to the grand jury was Halligan, a former White House aide with no prior prosecutorial experience who was appointed just days earlier to the job of interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Fitzpatrick had earlier this month directed prosecutors to give the defense grand jury materials but was then directed by the trial court to examine the matter further. In his order Monday, Fitzpatrick said that after reviewing the grand jury proceedings himself, he had come away deeply concerned about the integrity of the case.

“Here, the procedural and substantive irregularities that occurred before the grand jury, and the manner in which evidence presented to the grand jury was collected and used, may rise to the level of government misconduct resulting in prejudice to Mr. Comey,” Fitzpatrick said.

Halligan did not immediately return a message seeking comment and a spokesman for the o ce declined to comment.

“The record points to … missteps that led an FBI agent and a prosecutor to potentially undermine the integrity of the grand jury proceeding.”

Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick

Congress in September 2020 when he suggested under questioning that he had not authorized FBI leaks of information to the news media. His lawyers say the question he was responding to was vague and confusing but that the answer he gave to the Senate Judiciary Committee was true.

Cook calls mortgage fraud allegations ‘baseless’

Washington, D.C.

Lawyers for Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook on Monday disputed allegations by a Trump administration o cial that she committed mortgage fraud, an accusation that President Donald Trump used as a basis for seeking to re her. It was the rst time a president has sought to remove a Fed governor in the central bank’s 112-year history. Cook sued to keep her job, and the Supreme Court ruled last month that she could remain in the position. The letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi is the rst comprehensive response to a criminal referral in August by Bill Pulte, director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency.

4 Kansas o cers shot responding to domestic violence call

Carbondale, Kan.

The judge also raised concerns that the transcript of the grand jury proceedings was incomplete.

The two-count indictment charges Comey with lying to

Fitzpatrick listed among the irregularities two di erent comments that a prosecutor — presumably Halligan — made to the grand jury that he said represented “fundamental misstatements of the law.” The actual statements are blacked out, but Fitzpatrick said the prosecutor seems to have ignored the fact that grand jurors cannot make a negative inference about a person who, like Comey, exercised a constitutional right to not testify.

Steiner says USPS needs revenue growth, not just cuts

The postmaster general believes the postal service can provide more “last-mile” deliveries

By Susan Haigh The Associated Press

The U.S. Postal Service can’t x its nances through cuts alone, Postmaster General David Steiner said Friday.

Steiner said the 250-year- old agency needs to expand its revenue base to restore prominence in the nation’s delivery network. It also should capitalize on its long-standing legal obligation to deliver to every address.

One way it can do that, Steiner said during the Postal Board of Governors meeting in Washington, is by working with more customers to provide nal or “last mile” delivery to individual homes and businesses, the most expensive and labor-intensive part of delivery.

“I’ve taken to saying that we cannot cost-cut our way to prosperity,” Steiner said. “We have to grow.”

Steiner said the postal service, which has faced an uncertain future since President Donald Trump’s election to a second term, is currently negotiating deals with private parcel delivery service UPS and similar companies to expand its last-mile service for the nal leg of delivery. He said USPS also wants to open up that program to large and small retailers, offering same-day and next-day delivery.

“We’ve begun discussions with a number of retailers and

“We cannot cost-cut our way to prosperity. We have to grow.”

David Steiner, postmaster general

the desire for fast, reliable and a ordable delivery is certainly strong among all retailers,” he said. “Our value resides in going to every address six and often seven days a week while offering a remarkable retail and processing footprint.”

Steiner, who began as postmaster general in July, was previously a board member of the FedEx delivery service.

While a new nancial report released Friday showed operating revenue of $80.5 billion, an

increase of $916 million from last scal year, the postal service su ered net losses totaling $9 billion. It marks a slight improvement from the previous scal year, when the net loss was $9.5 billion.

Amber McReynolds, who was reelected chair of the Postal Board of Governors on Friday, said “long-standing and unnecessary restrictions” are weighing down USPS’s bottom line and “highlight the urgent need for executive and legislative action” so the postal service can be nancially sustainable for the long term. USPS is an independent and mostly self-supporting federal agency. She said the postal service is currently required to pay a “disproportionate share” into its retiree system compared to other federal agencies. It’s also only allowed to invest

The line of questioning from Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) appeared to focus on whether Comey had authorized his former deputy director, Andrew McCabe, to speak with the news media. But since the indictment, prosecutors have made clear that their indictment centers on allegations that Comey permitted a separate person, close friend and Columbia University law professor Dan Richman, to serve as an anonymous source in interactions with reporters.

postal retirement funds in treasury securities, losing out on hundreds of billions of dollars that could be invested in a diversi ed portfolio, she added.

McReynolds also called for congressional updates to USPS’s pricing system, its workers’ compensation program and its borrowing limits, which haven’t been changed since 1991.

“This is urgent, and it is time for action,” she said.

Steiner warned Friday there’s also a need to cut costs at the post o ce, be more ecient and use innovative methods, including bringing articial intelligence into the USPS logistics network.

“To do all of this, we need capital and the ability to leverage our assets,” he said. “We should be able to borrow like our competitors, who are not limited by statute.”

Steiner, who said he has visited more than 20 postal facilities and spoken with thousands of postal workers and stakeholders during his rst 100 days on the job, made it clear Friday he plans to mostly stay the course with the $40 billion, 10 -year modernization and nancial stabilization plan launched by his predecessor, Louis DeJoy.

He said the progress made so far has empowered the USPS to “reach new levels,” noting on-time mail delivery has been steadily improving and most customers can expect delivery of their mail and packages in less than three days on average. However, he said more improvements are still needed.

With the busy holiday season looming, Steiner said the postal service is ready, noting $20 billion has been spent over the past four years on mail processing and logistics modernization. Also, due to a “stabilized workforce,” only a “modest” number of seasonal employees of roughly 14,000 people will need

Four law enforcement o cers were shot Saturday morning while responding to a domestic violence call at a home in a rural area south of Topeka, and a 22-year- old male suspect died of gunshot wounds at the scene. The suspect’s 77-year- old grandfather also was wounded in the gun re, but he and the law enforcement o cers are all expected to recover, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation said. The shooting occurred around 10:30 a.m. Three Osage County sheri ’s deputies and one Kansas Highway Patrol trooper were shot, the KBI’s director and the patrol’s superintendent said. Carbondale is a town of about 1,300 people about 16 miles south of Topeka.

Ukraine to buy warplanes, air defense systems from France

Paris

Ukraine on Monday signed a letter of intent to buy up to 100 Rafale warplanes, drones, air defense systems and other key equipment from France over the next 10 years as part of e orts to strengthen the country’s long-term security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who signed the document with French President Emmanuel Macron, called it “a historic deal” at a joint news conference at the Elysée presidential palace. The letter is a preliminary commitment of Ukraine stating its interest in buying a series of French defense equipment.

Gunmen abduct 25 girls from Nigerian high school Abuja, Nigeria

Gunmen attacked a high school in northwestern Nigeria before dawn on Monday, taking 25 schoolgirls and killing at least one sta er, authorities said of the latest abduction of students in the region. No group immediately claimed responsibility for abducting the girls from the boarding school in Kebbi state, and their motivation was unclear. Nigeria is facing a multidimensional security challenge, speci cally from amorphous groups of armed bandits who specialize in kidnapping for ransoms — sometimes totaling thousands of dollars — and have been responsible for several high-pro le abductions across Nigeria’s northern region.

to be hired.

CLIFF OWEN / AP PHOTO

Postmaster General David Steiner speaks at an event marking the 250th anniversary of the postal service’s founding on July 23 in Washington, D.C.

ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

Former FBI Director James Comey speaks during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on June 8, 2017.

Sinclair takes 8% stake in EW Scripps, eyes potential acquisition

Broadcast giant Sinclair has taken a more than 8% stake in E.W. Scripps as it eyes a potential merger with the smaller local TV rival. On Monday, Sinclair disclosed the purchase of Scripps’ Class A common stock while noting that it’s had monthslong talks with Scripps about a potential acquisition. Scripps acknowledged the stake and said it would evaluate any transaction in shareholders’ best interests. This move comes amid wider consolidation in the U.S. media industry, with rivals like Nexstar and Tegna recently announcing their own $6.2 billion proposed merger. Scripps’ shares soared nearly 40% on Monday, while Sinclair’s rose 4.91%.

Former Fed governor’s stock trades violated central bank’s ethics rules

A former Federal Reserve governor who retired in August listed several stock trades in her nancial disclosure documents for 2024 that violated the central bank’s ethics rules. The transactions are outlined in a report released Saturday by the U.S. O ce of Government Ethics, which reviewed Adriana Kugler’s nancial disclosures after the Fed referred them to its inspector general earlier this year. Fed o cials are barred from investing in individual stocks, bonds or cryptocurrencies. Kugler listed trades of individual stocks, including Apple, Southwest Airlines and Caterpillar. Some trades happened during blackout periods when the Fed’s policymaking committee meets. The report notes some trades were made by Kugler’s spouse without her knowledge.

Japan’s economy contracts as exports get hit by U.S. tari s Tokyo Japan’s economy has declined at an annualized rate of 1.8% in the July-September period as President Donald Trump’s tari s sent the nation’s exports reeling downward. Government data Monday showed that, on a quarter-by- quarter basis, Japan’s gross domestic product, or GDP, or the sum value of a nation’s goods and services, slipped 0.4%, in the rst contraction in six quarters. The annualized rate shows what the economy would have done if the same rate were to continue for a year.

Walmart CEO announces surprise retirement at age 59

John Furner will take over for Doug McMillon in February

By Anne D’Innocenzio

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Walmart

CEO Doug McMillon, who turned America’s largest retailer into a tech-powered giant and spearheaded a period of robust sales growth since becoming chief executive in 2014, plans to retire early next year, the company said Friday in a surprise announcement.

John Furner, 51, the head of Walmart’s U.S. operations, will take over Feb. 1, the day after McMillon’s retirement becomes e ective, the company said. Although McMillon is set to spend a year advising his successor, Walmart shares fell 3% immediately in premarket trading after the news of the unexpected leadership change but recovered somewhat and were down 1% by midday trading.

Unlike Amazon’s Je Bezos or Tesla’s Elon Musk, McMillon isn’t a household name, but he has played a key role in the U.S. economy. Walmart’s performance serves as a barometer of consumer spending given its size and vast customer base. The company maintains that 90% of U.S. households rely on Walmart for a range of products, and more than 150 million customers shop on its website or in its stores every week. Walmart, based in Bentonville, Arkansas, is also the nation’s largest private employer with 1.6 million workers. That includes corporate personnel and people working for Sam’s Club, the membership warehouse-store chain Walmart owns.

McMillon, a University of Arkansas graduate, started with Walmart in 1984 and became chief executive three decades later. During his tenure

“He leaves Walmart stronger, more innovative, and better aligned with our purpose to help people save money and live better.”

Greg Penner, Walmart chairman

as CEO, he invested heavily in employees by increasing wages, expanding parental leave, and launching a program for employees seeking advancement and education opportunities. Under his leadership, Walmart has been laser-focused on maintaining low prices while embracing new technology like arti cial intelligence and robotics. McMillon also helped to improve the company’s reputation, softening its image as a ruthless low-price operator by personally connecting with hourly

Trump scraps tari s on some foods in push to lower

grocery prices

workers and committing to goals such as reducing carbon emissions.

“Over more than a decade as CEO, Doug led a comprehensive transformation by investing in our associates, advancing our digital and e- commerce capabilities, and modernizing our supply chain,” Walmart Chairman Greg Penner, the grandson-in-law of the late Walmart founder Sam Walton, said. “He leaves Walmart stronger, more innovative, and better aligned with our purpose to help people save money and live better.” Furner started at Walmart in 1993, working as an hourly store associate in Bentonville. He has lived and worked in multiple countries and served as president and CEO of the U.S. division of Sam’s Club.

TD Cowen analyst Oliver Chen wrote in a report published Friday that Furner has “robust experience” re ning Walmart’s U.S. business. Chen expected the new CEO to maintain the company’s overall strategies but said that “a

Doug McMillon chapter won’t be easy to follow.”

Walmart’s annual revenue jumped 40% under McMillon, from $485.7 billion at the end of the rst scal year with him as CEO to $681 billion in its latest scal year. Its stock was hovering around $25 per share when he came to the helm; it’s now over $102.

When McMillon became CEO, stores were messy, sales were stagnant, and worker morale was low. McMillon thought the company needed to increase pay and create pathways for hourly workers to advance in their careers. In 2015, Walmart announced a three-year, $2.7 billion investment to increase wages and create new education and training opportunities.

But when McMillon briefed investors that year and cut the annual sales forecast, investors weren’t happy, sending Walmart shares down and destroying $21.5 billion in market value in hours. The company gradually regained investors’ con dence with higher sales, new customers and greatly improved employee retention rates.

McMillon’s time as CEO also will be remembered as the period when Walmart stopped selling ammunition for handguns and short-barrel ri es and asked customers not to openly carry rearms in its stores even in states that allowed it. The decision came days after a 2019 mass shooting in Odessa, Texas, killed seven people and followed back-to -back shootings the prior month, one of them at a Walmart store.

McMillon was among the retail executives who met with Trump at the White House and elsewhere this year to discuss the president’s tari s on foreign goods. Walmart has said it’s absorbing some of the extra import costs, but prices have started to increase.

“We’re doing what we said we would do,” McMillon told stock analysts in August. “We’re keeping our prices as low as we can for as long as we can. Our merchants have been creative and acted with urgency to avoid what would have been additional pressure for our customers and members.”

NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING NOV. 14

Beginning Cash

$2,809,874,150

Receipts (income)

$47,697,314

Disbursements

$229,028,457

Cash Balance

$2,628,543,007

Record-high beef prices have been a particular concern

By Will Weissert The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

President Donald Trump announced Friday that he was scrapping U.S. tari s on beef, co ee, tropical fruits and a broad swath of other commodities — a dramatic move that comes amid mounting pressure on his administration to better combat high consumer prices.

Trump has built his second term around imposing steep levies on goods imported into the U.S. in hopes of encouraging domestic production and lifting the U.S. economy. His abrupt retreat from his signature tari policy on so many staples key to the American diet is signi cant, and it comes after voters in o -year elections this month cited economic concerns as their top issue, resulting in big wins for Democrats in Virginia, New Jersey and other key races around the country.

“We just did a little bit of a rollback on some foods like co ee,” Trump said aboard Air Force One as he ew to Florida hours after the tari announcement was made.

Pressed on his tari s helping to increase consumer prices, Trump acknowledged, “I say they may, in some cases” have that e ect.

“But to a large extent, they’ve been borne by other countries,” the president added.

Meanwhile, in ation — despite Trump’s pronounce-

ments that it has vanished since he took o ce in January remains elevated, further increasing pressure on U.S. consumers.

The Trump administration has insisted that its tari s had helped ll government co ers and weren’t a major factor in higher prices at grocery stores around the country. But Democrats were quick to paint Friday’s move as an acknowledgement that Trump’s policies were hurting American pocketbooks.

“President Trump is nally admitting what we always knew: his tari s are raising prices for the American people,” Virginia Democratic Rep. Don Beyer said in a statement. “After getting drubbed in recent elections because of voters’ fury that Trump has broken his promises to x in ation, the White House is trying to cast this tari retreat as a ‘pivot to a ordability.’”

Grocery bill worries

Trump slapped tari s on most countries around the globe in April. He and his administration still say that tari s don’t increase consumer prices, despite economic evidence to the contrary.

Trump signed an executive order that also removes tari s on tea, fruit juice, cocoa, spices, bananas, oranges, tomatoes and certain fertilizers. Some of the products covered aren’t produced in the United States, meaning that tari s meant to spur domestic production had little e ect. But reducing the tari s will still likely mean lower prices for U.S. consumers.

The Food Industry Association, which represents retailers, producers and a variety of related industry rms and services, applauded Trump’s move to provide “swift tari relief,” noting that import U.S. taxes “are an important factor” in a “complex mix” of supply chain issues.

“President Trump’s proclamation to reduce tari s on a substantial volume of food imports is a critical step in ensuring continued adequate supply at prices consumers can afford,” the association said in a statement.

In explaining the tari reductions, the White House said Friday some of the original levies Trump relished imposing months ago were actually no longer necessary given the trade agreements he’d since hammered out with key U.S. trading partners.

Indeed, Friday’s announcement follows the Trump administration having reached framework agreements with Ecuador, Guatemala, El Salvador and Argentina meant to increase the ability of U.S. rms to sell industrial and agricultural products in these countries while also potentially easing tari s on agricultural products produced there.

During an interview that aired earlier in the week with

Laura Ingraham of Fox News Channel, Trump hinted that lower tari s might be coming.

“Co ee, we’re going to lower some tari s,” the president said then. “We’re going to have some co ee come in.” Tari checks?

Despite pulling back on so many tari s, Trump used his comments aboard Air Force One on Friday night to repeat his past assertions that his administration would use revenue the federal government has collected from import levies to fund $2,000 checks for many Americans.

The president suggested such checks could be issued in 2026 but was vague on timing, saying only, “Sometime during the year.” Trump, however, also said federal tari revenue might be used to pay down national debt — raising questions about how much federal funding would be needed to do both.

Trump rejected suggestions that attempting direct payments to Americans could exacerbate in ation concerns — even as he suggested that similar checks o ered during the coronavirus pandemic, and by previous administrations to stimulate the economy, had that very e ect.

CHARLIE RIEDEL / AP PHOTO

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, pictured speaking earlier this year in Bentonville, Arkansas, announced his retirement after 11 years leading the retail giant.

SUE OGROCKI / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump has announced plans to lift U.S. tari s on beef, co ee, tropical fruits and other goods in an e ort to ease consumer costs.

Avett Brothers, Patton nd unexpected chemistry in ‘AVTT/PTTN’

The collaboration creates something introspective, unnerving and darkly inviting

By Dan Reeves North State Journal

CONCORD — Ascend-

ing from bluegrass darlings of North Carolina to internationally acclaimed, serious folk rockers, the Avett Brothers have checked many boxes: Grammy nominations, nearly topping the Billboard charts, working with the likes of Rick Rubin, even having their own Broadway production. The outt — anchored by brothers Scott and Seth Avett with mainstays Bob Crawford and Joe Kwon — has climbed the mountain and planted the ag. Rootsy bluegrass, old-time authenticity, pop sensibility, and the desire to expand their sound into different directions and push creative curiosity into uncharted territory have served them well. Avett Brothers fans carry a devotion that meets somewhere between Deadhead and megachurch member. Their latest release nds the

band with what some might call a strange bedfellow: Mike Patton, whose group Faith No More dominated MTV in the early ’90s after the 1989 release of “The Real Thing.” For those too young to remember, the video for their anthem “Epic” ended with a sh opping around gasping for breath, a visual representation suitable for Faith No More’s ethos as a punkish, pre-grunge California hard-rock band — polar opposites of the Avett Brothers’ dulcet harmonies and forays into exploratory jams.

Patton’s main project, experimental rock band Mr. Bungle, combined everything from thrash metal to avant-garde jazz, ska and disco, with Patton’s vocals often employing extended techniques such as death metal growls, crooning, rapping, screeching, gurgling and whispering. In their collaborative album, “AVTT/PTTN,” that glaring contrast becomes null and void. The punks and the hippies can get along after all. The nine-track release unfolds delightfully, wherein Patton’s immutable vocal depth and versatility make fast friends with Seth

Charismatic cast, suspense makes third

‘Now You See

Me’ worth it

Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Dave Franco and Isla Fisher return as the Four Horsemen

By Robert Garver The Sun

IT WAS ALL the way back in 2013 that audiences were rst introduced to the Four Horsemen of Magic — J. Daniel Atlas (Jesse Eisenberg), Merritt McKinney (Woody Harrelson), Jack Wilder (Dave Franco) and Henley Reeves (Isla Fisher). The quartet blurred the line between “magic tricks” and “heists” in that they would make the money and valuables of rich evildoers disappear and then reappear in the hands of their audiences. The lm spawned a 2016 sequel (called “Now You See Me 2,” which raised the question of why they didn’t use the obvious “Now You Don’t” subtitle for that movie) that did so poorly that I didn’t review or even see it. The franchise looked to be dead. But, as we know from the person-sawed-in-half trick, death is much less common in mag-

ic than its practitioners would have you believe.

The new lm promises a reunion of the Four Horsemen at a show in Brooklyn. They rip o a crooked crypto bro, but something’s o . The members use cheap special e ects to “disappear” into the body of an audience member (Dominic Sessa), who does third-rate impressions of them while two friends in the crowd do the trickier stu . Once the show is over, we learn that the Horsemen we saw were just holograms. Or at least the movie tells us they were holograms. My guess is that the movie used the real actors for the scenes that weren’t dominated by special e ects. That’s a big problem with these movies — they can use shortcuts like editing and o - camera resources to deceive audiences. It robs the scenes of the splendor of stage magic, where the performers can’t rely on the luxury of movie magic. The show’s three magicians — Bosco (Sessa), June (Ariana Greenblatt) and Charlie (Justice Smith) — have never even met the Four Horsemen… until

“Mike’s part of our DNA, like the fabric of our youth. Literally, we studied him. He’s a dear friend now, but when we were younger, I was imitating him. ... This is what art is. This is what making it is supposed to be: in secret and with no ambition.”

Scott Avett

and Scott’s wispy confessional folk and the acoustic stamp the Avett Brothers have perfected. From the haunting, measured echoes of the gut-punching opening track “Dark Night of My Soul” to the rousing “The Ox Driver’s Song” — a traditional work song evolved from actual cattle- driver calls — the record escapes the identity of who’s behind the microphones. Artists nd each other for a reason, genres be damned.

Both Scott and Seth came

up in the MTV generation, like millions of young Americans who watched in awe and had their minds opened and musical palates shaped by bands like Faith No More.

“Mike’s part of our DNA, like the fabric of our youth,” Scott Avett said in a press release. “Literally, we studied him. He’s a dear friend now, but when we were younger, I was imitating him. ... This is what art is. This is what making it is supposed to be: in secret and with no ambition.”

The partnership developed organically, rooted in longtime mutual admiration between Patton and the Avett Brothers. They began trading song ideas, which culminated in the cowriting of all nine tracks. Patton and Scott Avett coproduced the album alongside engineer Dana Nielsen, resulting in a work that is unique and distinct from either artist’s existing catalog yet fundamentally dependent on both their contributions.

While they may not be immediately obvious collaborators, the partnership o ered both artists a chance to explore a new creative landscape. They began sharing ideas and quickly discovered surprising common ground. Considering the etymology of country music as a core storytelling tradition — one that often uses myths, history and humor as a mask for sincerity — Patton’s style aligns perfectly. The resulting music on “AVTT/PTTN” lies at the crossroads of this tradition, where the interplay of their respective styles is likely far more blurred than it appears on the surface.

April

April

April

May

Atlas shows up in their home.

He’s mildly impressed by their chutzpah but tells them that The Eye has a greater purpose for them. Remember The Eye? The magical organization pulling the strings on the heists? The one that turned out to be run by Mark Ru alo’s Interpol agent in the rst movie in a twist that stretched plausibility even for a series this goofy? Then again, the Horsemen themselves have already been impersonated in this movie, so maybe someone is impersonating The Eye too. The rest of the movie is Horsemen both old and new on a globe -trotting adventure to take down dirty diamond dealer Veronika Vanderberg (Rosamund Pike). Based on the lm’s advertising, it’s not much of a secret that the other three

Horsemen will show up eventually, as well as enemy-turned-ally Thaddeus Bradley (Morgan Freeman). They may even pull in another member. I don’t think they need the extra help against Vanderberg. She has an amateurish scheme to out-magic at least seven world- class magicians, one that involves the “leaving them to their slow demise without watching” trope that I can’t believe movies are still doing in 2025. I know I’m not supposed to spoil the endings of these movies, but all the suspenseful aspects of the lm are little more than a countdown to her “probably” getting busted.

I think it’s funny how I have so many complaints about “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” — the predictable story, the lame villain and lamer danger, and

the reliance on special e ects that any proper magician would surely denounce — and yet I recommend the lm. The movie is saved for me based almost entirely on the charm of the cast, who have great banter and chemistry. Which is precisely why it’s a good idea to come out with a new movie now, nearly a decade after the last installment. Did this franchise “need” a third movie? No. But is it ever a bad time to give us a movie with this group of charismatic actors doing amusing magic? Also no.

Grade: B-

“Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” is rated PG -13 for some language, violence and suggestive references. Its running time is 113 minutes.

Left, Scott Avett, left, and Seth Avett of The Avett Brothers perform during Concert for Carolina in October 2024 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Right, Mike Patton of Mr. Bungle performs during the Sonic Temple Art and Music Festival in May 2024 at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.

Woody Harrelson speaks with the media at the premiere of “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” in New York on Nov. 10.

“Stranger

Labubu, ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ to dazzle at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

This

City event

By Mark Kennedy

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Two things that made massive cultural splashes this year — Labubu and “KPop Demon Hunters” — will ll the sky and streets of New York when the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks o this year.

The Nov. 27 parade begins rain or shine on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and ends at Macy’s Herald Square agship store on 34th Street, which serves as a stage and backdrop for performances. It will feature 34 balloons, four mini-balloons, 28 oats, 33 clown groups and 11 marching bands — all leading the way for Santa Claus.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade starts at 8:30 a.m. Eastern and airs at that time in all time zones. It will be on NBC, available with an antenna or through cable and satellite providers, while cord cutters can watch the simulcast on Peacock and an encore telecast begins at 2 p.m. EST/PST. A Spanish language simulcast will also be on Telemundo.

Others on hand will be Jewel, Debbie Gibson, Drew Baldridge, Matteo Bocelli, Colbie Caillat, Gavin DeGraw, Meg Donnelly, Christopher Jackson, Darlene Love, Roman Mejia, Taylor Momsen, Calum Scott, Shaggy, Lauren Spencer Smith and Luísa Sonza. For those watching on TV or computers stalwarts Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker from “Today” and their former colleague Hoda Kotb will host. On Telemundo, the hosts will be Andrea Meza, Aleyda Ortiz and Clovis Nienow.

This year, four new featured character balloons will debut, including Buzz Lightyear, Pac-Man, Mario from Super Mario Brothers and a 32-foot-tall balloon onion carriage featuring eight characters from the world of “Shrek.” “KPop Demon Hunters” will also be represented in the sky with the characters Derpy Tiger and Sussie.

“Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo will kick o a starry show. Audrey Nuna, EJAE and Rei Ami of HUNTR/X, the ctional girl group at the heart of the Netix hit “KPop Demon Hunters,” will feature alongside Ciara, Foreigner, Lil Jon, Kool & the Gang, Busta Rhymes, Mick-

Last year, more than 31 million people tuned in on NBC and Peacock, up 10% from the previous year and marking the biggest audience ever for the parade.

ey Guyton and Teyana. An eclectic group of stars — from ballet dancer Tiler Peck to YouTube’s “Hot Ones” host Sean Evans — will join the annual holiday kick- o . Broadway will be represented by cast members from “Buena Vista Social Club,” “Just in Time” and “Ragtime,” while the Radio City Rockettes

will be there and some serious athletes — three-time U.S. national champion gure skater Ilia Malinin and U.S Paralympian Jack Wallace. Alumni and students at LaGuardia High School in New York City — the school featured in the movie and TV series “Fame” — will help celebrate the 50th anniversary of “A Chorus Line.”

Roblox steps up age checks, groups younger users into age-based chats

The popular gaming platform has faced lawsuits over child safety

By Barbara Ortutay

The Associated Press

ROBLOX IS STEPPING up its age veri cation system for users who want to chat with other players and implementing age-based chats so kids, teens and adults will only be able to communicate with people around their own age. The moves come as the popular gaming platform continues to face criticism and lawsuits over child safety and a growing number of states and countries are implementing age veri cation laws.

The company had previously announced the age estimation tool, which is provided by a company called Persona, in July. It requires players to take a video sel e that will be used to estimate their age. Roblox says the videos are deleted after the age check is processed. Users are not

required to submit a face scan to use the platform, only if they want to chat with other users. Roblox doesn’t allow kids under 13 to chat with other users outside of games unless they have explicit parental permission —

and unlike di erent platforms, it does not encrypt private chat conversations, so it can monitor and moderate them.

While some experts have expressed caution about the reliability of facial age estimation

“It remains to be seen how e ective it will be and whether Roblox will stay the course on a voluntary measure once public scrutiny fades.”

Shelby Knox, ParentsTogether

tools, Matt Kaufman, chief safety o cer at Roblox, said that between the ages of about 5 and 25, the system can accurately estimate a person’s age within one or two years.

“But of course, there’s always people who may be well outside of a traditional bell curve. And in those cases, if you disagree with the estimate that comes back, then you can provide an ID or use parental consent in order to correct that,” he said.

After users go through the age checks, they will be assigned to age groups ranging from under 9, 9 to 12, 13 to 15, 16 to 17,

Several new oats will debut this year, including the rst Labubu oat, with Skullpanda, Peach Riot, Dimoo, Molly, Duckoo and Mokoko. There will also be oats from Holland America Line, Lego, Lindt chocolates, “Stranger Things” featuring members of Foreigner, and a bunch of whimsical sheep trying to get to sleep courtesy of Serta. The sh-shaped snack Gold sh is returning to the parade with a tiny oat that measures just 14 Gold sh crackers long.

18 to 20, and over 21. Users will then be able to chat with their age group or similar age groups, depending on their age and the type of chat.

Roblox said it will start enforcing age checks in Australia, New Zealand and the Netherlands in the rst week of December, then the rest of the world in early January.

A growing number of tech companies are implementing veri cation systems to comply with regulations or ward o criticism that they are not protecting children. This includes Google, which recently started testing a new age-veri cation system for YouTube that relies on AI to differentiate between adults and minors based on their watch histories. Instagram is testing an AI system to determine if kids are lying about their ages.

“While we welcome the new age ID measures as a step forward, it remains to be seen how e ective it will be and whether Roblox will stay the course on a voluntary measure once public scrutiny fades,” said Shelby Knox, director of online safety campaigns at the advocacy group ParentsTogether. “We have to remember this comes from a platform that has historically been slow to address systemic predatory behavior despite being marketed to and used by very young children.”

year will be the 99th edition of the iconic New York

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO

LEON KEITH / AP PHOTO

Roblox has faced criticism on whether it has done enough to keep children safe while using the gaming platform.

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO

A new Thanksgiving Day oat featuring a monster from the show “Stranger Things” is displayed during a press preview of the new oats at Macy’s Parade Studio.

UNC-Duke prepared to do battle in football, B4

the Thursday SIDELINE REPORT

NCAA FOOTBALL

UNC’s Belichick

maintains commitment to Tar Heels “will not’ pursue open NFL jobs

Chapel Hill

UNC coach Bill Belichick said he isn’t pursuing any jobs as a head coach in the NFL. That comes amid the rst changes of the current hiring cycle, including a vacancy with the Giants. In a statement posted on social media, the 73-year- old said he remains committed to building the Tar Heels program: “I have not and will not pursue any NFL head coaching vacancies.”

NFL

Brissett sets NFL completions record but su ers loss

Glendale, Ariz.

Former NC State quarterback Jacoby Brissett set an NFL record for completions, had a career high in passing yards and threw two touchdown passes, but his Arizona Cardinals were thumped 41-22 by the 49ers. Arizona set a franchise record with 17 penalties for 130 yards. Brissett broke the NFL regular-season record with 47 completions and threw for 452 yards in the loss.

NCAA FOOTBALL

College football

coach Beam from “Last Chance U” dead after shooting Oakland, Calif. Police in Oakland, California, say Laney College football coach John Beam, known from Net ix’s “Last Chance U,” died after being shot on campus. A suspect has been arrested. Mayor Barbara Lee praised Beam as a mentor and community leader. Beam was featured in the 2020 season of the docuseries. According to his biography on the college’s website, 20 of his players have gone on to the NFL.

Starring role: Young’s return leads Panthers to new high

The third-year quarterback had his signature moment en route to a 10th game-winning drive

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

BRYCE YOUNG has his origin story now. Every quarterback needs one. It’s that moment in the movie where things look bleak, right before the heroic music picks up and the success montage begins. Think Kurt Warner stocking supermarket shelves while

playing indoor football. Or Tom Brady arriving at Michigan as the No. 7 quarterback on the depth chart. It’s Joe Montana, leading his 49ers onto the Super Bowl eld for one last-ditch comeback attempt, and happening to see John Candy in the crowd.

For Bryce Young, it was when a rookie safety for the Atlanta Falcons sacked him, and he didn’t get up.

The player who sacked Young was Billy Bowman Jr., which sounds like a made-up name — a fresh-faced, All-American boy next door. Certainly not the name of someone who would go around knock-

ing quarterbacks out of games. Through the rst half-season of his NFL career, he did nothing to alter that perception. The fourth-round draft pick for Atlanta out of Oklahoma entered the game against the Panthers with 22 career tackles, or one every 10 snaps or so. He’d never had a tackle for loss, was credited with a half of a sack and had one quarterback hit through six games. Bowman came from the secondary, untouched through the line, however. He grabbed Young around the chest and dragged him to the turf, ending Carolina’s second drive of the game.

As Bowman celebrated his way out of the Bryce Young story, the title character rolled around on his back, clearly in a great deal of pain. He ripped o his helmet as the training sta knelt by his side. He was taken to the locker room, and backup Andy Dalton began to get loose on the sideline.

That’s when the music swells. Young returned from the locker room during the tail end of Atlanta’s next drive. The Panthers listed him as questionable to return. While the Fox sideline reporter was still reading that

From contact to ‘quiet room’: A look at NHL’s concussion protocol

Hurricanes goalie Frederik Andersen gives a peek behind the curtain of how the league deals with in-game head injuries

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — The NHL, like most professional sports leagues, has toed a delicate line with concussions, realizing that a at-out denial of the impact of head injuries in hockey is no longer a reasonable defense. Still, the league, which has faced criticism after several past enforcers’ deaths were tied to the repercussions of ghting and blows to the head, is often secretive about how it handles concussions.

One sign of progress is the league’s use of concussion spotters, who have the authority to pull a player from the game if they are determined to have exhibited signs of a head injury.

Such was the case last Tuesday when Hurricanes goalie Frederik Andersen was pulled from the game against the Capitals with just over ve minutes remaining in the game follow-

ing a collision with teammate Jordan Staal. Andersen was slow to get up from the ice, though he said it was because he felt a twinge in his back after being

“It was just a pain tolerance thing, and he gutted it out.”

statement on air, Young was making a liar of her, leading the o ense onto the eld without missing a snap.

“He said, ‘I’m good’,” said Panthers coach Dave Canales. “He gave me a thumbs up and said, ‘I’m good’. I said, ‘That’s good enough for me’. He was getting back out there, and Andy (Dalton) was ready. Andy was warming up and ready to go out for that series.”

That’s what the Warners, Bradys and Montanas do. They beat the odds, and, along the way, they lift up the entire team.

“I was red up,” said Canales. “It was like, ‘OK, let’s go.’” As the story gets retold, Young’s turnaround will get exaggerated, but he was already having a pretty good game when he got sacked by Bowman. He was 8 of 9 for 82 yards

See PANTHERS, page B2

“twisted the wrong way” after colliding with the rare player who is as big as his own 6-foot4, 229-pound frame.

“It was just more about the other part of my body, not even the concussion part,” Andersen said. “I just got up quick. I knew Doug (Bennett, the Hurricanes’ head trainer) was right there. I just kind of wanted to skate away and get over and do my thing, get some water like I usually do in the TV timeout.”

But as Andersen stretched in his crease preparing to continue play with Carolina trailing 3-1, one of the linesmen came over to tell Andersen he had been agged by the league’s concussion spotter.

“I was very surprised because, if anything, I think the one collision in the rst would be the one that should have warranted some sort of a review or something,” Andersen said of Capitals forward Nic Dowd colliding with him earlier in the game. “He made contact with the head there.”

After exiting the ice surface, Andersen was taken to the team’s training room in the Lenovo Center, a place where he can take the necessary

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Hurricanes goaltender Frederik Andersen lies on the ice after a collision with teammate Jordan Staal during the third period of Carolina’s 4-1 loss to the Capitals on Nov. 11 at Lenovo Center.

BRYNN ANDERSON / AP PHOTO

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) celebrates a touchdown pass in the second half of a comeback win over the Atlanta Falcons. Young’s record-setting day led Carolina back into playo contention.

Dave Canales, Panthers coach

THURSDAY 11.20.25

TRENDING

James Forthofer:

The visiting clubhouse manager for the Fayetteville Woodpeckers was named the visiting clubhouse manager of the year for the Carolina League.

The Fayetteville native and Campbell alum has worked for the Astros organization since 2018, starting with the Buies Creek Astros. Also honored in the minor league awards was Winston-Salem Dash head groundskeeper Matt Begin, who was named the South Atlantic League’s top groundskeeper.

Stephen Curry:

The former Davidson star is a free agent, at least when it comes to his shoe deal. Curry and Under Armour announced that they mutually agreed to end their partnership, which had lasted 13 years. Curry will retain ownership of Curry Brand, his personal line, and is free to nd another corporate partner.

Mike Elko:

The Texas A&M football coach has a new six-year contract. The school announced the deal hours after the third-ranked Aggies mounted the biggest comeback in school history, from down 30-3 at halftime against South Carolina. Texas A&M is 10-0 for the rst time since 1992. Elko’s new deal replaces the six-year contract he signed when left Duke to join the Aggies last season.

PANTHERS from page B1

and a touchdown through two drives. His rst pass after returning to the game was an incompletion, on his way to a three-and-out series.

The Panthers trailed 21-10 at the half.

Beyond the box score

POTENT QUOTABLES

“He’s been a hypocrite the way he’s carrying on.”

Former New England Patriot Asante Samuel on UNC coach Bill Belichick (pictured), who told his NFL teams to ignore distractions and the media.

“The league itself has played good football all year.”

ACC commissioner Jim Phillips, making a case that the league should get multiple bids in the College Football Playo .

PRIME NUMBER

The number of ejections for the West Virginia women’s basketball team after the Mountaineers bench cleared in a prehalftime shoving match with Duke. With just ve players left for the second half, West Virginia erased a three-point halftime de cit to beat the Blue Devils, who had just one player ejected, 57- 49.

Young opened the second half with eight straight completions and led the Panthers on a comeback. With 1:15 left in the game, he found rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan for a 12-yard touchdown. That was two plays after a 38-yard touchdown to Rico Dowdle was ruled out at the 10-yard-line on review. Then in overtime, his only completion was a 54-yard pass to Tommy Tremble to set up the game-winning kick. It was the longest connection with a Car-

HOCKEY from page B1

tests without the full noise and distractions of the arena.

“The test can be tough if you’re out there, like with all the di erent sounds and stu ,” he said. “So I’m sure you’ve got to focus up a little bit to kind of get close to your baseline.”

The baseline is cognitive tests players take before the season that give doctors and trainers a benchmark to compare the player’s test results after the event that led to them being pulled from the game.

SOCCER

Tobin Heath, left, and Heather O’Reilly, right, both former Tar Heels, were elected to the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame, joining men’s players Tony Sanneh and Chris Wondolowski, referee Kari Seitz and indoor star Kevin Crow. They will be inducted on May 1 in Frisco, Texas. O’Reilly and Heath have both won World Cup titles and Olympic gold medals. O’Reilly won a pro soccer title with the Carolina Courage in 2019.

The Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls got ve touchdown passes from quarterback Kelvin Durham and rolled to a 45-21 win over Virginia Union in the CIAA championship game at Durham County Memorial Stadium. The win clinched the rst CIAA title for Johnson C. Smith since 1969.

Police are searching for a shoplifter who stole $9,700 in baseball and Pokemon cards from a CardVault by Tom Brady store in lower Manhattan. The police asked for the public’s help this week to identify a man wearing a Yankees cap caught on surveillance footage.

olina tight end since 2017, and it gave Young 448 yards on the day, 16 more than Cam Newton’s team record, set in 2011. It also gave Young a 10th game-winning drive in the last three years. That’s more than anyone else in the NFL over that span. Josh Allen? Patrick Mahomes? Jalen Hurts? Nine each, along with Geno Smith.

He did it despite getting

“It’s an iPad test,” Andersen said. “There’s a few di erent ones. … memory stu or balance stu , recalling numbers and random stu , words you’ve got to remember. So if you’re not fully there, it could de nitely show as a sign that you’re not fully with it.” For Andersen to do the balance tests, he needs to take o his skates — a bit more of a process for a goalie than a forward or a defenseman. Andersen said the tests are ve to 10 minutes, which, on top of the time it takes to take o and put on equip -

ment, can keep a goalie out of the game for a decent chunk of time. He said by the time the Hurricanes returned to the locker room following their 4-1 loss, he was done with his test and in the locker room with the team.

Andersen said he has in the past recognized when something was not right following a collision, like when New Jersey’s Timo Meier made contact with him in Game 4 of last year’s rst round playo series, knocking him from the game.

“At the end of the day, they’re

sacked a total of ve times on the day — twice on fourth down, and a sixth time on a two-point conversion attempt that didn’t count in the o cial stats. Each of those hits sent him to the turf and forced him to struggle back up on his unsteady ankle.

Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase pleaded not guilty to charges he took bribes to help gamblers. The 27-year- old — who is a three-time All-Star and 2019 Down East Wood Duck — and teammate Luis Ortiz have been on nondisciplinary paid leave. Prosecutors say the two accepted thousands of dollars in bribes to help unnamed gamblers in the Dominican Republic win bets placed on their pitches.

“He was dealing with some stu ,” Canales said. “The ankle that ared up a couple times and they checked it out, and they made sure that everything was structurally ne. At that point, it was just a pain tolerance thing, and he gutted it out. He wanted to do that for his teammates. I’m just really proud of the way that he stepped in there and made the plays when we needed him to.” It also gave him his origin story. Now we all watch where that story goes from here.

trying to protect us and themselves,” he said. “They’re trying to protect both parties.”

He also admitted that it’s easy for an athlete’s competitive nature to lead them to overlook or ignore warning signs.

“I think when you’re in the moment,” he said, “you want to keep competing and being out there. … You may ignore some signs that made you feel, maybe, that you’re not right there, but they take you out in a little bit quieter room, in the training room or something, where you can just go through it.”

In Andersen’s recent situation, he knew he wasn’t going to be a key part in Carolina trying to erase a two-goal de cit in the nal minutes of a game, making the concussion spotter’s decision a bit easier to swallow.

He also said it helps that it’s the team’s trainers and doctors, people who know the players and their usual demeanor, evaluating the results and are better suited to “see if something’s up.”

“At the end of the day,” Andersen said, “you’re thankful that you have people that try to look out for you.”

NCAA FOOTBALL NFL

COURTESY CIAA

SCOT

CHRIS SEWARD / AP PHOTO

JEFF CHIU / AP PHOTO

2025-26 NSJ All-NC men’s basketball team

The All-NC team includes 15 players from all across the state’s various D1 programs

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

WITH COLLEGE basketball in full swing, it’s time for North State Journal to put together its 2025-26 All-NC team, assembled from players at colleges all across the state.

Without further adieu, here are our selections for this year:

PG (1) — Isaiah Evans, Rob Martin, Nate Calmese

Duke sophomore Isaiah Evans is the starting point guard for one of the best teams in the country in the Duke Blue Devils, and he was also a Preseason All-ACC Second Team selection.

The 6-foot-6 guard is a versatile player and who can be deadly beyond the arc, having nished 10th all-time in Duke history for 3-pointers by a freshman last season.

High Point senior Rob Martin comes to the defending Big South champion Panthers this season after two years with Southeast Missouri State.

The 5-foot-10 guard was selected to the Preseason All-Big South First Team this season.

Finally, Wake Forest senior Nate Calmese rounds out the point guard group.

Transferring in from Washington State, the 6-foot-2 guard was a do-it-all type of player for the Cougars last season.

Calmese is o to a hot start, averaging 9.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.5 steals, 6.0 assists and just 1.8 turnovers per game with the Demon Deacons.

SG (2) — Chris Ashby, Eren Banks, Gage Lattimore

Queens University senior guard Chris Ashby was selected as the ASUN Preseason

The number of schools represented on North State Journal’s All-NC Team

Player of the Year and was a unanimous rst-team selection as well.

The senior led the ASUN and set the school record last season for 3-pointers made (115). That total was also the ninth best marker in the entire country as well.

Appalachian State junior guard Eren Banks was a Preseason All-Sun Belt second-team selection and joins the Mountaineers after two years with Georgia Southern.

The Georgia native is averaging 9.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists so far on the year.

rounds out the group thanks to a hot start to the year, during which he’s scored over 20 points in three of his ve games.

The 6-foot-2 Greensboro native is averaging 21.6 points per game, shooting over 50% from the 3-point range, along with 2.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists.

SF (3) — Paul McNeil Jr., Juke Harris, Jordan Riley

NC State sophomore sharpshooter Paul McNeil Jr. is having a coming out party this season.

After playing limited minutes last year, the Rockingham native has been on re to start the year, averaging 20.3 points and 4.3 3-pointers per game.

Wake Forest sophomore Juke Harris is also coming into his own in his second collegiate season.

After primarily coming o of the bench last year, Harris got the bump up to starter and

2026 recruiting classes take shape during early signing period

More high school players have committed to collegiate teams

By Jesse Deal North State Journal

HIGH SCHOOL basketball prospects in the 2026 class are already announcing their college choices.

The early signing period ran from Nov. 12-19, ahead of the regular signing day on April 15.

With the transfer portal and NIL reshaping roster construction, many programs now rely less on traditional high school recruiting. Still, North Carolina colleges continue targeting top in-state talent to build longterm depth.

Here’s a look at how several local 2026 classes are taking shape following the early signing period, with assessments based on 247Sports’ composite rankings.

Cameron Williams (Duke MBB)

The 6-foot-11, 200-pound ve-star prospect from St. Mary’s (Phoenix, Arizona) ranks as the No. 4 overall prospect and No. 1 power forward. Williams became Jon Scheyer’s top haul, choosing the Blue Devils over Arizona, Purdue, Texas and SMU.

Status: Committed

Bryson Howard (Duke MBB)

The 6-foot-5, 188-pound ve-star prospect from Frisco Heritage (Frisco, Texas) ranks as the No. 12 overall prospect and No. 4 small forward.

Howard selected the Blue Devils over Kentucky, UNC, Baylor and Georgetown.

Status: Committed

Maxime Meyer (Duke MBB)

The 7-foot-1, 215-pound four-star prospect from IMG Academy (Brandenton, Florida) ranks as the No. 102 overall prospect and No. 12 center. Meyer went with the Blue Devils over Florida, Stanford, Vanderbilt and SMU.

Status: Committed

Maximo Adams (UNC MBB)

The 6-foot-7, 205-pound ve-star prospect from Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, California) ranks as the No. 22 overall prospect and No. 10 small forward. Adams, the rst player in Hubert Davis’ latest recruiting class, chose the Tar Heels over Michigan State, Texas and Kentucky.

Status: Committed

Cole Cloer (NC State MBB)

The 6-foot-7, 190-pound four-star prospect from IMG Academy (Brandenton, Florida) ranks as the No. 29 overall prospect and No. 12 small forward. The top 2026 recruit for Will

ECU coach Michael Schwartz has muscled in on the usual ACC coaching suspects to land a major recruit in the 2026 class.

has been making the most of it, averaging 21.8 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game.

Despite ECU ranking fairly low in the projected AAC standings for this season, senior Jordan Riley remains a very exciting player for the Pirates, as he was named to the Preseason All-AAC First Team.

The New York native remained with the Pirates, and perhaps his loyalty is paying o as he’s averaging 20 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.5 steals so far this season.

PF (4) — Darrion Williams, Cameron Boozer, Caleb Wilson

The state has a ton of power forward talent this year, with the top three Tobacco Road schools all having their best players at that position.

We have to give the initial edge to NC State senior Darrion Williams, as he was named the ACC Preseason Player of the

Year heading into the season. He’s lived up to the hype so far too, averaging 21.7 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.7 assists on the year, all while shooting 64.7% from beyond the arc.

But just down the road, Duke standout freshman Cameron Boozer, another ACC First Team selection as well as the ACC Preseason Rookie of the Year and runner-up for the ACC Preseason Player of the Year, is also delivering.

The ve-star freshman is averaging 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.7 blocks and 1.7 steals as the top option for the Blue Devils And to round out the group, we have another very talented freshman in UNC’s Caleb Wilson.

The 6-foot-10 forward is performing just as well as the other two so far, averaging 20.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.5 blocks and 1.5 steals per game.

C (5) — Toyaz Solomon, Henri Veesaar, Anton Bonke

UNC Asheville center Toyaz Solomon was the Preseason Big South Player of the Year and a rst-team selection as well.

The 6-foot-9 forward is entering his third season with the Bulldogs and is currently the Big South active leader in scoring, rebounding and blocks per game.

UNC Tar Heels junior center Henri Veesaar comes to the program after three seasons at Arizona.

The 7-foot Estonian has been a force so far for the Tar Heels, averaging 16.0 points on 69.7% shooting, along with 8.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 2.0 blocks per game.

Charlotte’s junior center Anton Bonke rounds out the position, transferring to the 49ers after a season in Providence.

The 7-foot-2 Vanuatu native is averaging 12 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game this season.

Gallagher Placide (Wake Forest MBB)

The 6-foot-8, 205-pound four-star prospect from Faith Family Academy of Oak Cli (Dallas, Texas) ranks as the No. 110 overall prospect and No. 20 power forward.

Like his twin brother, Placide, went with the Demon Deacons over Mississippi State, LSU, NC State and California.

Status: Committed

Quentin Coleman (Wake Forest MBB)

The 6-foot-3, 170-pound four-star prospect from The Principia School (St. Louis) ranks as the No. 85 overall prospect and No. 11 shooting guard.

Coleman chose the Demon Deacons over Iowa, Saint Louis, Texas Tech and Arizona State.

Status: Committed

Dreylan Creasy (East Carolina MBB)

Wade selected the Wolfpack over Arkansas, Alabama, UConn and Florida.

Status: Committed

Trevon Carter- Givens (NC State MBB)

The 6-foot-11, 190-pound four-star prospect from SoCal Academy (Castaic, California) ranks as the No. 109 overall prospect and No. 16 center. Carter-Givens chose the Wolfpack over San Diego State, Arizona State, Creighton and Florida State. Status: Signed

Gavin Placide (Wake Forest MBB)

The 6-foot-9, 220-pound four-star prospect from Faith Family Academy of Oak Cli (Dallas, Texas) ranks as the No. 53 overall prospect and No. 10 power forward.

Steve Forbes’ top 2026 recruit so far picked the Demon Deacons over Mississippi State, LSU, NC State and California.

Status: Committed

The 6-foot-7, 185-pound four-star prospect from Blue Ridge School (Dyke, Virginia) ranks as the No. 123 overall prospect and No. 40 small forward.

Michael Schwartz’s lone 2026 high school recruit picked the Pirates over La Salle, Mississippi State, Norfolk State and Oklahoma State.

Status: Committed

Autumn Fleary (Duke WBB)

The 5-foot-6 ve-star prospect from Sidwell Friends School (Washington, DC) ranks as the No. 11 overall prospect and No. 2 point guard. Fleary, Kara Lawson’s top haul, chose the Blue Devils over UNC and Notre Dame.

Status: Signed

Bella Flemings (Duke WBB)

Status: Committed

Sanai Green (Duke WBB)

The 6-foot-1 ve-star prospect from Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, New York) ranks as the No. 30 overall prospect and No. 7 small forward. Green was primarily recruited by Duke.

Status: Signed

Taylor So lkanich (Duke WBB)

The 6-foot-4 four-star prospect from St. John Vianney Regional (Holmdel, New Jersey) ranks as the No. 50 overall prospect and No. 7 center. So lkanich was primarily recruited by Duke.

Status: Committed

Kate Harpring (UNC WBB)

The 5-foot-10 ve-star prospect from Marist School (Atlanta, Georgia) ranks as the No. 2 overall prospect and No. 1 point guard.

Harpring, Courtney Banghart’s future point guard, chose the Tar Heels over Alabama, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Iowa.

Status: Committed

Kamora Pruitt (NC State WBB)

The 6-foot-2 ve-star prospect from Legion Prep Academy (Dallas, Texas) ranks as the No. 32 overall prospect and No. 8 small forward Wes Moore’s top prospect was primarily recruited by NC State.

Status: Committed

Annsley Trivette (NC State WBB)

The 6-foot-3 four-star prospect from Abingdon (Abingdon, Virginia) ranks as the No. 59 overall prospect and No. 8 center. Trivette was primarily recruited by NC State.

The 6-foot ve-star prospect from Brennan (San Antonio) ranks as the No. 12 overall prospect and No. 3 small forward Flemings chose the Blue Devils over Tennessee, TCU, Baylor and Miami.

Status: Committed

NC Central’s Gage Lattimore

BEN MCKEOWN / AP PHOTO

Duke’s Cameron Boozer (12) dunks during an early-season game against Western Carolina.

NIKKI BOERTMAN / AP PHOTO

Duke, UNC in search of Victory Bell

The football rivalry’s trophy isn’t where it belongs as game week opens

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

THIS JUST IN: The Victory Bell is missing.

“It’s gone missing,” said Duke coach Manny Diaz. “Since Saturday. I don’t know where.”

The prize that goes to the annual winner of the Duke-UNC football game has resided in Durham since last year’s game, won at Wallace Wade Stadium when the Blue Devils mounted the biggest comeback in school history.

Since then, it’s resided in the Duke football building.

“There’s only so many chances you have to win a trophy,” Diaz said. “It’s way more fun when you have it. It’s a constant reminder. Every day, you see it when you walk by. It’s there. And it’s a constant reminder when you walk by, and it’s not.”

As of last Saturday, it’s not.

Could it be the work of vandals? A heist on the level of the jewelry thieves at the Louvre? A pregame prank by brave UNC students?

“As far as the Bell,” Diaz said, “we don’t have it.”

Perhaps, just maybe, the Bell’s absence could be a motivational ploy from the Blue Devils coaching sta .

“No one has it,” Diaz continued. “This team hasn’t won it. No one has won it. We’re not retaining anything. We have to go

A

get it — the same way they have to go get it. These two teams have never played each other.”

In addition to the Victory Bell — assuming it’s found before game time — the two teams are playing to save their respective seasons. Both had much higher hopes but have seen reality set in as time has gone by.

Duke is on a two-game losing streak. The Blue Devils were upset at UConn in what many expected to be a nonconference tune-up game before the stretch run. They then fell at home to UVA in a game that essentially took them out of the running for the ACC Championship Game. While there may still be scenarios that could land Duke in

Charlotte, the Blue Devils don’t control their own destiny and would need a great deal of help.

Duke’s o ense, which has been explosive under quarterback Darian Mensah (3,007 yards, 25 TDs, 4 interceptions) and freshman running back Nate Sheppard (700 yards, 7 TDs) was shut down in the Virginia game. Mensah managed just 212 yards, Sheppard 43.

Duke needs at least one win in the nal two games — at UNC and home against Wake Forest — to become bowl eligible with six wins.

“(Sunday) was an important day in our program,” Diaz said.

“We had to have the maturity and accountability to own our

Don’t ask Duke coach Manny Diaz where the Victory Bell is. He hasn’t seen it.

performance Saturday, and also the focus and fortitude to put it behind us.”

UNC expected to enter college football’s big time after hiring legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick. The Tar Heels were blown out in the season opener and su ered a four-game losing streak. UNC appeared to right the ship in recent weeks, with wins at Syracuse and home against Stanford, but the Heels were handled in Winston-Salem last week, mustering only eld goals in a 28-12 loss.

Belichick, who has had several PR nightmares this season, was criticized for doing a blow-by handshake with Wake’s coaching sta following the

game. A story also surfaced early this week that nearly one in ve UNC players have received speeding or reckless driving tickets, far exceeding other area programs.

UNC needs to sweep its season-ending rivalry games, against Duke and at NC State, to become bowl eligible.

The two rivals are opposites. While Duke has been led by its o ense, UNC has leaned on an aggressive defense as it began winning games.

“They’re a tough nut to crack,” Diaz said. “They’re hard to run the ball on. They challenge everything in the passing game. They know how to attack protection and harass the quarterback.”

Meanwhile, the UNC o ense has sputtered, and Duke’s defense has sprung leaks at inopportune times as the year has gone on.

“If you’re going to get us on defense, this is the year to get us,” Diaz said. “Our young guys are learning and getting better. They can play. It’s been a baptism by re with a run of good quarterbacks.”

Both teams will be desperate for a win on Saturday, for their seasons as well as bragging rights.

“Desperation is not always a great motivation in sports,” Diaz said. “When you get to November, motivation ies out the window. In a rivalry game, motivation ies out the window.” Unless, of course, your prized Victory Bell goes missing without warning.

“I’ve been here, what? Twenty months?” Diaz said. “For the rst eight or nine months, there was no bell. Since then, there’s been a bell.” Until this week.

look at Week 12 of college football across the state

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

IN THE LAST full schedule weekend for the three college football divisions, North Carolina teams went seven games below .500. Two teams — who just happen to be the top two ranked teams in the state — made the Division II playo s. THE RANKINGS North Carolina’s record: 10-17 (153-181 overall)

1. Wingate: 9-2, won 37-22 over Mars Hill (Benedict in Division 2 playo s)

2. Johnson C. Smith: 10-1, won 45-21 over Virginia Union to win the CIAA Championship (Frostburg State in Division 2 playo s)

3. Wake Forest: 7-3, won 28-12 over UNC (Delaware)

4. UNC Pembroke: 8-3, lost, 34-20 to North Greenville in the Conference Carolinas Bowl (TBD)

5. ECU: 7-3, won 31-27 over Memphis (at UTSA)

6. Gardner-Webb: 7-4, won 30-14 at Tennessee State (Western Illinois)

7. Catawba: 7-4, lost 48-46 at Lenoir-Rhyne (TBD)

8. NC Central: 7-4, lost 34-27 to South Carolina State (at Morgan State)

9. Duke: 5-5, lost 34-17 to Virginia (at UNC)

10. Lenoir-Rhyne: 6-5, won 48-46 over Catawba (TBD)

11. Brevard: 6-4, won 45-6 over NC Wesleyan (TBD)

12. Western Carolina: 6-5, lost 52-35 to ETSU in the Blue Ridge Border Battle (at VMI)

13. Fayetteville State: 6-4, season complete

14. NC State: 5-5, lost 41-7 at Miami (Florida State)

15. NC Wesleyan, 4-6, lost 45-6 at Brevard (season complete)

16. Mars Hill, 5-6, lost, 37-22 at Wingate (season complete)

17. Livingstone: 5-5, season complete

18. Winston-Salem State: 4- 6, season complete

19. Chowan, 4-7, won 20 - 6 at Barton (season complete)

20. Elon: 5 - 6, won 31-24 at Campbell (NC A&T)

21. App State: 4- 6, lost 58-10 at James Madison (Marshall)

22. UNC: 4- 6, lost 28-12 at Wake Forest (Duke)

23. Elizabeth City State: 4- 6, season complete

24. Greensboro: 3-7, won 13-12 over Methodist (season complete)

25. Barton: 3-8, lost 20 - 6 to Chowan (season complete)

26. Campbell: 2-9, lost 31-24 to Elon (at Towson)

27. Shaw: 2-8, season complete

28.Davidson: 2-9, lost 37-10 at Marist (Dayton)

29. NC A&T: 2-9, lost 63-19 to Monmouth (at Elon)

30. Guilford: 2-8, forfeited to Bridgewater (season complete)

31. Methodist: 1-9, lost 13-12 at Greensboro (season complete)

32. Charlotte: 1-9, lost

28-7 to UTSA (at Georgia)

STATE TITLE STANDINGS

Last week’s games: Wingate beat Mars Hill, Lenoir-Rhyne beat Catawba, Wake Forest beat UNC, Brevard beat NC Wesleyan, Chowan beat Barton, Elon beat Campbell, Greensboro beat Methodist

This week, we have two intrastate clashes:

• Duke at UNC, NC A&T at Elon Here are the in-state records for the state’s

32 teams:

• 5-0 JC Smith

• 4-0 Wingate

• 3-0 Brevard

• 2-0 Duke, NC Central, Elon

• 1-0 App State, Gardner-Webb

• 3-1 NC State, UNC Pembroke

• 2-1 ECU, Lenoir-Rhyne, Wake Forest

• 3-2 Greensboro

• 4-3 Fayetteville State

• 2-2 Chowan

• 1-1 Guilford, Davidson, NC A&T, UNC

• 1-2 Catawba, NC Wesleyan, Barton

• 2-3 Winston-Salem State

• 1-3 Western Carolina, Elizabeth City, Shaw

• 1-4 Livingstone

• 0-3 Charlotte

• 0-4 Mars Hill, Methodist

• 0-5 Campbell HOMECOMING

North Carolina teams had a homecoming record of 13-17

Last week: Wingate (Mars Hill) won SENIOR DAY

NC teams are 11- 6 on senior day

• Wingate (Mars Hill), Lenoir-Rhyne (Catawba), ECU (Memphis), Brevard (NC Wesleyan), Greensboro (Methodist) won

• Western Carolina (ETSU), NC A&T (Monmouth) lost

This week’s senior day games:

Many football teams in North Carolina could identify with the way NC State cornerback Jamel Johnson (21) was feeling as he tried to defend this Miami catch over the weekend.

UNC (Duke), Wake Forest (Delaware), Gardner-Webb (Western Illinois)

ALL-STATE PERFORMANCES FOR WEEK 12

Quarterback: Preston Brown, Catawba, 37 for 55, 485 yards, 5 TD passes, 41 yards, 1 TD rushing

Running backs: London Montgomery, ECU, 103 yards, 2 TDs; Chris Mosley, NCCU, 105 yards, 1 TD

Receiver: Bo Pryor, Catawba, 11 catches, 171 yards, 2 TDs, Carlos Hernandez; Wake Forest, 6 catches, 100 yards, TD, 51yard fumble return for TD

Defensive line: Elihu Lipscomb, Wingate, 4 tackles, 3 solo, 3 sacks, 3 TFL, 3 QB hits; Jalen Alexander, JC Smith, 6 tackles, 5 solo, 2 TFL

Linebacker: Luke Gilbertson, Gardner-Webb, 5 tackles, 5 solo, 2 TFLs; Jordan Thompson, Western Carolina, 10 tackles, 6 solo, 3 QB hits, fumble recovery.

Defensive back: Eric Adams, NCCU, 5 tackles, 3 solo, 1 fumble recovery, 1 interception returned 33 yards for TD; Josiah Harris, Gardner-Webb, 4 tackles, 2 solo, 0.5 TFL, 3 interceptions

Special teams: Ty Roberson, Lenoir-Rhyne, 95-yard kicko return for TD

SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO

LYNNE SLADKY / AP PHOTO

CUMBERLAND

NOTICE

ADMINISTRATOR’S EXECUTOR’S NOTICE In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 25e001673-250 STATE OF NORTH

CAROLINA County of Cumberland The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Beverly Holmes Berry deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 6th day of February, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) 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 31st day of October, 2025. Joseph W Berry 3933 West Bent Grass Dr Fayetteville NC 28312, Executor of the estate of Beverly Holmes Berry deceased 7/29/2025.

NOTICE

Notice to Creditors Ad – Ruth Mae (Penny) Bryan In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Ruth Mae (Penny) Bryan, deceased of Cumberland County this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 20th day of February, 2026 (which date is three months after the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 20th day of November, 2025. Please send correspondence to: Estate of Ruth Bryan, 3113 Braddock Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28301. To run 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, 12/11 Administrator of the Estate of Ruth Mae (Penny) Bryan

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of A. Bryan Carr, Jr. a/k/a Alvis Bryan Carr, Jr. Cumberland County Estate File No. 25E001683-250 All persons, rms and corporations having claims against A. Bryan Carr, Jr. a/k/a Alvis Bryan Carr, Jr., Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Alvis Bryan Carr, III, Administrator of the Estate of A. Bryan Carr, Jr. a/k/a Alvis Bryan Carr, Jr., at 3114 Drury Lane, Fayetteville, NC 28303, on or before the 13th day of February, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of A. Bryan Carr, Jr. a/k/a Alvis Bryan Carr, Jr. are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above. This the 13th day of November, 2025. Alvis Bryan Carr, III, Administrator of the Estate of A. Bryan Carr, Jr. a/k/a Alvis Bryan Carr, Jr. Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of A. Bryan Carr, Jr. a/k/a Alvis Bryan Carr, Jr. Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Betty Hyde Carr a/k/a Betty H. Carr a/k/a Betty Sue H. Carr Cumberland County Estate File No. 25E000535-250 All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Betty Hyde Carr a/k/a Betty H.

a/k/a Betty Sue H. Carr are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 13th day of November, 2025. Alvis Bryan Carr, III, Executor of the Estate of Betty Hyde Carr a/k/a Betty H. Carr a/k/a Betty Sue H. Carr Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Betty Hyde Carr a/k/a Betty H. Carr a/k/a Betty Sue H. Carr Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Cumberland County Estate of Sharon Kay Cipriano Deceased Notice is hereby given that Peter Cipriano whose address is 8711 coats road Linden nc 28356 has been appointed as the Executor the estate of Sharon Kay Cipriano deceased, who died on May 3rd, 2025. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them to the undersigned within by January 30, 2026 which is 3 months after the date of the rst publication(October 30 2025). This notice of the claim may be barred. Peter Cipriano a Executor for the Estate of Sharon Kay Cipriano 8711 Coats Road Linden NC, 28356.

NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIORCOURT DIVISON ESTATE FILE # 25E001731-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Carolyn E. Epps, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent of exhibit them to the undersigned at 1204 Stans eld Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303 on or before February 20, 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. Dated this 12th day of November, 2025.

ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTICE

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 25E001659-250

State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as the Administrator of the Estate of Kathy Diane Averitte Culbreth, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 262 Rock Hill Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28312, on or before February 13, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 13th day of November, 2025. Alex Christopher Culbreth Administrator of the Estate of Kathy Diane Averitte Culbreth, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305

11/13/2025, 11/20/2025, 11/27/2025 and 12/4/2025

NOTICE

In the General Court of Justice

Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Cumberland County Estate File 25E001386-250

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Sheila W. Delahunty, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present such claims to the undersigned at 113 N. Virginia Ave., Fayetteville, NC 28305 on or before the 6th day of February, 2026, (which is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment.

This the 29th day of October, 2025. Margaret D. Suraci, Administrator

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

All persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of Scott William Galley, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are hereby noti ed to present their claims to the undersigned Executor, Lourdes Galley, on or before February 13, 2026 (which date is 3 months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

Anyone who believes they are owed money by the estate should contact the Executor in writing at the address listed below to ensure proper consideration of their claim. All claims must be submitted in writing and received by the deadline stated above, or they may be barred by law. All persons indebted to the estate are asked to make payment promptly. This the 11th day of November, 2025. Lourdes Galley, Executor Estate of Scott William Galley 6912 Saint Julian Way Fayetteville, NC 28314

NOTICE

State of North Carolina In The General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File # 25E001678-250

Administrator’s/ Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Keith Edward Garner (AKA Edward Kenneth Gardner), deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and Corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 16 day of February, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 11 day of November, 2025. Brooks Gardner___ Administrator 1708 Autumn Ridge Dr. Durham, NC 27712 Of the Estate of Keith Edward Garner (AKA Edward Kenneth Gardner), Deceased.

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA In The General Court Of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File # 25E001618-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Evelyn Bell Godwin, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of January, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. The 30th day of October 2025, David A. Godwin 9612 Dunn Rd. Godwin, NC, 28344 Of the Estate of Evelyn Bell Godwin, Deceased

NOTICE

State of North Carolina County of Cumberland In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 25E001730-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of David H. Gordon, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 13th day of February, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 9th day of November, 2025. Executor of the Estate of David H. Gordon: Anita Gordon, 637 Appalachin Dr., Fayetteville, NC 28311 NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 25E001704-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Fulton Harvey Gore, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before February 20, 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. Dated this 20th day of November, 2025.

Nicholas A. Gore, Executor of the Estate of Fulton Harvey Gore NICOLE A. CORLEY

MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A.

N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR

NOTICE

In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #25E001255-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE

The Undersigned Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Mary Agnes Groves, May 28, 2025 deceased late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all person having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on for before the 30th day of January, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 30th day of October 2025. Administrator of the Estate of Mary Agnes Groves Claims can be sent to Danny M Johnson 8848 Clinton Road Stedman, North Carolina 28391

ANCILLARY EXECUTOR’S NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 25E001593-250 State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as the Ancillary Executor of the Estate of James Albert Helman, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 14360 NE 209th Terrace Road, Salt Springs, Florida, 32134, on or before February 06, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 6th day of November, 2025. Barbara Lee Helman

Ancillary Executor of the Estate of James Albert Helman, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305

11/06/2025, 11/13/2025, 11/20/2025 and 11/27/2025

NOTICE

State of North Carolina County of Cumberland

In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File: 2023E000980 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: JANICE KING

ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTICE

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the estate of Janice Foy King, deceased, late of Cumberland County. This is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 06 of February 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) 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 06 day of November, 2025.

Ti any King 5629 Carson Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303 Administrator of the Estate of Janice Foy King , deceased

Executor’s Notice IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 25E001549-250

State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as the Executor of the Estate of Weldon F. G. Lewis, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 412 Island End Court, Wilmington, North Carolina 28412, on or before January 30, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 30th day of October, 2025. April Lewis Dehu Executor of the Estate of Weldon F. G. Lewis, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 10/30/2025, 11/06/2025, 11/13/2025 and 11/20/2025

NOTICE

State File # - 25E001633-250

The undersigned, having quali ed as administrator of the Estate of Barbara Allen Watts Trogdon, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of January, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 30th day of October, 2025 Administrator - Jimmy Trogdon Address - 4054 Yarborough Road Hope Mills, NC, 28348 Of the Estate of Barbara Allen Watts Trogdon

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NUMBER: 25E001684-250 In the Matter of the Estate of: PATSY MAXWELL Deceased.

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Patsy Maxwell, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before February 20, 2026 (which is three (3) months after the day of the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. THIS the 20th day of November, 2025. David Emmitt Maxwell, Jr., Executor of the Estate of Patsy Maxwell, Deceased c/o J. Thomas Neville Yarborough, Winters & Neville, P.A. P.O. Box 705 Fayetteville, NC 28302-0705

Publish: 11/20/2025, 11/27/2025, 12/04/2025 and 12/11/2025

NOTICE In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #10E-633 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of, Goldie Smith Golden Xlanton McMillan Smith

CUMBERLAND COUNTY deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned an or before the 20th day of February 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Administrator of the Estate of Goldie Smith Golden Xlanton McMillan

NOTICE

this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 87 Kimbrough Dr., Lillington, NC 27546, on or before February 20, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment. This the November 18, 2026. Derek Nelson, Executor of the Estate of Kathe L. Nelson 87 Kimbrough Drive Lillington, NC 27546

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, ROBIN D. EDMONDS, having quali ed as the Executor of the Ancillary Estate of RICHARD DOMINIAK, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said ROBIN D. EDMONDS, at the address set out below, on or before February 26, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below.

This the 20TH day of November, 2025.

ROBIN D. EDMONDS Executor OF THE ANCILLARY ESTATE OF RICHARD DOMINIAK c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Franklin Fussell, having quali ed on the 14th day of November 2025, as Limited Personal Representative of the Estate of Sarah Page Fussell Cochrane (17E001585-640), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 23rd day of February, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address.

This 20th day of November 2025. Franklin Fussell Limited Personal Representative ESTATE OF SARAH PAGE FUSSELL COCHRANE David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411 Publish: November 20, 2025 November 27, 2025 December 4, 2025 December 11, 2025

LEANNE WOMACK, having quali ed as the Executorof the Estate of SHERRY ANN BROOKSHIRE , Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said KIMBERLY

This the 21 day of October, 2025.

KIMBERLY LEANNE WOMACK Executor OF THE ESTATE OF SHERRY ANN BROOKSHIRE c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS

Having quali ed as Personal Representative of the Estate of Joseph Darius Carpenter, Jr., deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby noti es all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them, duly veri ed, to the undersigned, care of their attorney, on or before January 30, 2026 (which date is at least three (3) months from the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make immediate settlement with the undersigned, care of their attorney. This the 30th day of October, 2025. Joseph Kevin Carpenter, III, Executor of the Estate of Joseph Darius Carpenter, Jr., Deceased c/o Randall S. Hoose, Jr. Hoose Law, PLLC 705 Princess Street Wilmington, NC 28401-4146

Please publish 10/30, 11/06, 11/13, 11/20

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, AMANDA CAROL RUMSEY, having quali ed as the Executor of the Estate of CARLYN SHARP DREISBACH, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said AMANDA CAROL RUMSEY, at the address set out below, on or before February 15, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below.

This the 13TH day of November, 2025. AMANDA CAROL RUMSEY Executor OF THE ESTATE OF CARLYN SHARP DREISBACH

c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, JOHN F SNOW, having quali ed as the Executor of the Estate of LINDA J SNOW, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said JOHN F SNOW, at the address set out below, on or before February 2, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below.

This the 24th day of October, 2025.

JOHN F SNOW

EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA J SNOW

c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

RANDOLPH

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Larry Allen Kearns, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before February 23, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 20th day of November, 2025

Barbara S. Gallimore aka Barbara Jo Strider Gallimore Executor of the Estate of Larry Allen Kearns Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 11/20/25, 11/27/25, 12/04/25, 12/11/25

NOTICE

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of RONALD GENE SMITH, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT, ATTORNEY AT LAW, PO Box 2445, Asheboro, North Carolina 27204, on or before February 20, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 20th day of November, 2025

VICKY GILKERSON SMITH Administrator of the Estate of Ronald Gene Smith, deceased TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 2445 Asheboro, NC 27204 (336) 953-4661 PUBL/DATES: 11/20/25, 11/27/25, 12/4/25, 12/11/25

following real estate situated in Concord in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain tract or parcel of land, more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the City of Concord, No. 2 Township, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being Lot No. 3 of Unit 10 as shown on plat of parcel 602/604 Afton Village-Southend Row Houses, Units 9, 10 and 11, a copy of which plat is led in the o ce of the Register of Deeds for Cabarrus in Map Book 55, Page 50, to which map book and page reference is hereby made for a complete description thereof by metes and bounds. Including the unit located thereon; said unit being located at 422 Beacon Street Northwest, Concord, North Carolina.

Tax ID: 5601-10-5139-0000

the O ce of the Register of Deeds Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on November 24, 2025 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the

Kenney to Anderson Langford, Trustee(s), which was dated August 29, 2023 and recorded on September 18, 2023 in Book 16650 at Page 0140, Cabarrus 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 December 2, 2025 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, to wit: LYING AND BEING IN NO. 2 TOWNSHIP,

Notice to Creditors

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Hazel Dorene York aka Hazel Dorene Brower York aka Hazel Brower York, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before February 13, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 13th day of November, 2025 Joanna Lynne Moore Owens aka Lynn Owens Executrix of the Estate of Hazel Dorene York aka Hazel Dorene Brower York aka Hazel Brower York MARION “BETH” MCQUAID, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 11/13/25, 11/20/25, 11/27/25, 12/04/25 WAKE

Notice to Creditors

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of ROBERT HOWARD ABRAMS, late of Wake County, North Carolina (25E002589-910), 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 9th day of February 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 6th day of November 2025. Joann Abrams Executor of the Estate of Robert Howard Abrams c/o Lisa M. Schreiner

Attorney at Law

P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

(For publication: 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 11/27/2025)

Notice to Creditors

Having quali ed as Administrator-CTA of the Estate of TAYLOR BENNETT FAUCETTE, aka, TAYLOR B. FAUCETTE, aka IOLA TAYLOR FAUCETTE, late of Wake County, North Carolina (25E004177-910), 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 23rd day of February 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 20th day of November 2025.

Kim Bennett Faucette

Administrator-CTA of the Estate of Taylor Bennett Faucette, aka Taylor B. Faucette, aka Iola Taylor Faucette

c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, 12/11/2025)

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of TOYO

The Property address and tax parcel identi cation number listed are provided solely for informational purposes, without warranty as to accuracy or completeness and are not hereby insured

Parcel Number(s): 5601-10-5139-0000

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such

Being that parcel of land conveyed to Teresa Stukel from Watershed Development Company by that deed dated 4/21/2010 and recorded 4/27/2010 in Deed Book 9136, at Page 330 of the Cabarrus County, NC public registry.

CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, A DIVISION OF LOT 75 OF AFTON VILLAGE, PHASE 4B, MAP 1, AS SHOWN IN MAP BOOK 43, PAGE 34, CABARRUS COUNTY REGISTRY AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT AN EXISTING IRON PIN IN THE MARGIN OF VILLAGE DRIVE NW (50 FEET PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY), CORNER WITH LOT 74, AFTON VILLAGE, PHASE 4B, MAP 1, AS SHOWN IN MAP BOOK 43, PAGE 34, CABARRUS COUNTY REGISTRY AND RUNNING WITH THE LINE OF LOT 74, N. 64-15-01 W. 123.24 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIN IN MARGIN OF A 20 FEET PRIVATE ALLEY; THENCE ALONG THE MARGIN OF SAID 20 FEET PRIVATE ALLEY, WITH THE ARC OF A CIRCULAR CURVE TO THE RIGHT, HAVING A CHORD BEARING OF N. 0-34-11 W, A RADIUS OF 40 FEET, AN ARC DISTANCE OF 4.31 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIN; THENCE CONTINUING WITH THE MARGIN OF SAID 20 FEET PRIVATE ALLEY, N. 3-39-11 W. 8.65 FEET TO AN IRON PIN SET; THENCE A NEW LINE S. 80-15-30 E. 121.34 FEET TO A NEW IRON PIN SET IN THE MARGIN OF VILLAGE DRIVE NW (50 FEET PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY); THENCE WITH THE MARGIN VILLAGE DRIVE, S. 4-35-36 W. 26.01 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIN; THENCE CONTINUING WITH THE MARGIN OF VILLAGE DRIVE, WITH THE ARC OF A CIRCULAR CURVE TO THE LEFT, HAVING A CHORD BEARING OF S. 15-10-18 W., A RADIUS OF 50 FEET, AN ARC

DISTANCE OF 18.46 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON PIN; THENCE CONTINUING WITH THE MARGIN OF VILLAGE DRIVE, S. 2544-59 W. 2.54 FEET TO THE POINT AND PLACE OF BEGINNING, AND CONTAINING 0.08 ACRE, MORE OR LESS, AS SHOWN ON SURVEY BY EDWARD R. BUCKER, PLS, DATED NOVEMBER 18, 2013.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 6104 Village Drive NW, Concord, NC 28027. 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

condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve

(5%) of the

price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason,

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 owner(s) of the property is/are Matthew Kenney.

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

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FORSYTH COUNTY 25SP001508-330 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JOSEPH EDWARD BOWMAN, JR. DATED AUGUST 23, 2023 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 3770 AT PAGE 4021 IN THE FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE

sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Forsyth County courthouse at 11:00AM on December 3, 2025, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Forsyth County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Joseph Edward Bowman, Jr., dated August 23, 2023 to secure the original principal amount of $129,426.00, and recorded in Book 3770 at Page 4021 of the Forsyth County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 7320 Ridge Road, Tobaccoville, NC 27050 Tax Parcel ID: 5980-54-6317.000 Present Record Owners: Joseph Edward Bowman, Jr. The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Joseph Edward Bowman, Jr. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is

terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the O cial Records of Forsyth County, North Carolina, in Book 3869, Page 3533, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on December 3, 2025 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 6812-80-7858 ADDRESS: 374 QUICK SILVER DRIVE WINSTON SALEM, NC 27127 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): TODD RICHARD SNIDER THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF FORSYTH, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 3453, PAGE 1349, AS FOLLOWS: BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT 41, AS SHOWN ON THE PLAT ENTITLED BORDER CREEK REVISED, WHICH PLAT IS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 49, PAGE 174177, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF FORSYTH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, REFERENCE TO WHICH IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on December 2, 2025 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wendell in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: THE LAND REFERRED TO HEREIN BELOW IS SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF JOHNSTON, STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Being all of that certain tract or parcel of land, containing 1.668 gross acres. more or less, according to the plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 74, Page 328, in the O ce of the Register of Deeds of Johnston County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 9417 Applewhite Road, Wendell, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court

The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the

ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be e ective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the e ective date of the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A

costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include,

directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Smith eld, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on December 2, 2025 and will sell

to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Clayton in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 5059, Lionsgate Subdivision, Phase 5B, as shown on a map recorded in Plat Book 66, Page 339, Johnston County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a full and complete description of said lot. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 113 Sioux Lane, Clayton, North Carolina. The aforesaid real property is hereby conveyed and made subject to that Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Riverwood Athletic Club that is recorded in Deed Book 3030, Page 839, Johnston County Registry. Property Address: 113 Sioux Lane Clayton, NC 27520 Parcel: 05G02061G Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must

pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty

dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the

MOORE

JOHNSTON

in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Annemarie R Whitesel to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), which was dated January 26, 2004 and recorded on March 1, 2004 in Book 3365 at Page 653, Union County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made

All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Indian Trail Township, Union County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 57 of Enchanted Forest Subdivision, as shown on plat recorded in plat cabinet B, File 184-B, in the Union County Registry, to which reference is hereby made for a more complete description. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 3822 WONDERLAND DR, Matthews, NC 28104. 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

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 December 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Union County, North Carolina, to wit:

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, UNION COUNTY 24 SP 000582-890

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale

contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Urbano Joachin Rodriguez, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $422,211.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., (“MERS”) as bene ciary as nominee for Cornerstone Home Lending, Inc., Mortgagee, dated May 24th, 2022 and recorded on May 25th, 2022 in Book 8485, Page 0312, Union County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the O ce of the Register of Deeds of Union County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute

24-117918 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION UNION COUNTY 25SP000032-890

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JOHN HANCE DATED JUNE 13, 2022 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8502 AT PAGE 645 IN THE UNION COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE OF SALE

Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Union County, North Carolina, at 12:30 PM on December 2nd, 2025, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot No. 37 of Leisure Acres subdivision as shown on plat recorded in Plat Cabinet A, File 88-B in the Union County Registry, to which reference is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 6613 Pleasure Drive, Waxhaw, NC 28173 Tax ID: 06054044 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty- ve Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Union County courthouse at 11:00AM on November 25, 2025, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Union County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed John Hance, dated June 13, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $175,700.00, and recorded in Book 8502 at Page 645 of the Union County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 1002 Crescent Way, Wingate, NC 28174 Tax Parcel ID: 09012113 Present Record Owners: John Hance

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

25SP001924-910

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Lydia Fabiola Mateo Hernandez (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Lydia Fabiola Mateo Hernandez) to Khechok Langchung/ Assistant Controller, A Federal Savings Bank, The Federal Savings, Trustee(s), dated August 25, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 019128, at Page 02365 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the O ce of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be

25SP001706-910 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in

Wake 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

and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit:

All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Swift Creek Township, Wake County, North Carolina and

foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on November 24, 2025 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Zebulon in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of 0.689 acres as shown on by map and survey recorded in Book of Maps 1988, Page 1456, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 610 South Wake eld Street, Zebulon, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 0186800 Tax/Map ID: 2705302674 Property Address: 610 S Wake eld St, Zebulon, NC 27597 This transaction insured by: Tryon Title Agency, LLC Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

more particularly described as follows: BEING all of a .69 acres tract of land which is the northwestern corner of the property of the Ethel Burt beginning at a point 431.00 feet N 29 Degrees 55’ East of the center line of State Road 1382, said point in State Road 1382 being 17 feet in a westerly direction from the intersection of an RCP Culvert and State Road 1382, proceeding thence from the point of Beginning N 29 Degrees 55’ East 100.00 feet to a new iron pipe; thence S 84 degrees 50’ East 331.00 feet to another new iron pipe; thence S 29 degrees 55’ West 100.00 feet to another new iron pipe, thence N 84 degrees 50’ West 331.00 feet to the point and place of Beginning and being a .69 acres tract according to a survey by Harold B. Mullen, R.L.S. dated December 2, 1983 and entitled “Property House Location for Robert L. Burt, Jr.”.

Also Conveyed is an easement 15 feet in width along the northwestern property line for the purpose of ingress and egress. Said easement is located south above described property.

subject to the following exceptions:

1. Ad valorem taxes due Wake County for 2001 and subsequent years not yet due and payable.

2. Easements, restrictions and rights

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 owner(s) of the property is/are Annemarie R. Whitesel.

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 subject to remote bids placed

Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. 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. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Urbano Joachin Rodriguez. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §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

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are John Hance. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property o ered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

of way of record in Wake County.

Being the same property conveyed to Mary A. Huggins, deed dated 6/14/2002, recorded 6/17/2002, in Book/Page: 9457 /626, in the County of Wake, State of North Carolina.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 5848 Yates Mill Pond Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606.

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

State of NC BEING ALL OF LOT 91, PHASE 4, NORTH COLLEGE PARK SUBDIVISION, AS DEPICTED IN MAP BOOK 1999, PAGE 1226, WAKE COUNTY REGISTRY. Commonly known as: 6620 Professor St, Raleigh, NC 27616 THE PROPERTY

A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to

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 owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of Mary Cooper Huggins.

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 subject to remote bids placed

and

Puttering around

the BRIEF this week

Congress acts to force release of Epstein les, Trump agrees to sign bill

Washington, D.C.

Both the House and Senate have acted decisively to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its les on convicted sex o ender Je rey Epstein. It’s a remarkable display of approval for an e ort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from President Donald Trump and Republican leadership. Trump now says he will sign the bill. Just hours after the House passed the bill, the Senate approved a motion to pass the bill with unanimous consent once it is sent to the Senate. For survivors of Epstein’s abuse, passage of the bill was a watershed moment in a yearslong quest for accountability.

Federal judges block Texas from using new U.S. House map in 2026 midterms

A panel of three federal judges has blocked Texas from using a new congressional map that Republicans drew in hopes of picking up ve U.S. House seats. The 2-1 ruling Tuesday was a blow to President Donald Trump’s e orts to have states draw more favorable maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections so the GOP can preserve its slim U.S. House majority. In Texas, civil rights groups have argued the new map is an illegal racial gerrymander. The judges blocked the map’s use pending further court review. Texas’ expected appeal would be directly to the U.S. Supreme Court.

$2.00

Pittsboro approves Chatham Park South Village small area plan

The South Village constitutes just under 5,000 acres and could have up to 15,000 residential units

By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO — The Town of Pittsboro has given the green light for the Chatham Park South Village small area plan.

At the Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners’ Nov. 10 meeting, the board heard the item, discussing it at length.

The small area plan is proposed to serve as a conceptu-

al guide for potential future growth in the South Village.

The plan includes conceptual locations for things such as parks, schools, re stations, transit stops and trailheads.

Final locations, designs and improvements may vary and will ultimately be determined through the eventual section design plan process, as the South Village is broken up into 16 sections.

“The goal is to establish an early, coordinated framework for land use, transportation, utilities, open space and future public facilities,” said Assistant Planning Director Theresa Thompson.

Chapel Hill approves construction of new Verizon cell tower on Franklin Street

The 199-foot tower will provide boosted service for the area

By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record

CHAPEL HILL — The Chapel Hill Town Council met Nov. 12 with an agenda con-

tinuing primarily zoning and development items.

The council rst approved a special use permit modication application for 1721 E. Franklin St. to allow for the construction of a new 199-foot, monopole, nonconcealed telecommunications tower for Verizon Wireless.

The parcel, which is current-

ly zoned O ce-Institutional, already has two 203-foot broadcast towers existing on the site as well as a dentist o ce.

The project aims to improve service around a 1.5-mile radius from the tower. In addition, the tower will be able to support other carriers in the future as well.

“For those living in the Chap -

Immigration crackdown in NC expands to Raleigh

“And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today.”

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell

Border Patrol units were spotted in Durham, Raleigh and Cary

By Gary D. Robertson and Tim Sullivan The Associated Press

Federal agents expanded their North Carolina immigration crackdown to the area around the state capital of Raleigh on Tuesday, with fear spreading in at least one immigrant-heavy suburb where restaurants closed and many people stayed home.

The North Carolina operation began over the weekend in the state’s largest city, Charlotte, where o cials said

more than 130 people have been arrested.

Speaking at a Raleigh City Council meeting, Mayor Janet Cowell said there had been “con rmed sightings” of Border Patrol o cers operating in Wake County, which includes Raleigh, and nearby Durham County, which includes the city of Durham. She said earlier that she did not know how large the operation would be or how long agents would be present.

She encouraged residents to call the police department if they felt unsafe and urged protesters to remain peaceful. “And just be particularly

el Hill area, but speci cally those living in this location, those traveling 501, Franklin Street, Estes Drive and the whole shopping areas in this location, it will enhance wireless coverage, which includes voice, text and data coverage,” said attorney Tom Johnson, who

THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Goldston resident Lynn Gaines, 68, won the Amateur Putters Association national championship in Fernandina Beach, Florida, on Oct. 24. Above, Gaines, right, poses with course owner Tom Miller. For the story, turn to page B1.

CRIME LOG

Nov. 10

• Latanja Kierra, 37, of Durham, was arrested for felony possession/ receiving stolen property and felony larceny.

• Adrian Kenneth Scurlock, 59, of Siler City, was arrested for domestic violence protective order violation.

• Janet Marie McKnight, 60, of Snow Camp, was arrested for cruelty to animals.

Nov. 11

• Oscar Daniel Saucedo-Vasquez, 31, of Siler City, was arrested for resisting public o cer.

Nov. 12

• Kimberly Michelle Crump, 57, of Sanford, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and larceny.

• James Jonathan Green, 20, of Staley, was arrested for assault with deadly weapon with serious injury.

Nov. 14

• Jason Ryan Dalton, 20, of Blanch, was arrested for simple assault.

• Ronny Jonahibel Suarez, 24, of Siler City, was arrested for simple assault.

• Yahi Yusef Crockett, 25, of Durham, was arrested for assault on government o cial/employee.

Nov. 15

• Micah Christopher Bailey, 38, of Hillsborough, was arrested for breaking and entering, larceny and possession of stolen property.

• Frederic Lee Harris, 50, of Siler City, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Kevin Drew Fletcher, 54, of Morrisville, was arrested for driving while impaired, carrying a concealed weapon and failure to maintain lane control.

Nov. 16

• Iris Noel Brasington, 36, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for contributing to delinquency of juvenile.

Nov. 17

congrats!

Congratulations to Everleigh Sullivan, age 6 of Bennett, who shot her rst deer, an 8-point buck!

Pictured with Everleigh is her brother, Walker. Her parents are Richard and Lauren Sullivan.

Granddaughter of ‘Charlotte’s Web’ author upset with use of book’s title in immigration crackdown

She says the arrests go against what E.B. White stood for

The Associated Press

THE TRUMP administration is calling its new immigration sweep in North Carolina’s largest city “Operation Charlotte’s Web.”

But the granddaughter of E.B. White, the author of the classic 1952 children’s tale “Charlotte’s Web,” said the wave of immigration arrests goes against what her grandfather and his beloved book stood for.

“He believed in the rule of law and due process,” Martha White said in a statement.

“He believed in the rule of law and due process.”

“He certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes and workplaces without IDs or summons.”

White, whose grandfather died in 1985, works as his literary executor. She pointed out that in “Charlotte’s Web,” the spider who is the main character devoted her life on the farm to securing the freedom of a pig named Wilbur.

The Trump administra-

tion and Republican leaders have seized on a number of catchy phrases while carrying out mass deportation e orts — naming their holding facilities Alligator Alcatraz in Florida, Speedway Slammer in Indiana and Cornhusker Clink in Nebraska. Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol o cial now on the ground in Charlotte, was the face of the “Operation At Large” in Los Angeles and “Operation Midway Blitz” in Chicago, two enforcement surges earlier this year. As the Charlotte operation got underway, Bovino quoted from “Charlotte’s Web” in a social media post: “We take to the breeze, we go as we please.”

Two found dead in Bear Creek home

• Nidaiya Tapulei Lauano, 18, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for simple assault. The sheri ’s o ce is investigating the deaths following a domestic disturbance call

Chatham News & Record sta TWO PEOPLE were found dead inside a Bear Creek home last Thursday night after deputies responded to a domestic disturbance call. Deputies from the Chatham County Sheri ’s O ce responded to an E e Welch

Evidence indicates that only the two individuals found inside the home were involved, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Nov. 22

family member expressing fear during an argument. Upon arrival, deputies walked the perimeter of the home and observed two individuals on the oor inside while looking through a window.

Deputies forced entry into the residence and located two people with apparent gunshot wounds. A rearm was found nearby. No other individuals were present in the home.

The victims have been identi ed as Jennifer Scott, 50, and Je rey Michael Scott, 54, both residents of the address.

The case remains under investigation; however, evidence indicates that only the two individuals found inside the home were involved, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Front Porch, Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum

Nov. 25

Yoga at BFP 6-7 p.m.

Yoga

Front Porch, Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum

Dec. 6

Brightspeed’s Merry + Bright Christmas Drone Light Show 6-8 p.m.

This family-friendly evening of Christmas activities includes photos with Santa, a train ride for kids, a concert featuring the Northwood High School Band and Choir, and the drone light show, which begins at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons 457 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro

Dec. 8

Chatham County Board of Commissioners Regular Session 6 p.m.

Chatham County Agricultural and Conference Center

1192 U.S. Highway 64 West Business Pittsboro

Dec. 12

Holiday in the Park 5-8 p.m.

This free indoor/outdoor event o ers a variety of holiday festivities, including the opportunity for letters to and photos with Santa, a tree lighting, hayride, and a host of games and craft activities. Vendor applications are now being accepted; contact Leigh.Babcock@ chathamcountync.gov for information.

Northwest District Park 2413 Woody Store Road Siler City

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

U.S. Border Patrol Commander at large Gregory Bovino, right, looks on as a detainee sits by a car Monday in Charlotte.

Martha White

Foreign enrollment at US colleges holds steady

Some

had feared a huge drop in foreign students

By Collin Binkey and Makiya Seminera

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

Foreign students enrolled at U.S. colleges in strong numbers this fall despite fears that a Trump administration crackdown would trigger a nosedive, yet there are signs of turbulence as fewer new, rst-time students arrived from other countries, according to a new report.

Overall, U.S. campuses saw a 1% decrease in international enrollment this fall compared with last year, according to a survey from the Institute of International Education. But that gure is propped up by large numbers of students who stayed in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. The number of new students entering the United States for the rst time fell by 17%, the sharpest decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some universities are seeing backslides that have punched big holes in tuition revenue, but overall the fallo is less severe than some industry groups had forecast. Researchers credit colleges for helping students navigate visa issues through the summer.

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States,” said Mirka Martel, head of research, evaluation and learning for the institute.

At DePaul University, a Catholic university in Chicago, the number of international graduate students fell by almost 62% this fall, a driving factor in recent spending cuts. The university president blamed student

visa troubles and declining interest to study in the U.S., calling it a “massive” disruption.

Overall, nearly 60% of colleges reported a decrease in new foreign students this fall, the survey found, while 30% saw increases and others held even. More than 800 schools responded to the survey, which offers an early look at trends before full data is released next year.

Trump administration presses for reductions in foreign enrollment

The Trump administration has sought to reduce America’s reliance on foreign students.

The White House is pushing colleges to cap enrollment of foreign students and enroll more from the U.S. In June, the State Department began screening visa applications more closely after temporarily halting all interviews.

Visa processing has continued to lag in some countries, including India, the largest source of America’s foreign students.

Education rms have reported that future college students are now showing decreased interest in the U.S. and more in Europe and Asia. While international enrollment remained relatively steady, there are concerns about its sustainability.

“There are warning signs for future years, and I’m really concerned about what this portends for fall ’26 and ’27,” said Clay Harmon, the executive director of AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management, which represents colleges and recruitment agencies.

Foreign students make up about 6% of America’s college students, but they play an outsized role in campus budgets.

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Apply in person at 227 N. 2nd Ave, Siler City

Most pay higher tuition rates and don’t get nancial aid, effectively subsidizing U.S. students. Their numbers are far higher at elite campuses, often making up a quarter or more of the student body. International students at the graduate level saw the biggest backslide this fall, with a 12% drop. That was mostly o set by rising numbers of students participating in Optional Practical Training, which allows students to stay in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. Undergraduate numbers ticked up slightly.

Graduate students make up the biggest share of foreign students in the U.S., often coming for science, math and business programs. Numbers had already started leveling o last year after a post-pandemic surge, but the recent turmoil appears to have accelerated the downturn. In the survey, colleges that saw decreases cite factors including visa issues and

TOWER from page A1

was representing the applicant.

The council also held a public hearing for modi cations to the conditional zoning ordinance for an approximately 35-acre property located at 146 Stancell Drive, otherwise known as Hillmont.

The project, which is currently under construction, is approved to allow up to 500 units and would require 43 affordable units.

However, the applicants are requesting to modify previously approved conditions to change the number of a ordable units in the project from 10% of the market-rate units to a minimum of 20 total units.

In turn, the applicants will make a one-time payment of $1.15 million into the town’s A ordable Housing Funding Program.

“This seems like a good opportunity to both get some

other travel restrictions.

Drops lead to budget cuts at some colleges

Many smaller and regional colleges have reported downswings, especially among master’s and doctoral students.

In a recent campus address, the president of the University at Albany said a decrease in foreign graduate students was having a “disproportionate impact” on the school’s budget. At Kent State University in Ohio, falling international numbers required an additional $4 million in cuts to balance the budget, the president wrote in an October update.

Even the biggest public universities weren’t immune. The University of Illinois’ agship campus saw its international numbers dip, fueled by a 6% drop in graduate students. At the University of Michigan, foreign graduate enrollment fell by a similar share. Arizona State

units that are integrated with market-rate housing and relieve some of the pressure on our general budget to fund some of our goals for a ordable housing outside of developer projects,” said council member Elizabeth Sharp. “This feels like a win-win.”

The council continued the item to its Nov. 19 meeting.

Finally, the council also approved a resolution, asking the state for $95,000 in the form of a water resources development grant for the Glen Lennox neighborhood stream restoration project.

The project is looking to revitalize the stream by removing the concrete channeling, installing natural erosion controls and ow dissipation and revegetating it with native species.

University, which has more foreign students than any other public campus, saw its overall numbers fall by 3%.

Universities are o ering wider exibility to students who couldn’t make it to campus this fall, according to the survey. Almost three-quarters are allowing foreign students to defer their enrollment to the spring term, and more than half are allowing deferrals until fall 2026.

Colleges in other countries, meanwhile, have sought to capitalize on the disruption, said Joann Ng Hartmann, senior impact o cer at NAFSA, an agency that promotes international education. In Germany, Canada and some other countries, colleges are ramping up e orts to recruit students who might be rethinking college in the U.S.

“They have friendlier policies, and students realize that,” she said. “They have friendlier messaging for students that welcomes them.”

1.5 miles

The radius of the supported area around the cell tower

The grant is issued annually by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.

The Chapel Hill Town Council will next meet Dec. 10.

“I think this is a prime example of things that have been done in the past with a complete lack of understanding of the implications far in the future,” said council member Melissa McCullough. “Stream channelization is one of the worst examples of taking a natural system and completely destroying all the bene cial functions of it. So I’m very excited, and I hope that this can serve as an example of the kinds of green infrastructure that we need to do in upstream areas.”

DARRELL HOEMANN/THE NEWS-GAZETTE VIA AP

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

Theo of Golden

The story revolves around the namesake character, Theo, an eighty-sixyear-old man who mysteriously comes to a charming Southern town called Golden.

WITH THE HOLIDAY SEASON upon us, I have a gift recommendation for you — “Theo of Golden.” Though originally self-published by author Allen Levi, the novel is now a national bestseller.

The story revolves around the namesake character, Theo, an 86-year-old man who mysteriously comes to a charming Southern town called Golden. From the start, Theo is deeply curious about his surroundings; in excellent health for a man his age, he still takes almost two hours to travel a couple of downtown blocks because he stops to investigate birds, owers, iron railings and brick steps of historical buildings. Theo proves to be even more interested in the people.

He discovers that a local co ee shop displays the pencil-drawn portraits of 92 residents. Theo, who is wealthy and an avid art collector, is entranced. He decides that his mission is to purchase each person’s portrait, one by one, and “bestow” them as gifts to their subjects. The “owners,” as Theo calls them, are initially suspicious and bewildered by the unusual gesture, yet Theo wins them over with his warmth. His superpower is listening, like Chief Inspector Armand Gamache of Louise Penny’s novels. Theo does not solve crimes but does become part of the redemption of stories of su ering.

Once he gets to know the needs of the community, Theo “bestows” much more than just portraits. Whether

Falling leaves bring up pleasure found in trees

Either way, there have been quite a few hitting the ground… and they’re not done yet.

THERE HAS BEEN, it seems to me, an unusually large crop of leaves in my yard this year. Or maybe it’s that I don’t rake like once upon a time, mainly due to sore shoulders and weak knees, and many are still around.

Either way, there have been quite a few hitting the ground … and they’re not done yet.

There are lots of trees around our place; guess that’s what happens when you live in the woods — or what used to be woods — and you saved right many of the trees when you carved out a place for a house.

I’m a big fan of trees — not to the point that I can’t cut one if necessary, but, basically, I like them a lot. One reason it doesn’t bother me all that much to cut one, unless it’s a 200-year-old oak, is that trees are renewable. Cut one; plant one. I know, I know — it takes several years to get the new one up to where the old one was, but still, you can replace them.

Try doing that with a dinosaur that’s laid around long enough to change into an oil deposit.

There are, however, two sides to the tree question — one good, one not so good.

When Hurricane Fran came calling in 1996, I wished we didn’t have any. (It just dawned on me there are people living today, driving even or maybe graduating from high school, who weren’t even living when Fran came along and that event is still fresh in my mind.)

The combination that night of the howling winds snapping trees in its fury and then waiting in the dark with baited breath to learn where they would fall was something I don’t ever need to experience again. The next morning revealed the signi cant clean-up job ahead of us, and after several weeks of tree cutting and limbing and brush hauling, it would have been OK with me never to see a tree again. Condo living was starting to look good. O and on since that time there have been a few other issues with trees. Sometimes one will fall on a pasture fence and there will be the “Great Livestock Escape.”

There’s a big pile of two-year old leaves on top of my house

I haven’t gured out how to remove yet since the tin roof is

assisting individuals like a single father with his daughter’s medical bills or an unsheltered woman, he strives for each person to maintain their dignity. His actions reminded me of a line from John Bowen Coburn, a bishop in the Episcopal Church: “Grace does not pressure — but o ers.”

What motivates such sel ess generosity? As readers, we are given the backstory of a terrible tragedy in Theo’s life. No spoilers from me except to say that his experience of su ering taught him empathy for others. We don’t su er the same things, yet we all su er.

At one point, Theo says about his bestowal of the portraits, “I don’t know if I’ve ever done anything I enjoy more.” The satisfaction and ful llment he receives from giving reminds me of Frederick Buechner’s de nition of call: “Vocation is the place where our deep gladness meets the world’s deep need.”

I don’t know if a reader of this novel will likewise identify their deep calling, but I believe most everyone would be moved by “Theo of Golden.” I can think of no better present for a reader in your life than a book about the truth that it’s better to give than to receive.

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.

steeper than I want to dance across, but I’d like them gone for the look and to get the acid in the leaves o the tin. But then there’s the good side. In the summer it’s 10 to 15 degrees cooler in our yard than out on the highway in front of the house. At least it seems that way to me, and the utility company people say shade is good for you — and your light bill.

If there’s any wind, the limbs and leaves will pick it up and send the comforting breeze across your troubled brow — good stu while sitting in the shade with a Pepsi or glass of tea. It’s certainly cheaper than an hour with a shrink. And then there’s just the look — big ol’ trees with lots of limbs and leaves just look better than one that’s recently been topped and stands naked against the sky. And the colors in September and October are breathtaking.

And even the autumn disposal of leaves has its good points. I may be contributing to global warming, although many folks are still not sure that’s going on one way or the other, but I like to smell the smoke. I don’t like it when it gets in your eyes and nose, but I do like it when it penetrates your ol’ work jacket and you take that in the house and hang it up in the utility room and when you walk by it still smells like outdoors.

Youngsters still jump into piles of leaves, and I like to see that. I don’t jump myself anymore — the ground has gotten too close to the top of the pile through the years — but I have fond memories. And the leaves make good places for the dogs to lie around during the day and at night if it’s not cold enough to get inside the well-padded and insulated doggy motel.

I’m pretty sure Joyce Kilmer’s line is still correct: “Poems (or columns) are made by fools like me but only God can make a tree.” Lord willing, I’m going to hang on to as many trees as I can … leaves or not.

Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.

COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN

COLUMN | BOB WACHS

Human to the nth degree

How does an obituary enter this fray? Are we still on the same page, let alone in the same universe??

DON’T WE ALL indulge in really, really tempting activities, knowing they might still leave bruises on our souls, hearts or whatever’s deepest within us? Oh, come on, can we be human and fallible with each other? Think you’re alone with your peccadilloes? You’re not. (This is where you breathe a sigh of relief.)

Speaking of ongoing human challenges (we are, aren’t we?), the temptation in our polarized culture to publicly shame others can be incredibly strong. Swinging my cudgel of words (spoken or written) can feel so satisfying, so cutting-down-to-size, and, let’s face it, so full of whoopees. And, sigh, there’s also the inclination to proudly share my elegiacally worded put-downs for others to view. (Serious blushing in progress.)

Enter the obituary.

Whoa, whoa! Obituary? How does an obituary enter this fray? Are we still on the same page, let alone in the same universe?? We are, indeed. Each of us has a unique way of communicating. As a Quaker (no, no, I don’t wear bonnets or long dresses but do admit to liking oatmeal), I feel committed to building bridges of viable communication with others, when possible. A putative obituary

helps remind me of my deepest values. Am I successfully living them. Yea? Nay? If nay, what’s the path to my compass North?

Human that I am — imperfect, struggling, sometimes rejoicing — it’s helpful to have a tangible reminder, especially if I’m about to fall o the tightrope of my acceptable behavior. When teetering toward my dark side (admit it, you’ve got one, too), I try to consider whether a particular behavior warrants mention in a future obituary. For example, “Jan was skilled at publicly chastening others.” Um, I certainly hope not.

Speaking of obituaries, I recently bumped into a powerful reminder for how to better tame my culturally infused temptation toward public shaming. (I need all the help I can get.) John Lewis, the late congressman and esteemed civil rights activist, delivered the goods:

“I really believe that all of us, as Americans ... we all need to be treated like fellow human beings.”

So there …

Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.

Democrats blame Republicans for multiple Democrat failures

No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it.

A KEY REASON Democrats make so many Republicans grind our molars is that they will not take responsibility for their own gargantuan failures. Instead, Democrats blame the GOP for the damage that they in ict on America.

It’s bad enough when someone takes a skillet and repeatedly wallops you across the back of your head. What really irks is when that person then screams at you: “Stop smacking your skull with a skillet!”

This is a big part of why Democrats have become utterly insu erable.

This month alone, Democrats refused to own their disastrous “Schumer Shutdown.” Thankfully, Democrats’ 43-day kidnapping conspiracy zzled out last Wednesday night.

The Republican-led House of Representatives voted to end the federal shutdown one day after eight Senate Democrats joined nearly unanimous Republicans, stopped the Democrats’ libuster, and adopted legislation to reopen the government. Shortly before the House vote, Democrat leader Hakeem Je ries of Brooklyn took to the oor and presented a master class in how to shirk responsibility and shift blame.

“Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the presidency,” Je ries said. “(President) Donald Trump and Republicans made the decision to shut the government down, the longest shutdown in American history.”

Wrong!

House Republicans passed a “clean” continuing resolution on Sept. 19. It would have sustained Biden-era federal spending on autopilot until Jan. 30. There were no strings, budget cuts or policy reforms attached.

This bill went to the Senate, where — as Je ries damn well knows — overall Republican control is limited by the requirement for 60 votes to overcome a libuster. Republicans have only 53 votes, seven short of the number needed to adopt the House bill.

Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer of New York weaponized this rule and launched the Democrat libuster that shut down the federal government on Oct. 1.

Fourteen separate times, Senate Republicans (absent the dissenting Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky) voted to end the Democrat libuster. While three Democrats concurred with the GOP, Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota still fell short of the 60vote threshold needed to stop Schumer from holding the American people and their government hostage until Democrats scored $192.8 billion for illegal-alien health care.

BE IN TOUCH

Je ries knows all of this. Nonetheless, he stood up and lied about it.

Je ries continued to blame Republicans for his party’s ops. “House Democrats will continue to ght to address the health care crisis that Republicans have created,” Je ries said. A huge part of America’s pounding migraine on health insurance is Democrats’ proudest baby: Obamacare. To say that this is a baby only a mother could love is an insult to ugly babies.

Obamacare was supposed to lower insurance premiums by $2,500. Instead, they have soared by at least that much. The entire boondoggle is a scal tumor that requires massive taxpayer subsidies to stay alive. Democrats are desperate to keep these subsidies owing, lest Obamacare atline.

Democrats cannot blame the GOP for this mess. No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it. Democrats own Obamacare and every one of its painful symptoms.

Je ries then denounced “the Republican refusal to extend the A ordable Care Act tax credits.” Once again, Je ries cannot pin this on the GOP. These tax credits are scheduled to expire on New Year’s Eve because that is exactly what Democrats wanted!

As Sally Pipes of the Paci c Research Institute detailed for me, Section 9661 of the COVID-19-fueled Biden/Democrat American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included “expanding premium assistance” as a “Temporary rule for 2021 and 2022.” Later, Section 12001 of the Biden/Democrat In ation Reduction Act of 2022 aimed to “improve a ordability and reduce premium costs of health insurance … before Jan. 1, 2026.”

“A proposal being weighed by congressional Democrats and party advisers in recent weeks aims to temporarily extend the enhanced Obamacare subsidies that were part of the nancial aid package President Joe Biden signed into law last March,” Politico explained on June 24, 2022, regarding this second bill. If Democrats wanted to subsidize Obamacare into 2026 and beyond, they should have written that into legislation that they, not Republicans, sponsored.

As the saying goes, “When you point a nger at someone, three ngers point back at you.” Je ries and other Democrats should remember that before, yet again, giving Republicans the nger.

Deroy Murdock is a Manhattan-based Fox News contributor and a contributing editor with The American Spectator. This column was rst published by The Daily Signal.

Climate has a new head clown

MOVE OVER, Al Gore. The climate clown car has a new self-anointed driver. His name is Gavin Newsom.

The California governor is trying to use the ongoing United Nations climate conference (COP30) to position himself as the leader of the U.S., if not the world, on climate change. In hopes of advancing his presidential aspirations in 2028, Newsom is attempting to exploit the vacuum created by the boycott of COP30 by the Trump administration.

Toward that end, Newsom has attacked President Donald Trump as “an invasive species,” boasted about California’s success in climate and traveled into the Amazon jungle to “absorb a deeper spiritual connection to this issue that connects all of us.” Cue the eyeroll. But Newsom is actually more of a tragic nuisance than any kind of hero when it comes to climate.

Californians pay the highest prices for electricity in the continental U.S. This is because Newsom has loaded the California grid with expensive wind, solar and utility-scale batteries. Not only has all this green technology caused prices to soar, it has also weakened grid reliability. During periods of peak electricity demand, EV owners are warned not to charge their vehicles.

Californians also pay the highest prices for gasoline in the continental U.S because the state requires special blends of gasoline that are supposed to be improving air quality. One might think that Newsom would be helping the oil industry to lower costs. But he’s not.

Newsom’s hostility to the oil and gas industry forces California to import gasoline from foreign countries that don’t produce oil as cleanly as we do in the U.S. He’s trying to block o shore drilling that would actually reduce oil pollution in the ocean. Oil from below the ocean oor naturally seeps into the ocean o the California coast. Oil drilling would reduce that natural seepage by reducing pressure.

Newsom is also chasing re neries out of California. The problem is so acute that Newsom is actually now forced to consider a state takeover of the re neries as the industry ees the state.

But it gets worse.

After more than four decades of forest mismanagement that has turned publicly owned forests and lands in California into tinderboxes just waiting for sparks to turn into deadly, out-of-control wild res, Newsom has opposed Trump’s suggestions to clean up the forests and public lands. These wild res have burned down forests that companies like Microsoft tried to preserve by purchasing carbon o sets.

While the California legislature had directed in 2012 that reservoirs be built to provide water to ght wild res and drought, Newsom failed to build any. When Trump directed the diversion of water from Southern California to end, Newsom opposed the move.

At COP30, Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson that was not completely extinguished by re ghters. When the con agration later spread, aided by the naturally occurring Santa Ana winds, there was no water in the re hydrants.

None of this is climate change. It’s incompetent government led by a vacuous hologram of a person.

Since 2012, California has charged the oil industry and consumers billions and billions of dollars as part of a cap-and-trade scheme to lower emissions. Not only have the wild res more than o set all the emissions cuts, but the California legislature recently approved a bill to drill 2,000 new oil wells so that the state could reap more revenue from the cap-andtrade scheme.

The beep-beep of Newsom’s climate clown car is deafening. It’s a warning for 2028.

Steve Milloy is a biostatistician and lawyer. He posts on X at @ JunkScience. This column was rst published by Daily Caller News Foundation.

Letters to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or mailed to 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.

Contact a writer or columnist: connect@northstatejournal.com

COLUMN | DEROY MURDOCK

obituaries

Joyce Ellis Clark

Feb. 25, 1947 –Nov. 16, 2025

Joyce Ellis Clark, 78, of Mt. Vernon Springs, Siler City went to her heavenly home on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at her home surrounded by loved ones. The Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at JoyceBrady Chapel with Rev. Bill Browder presiding.

Joyce was born on February 25, 1947 in Chatham County to Edward Ellis and Mary Lee Klass Ellis. She is preceded in death by her parents and her son Jason Hubert Clark.

Joyce lived her childhood years with her grandparents, Murd and Lula Klass, until she married the love of her life, Melvin Clark, Jr. on April 16, 1965. Joyce and. Melvin were married for over 60 years and were blessed with three sons.

Joyce graduated from Chatham Central High School in 1965, was a member of the Beta Club and accomplished perfect attendance all 12 years of school. At the age of 60, she graduated in 2009 from Central

Carolina Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Childhood Education with highest honors.

Joyce was a member of Mt. Vernon Springs Presbyterian church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher and she served with the youth group on any beach and Carowinds trips. She wrote several Christmas plays for her church, which she directed and found great joy in doing. She always strived to be a good example to youth. She opened her home on many occasions to her sons’ friends and they became family to her.

She was a Woman of Faith and loved her Lord Jesus.

Joyce was employed with Collins and Aikman in Siler City for 38 years. She loved all her friends and associates there.

Two of Joyce’s greatest treasures were her granddaughter, Amy and her great-grandson, Jordan Alexander Miller. Joyce got great pleasure spending time with her granddaughter, Amy on their many Girls Night Out. She adored her grandchildren.

Joyce fought a courageous and long battle for seven plus years with Pure Red Cell aplasia Leukemia. Her family cared and loved her throughout her battle.

Left to cherish Joyce’s memory is her husband of 60 years, Melvin Clark, Jr.; sons, Melvin Alan Clark (Phyllis), Larry Edward Clark (Angie); granddaughter, Amy Elizabeth Pauley (Skyler); greatgrandson, Jordan Alexander Miller; brother, James Ellis; sister, Verna Ellis (Mike); many, many nieces and nephews; great and great-great nieces and nephews and a host of family and friends.

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

Americana troubadour Todd Snider, alt-country singer-songwriter, dead at 59

He was diagnosed with pneumonia following an assault

The Associated Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Todd Snider, a singer whose thoughtfully freewheeling tunes and cosmic-stoner songwriting made him a beloved gure in American roots music, has died. He was 59.

His record label said Saturday in a statement posted to his social media accounts that Snider died last Friday.

“Where do we nd the words for the one who always had the right words, who knew how to distill everything down to its essence with words and song while delivering the most devastating, hilarious, and impactful turn of phrases?” the statement read. “Always creating rhyme and meter that immediately felt like an old friend or a favorite blanket. Someone who could almost always nd the humor in this crazy ride on Planet Earth.”

Snider’s family and friends had said in a Friday statement that he had been diagnosed with pneumonia at a hospital in Hendersonville, Tennessee, and that his situation had since grown more complicated and he was transferred elsewhere. The diagnosis came on the heels of the cancellation of a tour after Snider had been the victim of a violent assault in the Salt Lake City area, according to a Nov. 3 statement from his management team.

But Salt Lake City police later arrested Snider himself when he at rst refused to leave a hospital and later returned and threatened sta ers, the Salt Lake Tribune reported.

The scrapped tour was in support of his most recent album, “High, Lonesome and Then Some,” which released in October. Snider combined elements

of folk, rock and country in a three-decade career. In reviews of his recent albums, The Associated Press called him a “singer-songwriter with the persona of a fried folkie” and a “stoner troubadour and cosmic comic.”

He modeled himself on — and at times met and was mentored by — artists like Kris Kristo erson, Guy Clark and John Prine. His songs were recorded by artists including Jerry Je Walker, Billy Joe Shaver and Tom Jones. And he co-wrote a song with Loretta Lynn that appeared on her 2016 album, “Full Circle.”

“He relayed so much tenderness and sensitivity through his songs, and showed many of us how to look at the world through a di erent lens,” the Saturday statement from his label read. “He got up every morning and started writing, always working towards nding his place among the songwriting giants that sat on his record shelves, those same giants who let him into their lives and took him under their wings, who he studied relentlessly.”

Snider would do his

best-known and most acclaimed work for Prine’s independent label Oh Boy in the early 2000s. It included the albums “New Connection,” “Near Truths and Hotel Rooms” and “East Nashville Skyline,” a 2004 collection that’s considered by many to be his best. Those albums yielded his best known songs, “I Can’t Complain,” “Beer Run” and “Alright Guy.”

Snider was born and raised in Oregon before settling and making his musical chops in San Marcos, Texas. He eventually made his way to Nashville and was dubbed by some the unofcial “mayor of East Nashville,” assuming the title from a friend memorialized thusly in his “Train Song.” In 2021, Snider said a tornado that ripped through the neighborhood home to a vibrant arts scene severely damaged his house.

Snider had an early fan in Jimmy Bu ett, who signed the young artist to his record label, Margaritaville, which released his rst two albums, 1994’s “Songs for the Daily Planet” and 1996’s “Step Right Up.”

Germany’s Kessler twins, who became dance stars in ’50s and ’60s, dead at 89

They toured worldwide, including with Fred Astaire and Frank Sinatra

The Associated Press

BERLIN — Alice and Ellen Kessler, twin dancers and singers who launched their career in the 1950s and performed with Fred Astaire, Frank Sinatra and Harry Belafonte among others, have died, police in Germany said Tuesday. They were 89.

The death of the twins in Grünwald, a prosperous suburb of Munich where they shared a house, was reported by German newspaper Bild and news agency dpa on Monday, without named sources. Munich police on Tuesday con rmed the deaths, saying in an emailed statement that it was a “joint suicide.”

The Kessler twins learned to dance at a young age and joined the Leipzig Opera children’s ballet. In 1952, when they were 16, their family ed to West Germany, where they danced in a revue theater in Düsseldorf. In 1955, the sisters were discovered by the director of the Lido cabaret theater in Paris, where their international career took o .

KARL MITTENZWEI / DPA VIA AP

Alice Kessler and Ellen Kessler present excerpts from their show program “Eins und eins ist eins” (one and one is one) at a press conference in Berlin in 1997.

In the 1960s, the Kessler twins toured worldwide, moved to Rome and performed with Astaire, Sinatra and Belafonte. They turned down an offer to appear with Elvis Presley in “Viva Las Vegas” in 1964 for fear of becoming de ned by musical lms in America, dpa reported.

Even at 80, the sisters appeared on stage in a musical.

Alice said shortly before their 80th birthday that they probably wouldn’t have managed to perform for so long alone. Being a twosome “only has advantages,” she said. “Together you’re stronger.” Asked about the secret of their success, she remarked: “Discipline, every day. Gratitude, time and again. Humility, not cockiness. And togetherness. Until death.”

ANGELINA CASTILLO VIA AP

Todd Snider poses for a portrait in Hendersonville, Tennessee, in September.

ICE from page A1

kind to your neighbors today,” she added.

Federal o cials have said the crackdowns will reduce crime, though leaders in both Charlotte and Raleigh said crime was down. The o cials have also criticized so-called sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents in a handful of jurisdictions.

Anxiety spreads swiftly in Raleigh suburb

Federal o cials have given no information about activity in the Raleigh area.

But in Cary, a sprawling Raleigh suburb where o cials say almost 20% of the population was born outside the U.S. and the large Asian population tripled in the 1990s, fear spread quickly.

An area resident recorded as a large black SUV with darkly tinted windows and Texas license plates drove through Cary’s downtown, eventually linking up with another SUV. The vehicles stopped at a construction site, where Pamela Hoile recorded Border Patrol agents detaining four workers. Speaking by phone after posting the video on Facebook, she described herself as a “very outraged, horri ed and concerned citizen.”

The Chatham Square shopping center, which is usually bustling at midday with workers eating at mom-and-pop ethnic restaurants, was quiet. Most of the restaurants — Mexican, Indian and Chinese

among them — were closed. Nearby, the often-full parking lot at an Indian grocery store was largely empty, and tra c inside was nonexistent.

Esmeralda Angel’s family closed their restaurant, the Esmeralda Grill, to avoid any confrontations between customers and federal agents. At their separate grocery store, they were delivering items to customers who were avoiding going out in public.

The family businesses had scaled back to help their community, she said, but knew it would hurt nancially.

“Taco Tuesday is the busy day for all of these restaurants,” Angel said of the weekly specials. “But I think everyone would rather close than operate.”

Congresswoman calls deployment “profound abuse of power”

U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee, a Democrat who represents Durham, part of Raleigh and some suburbs, said Tuesday that the deployment of federal immigration agents in North Carolina “is a profound abuse of power, a violation of civil rights and a stain on our democracy.”

The region’s South Asian community has grown dramatically in recent decades, including many people drawn to the Research Triangle region by high-tech jobs.

Satish Garimella is mayor pro tempore in Morrisville, about 15 miles west of downtown Raleigh. Close to half of the town’s 30,000 people are Asian.

Garimella, who grew up in

India but is now a U.S. citizen, said the expected arrival of immigration agents is “creating a lot of panic,” and he recommended residents carry identity documents.

“You just don’t know when you will be questioned and what things are needed,” Garimella said.

The Trump administration turned to North Carolina after immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles and Chicago, both deep blue cities in deep blue states run by nationally prominent ofcials who are often loudly critical of President Donald Trump. They also increased operations in Portland, Oregon, where more than 560 immigration arrests were made in October, according to U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks.

North Carolina was a more surprising target.

The mayors of Charlotte and Raleigh are both Democrats, as is the governor, but none are known for wading into national political battles. In a state where divided government has become the norm, Gov. Josh Stein in particular has tried to get along with the GOP-controlled state legislature. The state’s two U.S. senators are both Republican, and Trump won the state in the last three presidential elections.

State was drawn into national debates

A handful of cities and counties in North Carolina have been drawn into America’s debates over crime and im-

PITTSBORO from page A1

The original conditional rezoning and master plan for Chatham Park were approved by the town in August 2015, which granted the development a max of 22,000 residential units and 22 million gross square feet of nonresidential uses across the 7,000 acres of the project.

The North Village small area plan was also previously approved in 2021.

The South Village is just under 5,000 acres in size, and the plans for it call for roughly 15,000 dwelling units and 9.4 million square feet of nonresidential development.

“What is being proposed by Chatham Park today is very consistent with what was already approved in 2015,” Thompson said. “There are no major changes 10 years later.”

There is also roughly 600 acres of open space and 600 acres of parkland being proposed in the South Village development as well.

The board approved the small area plan by a nal vote of 3-2, with Commissioners John Bonitz and James Vose voting against it.

“I really feel like we’ve been rushed on all of this,” Vose said. “I feel like we’ve heard from everybody in town that this is being rushed. I see questions in every eyeball in this room.”

Bonitz proposed tabling the item until January to give more time for review, but there was not enough support amongst the board.

“I’m looking at individuals on this board who have lived and breathed Chatham Park for the last ve terms,” said Commissioner John Foley. “I respect what you’re saying, but I also respect the breadth of experience that those commissioners have.”

The board held a public hearing for a rezoning request to take approximately 0.35 acres of property located at 627 West St. from Residential to Highway Commercial.

The lot fronts West Street, which is a designated truck route and a high-tra c corridor and is surrounded by commercial and mixed-use zoning.

“The proposal is just to basically unify the highway business district,” said Planning Director Randy Cahoon-Tingle.

According to the applicant, the current residential home on the property is being used as a rental, but the increased tra c and business presence in the corridor are making it harder to support that.

Following the hearing, the

migration, two of the most important issues to the White House.

The most prominent was the fatal stabbing this summer of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte lightrail train, an attack captured on video. The suspect was from the U.S., but the Trump administration repeatedly highlighted that he had been arrested more than a dozen times.

While the Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on the state because of sanctuary policies, most North Carolina county jails have long honored “detainers,” or requests from federal o cials to hold an arrested immigrant for a limited time so agents can take custody of them.

Some common noncooperation policies have existed in few places, including Raleigh and Charlotte, where the police donot help with immigration enforcement.

In Mecklenburg County, the jail did not honor detainer requests for several years until state law e ectively made it mandatory starting last year. Wake County, where Raleigh is located, had a similar policy.

DHS said about 1,400 detainers across North Carolina had not been honored since October 2020, putting the public at risk.

Matt Mercer, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Republican Party, said in a text message that the arrival of immigration agents to Raleigh would show that failures by “radical Democrats will nally be taken seriously.”

“The goal is to establish an early, coordinated framework for land use, transportation, utilities, open space and future public facilities.”

Theresa Thompson, assistant planning director

board unanimously approved the rezoning.

The board also approved a development agreement and the preliminary plan for the Reeves Farm major subdivision, a four-phase, approximately 500 acre development located along U.S. 64 Business and east of Roberson Creek Road.

The rst phase of the project proposes to construct 250 single family detached lots on about 92 acres of property, a proposed density of 2.7 dwelling units per acre.

In terms of a ordable housing within the development, 2.5% of the nal number of dwelling units constructed on the property will be dedicated for workforce and/or a ordable housing.

The phase will also contain just under 25 acres of open space and about 50 acres of land will be provided for park space, with the applicant providing an additional $500,000 for amenities within that parkland.

The board also approved the town’s climate action plan.

The plan is intended to provide structure and guidance for the town’s activities moving forward in “a changing climate.”

The vision statement for the plan states: Pittsboro will embrace smart, sustainable growth that protects our natural resources, preserves greenspace, and reduces costs while enhancing community resilience. By prioritizing ecient infrastructure, clean energy, and thoughtful development, we will create a thriving town that is environmentally responsible, nancially sound, and prepared for the future.

“I think it’s a really usable plan,” said Mayor Kyle Shipp. Finally, the board also accepted the donations of three metal sculptures, two donated by Lauren Franklin and the other by Shipp. Town sta have not yet decided where these sculptures will be placed.

The Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners will next meet Dec. 8.

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

Protesters holds signs amidst the arrival of federal law enforcement Monday in Charlotte.

REAL ESTATE

LEARN ABOUT LAND - Chatham Land Experts, www.learnaboutland.com - 919-362-6999.

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AUCTIONS

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IN SEARCH OF SOMEONE

I met you at Dollar Tree in Siler City, you paid for a Birthday Gift Bag. I want to meet you again to thank you. I live on Hwy.902 at 11348, Bear Creek, NC. My phone # is 919-837-5280.

WANTED

Does anyone else wish to sue Brightspeed for non-delivery of services on internet? Call Tom Glendinning – 919-545-0880 4tp

YARD SALE

Saturday, Nov.22nd – 8:00 – until – House at Ore Hill – Old 421 toward BonleeLots of Christmas Trees – Wreaths – Household items.

MOVING SALE

PRICED TO SELL, SOFAS, HIDE A BED, QUEEN BED, CHAIRS, KITCHEN UTENSILS -MENS COATS, GAMES ETC.

FEARRINGTON VILLAGE - CALL 919-637-7570

TAKE NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#25E000619-180

The undersigned, NORMAN M HILL IV, having quali ed on the 10th Day of NOVEMBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of CRYSTAL F. LONG, 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 20th Day OF FEBRUARY 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 20th DAY OF NOVEMBER 2025. NORMAN M HILL IV, EXECUTOR 1715 BAEZ CT. VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23464 Run dates: N20,27,D4,D11p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000586-180 The undersigned, KRISTINA DAVIS BOGART AND KIMBERLY DAVIS YARBOROUGH, having quali ed on the 23RD Day of OCTOBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BOBBY GENE DAVIS, SR., 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 20th Day OF FEBRUARY 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 20th DAY OF NOVEMBER 2025. KRISTINA DAVIS BOGART, EXECUTOR 906 TANGLEWOOD DR. EXT. SILER CITY, NC 27344 KIMBERLY DAVIS YARBOROUGH, EXECUTOR 407 CALLAWAY ST. SANFORD, NC 27330 Run dates: N20,27,D4,D11p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#25E000574-180 The undersigned, MICHAEL J. WERNER, having quali ed on the 29th Day of OCTOBER 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of IRENE PATRICIA WERNER, 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 6th Day OF FEBRUARY 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 6th DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025. MICHAEL J. WERNER, ADMINISTRATOR 115 WILLOWCREST DRIVE WINSTON SALEM, NC 27107 Run dates: N6,13,20,27p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25000587-180 The undersigned, MARSHAY A. PRICE, having quali ed on the 24th Day of OCTOBER 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of JIMMY LOUIS PRICE, 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 JANUARY 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 OCTOBER 2025. MARSHAY A PRICE, ADMINISTRATOR 803 NEW YORK AVE. SILVER SPRING, MD 20910 Run dates: O30,N6,13,20p NOTICE TO CREDITORS

FILE#25E000538-180 The undersigned, MARIE O. JOHNSON, having quali ed on the 26th Day of SEPTEMBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of DONALD CARSON OLDHAM, SR., 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 13th Day OF FEBRUARY 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 13th DAY OF NOVEMBER 2025. MARIE O. JOHNSON, EXECUTOR 104 ROUNDROCK LANE SANFORD, NC 27330 Run dates: N13,20,27,D4p

NOTICE

CHATHAM COUNTY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN

SEEKING BIDS: The Chatham County Partnership for Children is seeking competitive bids for the provision of speci c FAMILY SUPPORT services meeting Smart Start evidence-based/evidence-informed program requirements. Services to be provided in Chatham County, NC between July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029. Open to all interested human service agencies and organizations. A Bidder’s Conference will be held on Friday, December 5th 2025 via Ring Central from 9:30-11:30 AM. ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY FOR ELIGIBILITY to submit a bid. Additional information is available at www.chathamkids.org or by emailing liz@ chathamkids.org.

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION

CHATHAM COUNTY FILE NO. 13CvD000477-180 NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION

COUNTY OF CHATHAM Plainti , vs.

The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of J. N. RIVES a/k/a J. N. RIEVES a/k/a JOHN NATHANIEL RIVES, et al Defendants.

TO: The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of J. N. RIVES a/k/a J. N. RIEVES a/k/a JOHN NATHANIEL RIVES and spouse, if any, which may include CHARLENE LUNSFORD and spouse, if any, VANESSA A. MCBROOM A/K/A VANESSA ANITA FERGUSON’S SPOUSE, IF ANY, WAYNE GREEN and spouse, if any, STEPHEN J. GREENE and spouse, if any, AUSTIN O. RHODA, JR. and spouse, if any, JAMES HOPKINS and spouse, if any, BARBARA BROWN and spouse, if any, MARIE YVONNE FOUST and spouse, if any, KARRIE RIGGSBEE and spouse, if any, DELORES LUNSFORD and spouse, if any, LINDA BROWN and spouse, if any, EDWARD J. WALKER and spouse, if any, and JEMAL WALKER and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder

A pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action and notice of service of process by publication began on November 13, 2025.

The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Foreclosure on tax parcel(s) more completely described in the Complaint, to collect delinquent ad valorem taxes (assessments). Plainti seeks to extinguish any and all claim or interest that you may have in said property.

You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the rst publication of notice stated above, exclusive of such date, being forty (40) days after November 13, 2025, or by December 23, 2025, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service of process by publication will apply to the Court for relief sought.

This the __4th____ day of November, 2025.

ZACCHAEUS LEGAL SERVICES

Mark D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill

Attorney for Plainti NC Bar #12852/56782

310 W. Jones St. P. O. Box 25 Trenton, North Carolina 28585 Telephone: (252) 448-4541

Publication dates:

November 13, 2025

November 20, 2025 November 27, 2025

NOTICE OF TAX FORECLOSURE SALE

Under and by virtue of an order of the District Court of Chatham County, North Carolina, made and entered in the action entitled COUNTY OF CHATHAM vs. LEWIS L. MARSH and spouse, if any, and all possible heirs and assignees of LEWIS L. MARSH and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder, THE HEIRS, ASSIGNS AND DEVISEES OF FAYE M. MCDONALD and spouse, if any, which may include JOSEPH L. MARSH and spouse, if any, ROGER D. MARSH and spouse, if any, SYLVIA M. DEGRAFFENREAIDT and spouse, if any, PHYLLIS M. MITCHELL and spouse, if any, DWAYNE R, MARSH and spouse, if any, TASHA T. MCDONALD and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder, et al, 08CVD00553180, the undersigned Commissioner will on the 26th day of November, 2025, o er for sale and sell for cash, to the last and highest bidder at public auction at the courthouse door in Chatham County, North Carolina, Pittsboro, North Carolina at 12:00 o’clock, noon, the following described real property, lying and being in State and County aforesaid, and more particularly described as follows: All that certain tract or parcel of land lying and being situate in Chatham County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a Post Oak on the North East side of Highway 421 thence N. 7 deg. E. 50 ft. to an iron stake, thence N. 70 deg. E. 50 ft. to an iron stake, thence W. 7 deg. S. 50 ft. to an iron stake, thence W. 70 deg. S. 50 ft. to a Post Oak tree the point of beginning. Subject to restrictive covenants and easements of record. Parcel Identi cation Number: 0004980 The undersigned Commissioner makes no warranties in connection with this property and speci cally disclaims any warranties as to title and habitability. This property is being sold as is, without opinion as to title or any other matter.

NOTICE OF TAX FORECLOSURE SALE

Under and by virtue of an order of the District Court of Chatham County, North Carolina, made and entered in the action entitled COUNTY OF CHATHAM vs. THE HEIRS, ASSIGNS AND DEVISEES OF WILLIE LEE

FOUSHEE, SR. and spouse, if any, which may include BARRY E. FOUSHEE and spouse, if any, THOMAS L. FOUSHEE and spouse, if any, NETTIE M. TRUSELL and spouse, if any, DONNIE J. FOUSHEE and spouse, if any, CLAREATHA Y. HOOKER and spouse, if any, THE HEIRS, ASSIGNS AND DEVISEES OF WILLIE L. FOUSHEE, JR. and spouse, if any, which may include ADESHA M. CONWAY and spouse, if any, MEDERRA D. FAIRLEY and spouse, if any, and FELICIA M.

CONWAY and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder, et al, 16CVD000536180, the undersigned Commissioner will on the 26th day of November, 2025, o er for sale and sell for cash, to the last and highest bidder at public auction at the courthouse door in Chatham County, North Carolina, Pittsboro, North Carolina at 12:00 o’clock, noon, the following described real property, lying and being in Center Township, State and County aforesaid, and more particularly described as follows:

Beginning at Tom Foushee’s present Northeast corner on U.S. Highway 15-501 and running North with said Highway 100 feet to Campbell’s corner; thence West with Campbell’s line 200 feet to a stake in Ervin D. Alston’s line; thence South with Ervin D. Alston’s line 100 feet to Tom Foushee’s present Northwest corner; thence East with Tom Foushee’s present line 200 feet to the beginning; containing approximately one-half an acre, more or less. Subject to restrictive covenants and easements of record. Parcel Identi cation Number: 0006704

The undersigned Commissioner makes no warranties in connection with this property and speci cally disclaims any warranties as to title and habitability. This property is being sold as is, without opinion as to title or any other matter.

This sale will be made subject to all outstanding city and county taxes and all local improvement assessments against the above described property not included in the judgment in the above-entitled cause. A cash deposit of 20 percent of the successful bid will be required. In addition, the successful bidder will be required, at the time the Deed is recorded to pay for recording fees and revenue stamps assessed by the Chatham County Register of Deeds.

This sale is subject to upset bid as set forth in N.C.G.S. Section 1-339.25.

This the 27th day of October, 2025.

Mark D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill, Commissioner P.O. Box 25 Trenton, NC 28585 Publication dates: November 13, 2025 November 20, 2025

CREDITOR’S NOTICE

Having quali ed on the 28th day of October 2025, as Executor of the Estate of Mary Catherine Green, 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 5th day of February 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 October 2025. Keith Robert Green, Executor of the Estate of Mary Catherine Green PO Box 485 Pittsboro, NC 27312

Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: November 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th 2025.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

24E000576-180 NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned, Jacelyn Schmid, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of John Wayne Hudson, deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day of February 18, 2026, or this notice will be plead in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 20th day of November 2025. Jacelyn Schmid Administrator Marie H. Hopper

Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post O ce Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE TO CREDITORS COUNTY OF CHATHAM THE UNDERSIGNED, having quali ed on the 13th day of November 2025, as Executor of the ESTATE OF JAMES REID MORRISON, JR., Deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before February 21, 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 20th day of November, 2025.

CATHERINE BARNETT ALEXANDER EXECUTOR ESTATE OF JAMES REID MORRISON, JR. c/o Jennifer Dalman, Attorney Walker Lambe, PLLC Post O ce Box 51549 Durham, North Carolina 27717

NOTICE

D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill, Commissioner P.O. Box 25 Trenton, NC 28585 Publication dates: November 13, 2025 November 20, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000570-180 The undersigned, JENNIFER MORLEY, having quali ed on the 13th Day of OCTOBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of NANNETTE MARIE BURGER, 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 6th Day OF FEBRUARY 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 6th DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025. JENNIFER MORLEY, EXECUTOR 178 MORLEY WAY SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: N6,13,20,27p

NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of James Mack Gee late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 11th day of February, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 5th day of November, 2025. Henry Gee, Executor of the Estate Of James Mack Gee 2544 Siler City Glendon Road

Siler City, North Carolina 27344 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION CHATHAM COUNTY FILE NO. 08CvD000422-180

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION COUNTY OF CHATHAM Plainti , vs. The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of JESSE SADDLER, JR., et al Defendants.

TO: The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of JESSE SADDLER, JR. and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of SAM SADDLER and spouse, if any, which may include the HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of JIMMY T. SADDLER and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of BILL SADDLER and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of SUDIA CROSBY and spouse, if any, which may include VICKIE V. UNDERWOOD a/k/a VICKIE VANETTA SMITH’S SPOUSE, IF ANY, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of SOCIAL ARNOLD and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder; and The HEIRS, ASSIGNS and DEVISEES of RUSHIA CHAMBERS and spouse, if any, which may include GERTRUDE F. CHAMBERS and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder

A pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action and notice of service of process by publication began on November 6, 2025.

The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Foreclosure on tax parcel(s) more completely described in the Complaint, to collect delinquent ad valorem taxes (assessments). Plainti seeks to extinguish any and all claim or interest that you may have in said property.

You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the rst publication of notice stated above, exclusive of such date, being forty (40) days after November 6, 2025, or by December 16, 2025, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service of process by publication will apply to the Court for relief sought.

This the 29th day of October, 2025.

ZACCHAEUS LEGAL SERVICES

By: ____________________________________

Mark

Attorney for Plainti

D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill

NC Bar #12852/56782

310 W. Jones St. P. O. Box 25

Trenton, North Carolina 28585

Telephone: (252) 448-4541

Publication dates:

November 6, 2025

November 13, 2025 November 20, 2025

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS

CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Helen Grace Oldham late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 11th day of February, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 5th day of November, 2025.

Victoria O. Phillips, Executor of The Estate of Helen Grace Oldham 2747 Edwards Hill Church Road Siler City, North Carolina 27344

MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850

4tp

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS

CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Mary R. Parks late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 19th day of February, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 12th day of November, 2025.

Cheryl Ann Green, Executor of the Estate of Mary R. Parks 314 Pebble Beach Drive Mebane, North Carolina 27302 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850

4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Patricia Hennessy, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Munson Law Firm PLLC, P.O. Box 1811 Pittsboro, NC 27312, on or before the 20th day of February 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 20th day of November 2025.

RUSSELL BARKER, EXECUTOR ESTATE OF PATRICIA HENNESSY

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as Co-Executors of the Estate of Kathleen H. Braxton, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, noti es all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned at their address, 386 Old Siler City Road, Pittsboro, North Carolina, 27312, on or before the 30th day of January, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment.

This 24th day of October, 2025.

Kathy B. Shuping

386 Old Siler City Road

Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312

Michael E. Braxton

296 Old Siler City Road

Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312

GUNN & MESSICK, PLLC

P. O. Box 880

Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312-0880

October 30, November 6, 13, 20

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Probate #25E000556-180

All persons, rm and corporations having claims against Carolyn Herberta Huckshorn , late of Chatham County, North Carolina are hereby noti ed to present them to Kristin Rae Huckshorn, as Executor of the decedent’s estate in care of Kendall H. Page, Attorney, 210 N Columbia Street, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 on or before the 6th day of February, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF Duane Lee Fraser All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Duane Lee Fraser, late of Chatham, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit them to Joseph Duane Fraser as Executor of the decedent’s estate on or before January 31, 2026, c/o Janet B. Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Executor. This the 30th day of October, 2025. Joseph Duane Fraser, Executor c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF Barbara Russell Hardin All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Barbara Russell Hardin, late of Chatham, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit them to Paul Russell Hardin as Executor of the decedent’s estate on or before February 14, 2026, c/o Janet B. Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Executor. This the 13th day of November 2025. Paul Russell Hardin, Executor c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF EDGAR J. HARLOW All persons, rms and corporations having claims against EDGAR J. HARLOW, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit them to Gregory Herman-Giddens or James Wynkoop as Co-Executors of the decedent’s estate on or before February 16, 2026 c/o Gregory HermanGiddens, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named CoExecutors. This the 13th day of November 2025. Gregory Herman-Giddens, Co-Executor c/o Gregory Herman-Giddens, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000304-180 The undersigned, JEFFREY SCOTT KLINKER, having quali ed on the 5th Day of OCTOBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of CAROLYN SUE KLINKER, 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 13th Day OF FEBRUARY 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 13th DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2025. JEFFREY SCOTT KLINKER, EXECUTOR 2197 LAUREL LAKE RD. SALEMBURG, NC 28385 Run dates: N13,20,27,D4p

Blue Origin launches huge rocket carrying twin NASA spacecraft to Mars

The rst-stage booster successfully landed on a drone ship

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Blue Origin launched its huge New Glenn rocket last Thursday with a pair of NASA spacecraft destined for Mars.

It was only the second ight of the rocket that Je Bezos’ company and NASA are counting on to get people and supplies to the moon — and it was a complete success.

The 321-foot New Glenn blasted into the afternoon sky from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, sending NASA’s twin Mars orbiters on a drawn- out journey to the red planet. Lifto was stalled four days by lousy local weather as well as solar storms strong enough to paint the skies with auroras as far south as Florida.

In a remarkable rst, Blue Origin recovered the booster following its separation from the upper stage and the Mars orbiters, an essential step to recycle and slash costs similar to SpaceX. Company employees cheered wildly as the booster landed upright on a barge 375 miles o shore. An ecstatic Bezos watched the action from Launch Control.

“Next stop, moon!” employees chanted following the booster’s bull’s-eye landing. Twenty minutes later, the rocket’s upper stage deployed the two Mars orbiters in space, the mission’s main objective. Congratulations poured in from NASA o cials as well as SpaceX’s Elon Musk, whose booster landings are now routine.

New Glenn’s inaugural test ight in January delivered a

prototype satellite to orbit, but failed to land the booster on its oating platform in the Atlantic.

The identical Mars orbiters, named Escapade, will spend a year hanging out near Earth, stationing themselves 1 million miles away. Once Earth and Mars are properly aligned next fall, the duo will get a gravity assist from Earth to head to the red planet, arriving in 2027.

Once around Mars, the spacecraft will map the planet’s upper atmosphere and scattered magnetic elds, study-

ing how these realms interact with the solar wind. The observations should shed light on the processes behind the escaping Martian atmosphere, helping to explain how the planet went from wet and warm to dry and dusty. Scientists will also learn how best to protect astronauts against Mars’ harsh radiation environment.

“We really, really want to understand the interaction of the solar wind with Mars better than we do now,” Escapade’s lead scientist, Rob Lillis of the University of California, Berke -

ley, said ahead of the launch. “Escapade is going to bring an unprecedented stereo viewpoint because we’re going to have two spacecraft at the same time.” It’s a relatively low-budget mission, coming in under $80 million, that’s managed and operated by UC Berkeley. NASA saved money by signing up for one of New Glenn’s early ights. The Mars orbiters should have blasted o last fall, but NASA passed up that ideal launch window — Earth and Mars line up for a quick transit

“Next stop, moon!”

Blue Origin employees following the booster landing

just every two years — because of feared delays with Blue Origin’s brand-new rocket.

Named after John Glenn, the rst American to orbit the world, New Glenn is ve times bigger than the New Shepard rockets sending wealthy clients to the edge of space from West Texas. Blue Origin plans to launch a prototype Blue Moon lunar lander on a demo mission in the coming months aboard New Glenn.

Created in 2000 by Bezos, Amazon’s founder, Blue Origin already holds a NASA contract for the third moon landing by astronauts under the Artemis program. Musk’s SpaceX beat out Blue Origin for the rst and second crew landings, using Starships, nearly 100 feet taller than Bezos’ New Glenn.

But last month NASA Acting Administrator Sean Du y reopened the contract for the rst crewed moon landing, citing concern over the pace of Starship’s progress in ight tests from Texas. Blue Origin as well as SpaceX have presented accelerated landing plans.

NASA is on track to send astronauts around the moon early next year using its own Space Launch System, or SLS, rocket. The next Artemis crew would attempt to land; the space agency is pressing to get astronauts back on the lunar surface by decade’s end in order to beat China.

Twelve astronauts walked on the moon more than a half-century ago during NASA’s Apollo program.

© 2025 Chatham Investors

JOHN RAOUX / AP PHOTO

A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket lifts o from Launch Complex 36 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida last week.

CHATHAM SPORTS

Local man wins putt-putt national championship

Lynn Gaines’ hobby turned into a major accomplishment

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

A LIFELONG PASSION for putt-putt golf turned into the ultimate reward for Goldston resident Lynn Gaines.

Gaines, 68, won the Amateur Putters Association national championship in Fernandina Beach, Florida, on Oct. 24. The APA is the amateur division of the Professional Putters Association, an organization that holds high-level putt-putt tournaments and competitions across the United States. Over the course of four rounds per day for two days, Gaines nished atop a eld of 30 competitors with a total score of 206.

“That was the least of my expectations,” Gaines, who has been playing putt-putt golf for decades, said.

“Knowing how much of this putt-putt family was cheering for me or telling me these little keys and little things, like, ‘Keep putting the same way,’ and encouraging me, it really, like I said, is very surreal.”

The build up to Gaines’ big moment started over 50 years ago in Siler City.

While tagging along with his dad for a burgers at Chris’ Drive-In, Gaines would have his eyes xated on the newly built, but no longer existent, putt-putt course behind the restaurant. Because his dad, Herbert, was a long-distance truck driver, Gaines didn’t have many opportunities to play while in town.

“I would bug him enough to

where he would say, ‘All right, if I take you by there, would you stop and be quiet?’” Gaines recalled. “I said, ‘Yeah, for a little while.’”

But it was there where Gaines fell in love with the game. When he turned 16 and earned his driver’s license a short time later, he took his rst job at that very putt-putt course. He had more time to play during his

Saturday shifts, picking up the putter as much as he could between customers.

As Gaines’ life moved along, putt-putt stayed with him. Gaines married another putter in his wife Sue 48 years ago, and over the years, the couple found the time to play on family vacations. They also raised a putt-putt lover in their late son Josh, who died in 2020.

“Early in our marriage, there was not a putt-putt, but a putting course in Sanford,” Gaines said. “And we would go every Monday night and play tournaments. And she’s pretty good herself.”

Said Gaines, “It gives us an opportunity to do a lot of this stu together. It keeps us young.”

Gaines’ putt-putting took a turn in 2018. While working as a nance manager at a Siler City car dealership, a customer came in to trade their vehicle. The two went for a drive, and Gaines noticed putt-putt scorecards in the customer’s console. When he asked about them, the customer told Gaines about the putting scene in Burlington and invited him to join their local Monday night tournament. With the full support of his wife, Gaines accepted the o er.

Gaines would play many rounds of putt-putt in Burlington over the following years, and after retiring in 2022, he o cially joined the PPA as an amateur on the Southern Putting Tour. After about a year of traveling and competing in tournaments around the Southeast, Gaines won his rst tournament at his home course in 2023.

“You have so many friends in the world of putt-putt,” Gaines said. “It’s not about the competition so much. I’m not out there trying to beat people, and they’re not out there trying to beat each other. It’s a competition against the course. Every time you play, you want to shoot a better score against the course.”

Gaines had never seen the course in Fernandina Beach until a late season tournament in September. On the rst day of the competition, Gaines felt the stress and pressure of the moment, and he performed poorly for his standards. He nished third after a bounce-back performance in the second day.

So Gaines tried again at the same course a month later. This

are taking their talents to big-time programs next season.

On the dotted line: Seaforth athletes make it o cial

The Hawks will send 10 more alumni to the next level

Points until Katie Leonard reaches 1,000 career points

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

MULTIPLE SEAFORTH athletes signed to their future college programs on Nov. 12. Here’s a look at where they’re headed after their senior seasons.

Cali O’Neill (UNC women’s soccer)

O’Neill, a senior, is o cial-

ly a Tar Heel after announc-

ing her commitment to the storied program in 2024. During her high school career, O’Neill played club for NC Courage Academy. The defender has also been called up to U.S. Youth National Team multiple times for training camps and international tournaments, including the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco in October. UNC won the 2024 national title.

Josie Valgus (TCU volleyball)

Valgus, a senior, made her commitment to TCU nal after recording more than 1,290

@SEAFORTHHAWKS / X

kills, 1,070 digs, 761 assists and 189 aces in her high school career. The Horned Frogs have made three straight NCAA Tournaments from 2022-24.

Renee Rizvi (Ursinus women’s lacrosse)

Rizvi, a senior mid elder, signed to Ursinus, an NCAA Division III program in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. In three seasons, Rizvi has recorded 69 goals, 21 assists and 128 ground balls.

Katie Leonard (Cornell

Leonard signed to Cornell before the start of her senior season with the Hawks. The sharpshooter is closing in on the 1,000-point mark (993 currently) while also notching

See SEAFORTH, page B4

“Whatever happened would happen.”

Lynn Gaines

time for a chance at a national title.

“I just followed a routine,” Gaines said. “I would practice the same way every day I went over to the course, and I was just more comfortable and relaxed because whatever happened would happen.”

Gaines focused on having a consistent putting stroke, which he felt had got him this far. On the rst day of the national tournament, he started o strong, leading the eld after the rst round by eight strokes. By the 14th hole of the last round on the second day, the taste of victory began to manifest.

“As I came on the back nine the last round in the nationals, I had that feeling, and I had some other thoughts,” Gaines said. “(Josh) loved the game more than I did. More than I ever did. So I thought about him a lot.

“The golf ball got a little blurry for a stroke or two. And then it was OK because I knew he was there with me.”

Gaines feels this win was surprising since he doesn’t often win the local tournaments in Burlington and Asheboro. As someone who’s just following a passion and seeing where it takes him without a speci c goal in mind, Gaines didn’t realize winning would come with all the praise, recognition by the professionals and a “Welcome Home Lynn Gaines” placed on the Putt-Putt Fun Center sign in Burlington.

But it happened. It also gave the Gaines name, one that holds the sport so dearly, an everlasting legacy.

“One thing they tell me,” Gaines said. “You are a national champion, and no one can ever take that away from you.”

Seaforth falls short at Croatan to end memorable season

The Hawks nished with a program best 6-6 record

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

NO. 20 SEAFORTH’S (6-6) HISTORIC football season came to an end in a 49-13 second round loss to No. 4 Croatan (10-1) on Friday.

The Hawks had no answer for Croatan’s junior running back Andrew Boucher, who rushed for a school record seven touchdowns and ended the night with more than 200 yards.

Boucher helped put the game away with four rst half scores, including a 57-yard sprint to the end zone in the opening quarter.

Seaforth failed to break 20 points for the

See FOOTBALL, page B3

women’s basketball)

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Goldston resident Lynn Gaines, 68, lines up a shot on his way to winning the Amateur Putters Association national championship in Fernandina Beach, Florida.

Josie Valgus and Cali O’Neill

COURTESY CARTER HARRISON

defense ghts for a stop in a loss to Croatan on Nov. 14.

Levi Haygood

Woods Charter, boys’ basketball

Woods Charter’s Levi Haygood earns athlete of the week honors for the week of Nov. 10.

Haygood, a junior forward, lled the stat sheet in an 82-61 win over Neuse Charter Friday. In 25 minutes, he recorded a career-high 20 points alongside 10 rebounds and nine assists.

Haygood, a two-time all-conference player, was the Wolves’ leading rebounder last season, and he’s looking to make a jump as an all-around player this season.

Naomi Stevenson was named All-State as a freshman

Local volleyball players earn postseason honors 9

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

THE NORTH Carolina Volleyball Coaches Association released its All-State teams for the 2025 season on Nov. 10. Here’s a look at the local players who received All-State and All-Region honors.

SEAFORTH

Naomi Stevenson (5A First Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Stevenson made an immediate impact as a freshman, leading the Hawks with more than 405 kills and a greater than .300 hitting percentage on the way to a state championship appearance. She notched a career-high 30 kills during Seaforth’s comeback from down 2-0 in the 5A East regional nal against Person. Stevenson was one of three NCHSAA freshmen to earn All-State honors and one of two freshmen on the 5A AllState team.

Abigail Valgus (5A Second Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Valgus earned an increased role this season and ran with it, seeing signi cant increases in her kill, ace, blocks, digs and assist totals. The junior led Seaforth with a career high of more than 475 assists, and she recorded a career-high 253 digs.

Josie Valgus (5A Second Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Valgus, a TCU commit, nished her high school career with her best season as a setter. The senior recorded career highs with more than 404 assists, 227 digs and 26 blocks. Early in the season, Valgus stepped up while junior Ally Forbes was out with an injury, logging eight of her nine double-digit kill performances, including a season-best 21 kills twice, in Forbes’ absence.

CHATHAM CENTRAL

Sydney Sellers (1A First Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Sellers was a versatile weapon for the Bears this season. The senior recorded career-highs in kills (114), digs (116), and she led the team with a career-best 67 aces.

Addison Goldston (1A Second Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Goldston, a sophomore, stu ed the stat sheet this season, leading the Bears in kills (271), digs (352) and hitting percentage (.197). She also recorded 64 aces. During the season, Goldston logged three games with at least 20 kills.

Anali Perez (1A Second Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Perez, a senior, did a lot of dirty work for the Bears as she nished the year with 327 digs and 352 service receptions. She

Local players who earned All-State honors

played 15 less sets in 2024 but outperformed her dig total from last year by 184.

WOODS CHARTER

Cecilia Brignati (1A First Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Brignati, a sophomore, was an exceptional during the Wolves’ historic season. She recorded a team-high 507 assists during the regular season while notching career-highs of 65 aces (team-high) and 65 kills.

Taylin Banbrook (1A First Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Banbrook ended her high school career with her best attacking season. The senior nished the regular season with a career highs of 133 kills and 47 aces. Her .438 regular season hitting percentage led the team.

Annabel Unah (1A Second Team All-State, Region 5 All-Region)

Unah, a junior, was an important outside hitter for the Wolves, leading the team with 160 kills in the regular season on a .324 hitting percentage. She recorded seven regular season games with at least 10 kills.

LEVIHAYGOOD / INSTAGRAM

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Woods Charter’s Cecilia Brignati hits a ball over the net during the 2025 season.

Basketball, wrestling seasons get underway

Stacey Harris earned his rst win as Chatham Central’s coach

By Asheebo Rojas

Chatham News & Record

Boys’ basketball

WOODS CHARTER dominated Neuse Charter 82-61 Friday. Junior forward Levi Haygood led the way with a 20-point, 10-rebound double-double, adding nine assists for a near triple-double. Junior guard Alden Phelps also stu ed the stat sheet with 17 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and three steals.

Chatham Charter defeated Phoenix Academy 67-66 in overtime on Nov. 11 behind a 20-point night from sophomore guard Ryder Murphy. The Knights fell to NCSSM-Durham 54-50 the next day.

Chatham Central opened its season with a 73-33 win over Ascend Leadership on Friday. The Bears, winning their rst game under new coach Stacey Harris, picked up their largest win since Jan. 30.

Jordan-Matthews dropped its season opener with an 86-57 loss to Lee County Friday.

Conference standings as of Sunday (overall, conference)

Central Tar Heel 1A: 1. Clover Garden School (1-0, 0-0); 2. Woods Charter (2-0, 0-0); 3. Southern Wake Academy (1-1, 0-0); 4. Chatham Charter (2-3, 0-0); 5. Ascend Leadership (1-2,

Chatham Central’s Stacey Harris instructs from the sideline in a preseason scrimmage. He earned his rst win as the Bears’ coach on Nov. 14.

0-0); 6. Central Carolina Academy (0-2, 0-0); 7. River Mill (02, 0-0)

Four Rivers 3A/4A: 1. Uwharrie Charter (0-1, 0-0); 2. Jordan-Matthews (0-1, 0-0); 3. Eastern Randolph (0-0, 0-0); 4. North Moore (0-0, 0-0); 5. Northwood (0-0, 0-0); 6. Southwestern Randolph (0-0, 0-0) Greater Triad 1A/2A: 1. Chatham Central (1-0, 0-0); 2. South Stokes (1-0, 0-0); 3. College Prep and Leadership (1-0, 0-0); 4. Winston-Salem Prep (0 -1, 0-0); 5. Bishop McGuin-

Byrd steps down as Seaforth girl’s coach

The Hawks will be led by their assistants to start the season

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

SEAFORTH GIRLS’ basketball coach Charles Byrd is stepping down after four seasons of leading the program.

The Hawks, coming o a 28-3 campaign last winter, will begin the season led by assistant coaches Antonio Hayes and Kimberly Brower. Seaforth will soon begin interviewing to ll its coaching vacancy.

Byrd has been the program’s only coach since the school opened in 2021, leading the Hawks to three straight 2A East regional nals and a state championship appearance in 2023.

He coached one of the nation’s best players in Gabby

White, a class of 2025 four-star recruit, who is now a guard at Virginia.

Seaforth will host Middle Creek Friday at 6:30 p.m. to start the 2025-26 season.

ness (0-0, 0-0); 6. North Stokes (0-0, 0-0); 7. South Davidson (0 - 0, 0-0)

Big Seven 4A/5A: 1. Durham School of the Arts (2-1, 0-0); 2. Cedar Ridge (0-1, 0-0); 3. Carrboro (0-1, 0-0); 4. J.F. Webb (0 - 0, 0-0); 5. Orange (0-0, 0-0); 6. Seaforth (0-0, 0-0); 7. South Granville (0-0, 0-0)

Girls’ basketball

Woods Charter split the week with a 37-35 win over Discovery Charter on Nov. 12 and a 44-19

FOOTBALL from page B1

rst time since Aug. 29, but it wasn’t due to a lack of production.

The Hawks were able to drive the ball down the eld in their rst possession, but an interception from junior quarterback Duncan Parker to senior Riley Robinson in the end zone abruptly ended the early momentum.

Following Boucher’s longest touchdown run of the night, Seaforth responded with a 14 -yard pass from Parker to senior receiver Patrick Miller to tie the game 7-7. After another Boucher score, Seaforth drove the ball into Croatan territory again, but this time, senior linebacker Everett Fitzsimmons picked o Parker at the 20. Boucher cashed in the takeaway with another score to put the Cougars ahead 21-7 in the second quarter.

Coming out of halftime trailing 28-7, Seaforth turned the ball over twice more, including another interception to senior Beau Boyd and a lost fumble in the end

loss to Wake Christian Academy on Friday. Senior guard Wesley Oliver recorded 15 points, four assists and ve steals in the win over the Trailblazers.

Chatham Charter lost its fourth straight game with a 44 -16 defeat to NCSSM-Durham on Nov. 12.

Chatham Central started the year with a 37-22 win over Ascend Leadership on Friday. Junior guard Lizzy Murray scored a team-high 10 points. Despite 15 points from freshman Makayla Martin, Jordan-Matthews fell to Lee County in a close 42-39 battle Friday.

Wrestling

Boys: Jordan-Matthews fell to Asheboro, Pinecrest and Trinity in duals on Nov. 12. After a loss to Cedar Ridge the next day, the Jets nished the Cedar Ridge quad with wins over Eastern Alamance and NCSSM.

Northwood defeated Carrboro and Louisburg in its own tri meet on Nov. 12.

Top individual performances: Seaforth’s Harrison Compton beat Millbrook’s Matthew Dobo by a 14-13 decision to win the Wolverine Invitational 190-pound championship. Jordan-Matthews’ Jakari Blue pinned Eastern Alamance’s Julian Jones in 1 minute, 17 seconds in a dual. Northwood’s Connor Willingmyre and Titus Moore each pinned their Carrboro opponents in 32 seconds.

Girls: Jordan-Matthews dropped two duals to Asheboro and Pinecrest on Nov. 12. The Jets lost to Cedar Ridge and tied NCSSM at Cedar Ridge the next day. Northwood beat Carrboro and Louisburg at its own meet on Nov. 12 by forfeits.

Top individual performances: Jordan-Matthews’ Alexandria Zumano Garcia pinned Cedar Ridge’s Hannah Manoogian in 30 seconds.

Conference standings as of Sunday (overall, conference): Central Tar Heel 1A: 1. Woods Charter (2-1, 0-0); 2. Southern Wake Academy (1-1, 0-0); 3. Chatham Charter (1-4, 0-0); 4. Ascend Leadership (0-1, 0-0); 5. River Mill (0-2, 0-0); 6. Central Carolina Academy (0-2, 0-0); 7. Clover Garden School (0-0, 0-0) Four Rivers 3A/4A: 1. Uwharrie Charter (1-0, 0-0); 2. Jordan-Matthews (0-1, 0-0); 3. Eastern Randolph (0-0, 0-0); 4. North Moore (0-0, 0-0); 5. Northwood (0-0, 0-0); 6. Southwestern Randolph (0-0, 0-0) Greater Triad 1A/2A: 1. College Prep and leadership (1-0, 0-0); 2. Chatham Central (1-0, 0-0); 3. Bishop McGuinness (0-0, 0-0); 4. North Stokes (0-0, 0-0); 5. South Davidson (0-0, 0-0); 6. South Stokes (0-0, 0-0); 7. Winston-Salem Prep (0-0, 0-0) Big Seven 4A/5A: 1. Carrboro (1-0, 0-0); 2. Durham School of the Arts (1-2, 0-0); 3. Cedar Ridge (0-0, 0-0); 4. J.F. Webb (0-0, 0-0); 5. Orange (0-0, 0-0); 6. Seaforth (0-0, 0-0); 7. South Granville (0-0, 0-0)

2,500+

Passing yards for Duncan Parker in 2025

zone on rst-and-goal at the 1. Parker scored the Hawks’ nal touchdown in the third quarter on a 2-yard run.

After three straight losing seasons, Seaforth pulled o its best record in program history.

The Hawks earned a share of a conference title for the rst time, nishing as Big Seven 4A/5A co-champions with J.F. Webb.

Seaforth, which made the playo s for the rst time, also picked up its rst playo win after erasing a 28-14 de cit in less than three minutes to knock o No. 13 South Brunswick on Nov. 7. Parker threw two touchdown passes to seniors Nick Gregory and Miller to complete the comeback.

Parker’s big jump as a pass-

er from his sophomore year helped elevate the Hawks’ offense to a higher level of potency. He went from throwing just over 1,200 yards and six touchdowns last year to reaching more than 2,500 pass yards and 29 touchdowns this fall. Seaforth’s offense went from scoring 22.6 points per game in 2024 to 30.6 points per game in 2025.

Gregory, who caught eight touchdown passes and rushed for ve scores, also contributed to the Hawks’ jump in success. He impacted all sides of the ball, returning two kicko s, a punt and an interception for touchdowns. Junior receiver Max Hinchman emerged as one of the Hawks’ most reliable down- eld threats as he hauled in ve touchdowns and more than 550 yards. Since taking over the program in April, Seaforth coach Tolbert Matthews wanted to establish a culture of “responding” to adversity. The Hawks, who started the season 1-4 before earning a playo bid, did exactly that.

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Charles Byrd looks on as his team competes during the 2024-25 season.

Heath, O’Reilly elected to US Soccer Hall of Fame

The former Tar Heel women’s stars lead a class of seven

The Associated Press

FRISCO, Texas — Women’s World Cup champions and Olympic gold medalists Tobin Heath and Heather O’Reilly were elected last Thursday to the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame along with men’s players Tony Sanneh and Chris Wondolowski.

Referee Kari Seitz also was elected along with Kevin Crow, known primarily for his time in indoor soccer.

They will be inducted May 1 at the hall in Frisco, Texas.

O’Reilly, 40, was a forward and winger who scored 47 goals in 231 international appearances, helping the U.S. win the 2015 World Cup and Olympic gold medals in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She won league titles with Sky Blue in 2009 in Women’s Professional Soccer and with Kansas City in 2015 and North Carolina in 2019 in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Heath, 37, was a mid elder and forward who had 36 goals in 181 appearances, winning World Cup titles with the U.S. in 2015 and 2019, and Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012.

Wondolowski, 42, is Major League Soccer’s career scoring leader with 171 regular-season goals and two in the playo s, playing for San Jose (2005, 2009-21) and Houston (200609). He scored 11 goals in 35 international appearances, playing in two games at the 2014 World Cup.

2019

The year Heather O’Reilly helped lead the N.C. Courage to the NWSL title

elected if they each receive at least 50% and a third is elected if receiving at least 75%.

Sanneh, 54, was a defender who scored three goals in 43 international appearances, starting all ve games for the U.S. at the 2002 World Cup as the Americans reached the quarter nals in their farthest advancement since 1930. He played for D.C. (1996-98), Columbus (2004), Chicago (200506), Colorado (2007) and the LA Galaxy (2009) along with stints at Hertha Berlin (19912001) and Nuremberg (200104), and won MLS titles in 1996 and 1997.

O’Reilly, Heath and Wondolowski were picked from the player ballot. The top two are

ACC Commissioner Phillips

stays optimistic amid league’s uncertain chances for multiple CFP bids

The league has no favorite, but several teams control their own destiny

By Aaron Beard

The Associated Press

PITTSBURGH — Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner Jim Phillips knows his league is on uncertain footing when it comes to getting multiple bids to the College Football Playo , particularly as several ranked league teams stumbled in recent games.

He’s also quick to point out there’s still time for the ACC to hit that goal all the same.

“I’m not dejected. I’m not despondent or any of those types of things,” Phillips said Saturday, after watching No. 23 Pittsburgh lose at home to No. 9 Notre Dame in lopsided fashion. “You always want to win more games and the rest of it. But we still have games to be played against really good opponents.”

The ACC has ve AP Top 25 teams — yet no clear headliner. That means the league has multiple playo candidates after entering the weekend with ve 1-loss teams in the ACC standings, yet no one locked.

SEAFORTH from page B1

388 rebounds (4.2 per game) and 221 assists (2.4 per game) in three seasons. Cornell made its only NCAA Tournament appearance in 2008.

Sydney Nezos (Lynchburg women’s soccer)

Nezos, a senior defender, signed to Lynchburg, an NCAA Division III program in Lynchburg, Virginia. She’s been a key piece to the Hawks’ success in her

Phillips maintains optimism considering there are so many moving parts in play. For example: while Pitt (No. 22 CFP) lost ground with the loss, that only strengthens the Fighting Irish’s case — which in turn would aid No. 16 Miami (No. 15 CFP) by keeping the Hurricanes’ season-opening win against the Irish as a standout W. Phillips’ message is simple: Multiple ACC teams still control their own destiny.

“I haven’t seen a week go by in college football that if you don’t win, you don’t move up,” Phillips said. “Maybe not drastically, but the idea is you have to continue to win. And if you continue to win, you have a strong possibility that you are going to move up within the rankings.”

Still, it has been a strange year for the ACC with unexpected highs and high-pro le ops.

Preseason favorite Clemson opened the year ranked No. 4 nationally but has been working in recent weeks just to become bowl eligible. Florida State looked to have regrouped from last year’s two-win disaster with a season-opening statement win against Alabama, only to start 0-4 in the league on the way to extending the 2024 misery.

rst three seasons, recording 291 steals in her career. Lynchburg most recently made the NCAA Tournament in 2022 and won a national championship in 2014.

Carsyn Ward (Shenandoah women’s soccer)

Ward is headed to Shenandoah, an NCAA Division III program in Winchester, Virginia, after her senior season in the spring. In three seasons, Ward has recorded 20 goals, 12 assists and 211 steals.

In the meantime, as Miami peaked at No. 2, Georgia Tech reached No. 8 while starting 8-0 and Virginia hit No. 12 after starting 5-0 in ACC play despite being picked to nish 14th in the 17-team football league.

And yet, the Hurricanes and Yellow Jackets both stumbled on Nov. 1, with Miami suffering its second loss at SMU and Georgia Tech falling at NC State. Virginia lost at home to Wake Forest last week before regrouping to win at Duke on Saturday. And No. 20 Louisville has lost consecutive home games to California and then Friday against Clemson after a 7-1 start that put the Cardinals in the chase.

It very nearly got worse, too. Georgia Tech survived Saturday on a nal-seconds eld goal against a Boston College that entered the day at 1-9.

“The league itself has played good football all year,” Phillips said. “We’ve su ered some from maybe not being as consistent from week to week. But we’ve also cannibalized ourselves some as well within the league. I think every league goes through that. It just seems like that’s happened more to us recently, over the last three weeks.”

Declan Lindquist (Haverford men’s basketball)

Lindquist, a senior guard, will continue his basketball career at Haverford, an NCAA Division III program in Haverford, Pennsylvania. Lindquist is coming o a junior season in which he logged a career-high 228 points (8.4 per game), 27 assists and 22 steals.

Colin Dorney (William Peace baseball)

Sanneh and Crow were chosen from the veteran ballot, in which the top vote-getter is elected if receiving at least 50% and a second if receiving at least 75%. Sanneh was on 21 of 24 ballots (87.55%) and was followed by Crow (19, 79.2%), Tatu (17, 70.8%), Ti any Roberts (16, 66.7%), David Beckham (11, 45.8%), Clint Mathis (10, 41.7%), Lorrie Fair (6, 25%), Chico Borja (5, 20.8%), Aly Wagner (5, 20.8%) and Francis Farbero (1, 4.2%).

Seitz, 55, referred refereed nine games at the Women’s World Cup in 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011, and six at the Olym-

O’Reilly got 47 of 48 votes for 97.9%, followed by Heath (45, 93.8%), Wondolowski (37, 77.1%), Keith Johnson (33, 68.8%), Samantha Mewis (32, 66.7%), Dwayne DeRosario (29, 60.4%), Amy Rodriguez (28, 58.3%), Kyle Beckerman (27, 56.3%), Robbie Keane (20, 41.7%), Oguchi Onyewu (19, 39.6%), Jermaine Jones (17, 35.4%), Maurice Edu (16, 33.3%), Diego Valeri (13, 27.1%), Michael Archer (12, 25%), Stephanie Lopez Cox (12, 25%), Chad Marshall (11, 22.9%), Mike Lawson (10, 20.8%), Carlos Ruiz (7, 14.6%), Matt Besler (6, 12.5%) and Geo Cameron (5, 10.4%).

pics in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She became the U.S. Soccer Federation’s vice president of referees in 2024. Seitz was on the builder ballot, which this year included only referees. The top voter-getter is picked if receiving at least 50%. For the Builder Ballot, the 2026 rotation considered candidates from the referee category only. Election procedures call for the Builder named to the most ballots (and on at least 50% of the ballots) to be elected. Seitz got 19 of 24 votes (79.2%) and was followed by Gino D’Ippolito (10, 41.7%), Brian Hall (6, 25%) and Mark Geiger (4, 16.7%).

Phillips can look back to last year’s results for hope. Clemson sneaked into the ACC title game when then-No. 6 Miami blew a 21-0 loss at Syracuse in a loss that ultimately kept the Hurricanes out of the CFP. The Tigers edged SMU for the ACC title to reach the CFP, while the Mus-

Dorney, a senior, signed to William Peace, an NCAA Division III program in Raleigh, ahead of his nal season this spring.

Gabe Rogers (Binghamton wrestling)

Rogers will continue wrestling at Binghamton, an NCAA Division I program in Binghamton, New York, after his senior season this winter. Last year, Rogers won over 40 matches on his way to an individu-

tangs made the ACC a two -bid league.

“I’m still hopeful that we’ll be a multiple-bid league,” Phillips said. “There’s nothing that says that we’re eliminated from that. There’s football not only to be played in the ACC, but throughout the country.”

al state title in the 120-pound division.

Ivan Grimes (North Greenville men’s lacrosse)

Grimes signed to North Greenville, an NCAA Division II program in Tigerville, South Carolina, ahead of his senior season in the spring. The standout attack recorded 142 goals, 116 assists and 127 ground balls in his rst three high school seasons.

GENE J. PUSKAR / AP PHOTO

ACC Commissioner James J. Phillips, right, visits with Pittsburgh head coach Pat Narduzzi in the locker room before a game against Notre Dame

MARTIN MEJIA / AP PHOTO

The United States’ Heather O’Reilly celebrates after scoring against New Zealand during their rst round soccer match at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Pelicans re Green 12 games into fth season, Borrego named interim coach

New Orleans

The New Orleans Pelicans red coach Willie Green on the heels of a 2-10 start to his fth season in charge. Pelicans rst-year basketball operations chief Joe Dumars named assistant James Borrego as interim coach. Green was hired to his rst head coaching job in 2021 and has gone 150-190 in four-plus seasons. His teams made the playo s twice, losing in the rst round to Phoenix in 2022 and Oklahoma City in 2024. Borrego was formerly the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets for four seasons from 2018 to 2022.

NHL

Devils leading scorer Hughes out 2 months after nger surgery

Newark, N.J.

New Jersey Devils leading scorer Jack Hughes is expected to be out two months after undergoing surgery to repair a nger injury. The team announced Hughes had the operation at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. Hughes’ expected return-to-play timeline is eight weeks, and he’ll be reevaluated at the six-week mark. It wasn’t clear which nger or which hand Hughes had surgery on.

SPORTS BROADCASTING

Disney reaches new deal with YouTube TV, ending two-week blackout

New York

Disney and YouTube TV have reached a new deal to bring channels like ABC and ESPN back to the Google-owned livestreaming platform. The agreement ends a blackout for customers that lasted about two weeks. Disney content went dark on YouTube TV the night of Oct. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new licensing deal. YouTube TV subscribers were left without Disney channels on the platform — notably disrupting coverage of top college football matchups and professional sports games, among other news and entertainment o erings.

NCAA FOOTBALL

Texas state trooper who had run-in with Gamecocks player Harbor sent home College Station, Texas

A Texas trooper who had an altercation with South Carolina’s Nyck Harbor after his touchdown was sent home from the game, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Harbor scored on an 80-yard reception in the second quarter and ran into the tunnel following the score. As he and three other players were walking back to the eld, the trooper walked in between Harbor and another player and bumped into them. The trooper and Harbor turned around and the trooper pointed at Harbor with both hands and said something to him.

Football coach John Beam from ‘Last Chance U’ dead after shooting

Police call the on-campus shooting “a targeted incident”

By Mike Catalini and Haven Daley The Associated Press

OAKLAND, Calif. — Oak-

land’s celebrated former football coach John Beam, who was featured in the Net ix series “Last Chance U” that showcased his success with players others wouldn’t gamble on, died Friday, a day after being shot on the college campus where he worked.

Police arrested the 27-year- old suspect Friday. Authorities said he knew the 66-year-old coach, and it was a targeted attack.

The shooting at Laney College rattled Oakland, with scores holding a vigil outside the hospital before he died. He was remembered as someone who would help anyone.

Mayor Barbara Lee described Beam as a “giant” in the city who mentored thousands of young people, including her own nephew, and “gave Oakland’s youth their best chance” at success.

“For over 40 years, he has shaped leaders on and o the eld, and our community is shaken alongside his family,” Lee said.

Authorities credited technology, speci cally cameras at the college campus, private residences and on public transit, in tracking the suspect identied as Cedric Irving Jr.

Irving was arrested without incident at a commuter rail station in Oakland just after 3 a.m. on Friday and police recovered the gun. He was being

Laney College Athletic Director John Beam poses with the trophy after Laney won the California state football championship in 2018.

“For

over 40 years, he has shaped leaders on and o the eld, and our community is shaken alongside his family.”

Barbara Lee, Oakland mayor

held at a local jail on charges of murder and carrying a concealed weapon.

Oakland Assistant Chief James Beere said the suspect went on campus for a “specific reason” but did not elaborate on what that was. “This was a very targeted incident,” he said.

Beere did not say how Beam

and the suspect knew each other but said the suspect was known to loiter around the Laney campus. The suspect had played football at a high school where Beam had worked, but not at the time the coach was employed there.

Coach had deep relationships with players

The Net ix docuseries focused on athletes at junior colleges striving to turn their lives around, and Beam’s Laney College Eagles starred in the 2020 season. Beam developed deep relationships with his players while elding a team that regularly competed for championships.

Two of Beam’s former players — brothers Nahshon and Rejzohn Wright, now in the NFL with the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints — posted on social media after the shooting.

“You mean the world to me,” Rejzohn Wright said in a post with a photo of Beam.

His brother shared a photo of the coach alongside a broken heart emoji.

Piedmont Police Chief Fred Shavies, who previously served as a deputy chief in the Oakland Police Department said he was a friend, mentee and long time admirer of Beam.

“John was so much more than a coach,” he said. “He was a father gure to thousands of not only men but young women in our community.”

Shavies said he met Beam when he was in the eighth grade, and he supported him after Shavies lost his father in high school, calling him “an absolutely incredible human being.” He asked how did Beam leave his mark on so many people “with just 24 hours in a day, right?”

Beam’s family said in a statement that he was a “loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor and friend.”

“Our hearts are full from the outpouring of love,” the family said, requesting privacy.

Beam, who was serving as athletic director, joined Laney College in 2004 as a running backs coach and became head coach in 2012, winning two league titles. He retired from coaching in 2024 but stayed on at the school to shape its athletic programs. According to his biography on the college’s website, at least 20 of his players went on to the NFL.

Reaching 67 points creating ‘6-7’ frenzy at college basketball games across

The fad has crowds excited, while older fans are confused

The Associated Press

NORMAN, Okla. — Oklahoma coach Jennie Baranczyk hears the popular catchphrase “6-7” all the time at home, possibly more often than please and thank you.

Getting an earful of it at a women’s basketball game, well, that was new for the mother of three.

Baranczyk and the sixth-ranked Sooners became the latest college team to send fans into a frenzy when they hit 67 points in an 89-61 victory against North Alabama on Friday.

Hundreds of students on a eld trip screamed their approval along with the ubiquitous phrase and juggled their hands up and down to mimic a video that went viral earlier this year.

Sports viewers might have seen the motion before, perhaps in six or seven NFL games.

“I did not do it because I was like, ‘Yep,’” said Baranczyk, who has a son and two daughters. “I knew it. But I’m like, ‘Gotta give the people what they want sometimes.’”

Raegan Beers, who nished with 20 points and 11 rebounds in the victory, raved about the OU bench reaction. Teammates, assistant coaches and sta ers celebrated simultaneously in similar fashion.

Beers said teammates Payton Verhulst, who made a 3-pointer to give Oklahoma a 66-33 lead, and Zya Vann were trying to draw fouls, presumably so they could shoot free throws.

“We got so excited to do that,” Beers said. “We knew the kids were going to get excited about that. That’s the joy of this game. That’s why I love this game. Just to have that energy in the building and lean into what is trending at the

the country

moment, which is 6-7, whatev-

er that means. It was so much fun to have that moment and let the kids enjoy it.”

The trend has seeped into team introductions. UNC’s Elijah Davis, a reserve, has the role of “designated hand shaker” during player intros, coming up with a custom shake for each Tar Heel starter. Davis, who wears jersey No. 6 and No. 7 Seth Trimble — a starter before su ering an injury last week — did the hand-juggling gesture as part of their pregame handshake each game.

Dictionary.com made the viral term “6-7” its word of the year, and it isn’t even really a word. It’s a phrase kids and teenagers can’t stop repeating and laughing about while parents and teachers can’t make any sense of it. The word — if you can call it that — exploded in popularity over the summer. It’s more of an inside joke with an unclear meaning, driven by social media.

“Gotta

give the people what they want sometimes.”

Oklahoma coach Jennie Baranczyk on fans cheering for 67 points

Dictionary.com says its annual selection is a linguistic time capsule re ecting social trends and events. But the site admitted it too is a bit confused by “6-7.” “Don’t worry, because we’re all still trying to gure out exactly what it means,” the site said in its announcement last month.

How did “6-7” become a thing?

It all seems to trace back to rapper Skrilla’s song from 2024 called “Doot Doot (6-7).” That song started appear-

ing in TikTok videos with basketball players, including the Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball who stands 6-foot-7.

Then a boy, now known as “The 6-7 Kid,” shouted the ubiquitous phrase while another kid next to him juggled his hands in a video that went viral this year.

That’s all it took.

So what does “6-7” mean?

The real answer is no one knows, but it’s widely regarded as harmless. Unlike some other trends that have come and gone, there’s not believed to be an inappropriate backstory to the craze.

According to Dictionary. com, the phrase could mean “so-so,” or “maybe this, maybe that” when combined with the juggling hands gesture.

Merriam-Webster calls it a “a nonsensical expression used especially by teens and tweens.” Regardless, it’s trending at basketball games when a team nears 67 points.

DARREN ABATE / AP PHOTO

A scoreboard shows a point total that has suddenly skyrocketed in popularity.

Bagpipers claim world record with AC/DC’s ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top’

Guitarist Angus Young joined the “Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash” last week

By Rod McGuirk The Associated Press

MELBOURNE, Australia

— Hundreds of bagpipers claimed a new world record last Wednesday by belting out AC/ DC’s rock and roll classic “It’s a Long Way to the Top.”

Billed as “The Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash,” the eclectic performance took place in Melbourne’s Federation Square on Swanston Street, which was the scene of the Australian hard rock band’s 1976 lm clip in which they played the hit on the back of a atbed truck traveling slowly through downtown tra c with music blaring from speakers.

Federation Square is also a short stroll from the Melbourne Cricket Ground where AC/DC were scheduled to play their rst Australian gig in a decade last Wednesday. Guitarist Angus Young, 70, is the only band member who played on the truck and is performing on the latest Australian tour.

Thousands of spectators crammed the square for the world record attempt. Many of the 374 pipers had to squeeze through the crowd to the stage area. The oldest piper was

“I think Aussie crowds are going to be way better than the U.S. I think it’s going to be more eventful, more head banging, more excitement with the crowds.”

Keegan Kohler, AC/DC fan

98 years old, organizers said.

Among the bagpipers was Les Ken eld and Kevin Conlon, two of the three members of Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums who played with AC/DC on the truck 49 years ago.

“It didn’t strike you at the time how big this event is until now,” Ken eld told Australian Broadcasting Corp. “Now it’s one of the greatest things — probably the greatest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”

Having been declared world record holders, the massed pipers played “Happy Birthday” on request, followed by an impromptu “Amazing Grace” to a cheering crowd, many using their phones to record the moment.

The Australian Book of Records, which has been certifying records since 2012, con rmed that 374 pipers had together broken a record set by 333 pipers in Bulgaria in 2012.

One AC/DC fan who didn’t

see the record set was Keegan Kohler, 23, a self-employed electrician from Columbus, Ohio. He had been waiting outside the concert stadium since 4:50 a.m. to ensure he’d be rst in when the gates opened at 5 p.m. The bagpipes record was set nearby at 5:15 p.m.

Kohler had seen AC/DC perform their “Power Up Tour” this year in Cleveland, Ohio, Washington, D.C., Detroit and Pittsburgh, but expected the experience would be better in the band’s home country.

“I think Aussie crowds are going to be way better than the U.S.,” he said. “I think it’s going to be more eventful, more head banging, more excitement with the crowds.”

Kohler also reacquainted himself outside the stadium with Stephen Scott from Charlotte. Scott, a 33-year-old real estate agent, has seen the current tour multiple times in Europe, and the United States, and he wanted to see the band perform in Australia.

“I’ve always talked about wanting to see them here. This is the rst opportunity really to do it and maybe the last,” Scott said. His ancée, Amber Thompson ,said it was Scott’s idea to travel 10,000 miles for the concert.

“I enjoy it, but I probably wouldn’t be here if I didn’t know him,” she said, referring to Scott, whom she described as the true fan.

JOEL CARRETT / AAP IMAGE VIA AP

Bagpipers gather to break a world record for the largest bagpipe ensemble playing “It’s a Long Way to the Top” by Australian rock band AC/DC in Melbourne, Australia, on Nov. 12.

this week in history

Nazis tried at Nuremberg, Blackbeard killed near Ocracoke, “Casablanca” premieres

The Associated Press

NOV. 20

1910: Francisco Madero led a revolt against Mexican President Por rio Díaz, marking the beginning of the decade-long Mexican Revolution.

1945: Twenty-two former Nazi o cials went on trial for war crimes in Nuremberg, Germany; 12 were sentenced to death, seven imprisoned and three acquitted a year later.

NOV. 21

1920: On “Bloody Sunday,” the Irish Republican Army killed 14 suspected British intelligence o cers in the Dublin area; British forces responded by raiding a soccer match, killing 14 civilians.

1964: New York City’s Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, then the longest suspension bridge in the world, opened to tra c.

1980: An estimated 83 million TV viewers tuned in to the CBS prime-time soap opera “Dallas” to nd out “who shot J.R.”

On Nov. 25, 1999, shermen o Florida’s coast pulled 5-year-old Elian Gonzalez from the sea, igniting a monthslong custody clash between the U.S. and Cuba that ended with his return to his father.

22

NOV.

1718: English pirate Edward Teach — better known as “Blackbeard” — was killed during a battle with British naval forces near Ocracoke Island in North Carolina.

1963: President John F. Kennedy was assassinated during a Dallas motorcade. Texas Gov. John B. Connally was wounded, Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested, and Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as president.

1935: A ying boat, the Chi-

na Clipper, took o from Alameda, California, carrying more than 100,000 pieces of mail on the rst trans-Paci c airmail ight.

NOV. 23

1863: Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s Union forces drove Confederates from Chattanooga, Tennessee, in a key Civil War victory.

1939: The British cruiser HMS Rawalpindi was sunk by German warships near Iceland, killing over 200.

NOV. 24

1859: British naturalist Charles Darwin published “On the Origin of Species,” outlining his theory of evolution through natural selection.

1963: Jack Ruby shot and fatally wounded Lee Harvey Oswald, the accused assassin of President John F. Kennedy, in a scene broadcast live on television.

1971: Hijacker “D.B. Cooper” parachuted from a Northwest Orient jet with a $200,000 ransom and was never found.

NOV. 25

1783: Following the end of the Revolutionary War, the last British troops in the Unit-

ed States were evacuated from New York City.

1963: The body of President John F. Kennedy was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery after a funeral procession through Washington, D.C.

1986: The Iran-Contra a air broke when President Ronald Reagan revealed pro ts from secret Iran arms sales were sent to Nicaraguan rebels.

1999: Elian Gonzalez, a 5-year-old Cuban boy, was rescued by two sport shermen o the coast of Florida, setting o an international custody battle that eventually saw him repatriated to his father in Cuba.

NOV. 26

1791: President George Washington held his rst full cabinet meeting with Thomas Je erson, Alexander Hamilton, Henry Knox and Edmund Randolph.

1864: English mathematician Charles Dodgson presented “Alice’s Adventures Under Ground” to 12-year-old Alice Liddell, later published as “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” under the pen name Lewis Carroll.

1942: The lm “Casablanca,” starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, premiered in New York City.

Kiss guitarist Frehley died from injuries su ered in fall

His stage names were “Space Ace” and “The Space Man”

The Associated Press

MORRISTOWN, N.J. — Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the glam rock band Kiss, died from blunt force injuries to the head that he su ered in a fall last month, an autopsy has determined.

Frehley died peacefully on Oct. 16 surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, a few weeks after the fall occurred, according to his agent.

The Morris County Medical Examiner’s O ce determined Frehley’s death was an accident. The report said Frehley, 74, suffered facial fractures near the eyes and left ear and also had bruising on his left abdomen and thigh area and his right hip and upper thigh.

Kiss, whose hits included “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” was known for its theatrical stage shows, with re and fake blood spewing from the mouths of band members dressed in body armor, platform boots, wigs and signature black-and-white face paint.

Kiss’ original lineup included Frehley, singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, tongue-wagging bassist Gene Simmons and drummer

“I can’t even read notes. But I can teach someone how to make a guitar smoke.”

Ace Frehley

Peter Criss. Frehley’s is the rst death among the four founding members.

Band members took on the personas of comic book-style characters — Frehley was known as “Space Ace” and “The Spaceman.” The New York-born entertainer and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer often experimented with pyrotechnics, making his guitars glow, emit smoke and shoot rockets from the headstock.

Born Paul Daniel Frehley, he grew up in a musical family and began playing guitar at age 13. Before joining Kiss, he played in local bands around New York City and was a roadie for Jimi Hendrix at age 18.

Kiss was especially popular in the mid-1970s, selling tens of millions of albums and licensing its iconic look to become a marketing marvel. “Beth” was its biggest commercial hit in the U.S., peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Top 100 in 1976.

Frehley frequently feuded with Stanley and Simmons

solutions

through the years. He left the band in 1982, missing the years when they took o the makeup and had mixed success.

But he rejoined Kiss in the mid-1990s for a triumphant re -

union and restoration of their original style that came after bands including Nirvana, Weezer and the Melvins had expressed a ection for the band and paid them musical tributes.

He would leave again in 2002. When the original four entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, a dispute scrapped plans for them to perform.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Paul Stanley, right, and Ace Frehley of the rock band Kiss perform during their 1998 concert at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. An autopsy report determined Frehley’s death on Oct. 16 was caused by trauma from a previous fall.

ALAN DIAZ / AP PHOTO

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

famous birthdays this week

Joe Biden turns 83, Goldie Hawn is 80, Björk turns 60, Billie Jean King turns 82

The Associated Press

NOV. 20

ACTOR ESTELLE Parsons is 98. Author Don DeLillo is 89. Comedian Dick Smothers is 87. Former President Joe Biden is 83. Musician Joe Walsh is 78. Actor Bo Derek is 69. Rapper Michael “Mike D” Diamond (Beastie Boys) is 60.

NOV. 21

Actor Marlo Thomas is 88. Basketball Hall of Famer Earl Monroe is 81. Actor Goldie Hawn is 80. Musician Björk is 60. Football Hall of Famer Troy Aikman is 59. Baseball Hall of Famer Ken Gri ey Jr. is 56.

NOV. 22

Actor- lmmaker Terry Gilliam is 85. Tennis Hall of Famer Billie Jean King is 82. Rock musician-actor Steven Van Zandt is 75. Rock musician Tina Weymouth (Talking Heads) is 75. Actor Jamie Lee Curtis is 67. Actor Scarlett Johansson is 41.

NOV. 23

Actor Franco Nero (“Django”) is 84. Singer Bruce Hornsby is 71. Poet and author Jennifer Michael Hecht is 60. Olympic gold medal sprinter Asafa Powell is 43. Ice hockey player Nicklas Bäckström is 38. Singer-actor Miley Cyrus is 33.

NOV. 24

Basketball Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson is 87. Rock drummer Pete Best is 84. Actor-comedian Billy Connolly is 83. Actor Colin Hanks is 48.

NOV. 25

Football Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs is 85. Actor John Larroquette is 78. Dance judge Bruno Tonioli (TV: “Dancing with the Stars”) is 70. Musician Amy Grant is 65. Television personality Jenna Bush Hager and twin sister Barbara Pierce Bush, daughters of former Pres-

NOV. 26

Impressionist Rich Little is 87. Football Hall of Famer Jan Stenerud is 83. Author Marilynne Robinson is 82. Bass guitarist John McVie (Fleetwood Mac) is 80. Football Hall of Famer Art Shell is

ident George W. Bush, are 44.

79.

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO Singer Miley Cyrus turns 33 on Sunday.

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO Ken Gri ey Jr. turns 56 on Friday.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Tina Weymouth, the former Talking Heads bassist, turns 75 on Saturday.

the stream

‘Wicked:

For Good’ soundtrack, Ted Danson,

Aerosmith teams up with Yungblud for “One More Time”

The Associated Press

TED DANSON’S “A Man on the Inside” returning to Net ix for its second season, and Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo belting out the “Wicked: For Good” soundtrack 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: Aerosmith teaming up with Yungblud on a new EP, “The Bad Guys 2” hitting Peacock, and Jordan Peele looking at black cowboys in a new documentary series.

MOVIES TO STREAM

“Train Dreams,” (Friday on Net ix), Clint Bentley’s adaptation of Denis Johnson’s acclaimed novella, stars Joel Edgerton as Robert Grainier, a railroad worker and logger in the early 20th-century Pacific Northwest. The lm, scripted by Bentley and Greg Kwedar (the duo behind last year’s “Sing Sing”), conjures a frontier past to tell a story about an anonymous laborer and the currents of change around him.

The DreamWorks Animation sequel “The Bad Guys 2” (Friday on Peacock) returns the reformed criminal gang of animals for a new heist caper. In the lm, with a returning voice cast including Sam Rockwell, Awkwa na, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos and Marc Maron, the Bad Guys encounter a new robbery team: the Bad Girls. In his review, AP’s Mark Kennedy lamented an over-amped sequel with a plot that reaches into space: “It’s hard to watch a franchise drift so expensively and pointlessly in Earth’s orbit.”

In “The Roses,” Jay Roach (“Meet the Parents’), from a script by Tony McNamara (“Poor Things”), remakes Danny DeVito’s 1989 black comedy, “The War of the Roses.” In this version, Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star as a loving couple who turn bitter enemies. In his review, Kenne-

‘The

Bad Guys 2,’ black cowboys

dy called “The Roses” “an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Musical theater fans, your time has come … again. “Wicked: For Good” is upon us, and with it comes the release of its o cial soundtrack. On Friday, after or before you catch the lm in theaters, stream its life-afrming compositions to your heart’s content. Might we suggest Grande’s “The Girl in the Bubble?” Or Erivo’s “No Place Like Home?” And for the Je Goldblum and Jonathan Bailey lovers, yes, there’s gold to be unearthed too.

“The Roses” is an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

Mark Kennedy, AP Film Writer

Rock this way: Aerosmith is back with new music. Following their 2023 “Greatest Hits” collection and just a few months after the conclusion of their “Peace Out: The Farewell Tour” (the band said it would no longer hit the road due to singer Steven Tyler’s voice becoming permanently damaged by a vocal cord injury), they’re teaming up with next gen rock ’n’ roller Yungblud. It’s a collaborative EP called “One More Time,” out Friday. The anthemic opening track, “My Only Angel” sets the tone. What’s another one for the road?

SERIES TO STREAM

Raise your hand if you still miss “Succession” Sundays on

HBO. An acclaimed Swedish drama called “Vanguard” debuts Tuesday on Viaplay that’s of the same vein. It’s a dramatization about Jan Stenbeck, one of Europe’s most in uential media moguls. There’s ambition, betrayal and yes, sibling rivalry. Danson’s “A Man on the Inside” returns to Net ix for its second season on Thursday. Danson plays a widower named Charles who has found a new sense of purpose as an amateur private detective. In Season 1, Charles moved into a retirement home to catch his culprit. In Season 2, he goes back to college to solve a case. Danson’s real-life wife, Mary Steenburgen, joins the cast as Charles’s love interest as he explores the idea of a second chance at romance.

Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore co-star in “The Assassin” for AMC+. Hawes (“Bodyguard”) plays a retired assassin living in solitude on a Greek island whose peaceful life is turned upside down when her estranged son (Highmoore) comes to visit. When the two nd themselves in danger, they must work together to stay alive. It premieres Thursday.

Peele has a new documentary series called “High Horse: The Black Cowboy” coming to Peacock on Thursday. The three-part series examines how stories of black cowboys have been erased from both pop culture and history books.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

If you bought Mario Kart World when Nintendo launched the Switch 2 back in June, you may be wondering: Do I really need another racing game? Kirby Air Riders comes from designer Masahiro Sakurai, the mastermind behind Super Smash Bros., so it adds that franchise’s chaotic combat to the mix. Each of the competitors has di erent weapons and each of the vehicles has di erent bene ts and drawbacks. And everyone can use Kirby’s signature “inhale” technique, which lets you absorb an opponent’s skills by, well, swallowing them. So if you like your racing weird, get your motor running Thursday.

Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, pictured performing a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne during the MTV Video Music Awards in 2025, release their latest album, “One More Time,” this week.

Joel Edgerton and Kerry Condon star in “Train Dreams,” an adaptation of Denis Johnson’s acclaimed novella.

Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star in “The Roses,” Jay Roach’s remake of a 1989 black comedy.

Duplin Journal

JSCC dedicates nursing wing

Kenansville

James Sprunt Community College held a ceremony Monday to dedicate the Nursing Wing of the Ho er Building in honor of the late William E. Craft. He served on the JSCC Board of Trustees for more than three decades. Craft, a World War II U.S. Army veteran and longtime Kenansville attorney, was deeply involved in civic organizations. The JSCC ceremony recognized Craft’s lifelong commitment to education and his lasting impact on the college and community.

Toys for Tots

donations accepted through Dec. 17

Kenansville Duplin County Partnership for Children has announced its continued partnership with Toys for Tots and invites residents to help brighten the holidays for local families in need. Duplin County Partnership for Children is accepting donations for the 2025 holiday season through Dec. 17. Community members are encouraged to drop o new, unwrapped toys at the Partnership’s o ce, located at 149 Limestone Road in Kenansville.

Holiday closures

Duplin County In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, Duplin County o ces will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 27–28.

Albertson man arrested on child sex crimes

Albertson Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce detectives arrested an Albertson man Nov. 13 on felony charges of statutory sex o ense with a child, statutory rape of a child 15 or younger, second degree kidnapping and a misdemeanor charge of contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile. The man, identi ed as Albert Lorden, is being held without bond. According to authorities, the alleged charges result from a sexual assault investigation that included DNA evidence analyzed by the State Crime Lab.

Southern Lights dazzle on opening night

The Southern Lights premiere brought the holiday spirit to life at The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina in Willard. Families wandered through dazzling displays, re-lit benches, a glowing maze and a foam snowball pit. Turn to A3 for more.

Funding uncertainty dominates Warsaw town board meeting

The mayor-elect challenged the “learn as you go” approach while the town faces critical infrastructure deadlines

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

WARSAW — At last week’s November Warsaw Town Board meeting, Mayor-elect Wesley Boykin used public comment to

thank the board for its service while urging a more formal and structured transition as new members prepare to take o ce in December.

Boykin said that after meeting with Town Manager Lea Turner, he was told that managers and o cials “learn as they go,” a characterization he challenged. He emphasized that elected o cials must have a written, publicly available transition plan to ensure transpar-

ency, continuity of government and adherence to established protocols.

Boykin also requested a change of venue for the December meeting, noting that a larger public turnout is expected and that Parks and Recreation facilities could accommodate the crowd.

“I was told that it would be too much work because we know that there would be a lot of people attending the Dec. 8 meet-

ing, and since the o cers-elect are simply that, they cannot give directives,” said Boykin, adding that although o cers-elect cannot issue directives, they may make reasonable requests. Boykin told Duplin Journal that the move would require minimal e ort, likely involving only relocating microphones.

Following public comment, the town’s engineers provided

Gilmore enters 2026 race with key endorsement the

Longtime Judge Henry Stevens announces retirement and endorsed Judge Robert Gilmore for Superior Court

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

LAST WEEK, District Court Judge Robert H. Gilmore announced his intent to run for North Carolina’s Judi-

cial District 5 Superior Court; he is endorsed by Superior Court Judge Henry L. Stevens IV, who announced he will not seek reelection to his seat in 2026.

“I am looking forward to passing the baton to another person to ll this great responsibility,” said Stevens, whose family has a long lineage of judicial service. “I can think of no one more quali ed, with greater integrity, fairness, and

$2.00

Turnover, software issues and unreimbursed FEMA funds contributed to late audit and overspending, o cials say

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

WALLACE — The auditor conducting the state-required audit for the town of Wallace told the town council at its Nov. 13 meeting that there were some “signi cant de ciencies” discovered during the audit. In addition to expenditures exceeding appropriations during the previous scal year and a late debt service payment, the town also missed the deadline for completing the audit.

The auditor, T.D. Hill of the accounting rm RH CPAs, also said two “material weaknesses” included prior-period adjustments and preparation of nancial statements.

knowledge, than Judge Robert Gilmore. He embodies the values this o ce demands — legal skill, humility, diligence, compassion — and I am condent he will carry forward the legacy of impartial justice and service to our communities.”

Gilmore accepted the endorsement with gratitude, noting Stevens’ exemplary tenure. “Judge Stevens has set the

Another concern expressed by Hill in his presentation was the town’s “fund balance as a percentage of expenditures.” The audit revealed that in the 2024 scal year, that percentage fell to 29.8%. The state’s Local Government Commission (LGC) minimum threshold is 34%. Hill’s report said, “This is considered a nancial performance indicator and will require a formal response to be submitted to LGC within 60 days.” During Hill’s presentation to the council, he showed several charts depicting the nancial health of the town. One graphic summarizing the general fund revealed the expenditures of the town have exceeded the revenues each year from 2021 through 2024, with expenditures growing each year. In 2024, the graph stated the revenues into the town were $4,628,120, while expenditures were $5,519,314. Despite the issues, Hill complimented

MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Robert H. Gilmore

O

We stand corrected

To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@ nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

GILMORE from page A1

standard of fairness, professionalism and unwavering dedication to the law to which each of us in the judiciary should aspire,” said Gilmore. “In a role that demands diligence, Judge Stevens has always been a workhorse for the judiciary. I am humbled by his con dence and this opportunity.”

In announcing his campaign, Gilmore pledged to honor Stevens’ legacy and expressed his commitment to fairness and diligence.

“If elected to the Superior Court, I will honor his work, uphold the dignity of the judiciary, protect the rights of all citizens, and serve the people of Eastern North Carolina with the same devotion that has de ned his tenure.”

Gilmore’s background reflects deep roots in Sampson County and a strong academic and professional record. A native of Keener and graduate of Campbell University, he distinguished himself at Campbell Law School by graduating as valedictorian. Before becoming a District Court judge for North Carolina’s Judicial District 5 (Sampson, Duplin, Jones and Onslow counties) in 2020, he practiced law in Clinton and served as a prosecutor, handling major felony cases such as murder, rape and armed robbery.

In his judicial career, Gilmore has earned recognition for a clear-minded approach. He plans to continue focusing on timely case management, accessibility and an unwavering commitment to administering justice.

“The past ve years serving as a District Court Judge have been among my highest honors,” said Gilmore in a social media statement. “I hope to have your support to continue serving the State at the Superior Court level.”

THURSDAY NOV. 20

Artists bring new creative energy to Mount Olive

called.

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

MOUNT OLIVE — What began as a few artists moving into a vacant downtown storefront has quickly grown into a creative spark — one that is drawing neighbors, curiosity and a renewed sense of possibility to Mount Olive.

About a month ago, a group of artists supported by the Arts Council of Wayne County began moving into the storefront. As they settled into the space, passersby grew curious about what might be taking shape behind the freshly lit windows of a building once occupied by another business.

“What’s going on in there?” many people wanted to know, artist Winford Galmon re-

WARSAW from page A1

a detailed update on Warsaw’s major water and wastewater infrastructure projects, emphasizing both current progress and long-term challenges.

The rst major e ort involves a project to rehabilitate Well 3 and connect it to the town’s water treatment plant. This project aims to restore a critical water source that was previously removed from service due to high iron levels. According to the engineers, plans are completed, permits are pending, and once approved, the project will move to construction bidding.

A second, larger e ort centers on a $7.5 million legislative earmark for water and wastewater system upgrades. Although the town previously applied for $33 million to expand and improve its wastewater treatment facilities, that application was not funded, in part because expansion projects typically do not qualify for grant assistance. The past proposal for a $33 million plant expansion is now estimated to cost $75 million to $80 million and remains far beyond what grants are likely to cover. With deadlines tied to ARPA funding, engineers recommended prioritizing immedi-

“We let them know that artists were moving in,” Galmon told the Duplin Journal. “That created an atmosphere of excitement. We want to keep that excitement growing.”

That excitement grew even more visible when the new art collective, now known as The Studios, welcomed visitors during its o cial open house, held alongside the weekend’s Pickles, Pigs & Swigs festivities.

Galmon, a painter from Goldsboro, is known for creating vibrant, textured works using a distinctive nger-painting technique. His studio sits across the hall from that of Arlon Robinson, another artist helping shape the creative energy inside the building. Originally from Atlanta, Robinson studied graphic design in Charlotte before settling in the area.

“I was doing a lot of acrylic art and moved to digital, so I do a lot of digital prints as well,” Robinson said.

ate needs: replacing failing terracotta sewer lines on Frost Street, upgrading Pump Station 10, including new pumps and a required standby generator, and rehabilitating 23,000 feet of aging sewer pipe to reduce stormwater in ltration. They also plan to install a new in uent screen at the wastewater treatment plant.

“We met with the town and came up with a plan to rst address a serious situation you have on Frost Street, where you’ve got old lines from the ’50s that are made of terracotta pipes. Those lines have collapsed in several places,” said the engineer. “We’re replacing lines from 24 on Frost Street down to where Julia Street extends to Frost Street and also on George Street, where there’s an undersized line that runs up George Street.”

A signi cant portion of the discussion focused on funding constraints and the di culty of securing additional grants.

Engineers clari ed that most available assistance now comes as loans with limited principal forgiveness, usually no more than $500,000, primarily for towns classi ed as “distressed.” Warsaw is no longer designated distressed, which limits its eligi-

While Robinson does use digital technology in his art, he’s quick to point out it always begins with the basics.

“It always starts as a drawing, with a pencil,” he said.

Robinson said a lot of his relatives were artists, but they pursued di erent passions.

“I just honed in on it and decided it’s something I wanted to do because I enjoy creating things.”

While it’s common to nd a group of artists working together in a shared space in larger cities, Galmon says having Robinson and other artists together in smaller communities is important too.

“From the Renaissance time and the Impressionistic period, artists would get together and develop a movement, develop a sense of style,” Galmon said.

“Now we have the Mount Olive period, where we have a lot of artists coming together. We’re looking to do some pretty cool stu here.”

bility for special aid. Commissioners raised the possibility of redirecting funds, particularly the $3 million allocated for sewer relining, toward more urgent upgrades at the wastewater treatment plant.

Engineers said this may be feasible, but only if the town can secure a formal extension of the 2026 federal spending deadline. Without that extension, the town risks losing ARPA-funded grant money. At the board’s request, engineers agreed to draft a letter on the town’s behalf seeking permission to reallocate funds and extend the timeline.

Finally, engineers reported that a separate study evaluating whether the wastewater plant can be expanded to 2 million gallons per day is underway, with seasonal sampling nearly complete. Depending on the results, expansion may be possible but would require significant loan nancing due to the lack of grant programs for capacity increases.

The board agreed to continue advancing immediate repair projects while pursuing written guidance from federal and state authorities on whether timeline exibility and fund reallocation are possible.

Here’s a

Nov.

22

Christmas at Twilight 4-8 p.m.

Kick o the holiday season with a magical small-town celebration in historic downtown Wallace. Stroll through festive streets lled with carolers, craft vendors and local shopping, enjoy delicious food and experience the Christmas Tree Lighting. Santa Claus will be making a special visit too. Bring the whole family to the Wallace Train Depot for an enchanting evening lled with holiday cheer.

206 Southwest Railroad St., Wallace

Nov. 25

Annual Bake Sale 9 a.m.

Duplin County DSS will hold its annual bake sale at the Duplin County Courthouse. Visitors can enjoy a delicious selection of cookies, cakes and biscuits while supporting a great cause.

112 Duplin St., Kenansville

Nov. 26

Thanksgiving Resource and Food Box Event

Noon

Families and community members in need are invited to the Thanksgiving Resource and Food Box Event to help them celebrate the holiday season. This rst-come, rst-serve drive-thru will provide food boxes and essential community resources to those who could use a little extra assistance this Thanksgiving.

195 Fairgrounds Drive, Kenansville

Nov. 29

Kenansville Christmas Parade

11 a.m.

Get ready for holiday cheer at the Kenansville Christmas Parade, cosponsored by the Town of Kenansville and the Kenansville Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy festive oats, marching bands and plenty of holiday spirit as the town rings in the season. Downtown Kenansville

Painters, designers and makers come together to launch a new artistic hub

Rose Hill Board approves new subdivision

Construction will begin on Church and Hall streets, with two homes built initially and four more added over time

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

ROSE HILL — The Rose Hill Town Board of Commissioners took the nal step at their meeting on Nov. 12, paving the way for a new six-home subdivision to be built in town. The meeting had been moved one day ahead due to Veterans Day.

The new homes will be built on a property at the intersection of Church Street and Hall Street. The plans were recently approved by the town planning board before being submitted to the full town board. According to Rose Hill Town Administrator Angela Smith, the developer plans on initially building two houses at the site and then adding the other four homes over a period of time.

The board also approved extending the lease of town property to Rooks Wells, who uses the property for agricultural purposes. According to Smith, the town cleared an additional portion of the land, which Wells also agreed to lease. The lease amount will be $2,062.50 annually.

At last month’s meeting, a representative of a beauty shop on Church Street asked the board to consider putting handrails to allow patrons to more easily maneuver up the steps beside parking spaces in front of the business. The board agreed to take up the matter at this meeting.

The northern side of Church Street, where the business is located, has steeper steps than the southern side in the downtown area.

Smith advised the board that she had learned since the last

a new six-home subdivision in town.

meeting that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) would require the entire downtown area to be brought into compliance with all ADA regulations if they added the requested handrails, which could be costly. The board agreed Smith should ask Legion Asphalt what it would cost to bring downtown into compliance. The board took no action on the request.

During Smith’s report to the board, she said the project to relieve the frequent ooding at the intersection of Walnut Street and Charity Road is scheduled to begin on Dec. 1. The town received a grant of $395,800 from the Golden LEAF Foundation to tackle the problem. According to the foundation’s website, heavy rains result in ooding caused by stormwater backups in a ditch on Walnut Street, which is a main egress for the town’s re department. The work is expected to be completed within four months.

Dec. 6 will be a busy day in Rose Hill for holiday celebrations. Christmas by the Tracks will feature the Christmas Parade at 6 p.m., followed by a performance by the parade’s grand marshal, native son Harvey Arnold. Arnold’s concert will be followed by the Christmas tree lighting and more music from the Johnson Boys. The event will also feature arts and crafts and food trucks.

Holiday wonder returns to The Gardens

The Southern Lights reopens with illuminated trails, wagon rides and festive treats for visitors of all ages

By Mark Grady Duplin Journal

THERE WAS JUST enough chill in the air to feel the holiday season coming on as The Southern Lights held premiere night at The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina in Willard on Saturday evening. Children and adults alike could be heard echoing a chorus of “Wow” as they approached the event entrance.

The Gardens, also known as Johnson Nursery, is a nonpro t organization led by David Johnson. He told Duplin Journal that the idea for the light show came from board member Karen Root about four years ago. Johnson said Root suggested that a light display would be an excellent way for the nonpro t to raise funds, especially given the ample land available to host it.

“With her advice, we started three years ago, and we’ve built upon it every year since then,” Johnson said.

At the show visitors were treated to a walk-through of an amazing series of lighted displays and sights. Scattered through the lights are benches with inviting re pits, an “A-Maze-ing Maze” and a pit for a little snowball ght fun using foam “snowballs.” A popular part of the event is an Elf Quest Wagon Ride that takes participants on a tour through lighted garden trails, complete with music and special at -

tractions around every bend. In addition to the incredible visual displays, there are stops where you can enjoy treats, including pizza, popcorn, soup and s’mores, as well as beverages ranging from eggnog and apple cider to co ee, teas and hot cocoa.

The Southern Lights Holiday Light Show will continue Nov. 21-22, Nov. 28-29, Dec. 4-6, Dec. 10-13, Dec. 15,

Dec. 18-20 and Dec. 22-23. Hours are 5:30-9 p.m. Tickets are $12. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased online at johnson-nursery.com by clicking the events tab and are also available at the entrance.

The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina is located at 985 Johnson Nursery Road in Willard and is owned by David Johnson and family.

MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

The Rose Hill Board reviews the site plan map for

PHOTOS BY MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Jackson Murvin, 12, of Wallace, takes a break from strolling the enormous display of holiday lights to enjoy a cozy re pit at The Southern Lights premiere night on Saturday.

Visitors strolling through The Southern Lights are treated to a walk through a tunnel of light.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Duplin County shows the bright side of life

It is amazing what can happen when there are no televisions in every direction you look and people actually forget or lay down their devices.

ALL OUR LIVES, we have heard the “gloom and doom” statement, “This world is going to Hell in a handbasket.” Because of age and maturity, I now see things di erently. Actually, I now see things a whole lot di erently. Everywhere I go, I see many good people and many good things happening.

But “perception is reality.” That is, in my opinion, a true statement. So what if our perception is being controlled by forces that do not cover the good and then to add insult to injury, those same forces highlight the bad? With only a few exceptions, today’s media dwells mostly on the bad. Bad news sells better than good news.

Last weekend, on Friday night and Saturday afternoon, I attended the North Carolina Poultry Jubilee in Rose Hill with my grandson, Dixon Lee. Each day, the crowds were large and in a festive mood. In every direction, families could be seen enjoying vendor booths, the rides and the amazing grilled wings. I like round numbers, so I ate only 12. I think there were ve or six competition groups consisting of di erent House of Raeford employees. Cowan Johnson was heard telling folks, “I will have the ‘ rst place’ wings about 7 p.m. Sorry Cowan!”

As I enjoyed a welcomed reprieve from political events and activities, I felt unusually relaxed and was able to actually think about what I was seeing, hearing and feeling. It was like the hectic world had stopped, and I was back in time when we didn’t have 24/7 news “alerts” blasting in our ears and glaring in our eyes. I saw owners and employees talking, hugging and visiting in such a natural, “old-time way.” People weren’t talking about the government shutdown or any one of the other hundreds of bad things or conditions in the world.

It is amazing what can happen when there are no televisions in every direction you look and people actually forget or lay down their “devices” long enough to actually have fun interacting with each other. I

| PHILIP GLADDEN

Give thanks anyway

This Thanksgiving, when life is uncertain and scary, let us “Give thanks anyway.”

MARTINA MCBRIDE’S SONG “Anyway” says:

“You can spend your whole life buildin’ somethin’ from nothin’; one storm can come and blow it all away. Build it anyway. You can chase a dream that seems so out of reach and you know it might not come your way. Dream it anyway. This world’s gone crazy and it’s hard to believe that tomorrow will be better than today. Believe it anyway. You can love someone with all your heart for all the right reasons and in a moment, they can choose to walk away. Love ‘em anyway. You can pour your soul out singing a song you believe in that tomorrow they’ll forget you ever sang. Sing it anyway.”

The chorus of “Anyway” says: “God is great, but sometimes life ain’t good. When I pray, it doesn’t always turn out like I think it should, but I do it anyway.”

McBride shared about her song, “The part about believing tomorrow will be better than today was especially meaningful to me to write because I have a tendency to hear the news or read some kind of article, whether it is about terrorism or global warming or whatever, and I get really scared and nervous about our future. So that line is especially helpful and meaningful to me; it helps me remember that we’re all part of a bigger plan, and that we must have faith in the future, and it isn’t all gloom and doom.”

The apostle Paul wrote a thank-you note to the Philippians in which he expressed, “I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is

thought, wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could take the “World’s Largest Frying Pan” on tour and stop in Washington, D.C., or Chicago or Raleigh? To put icing on the cake, wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could also take all the Duplin County families, business owners and employees attending the jubilee on the tour and let those areas stand still and watch Duplin County neighbors show them how to act, how to treat each other, how to have fun without ghting and quarreling?

With fond thoughts and a great sense of gratitude while driving back home, I thanked the Lord for those who have preserved through the years to start and keep the Poultry Jubilee going. I also thanked the Lord for the kind, caring and generous e orts of Bob and Luanne Johnson and their family. I was well pleased to see the caring interactions of Bob and his family with their employees at the competing BBQ wing booths. All the rides for the children on Friday night were paid for by Bob and Luanne! My heart swelled with gratitude as I watched many re and rst responders serving their neighbors.

I don’t even regret Chad Smith “beguiling” me into buying his mother’s cake.

A week earlier, I attended the 105th consecutive Warsaw Veterans Day Parade and experienced much the same relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. I have attended over 70 of those magni cent “small town” parades. It was with great appreciation for the many years of dedicated service by hundreds of Warsaw folks keeping the event alive that I was able to pass legislation recognizing the Warsaw Veterans Day Parade as the o cial North Carolina Veterans Day Parade.

We the people should never forget the dedicated e orts of good ol’ Duplin County folks.

Rep. Jimmy Dixon represents Duplin and Wayne counties in the N.C. House of Representatives.

to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need.” Paul’s attitude could be another stanza in “Anyway,” maybe something like: “Sometimes you might be going hungry and in need, and think there is nothing to be thankful for. Give thanks anyway. Sometimes you might be well-fed and have plenty, and think there is no reason to be thankful because you’ve achieved it all on your own.

Give thanks anyway.”

“Give thanks anyway” is not meant to be a throw-away line or a meaningless platitude, nor does it ignore the very real needs faced by many of our neighbors today. “Give thanks anyway” is an honest admission that “God is great, but sometimes life ain’t good.” “Give thanks anyway” is a reminder not to neglect God, either when we’ve got it so bad we wonder where God is or when we’ve got it so good we start thinking we’ve achieved it all on our own and, of course, we deserve it. This Thanksgiving, when life is uncertain and scary, let us “Give thanks anyway.” And then, let us channel our gratitude into our e orts to help our neighbors who nd it “hard to believe that tomorrow will be better than today.”

Philip Gladden is a retired minister who lives in Wallace.

COLUMN | JIMMY DIXON

COLUMN

Wallace Town Manager Rob Taylor, saying he had been cooperative in gathering all the information needed to complete the audit.

A few town council members had general questions for the auditor but had no comments regarding the de ciencies or weaknesses outlined in the audit.

Wallace Mayor Jason Wells later told Duplin Journal that the late ling of the audit was the result of what he referred to as the “perfect storm.”

“Turnover in the nance director position, four in a year,” Wells said in a text message. He added that issues with implementing new software and getting new auditors up to speed also played a factor.

As far as the overages revealed in the audit, Wells said planned grant matches as well as the software issues were factors.

He said the issues were “things we could have xed and dealt with. We just didn’t know where we were while new software was being implemented.”

Wells added that the budget included funds anticipated from FEMA that were not reimbursed.

The council also held a public hearing during the meeting regarding the rezoning of property located on Old Wilmington Road near N.C. Highway 11. The landowner requested that the 11 acres be rezoned to allow the placement of up to eight mobile homes on the property, which is located just outside the town limits but within the extraterritorial jurisdiction of Wallace. After the hearing, the board approved the request.

Two more public hearings were scheduled by the council for their December meeting to consider a rezoning request and the annexation of property on N.C. Highway 41, just east of the Walmart area beside Rocking Horse Lane. The land is being developed for commercial use by Avery-Davis Investments

of Knightdale. A portion of the property is currently zoned for residential use. The developers are asking that the a ected land be rezoned as a highway business district.

Regarding the same location, the board agreed to the closure of the Olde Field Road on the property to open up the area for commercial construction.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, 12-year-old Isla Blanton requested permission to place a “mini-food pantry” near the town hall area and also near the re department.

“I recently noticed food pantries in Wallace have limited hours,” Blanton told the council. “Food insecurity is a reality. The government shutdown has increased the need for assistance.”

Blanton said she wanted to create a mini-food pantry that resembles the free book kiosks that she hopes people will stock with donated nonperishable food items.

Wells responded to Blanton’s request, saying he liked the idea and suggested Blanton contact Taylor to explore the best location and process for placing the food pantry.

Blanton is the daughter of Duane and Harley Blanton of Wallace and is in the 6th grade at Harrell’s Christian Academy.

In other business, the council approved a request from Taylor to amend the budget to allow funds designated for stormwater maintenance to be transferred to the project to improve water ow through the small pond at Farrior Park. The project has been completed and was mostly nanced with a $115,000 grant to the town. The cost of the improvement exceeded the grant amount by $3,432.60.

Taylor informed the council that work is underway on the town’s capital improvement plan for the years 2026-30. The council will vote on the plan at the December meeting.

MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

T.D. Hill of RH CPAs, standing, gives a presentation to the Wallace Town Council on the recently completed town audit. Hill said the audit revealed three “signi cant de ciencies” and two “material weaknesses” discovered in the audit process. Share with your community!

Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to community@duplinjournal.com

Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.

Greenevers Community Center to serve as disaster shelter

The board partnered with the Red Cross for disaster readiness

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke Duplin Journal

GREENEVERS

— The Greenevers town board met Monday night with a full agenda, beginning with a report from Greenevers Fire Station 14. Many of the town’s re hydrants need repairs, and the board discussed the estimated cost per hydrant to repair as many as possible in a scally responsible way. Mayor Diane Brown suggested seeking a grant to help cover costs.

Town Clerk Emma Brinson shared an opportunity for free grant-writing services through North Carolina Municipality ARP funding, which could support sidewalks, recreation and other local projects. The board agreed to sign a contract for the free services and see what they

can come up with. Brinson shared that the Red Cross is seeking a partnership with the town to provide a disaster shelter at the Community Center. The board discussed sta ng, space, revenue impact and maintenance of the building if it were used as a shelter.

“We are talking about using this as a shelter in a time of disaster; no one is going to want to rent this building for an event during a time like that. If anyone is down and out and we can help them with just shelter, we should do it,” Brown said.

The board approved the use of the Community Center as a disaster shelter.

Infrastructure updates included the McDavid Associates water project, stormwater project closeout and upcoming waterline work. The board reviewed updated subdivision ordinances and plans for further training with town consultant Carlton Gideon. Brown suggested discussing the ordi-

nances and changes with the planning board, then to follow up with Gideon.

In other business

The board discussed bids for bush cutting on town-owned roads and the need for another estimate before making a decision. The board also discussed bids for installing holiday banners, aiming to complete the decorations before Thanksgiving. Membership in NC811, a service to protect underground infrastructure, was tabled for further research.

The 600-page Sampson/Duplin Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan draft, which is available online for public comment, was also discussed. Information, including links to the plan, is posted on the town’s website. Brinson also highlighted community concerns, including an overgrown bush blocking the highway and overnight parking at the Community Center.

Immigration crackdown in NC expands to Raleigh

Border Patrol units were spotted in Durham, Raleigh and Cary

By Gary D. Robertson and Tim Sullivan The Associated Press

Federal agents expanded their North Carolina immigration crackdown to the area around the state capital of Raleigh on Tuesday, with fear spreading in at least one immigrant-heavy suburb where restaurants closed and many people stayed home.

The North Carolina operation began over the weekend in the state’s largest city, Charlotte, where o cials said more than 130 people have been arrested.

Speaking at a Raleigh City Council meeting, Mayor Janet Cowell said there had been “con rmed sightings” of Border Patrol o cers operating in Wake County, which includes Raleigh, and nearby Durham County, which includes the city of Durham. She said earlier that she did not know how large the operation would be or how long agents would be present.

She encouraged residents to call the police department if they felt unsafe and urged protesters to remain peaceful.

“And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today,” she added.

Federal o cials have said the crackdowns will reduce crime, though leaders in both Charlotte and Raleigh said crime was down. The o cials have also criticized so-called sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents in a handful of jurisdictions.

Anxiety spreads swiftly in Raleigh suburb

Federal o cials have given no information about activity in the Raleigh area.

But in Cary, a sprawling Raleigh suburb where o cials say almost 20% of the population was born outside the U.S. and the large Asian population tripled in the 1990s, fear spread quickly.

An area resident recorded as a large black SUV with darkly tinted windows and Texas license plates drove through Cary’s downtown, eventually linking up with another SUV.

The vehicles stopped at a construction site, where Pamela Hoile recorded Border Patrol agents detaining four workers.

Speaking by phone after posting the video on Facebook, she described herself as a “very outraged, horri ed and concerned citizen.”

The Chatham Square shopping center, which is usually bustling at midday with workers eating at mom-and-pop ethnic restaurants, was quiet. Most of the restaurants — Mexican, Indian and Chinese among them — were closed. Nearby, the often-full parking lot at an Indian grocery store was largely empty, and tra c

inside was nonexistent.

Esmeralda Angel’s family closed their restaurant, the Esmeralda Grill, to avoid any confrontations between customers and federal agents. At their separate grocery store, they were delivering items to customers who were avoiding going out in public.

The family businesses had scaled back to help their community, she said, but knew it would hurt nancially.

“Taco Tuesday is the busy day for all of these restaurants,” Angel said of the weekly specials. “But I think everyone would rather close than operate.”

Congresswoman calls deployment ‘profound abuse of power’

U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee, a Democrat who represents Durham, part of Raleigh and some suburbs, said Tuesday that the deployment of federal immigration agents in North Carolina “is a profound abuse of power, a violation of civil rights and a stain on our democracy.”

“And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today.”

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell

The region’s South Asian community has grown dramatically in recent decades, including many people drawn to the Research Triangle region by high-tech jobs.

Satish Garimella is mayor pro tempore in Morrisville, about 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of downtown Raleigh. Close to half of the town’s 30,000 people are Asian.

Garimella, who grew up in India but is now a U.S. citizen, said the expected arrival of immigration agents is “creating a lot of panic,” and he recommended residents carry identity documents.

“You just don’t know when you will be questioned and what things are needed,” Garimella said.

The Trump administration turned to North Carolina after immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles and Chicago, both deep blue cities in deep blue states run by nationally prominent o cials who are often loudly critical of President Donald Trump. They also increased operations in Portland, Oregon, where more than 560 immigration arrests were made in October, according to U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks.

North Carolina was a more surprising target.

The mayors of Charlotte and Raleigh are both Democrats, as is the governor, but none are known for wading into national political battles. In a state where divided government has become the norm, Gov. Josh Stein in particular has tried to get along with the GOP-controlled state legislature. The state’s two U.S. senators are

both Republican, and Trump won the state in the last three presidential elections.

State was drawn into national debates

A handful of cities and counties in North Carolina have been drawn into America’s debates over crime and immigration, two of the most important issues to the White House.

The most prominent was the fatal stabbing this summer of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte lightrail train, an attack captured on video. The suspect was from the U.S., but the Trump administration repeatedly highlighted that he had been arrested more than a dozen times.

While the Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on the state because of sanctuary policies, most North Carolina county jails have long honored “detainers,” or requests from federal o cials to hold an arrested immigrant for a limited time so agents can take custody of them.

Some common noncooperation policies have existed in few places, including Raleigh and Charlotte, where the police do not help with immigration enforcement.

In Mecklenburg County, the jail did not honor detainer requests for several years, until after state law e ectively made it mandatory starting last year. Wake County, where Raleigh is located, had a similar policy.

DHS said about 1,400 detainers across North Carolina had not been honored since October 2020, putting the public at risk.

Matt Mercer, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Republican Party, said in a text message that the arrival of immigration agents to Raleigh would show that failures by “radical Democrats will nally be taken seriously.”

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

Protesters holds signs amidst the arrival of federal law enforcement Monday in Charlotte.

DUPLIN SPORTS

TIGERS’ TRIPLE PLAY

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — It’s no longer hyperbole to call the James Kenan the football team to beat in the East.

That’s somewhat factual after the Tigers beat Wallace-Rose Hill for the second time in three weeks following a regular season in which they had just two tight-in-the-fourth-quarter games.

After a 27-6 rout of their rival, No. 1 JK (10-1) hosts No. 9 Ayden-Grifton on Friday at Bill Taylor Field in a third-round showdown.

Funez

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — Felix Funez was pushed and held, elbowed and kicked and fouled so much by Greene Central defenders it was nearly impossible for him to not complain to the o cials.

The Wallace-Rose Hill senior striker listened when his coaches pleaded with him to let it go and play on.

Funez scored both goals last Thursday to not only take the scoring lead among Duplin County players but also rocket the Bulldogs to a 2-0 win and a berth in the East Region nals early this week in Teachey.

“That game was going to make one of us better process, and I’m very proud our kids showed up,” said JK coach Tim Grady, whose team whipped its 3A Duplin rival for the third straight time. “They knew we didn’t play our best that other night (in a 21-14 win on Oct. 31).”

Quarterback

Eli Avent ran for two scores in JK spread o ense, CJ Hill found the end zone via running and receiving, and the Tigers defense limited the state’s third-leading rusher, Jamarae Lamb, to a season-low 145 yards. “We put a focus on trying to stop

what he does, and I felt we had a good gameplan,” said JK o ensive coordinator John Bert Avent. “Our guys lled the alleys and seams and made sure he didn’t cut it back.”

JK’s defense, probably its weakest link entering the season, has become a feared attacking force.

“This made us believe in it even more than we did,” Avent said. “It’s a we-go-do-this in real time feeling for our players.”

WRH (6-6) fell behind 13-0 but rallied to cut the lead to 13-7 before

He might also have proven he is the best soccer player in Duplin, as he displayed his all-around skills to get shots in a variety of ways.

Funez’s intensity was duplicated by several of his teammates, as the No. 2 team in 3A punched its ticket to face No. 1 North Carolina School of Science and Math (20-1-2).

The winner meets the West survivor between Polk County (17-0-3) and Pine Lakes Prep (17-3-1)

WRH (17-4-1) won its 15th straight match by being a step faster against a Ramz team with a reputation of running past its foes.

“It was a heck of a match, and their

defense neutralized our attack,” said Greene Central coach Jacob Baird, whose club has averaged 20.5 wins the previous three years. “They are an elite program, and I have no explanation. They shut us down.”

Completely.

While the Rams got a few random shots, the ball was in front of their goalie most of the night as leading scorers Miguel Zavala (55 goals), Joe Osorio (23) and Angel Contreras (11) were repeatedly sti ed and smothered.

WRH showed great ball skills and found all kinds of ways to get opportunities on the goal before a near-capacity crowd.

Funez made it 1-0 with 21:25 to play before halftime.

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — It won’t be the WRH record head coach Kevin Motsinger will remember about his football team, which lost 27-6 to James Kenan last Friday in the second round of the 3A playo s. It will be the Bulldogs’ resolve and unity. WRH, which has over 100 wins more than

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

WRH’s Felix Funes is the top goal-scorer in Duplin County.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

Shawn Davis

East Duplin, football

Shawn Davis becoming a two-way player has made the ED football team better.

The senior fullback/linebacker’s double duty is a key to the Panthers’ 9-2 mark.

He reached the 1,000-yard mark for the third straight season last Friday by rumbling for a 95-yard touchdown during a 48-20 second-round playo win over North Johnston.

The 6-foot-1, 215-pound Panther is averaging 7.6 tackles on defense as ED’s lone losses have been to James Kenan, the No. 1 seed in 3A, and top-seed Jacksonville in 6A.

He’s scored at least a touchdown in nine of 11 games and is averaging 7.2 yards per carry.

Davis has run for nearly 4,000 yards and scored 51 times during his career.

This season, East Duplin won the ECC for the rst time since 2022.

RUSHING

(all stats courtesy of MaxPreps, may be incomplete)

PLAYER (School) Att-Yds TDs

Jamarae Lamb (WRH) 279-2,398 30

Carell Phillips (ND) 186-1,878 26

Jeremiah Hall (JK) 118-1,472 21

Jeremiah Davis (HCA) 93-1,138 12

Shawn Davis (ED) 147-1,063 14

Aaron Hall (ED) 110-776 9

Jarrod Miller (HCA) 80-672 11

Jaylon Pope (ND)

Taulil Pearsall (JK)

Jamari Carr (WRH)

Glover (WRH)

(JK)

Big plays propel Panthers to landslide win over North Johnston

Aaron Hall, Shawn Davis and Keeshon Mckinnie needed just seven plays to produce 335 yards and seven touchdowns

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Big plays in the postseason are omens to advancing.

Sometimes it only takes one.

Last Friday at Brian Aldridge Field, seven monster plays led No. 3 East Duplin to a 48-20 win over No. 14 North Johnston in the second round of the 4A playo s.

Shawn Davis, Aaron Hall and Keeshon Mckinnie took the ball to the house seven times for a total of 335 yards, and only one was a less than the length of the yardsticks.

The senior threesome used blocks to spring into the second level of NJ’s defense and from there were uncatchable.

Davis (9-173) scored from 95 and 34 yards out, while Hall (9-162) hit pay dirt from 59, 58 and 9 yards.

McKinnie played well in all facets of his game, running for a 41-yard score, taking a pass from Branson Norris to the house from the 39, and making a team-high 18 tackles and adding an interception.

The Panthers (9-2) advanced to host No. 11 Southwest Edgecombe on Friday.

Another “cat” battle in the third round

East Duplin has won six straight after capturing the ECC title on Oct. 24.

The Panthers will play their second consecutive game against a school from the Three Rivers 4A Conference. A win would pit them against the top team in that league, No. 2 West Craven (10 -1), in Vanceboro in the fourth round.

Yet head coach Battle Holley and his assistants are not thinking that far ahead. After whipping the fth-place team the focus is on the Cougars, the fourth-place team. Third-place North Pitt is No. 12 and still alive.

ED and 3A Pender are the only ECC 3A/4A schools still in the postseason mix.

The Cougars (7-5) upended No. 6 Bunn 29-24 in the second round, led by running back Andre Downey, who hit

on 14 of 182 and had a pair of touchdown tosses.

Downey (98-920, 12 TDs) is one of two big o ensive guns for Southwest Edgecombe. Quarterback Davion Mayo can throw (64-126 for 1,270 yards, 16 TDs) and run the ball (71-341 9 TDs).

Mayo’s top target is Justin Bridgers, who has squeezed 27 catches for 710 yards and 13 scores.

Running back Keanaji Hopkins (100-715) is another proven contributor.

The Cougars have won three straight for the second time this fall, with their most promising setback coming via a 14-0 loss to Tarboro, unbeaten and No. 1 in 2A.

It’s a very winnable game for the Panthers, whose last long playo run produced the school’s rst state title in 2022 when ED beat Reidsville, the No. 1 team in the top half of the 4A this season.

Coincidentally, the Panthers’ two losses this fall have come to the No. 1 team in 3A (27-21 to James Kenan) and No. 1 seed in 6A (35-24 to Jacksonville).

Bad start, great recovery

The bulk of quarterback Caleb Pon’s rushing (16-144) came during a 78-yard run to the 1 on the rst snap of the game as North Johnston (6-6) had its lone lead of the day.

Hall gave ED a 7-6 lead on ED’s third o ensive snap, and Davis extended it to 14-6 three snaps after the NJ

turned the ball over on downs. A Dewayne Davis interception set up the next score after NJ drove to the ED 20. Davis bolted 95 yards on his second carry of the series. Mckinnie’s rushing score made it 27-6 at halftime. Hall scored on the rst snap of the third quarter and then just before the start of the fourth. Mckinnie added a touchdown reception in the fourth quarter, one play after his interception.

Panther paws

Ayden Lane had 14 tackles, Bryson Brown 11, DeWayne Davis had 10, Zack Ball and Isiah Bannerman nine apiece, and Semaj Scott and Tavarius Dawson eight each.

The Panthers sacked Pone ve times, and ED’s o ense was so e cient that it only faced two third-down situations.

Davis (147-1,063) passed the 1,000-yard mark for the third consecutive season. The senior ran for 1,464 yards and 19 scores last season and 1,144 and 18 touchdowns as a sophomore. He’s compiled 3,696 yards and scored 51 times after taking a hando as his team has gone 25-10.

He’s not done bad after stepping into the shoes of Avery Gaby, the 2022 MVP who ran for 2,195 yards and 41 scores during ED’s historic campaign.

Hall (110-776, 9 TDs) is 23 yards from matching his total from last fall (132-799, 7 TDs).

(HCA)

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL ED head coach Battle Holley is hoping running back Aaron Hall can cap his career by going deep into the 4A playo s.

ND shut out SouthsideChocowinity a second time and prepare for Edenton Holmes in the third round

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — The North Duplin football team had to ght the urge to go on cruise control during a 42-0 shutout against Southside-Chocowinity last Friday at H.E. Grubbs Field in the second round of the 2A playo s.

The Rebels didn’t su er a letdown, even though they beat the Seahawks 27-0 in the rst game of the season.

Playing hard and running around the stadium with the victory ag has become a habit the Rebels relish.

No. 3 ND, which celebrated its second straight 10-win season, will host No. 6 Edenton Holmes (7-4) on Friday.

“They have three running backs and a quarterback who are e cient and explosive,” said ND head coach Hugh Martin. “It’s assignment football for our players, but we also have to react to defend what they do. So you can’t be 100% assignment based.”

The Aces (7-4) won the Albemarle 2A Conference behind the running of running backs Kazzure Downing (76-1,165, 14 TDs), DJ Sutton (68-747, 15 TDs) and Caden Jernigan (83-851, 14 TDs), and quarterback Mason Byrum (111-657, 6 TDs) in rolling to 3,547 yards and 52 ground scores.

“We have to make tackles and stay away from big plays,” Martin said.

O ensive coordinator Brad Rhodes said he enjoys the challenge playing a school ND hasn’t faced during Martin’s 20-year tenure.

“We had that chance this year in our new conference and now in the playo s against a team that is fundamentally sound on both sides of the ball,” Rhodes said. “I know it sound like a cliché, but we are continuing to clean things up on our end (offensively), and we’ll need to play very consistent o ensively to have success moving the football.

They have size up front and are well coached.”

Holmes started o 0-4, with losses to 5A Currituck, 4A North Johnston and 3A schools Pasquotank and Northeastern. All but North Johnston is alive in postseason play.

“The early losses are not an indication of where they are right now,” Martin said. “Our defense played well against an improved Southside o ense. They took away a lot of running lanes.”

Holmes enters with a seven-game winning streak in which it averaged 47 points per game.

The winner faces the survivor of No. 2 Warren County (9-2) and No. 10 East Carteret (6-5).

In other bracket action, No. 1 Tarboro (11-0) faces No. 9 Hobbton (7-4), and No. 4 East Bladen (8-3) entertains No. 5 Manteo (7-3).

The Aces scored thenal 30 points last Friday en route to a 55-16 win over No. 11 Perquimans.

Phillips and company shred Seahawks

Carell Phillips (17-152) ran for a pair of touchdowns, while back eld mate Quan Stevens (7-96) added two of his three scores as ND went up 28-0 at halftime.

Stevens had a 21-yard score to start the game and a 45-yard touchdown midway through the second quarter.

Phillips had a 5-yard push at the 6:24 mark of the second

quarter and a 45-yard jaunt later in the period.

The senior has run for 1,878 yards and 26 touchdowns this fall.

Stevens went in from a yard out in the fourth as the lone score of the quarter. ND held Southside to 100 yards of offense (67 running, 33 passing).

Martin is 164-64 in 23 seasons, which includes his rst three seasons at East Duplin.

No. 1 High Point Christian routs Crusaders

A sweet season ended on a bit of a sour note last Friday when No. 1 High Point Christian smothered Harrells Christian 56-0 in the NCISAA 2A semi nals.

Jaylen Moore (19-158) ran for four scores as the Cougars cruised to a 35-0 halftime lead.

No. 4 HCA (9-3) had its best campaign since 2021 and return a bulk of talent, which includes Jeremiah Davis (93 -1,138, 14 TDs), Jarrod Miller (80-672, 11 TDs) and Demetrius Jones (72-387, 7 TDs).

HCA graduates quarterback Reid Strickland (40-70 for 785, 13 TDs), Dashaun Mckoy (33-27, 4 TDs running, 13-398, 6 TDs receiving. 4.1 tackles), Xander Garcia (3.6 tackles, 5 sacks) and Jesse Smith (3.7, 6 sacks).

This Friday, Mckoy, Davis, Mckoy, J’Kaeshi Brunson and defensive end Amir Moore will join all-state hoopster Anthony Mckoy as HCA opens its basketball season.

JK since 1959 and leads the alltime series 47-31, nished 6-6. “This is not a team or program that is dead,” Motsinger said. “Our program is not built on sand.”

While the Bulldogs clearly lacked the talent they always seem to have, Motsigner said his team stepped up, even through injuries, a lack of depth and the loss of two assistant coaches — OC Adam Scronce to Hobbton and assistant OC Graham Walker to rival East Duplin.

Close losses mark the season for WRH, which fell by a touchdown to Midway, Kinston, Pender and James Kenan during the regular season, all three which are alive in the postseason.

Motsinger had high praise for his seniors, which include running back Jamarame Lamb, linebacker Will Brooks and SE/LB Will Brooks. He lost senior Devon Sloan and his younger brother three weeks ago when their father moved out of Duplin County.

Lamb (279-2,398, 30 TDs) was an unstoppable runner on Friday nights and will continue to run on Saturdays next season in college. He’s yet to decide after getting many o ers.

“Pound for pound the best player in the East,” Motsinger said, “as a runner or a shutdown corner.”

Brooks, who had eight tack-

les against the Tigers, averaged 6.5 tackles and led the team in tackles for lost yardage with 11.

“He had an unbelievable senior year after being in the hospital with his future uncertain as to if he would ever play again,” Motsinger said.

“Wells was phenomenal, too. (Fans) ripped his soul out early in the year, and if that happened to someone else it would be big news. It came from people who don’t know football but get on social media where there are no consequences. Matt has a strong character.”

ND, JK and ED had losing seasons around COVID-19. WRH’s last losing mark came in 2008. It was nal season at WRH for Jack Holley (412-96-8).

Motsinger said Bulldog pride carried his team.

“It’s hard to imagine what would have happened if our senior class wasn’t so tight,” he said. “This was a rebuild and reboot year, and with all the losses we had when we got to the end no one wanted to see us in their bracket. Our kids believed whoever won our nal game was going to the state nals.”

Motsinger, 187-91 in 21 seasons, which includes three at JK and nine at both New Hanover and WRH, may have done one of his best coaching jobs of his career by making the Bulldogs competitive each week after a 21-0 loss on opening night to ED.

SOCCER from page B1

Forwards Wilmer Flores and Steven Acosta, and midelders Junior Ayestas and Cristian Calderon were also impactful.

“That’s a great team over there,” said WRH head coach Aaron Murray. “They have so much speed, and I was proud of our guys for the e ort our play. It really doesn’t have anything to do with me and everything to do with these players.

“They know it’s all or nothing right now. They have something to prove. I was on my heels the rst 10 minutes trying to gure out Greene Central.”

WRH did that and then played with an edge the Rams couldn’t match.

Goalie Angel Seville made three superb saves, and defender Cergio Acosta chased down Contreras on a breakaway as another goal-saving gem.

“It’s a big step for us,” Murray said. “We had a nice energy, and we got more of it from Angel,” Murray said. “That always gives you a push.”

Funez collected his 25th goal of the season early in the second half to surpass East Duplin’s Yoskar Canales (24 goals).

Dorlin Andrande nearly made it 3-0 20 seconds later. Greene Central made a couple of mad rushes to the WRH goal mouth in the nal eight minutes.

But WRH con dently controlled nearly the entire match and wasn’t about to give an inch.

They appeared to win the bulk of the 50-50 balls, playing like a veteran team, not a club that is rebuilding or unsure of itself.

Flores and Cergio Acosta each knocked in a pair of goals in an 8-2 second-round win over Trinity. Funez, Brayan Sanchez, Steven Acosta and Gabriel Cubas each added a goal. WRH went up 5-0 at halftime and never looked back. WRH has allowed only six goals in the last 14 games. The nals are slated for Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at Appenzeller Field, which is located on the campus of Guilford College.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Jayden Pope and ND will host Edenton Holmes on Friday at H.E. Grubbs Field in a third-round 2A playo matchup.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL WRH’s Will Brooks and Darrius McCrimmon take JK’s Jeremiah Hall to the ground during their nal game in a Bulldogs uniform.

WRHS

Hill went 55 yards for a touchdown and two-score advantage with 5:15 left in the third quarter and was a momentum-shifter.

Lamb had WRH thinking it could change the rst-half script by scoring his 30th rushing touchdown of the season on its opening drive of the second half.

Up 18-7, JK’s nal score was a somewhat meaningless 45-yard touchdown catch from Avent to Hill with 49 seconds left on the clock.

Eli’s a-coming and he’s toting the ball

Another big di erence in the two games between JK and WRH was how Eli Avent set the tone.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Jacquez Smith, Cal Avent and Alex Vasquez allowed just one score from WRH’s Jamarae Lamb during a 26-7 win in the second round of the 3A playo s.

The senior soared up the middle on the rst snap of the game for a 41-yard score. After WRH’s three-and-out, Avent had a 30-yard gain, and though the drive stalled near mid eld, the Bulldogs knew they had to

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

NORTH CAROLINA, DUPLIN COUNTY

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by MICHELE

MARIE HORNE, A Single Woman to Eugene Davis, Trustee(s), which was dated May 27, 2020 and recorded on May 27, 2020 in Book 1922 at Page 823, Duplin 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 December 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Duplin County, North Carolina, to wit:

Being all of Lots 21 and 22 of the Herbert E. Miller, Jr.

Subdivision as surveyed in January, 1958, by Charles V. Brooks, III, and as appears in Map Book 216, Page

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

FILE#25E001432-300

The undersigned, TARA J. HOLMES, having quali ed on the 3RD DAY of NOVEMBER, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of WILBER WOOLARD BAILEY, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 13TH Day of FEBRUARY 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 13TH Day of NOVEMBER 2025.

TARA J. HOLMES, ADMINISTRATOR 229 WESTONS WOOD RD. PINK HILL, NC 28572

Run dates:N13,20,27,D4p

deal with both a spread attack and its super-power running game.

Grady credited former Tigers coach Tyler Pugh, now WRH’s defensive coordinator, for making him use both o enses.

“I couldn’t do what I wanted to do the rst game because he did a tremendous job pushing my comfort zone,” Grady said. “But what he did made us a better team. We executed and got to see our players perform at a high level.”

WRH stumped JK on fourth-and-2 but then forced a punt from WRH three plays later.

The boot went eight yards, and Avent (13-138) scored from the 35 two plays later.

Jeremiah Hall (14-105) would have punched it in if Darrius McCrimmon hadn’t made a touchdown-saving tackle following a 29-yard jaunt by the senior who has uan for 1,472 yards and 21 scores this fall.

JK stopped WRH twice in the red zone, the second of which came late in the fourth quarter.

37, of the Duplin County Registry, reference to which is hereby made.

And being the same lots described in deeds recorded in Book 649, Page 508, and Book 1236, Page 602, of the Duplin County Registry.

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 616 Stevens St, Wallace, NC 28466.

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

West 100 feet to the

of Mrs. Reba P. Gavin; thence with her line South 44 degrees 30 minutes East 18.4 feet to the beginning containing 21,840 square feet, more or less. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 271 Cool Springs Road, Magnolia, NC 28453.

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

FILE#25E001393-300

The undersigned, SOMMER WILSON, having quali ed on the 6TH DAY of OCTOBER, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of ANITA LOIS BURTON, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 30TH Day of JANUARY 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 OCTOBER 2025.

SOMMER WILSON, ADMINISTRATOR 140 RAYMOND HUGHES LANE BEULAVILLE, NC 28518

Run dates:O30,N6,13,20p

“We didn’t execute in the three phases of the game, and when they scored early and got the momentum, we could never get it back,” said WRH head coach Kevin Motsinger. “They’ve got the athletes, they got the talent, and they have great speed.

“It’s been a tough year. Rebuilding, rebooting. Losing two coaches. Everyone saying we don’t have the running backs as in the past. But our kids believed the winner was going to the state championship.”

Gridiron notebook

No. 9 Ayden-Grifton (8-4) clipped No. 8 Whiteville 27-26 last Friday as top running back Nigel Morgan (54-890, 13 TDs) had a pick-six and quarterback John Field (121-215, 1,476 yards, 15 TDs) had a scoring toss to wideout Khimani Nelson (24 -279, 6 TDs).

Fullback EJ Ru n (111-603, 8 TDs) has been the Chargers’ workhorse in the middle.

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 owner(s) of the property is/are Michele Marie Horne.

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.

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 owner(s) of the property is/are Rachel N. Thomas.

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

If

The winner faces the survivor of No. 5 Martin County (8-3) and No. 14 Farmville Central (7-5).

The other parings include No. 2 Pender (10-1) hosting No.7 Northeastern (8-3) and No. 14 Kinston (8-4) visiting No. 6 Pasquotank (8-3).

According to longtime sportswriter Bill Rollins, JK is 13-14 in second-round games and 9-1 in the third round, including seven straight since 2006. The Tigers have a 4-3 edge of WRH in the postseason. The two schools met three -straight times in the 1AA East nals. JK won 28-14 in 2013 with WRH taking 34-31 and 29-13 triumphs the following two seasons. JK won the title in 2013 and WRH from 2014 to 2017.

The seven points JK gave up is the fewest in rivalry since a 37-0 win in 2008, Jack Holley’s nal season. Holley (412-96-9), of course, is second all-time in wins in North Carolina and in the top 20 nationally.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the estate of Albert John Ferry Jr, late of Duplin County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned Executor on or before February 13, 2026 or this notice or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment. This 13th day of November, 2025.

William R Ferry 697 Sumner Road Pink Hill, NC 28572 Executor of the Estate of Albert John Ferry Jr, deceased. 11/13/2025

Trustee

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 subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 25-11953-FC01

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS By Publication State of North Carolina County of Duplin In The General Court Of Justice File NO: 25CV002170-300

Karen Garriss Pacheco Plainti , VS. Wilson Arnulfo Pacheco

obituaries

Arlita Hopkins

Sept. 23, 1946 – Nov. 7, 2025

With deep love and profound respect, we announce the passing of Arlita Fiala Hopkins on Friday, November 7, 2025. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

She was born on September 23, 1946, in Linn County, Iowa, where she grew up. She graduated from La Salle High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and she attended Mount Mercy College.

While going to school, Arlita met her future husband, Mark Hopkins, and they were married for over 58 wonderful years. She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughters, Christine and Dana, and their husbands, David and Charles, and her grandson, Joshua, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Arlita’s life was marked by her deep faith in the Catholic Church. She has been an active member of the Tran guration of Jesus Catholic Church in Wallace, NC, for over 20 years, where she has contributed to various ministries. She was as active as her pain would allow in Saint Vincent dePaul, Catholic Charities, Women of Trans guration and the Rosary.

Arlita also enjoyed cooking and baking, water aerobics, Mahjong, and the art of conversation. She never met a stranger.

After almost 40 years of struggling with multiple sclerosis, Arlita was ready to return to the Lord. We love and miss her.

Her life will be celebrated with a funeral mass on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Trans guration of Jesus Catholic Church in Wallace, NC, at 11 a.m.

Barbara Simmons

March 27, 1970 –Nov. 12, 2025

Barbara Jean Simmons, 55, of Hampstead, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

She was born on March 27, 1970, in Allentown, PA, to the late Raymond C. Keeler Jr. and the late Marie Keeler. Barbara was a devoted and loving mother and wife. She was involved in recreational basketball and enrolled at ECU to further her education. Barbara enjoyed playing cards, but most of all she loved spending time with her family. Surviving to cherish her memory is her beloved husband of 29 years, Joe Willie Simmons; her children, Roman A. Simmons, Alanah M. Simmons, Jeron M. Simmons; her sisters, Nancy Keeler and husband, Larry Snyder; Dorothy Keeler; her brother, Randy Keeler and wife, Melinda Keeler; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Barbara was also preceded in death by her brother, Larry Keeler; her sister, Carol Schmoyer; brotherin-law, Ronald Schmoyer; nephew, Kyle Schmoyer; and her beloved dog, Paisley.

In lieu of owers, memorial donations may be made in Barbara’s honor to the American Heart Association or to the American Diabetes Association.

A celebration of life will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at New River Community Church, 117 Wheeler Creek Road, Sneads Ferry, NC 28460, with Pastor Steve Allen o ciating.

JR Bonham

Nov. 15, 1947 – Nov. 13, 2025

On Thursday, November 13, 2025, a time that will not be forgotten, JR Bonham fought his last ght, took his nal race, and took his last long walk home with his family close at hand when the Lord called him home.

JR is survived by his wife Frances of 38 years; his son Josh; beloved daughter-in-law, Leah and their three sons, Papa’s Little Buddies, Jackson, Logan and Nathan. JR is also survived by, in his words, a good brother, Thomas Bonham (Kim); the best sister-in-law, Ruby Long; and the best mother-in-law, Harriet “Bill” Long, that a man could ask for. He will also be missed dearly by daughter in heart, Jessie Rae; son in heart, Hunter Reaves; and two nieces, Carrie Chapman (Ken) and Cammy Rivenbark (Will).

With the end of his nal journey, he will be welcomed by his daughter, Selena Marie, after a long separation, father and daughter will be together again.

There will be a graveside service at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Bonham Family Cemetery, “The Old Place”, where six will carry him to his nal resting place. The Rev. Merrell McKoy will conduct the service. The Bonham Family Cemetery is located at 377 Apple Blossom Dr., Rocky Point, NC 28457. The family will receive friends at the cemetery following the graveside service and at the home of Josh Bonham.

Pallbearers will include Josh Bonham, Jackson Bonham, Patrick Lunsford, Sr., Patrick Lunsford, Jr., Jesse Long and Donnie Pickett Jr. Honorary pallbearers will include Logan Bonham, Nathan Bonham, Hunter Reaves, Mason Reaves and Brantley Reaves. In lieu of owers the family requests donations be made to the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.

The family would also like to extend our grateful regards and gratitude to the cardiac oor sta at Novant Health NHRMC and the amazing sta at the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Center.

Howard Powell

Aug. 14, 1953 – Nov. 11, 2025

Mr. Howard Benjamin Powell, age 72, of Teachey, NC, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Novant Health Pender Medical Center in Burgaw, NC.

A viewing will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 1-1:45 p.m., immediately followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. at GYT –The Prayer Center in Wallace, NC. Burial will follow at Duplin Memorial Gardens in Teachey, NC.

Left to cherish his precious memories are his wife, Ethylen Carlton Powell of the home; two sons, Terrell Powell (Debra) of Wallace NC and Benjamin K. Powell of Charlotte, NC; one daughter, Tameka Brinson (Donald) of Warsaw, NC; one brother, Wayne Powell (Aida) of Fayetteville, NC; three sisters-in-law: Jessie Highsmith (Jerry) of Willard, NC, Maria Teachey of Dudley of NC and Belle Powell of Magnolia, NC; two brothers-in-law: Arthur Carlton of Warsaw, NC and Winfred Carlton (Carolyn); seven grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren; a host of special nieces and nephews and foster children; other special relatives and friends that will miss him dearly.

William Hendrix

March 23, 1936 –Nov. 10, 2025

Goldsboro- It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mr. William Hendrix, age 89, who was called home on Monday, November 10, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. Though Mr. Hendrix is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains forever in all who knew him. The Celebration of Life is Monday, November 17, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the J.B. Rhodes Jr. Memorial Chapel, 1701 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534. He will be laid to rest at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 164 Longs Plant Farm Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534. He leaves to cherish his memories to his loving wife, Annie L. Hendrix; Children - Melinda Johnson, Joshua Minor, Anthony Hendrix, Revonne Minor, Darlene Batts (Dennis Batts), Wanda Hendrix; grandchildren- Keli Johnson, Janis Batts, Antonia Hendrix, Elijah Ward, greatgrandchildren- Jasmiyne Murray, JJ Murray.

Alescia Nicole Cruz

Feb. 18, 2002 – Nov. 9, 2025

Alescia Nicole Cruz, 23, of Trenton, North Carolina, passed away on November 9, 2025, surrounded by love.

She is preceded in death by her father, Ibrahim Cruz.

She is survived by her mother, Shasta Brown (Micheal); her sisters, Arianna Minnick of Pennsylvania and Lily Yates of Trenton ; her brothers, Yusaias Cruz of Jacksonville, and Mason and Maddox Marshburn of Trenton. She is also survived by her grandparents, Lisa Brown of Trenton, Frankie and Laura Brown of Richlands, and Onelia Marrero of New Jersey; her greatgrandmother, Dorothy Mills; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Alescia previously attended Jones Senior High School, where she brought joy to her classmates and teachers alike. She loved high ves, counting, and ipping through magazines. She found amusement when her siblings got into a little bit of trouble and loved the feeling of having her beautiful hair blowdried. Like any true Southern girl, she had a special fondness for sweet tea.

Alescia’s presence was a light in the lives of everyone who knew her. Her laughter, her quirks, and her warm spirit brought happiness to her family and friends. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be lled, but the love and memories she gave will remain in our hearts forever.

Family will receive visitors at the home on Wednesday, November 12, for anyone who wishes to pay their respects.

SPONSORED BY

QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME

Mary Cottle

March 7, 1934 – Nov. 10, 2025

Mary Susan “Sue” Knowles Cottle left her earthly home for her home in Heaven peacefully surrounded by her family on November 10, 2025. She was born on March 7, 1934, to Marvin and Berta Mae Knowles. Mama was raised in the Corinth Church community of Teachey and attended Rose Hill School until her graduation. Following graduation, she took a short trip to the West Coast but soon decided she wanted to return to her home roots, and there she became a teletype operator for JP Stevens Company. She met Charles Cottle in 1957, and they soon married on March 8, 1958, and began our family in a little home built on Walnut Street in Rose Hill. There, they had three daughters, Susan, Lisa, Carol and Sharon. Marrying our Daddy gave her a son, Charles Truett Register, whom she accepted with open arms and loved him as her own. Mama was a farmer’s wife until 1974, when she became a bank teller at Waccamaw Bank and remained there until her retirement in 1993. She loved her bank co-workers and shared many happy memories with them throughout the years. Upon her retirement, she became a full-time Nana, nurturing and taking care of those she loved the most.

Mama was a woman of strong faith. Her parents helped to root her knowledge of the Lord at Corinth Baptist Church, but her faith became grounded in a cottage prayer meeting in 1971 under the preaching of Rev David Smith. She soon joined the Rose Hill Pentecostal Free Will Baptist church where she served as secretary for many years. She loved the Lord with all her heart and gave him praise and glory through all the hard times, good times and all the in-between times of her life. It made no di erence what was going on in her life, you could step up to her back door most any morning and catch her studying her Bible, singing, praising, and praying for the needs of her family and the many friends who called her for prayer. Her steadfastness to the commitment she made to serve Jesus has left a legacy for us that we and all her family and friends can rest in peace knowing she is exactly where she lived her life to be. The most used statements we have heard in her death have been those of people knowing her faith. Mama never wavered once she made her decision to live a life for Jesus! Her love for her family and

Fannie Lillian Leak

June 7, 1938 – Nov. 9, 2025

Fannie Lillian Leak, 87, of Magnolia, NC, passed away on November 9, 2025, at her residence. The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at New Elders Chapel AME Zion Church, 1555 NC-11 Hwy, Magnolia, NC. Visitation will be 4-6 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2025, at Hawes Funeral Home. Interment following the funeral service at Maxwell Cemetery, located in Rose Hill, NC.

friends was very important, and she made everyone around her know that she loved them. If you ever received a little card on your birthday or a thank you note for even the smallest act of kindness shown or when she knew you needed encouragement, know that that card held words straight from her heart. We know there were many recipients of those cards because that was a ministry for her. To make others feel loved was all she wanted to show. If you ever received one of her pound cakes, you were really on her mind! Not wanting any recognition for anything she ever did, she wanted God to get all the praise for the answered prayers she would get calls about. Mama also enjoyed keeping a beautiful yard full of her favorite yellow roses and red gerbera daisies. She always took pride in making sure things looked just right and put together whether it was her home or herself.

Mama was predeceased by our Daddy, Charles Truett Cottle, a daughter, Lisa Carol and a granddaughter, Cristy Register along with her brothers, Hilbourne and Norwood Knowles, and her sisters, infant Grace Knowles, Shirley Mozingo and Jean Perryman.

Mama leaves behind her children, Susan Moss and husband Frank, Sharon Cottle and Charles Register and wife, Linda. Grandchildren who loved her dearly, Laura Beth Jones and husband, Steven, Jason DeBose and wife, Gerri, Brittany Easterly and husband, Josh, Sydney Rivenbark and husband, Dylan, Charlie Register, and Amie Register. A host of greatgrandchildren: Haley, Wesley, Bradley, Rachel, Dominic, Nolan, Scotland, Sarah Holland, Sebastyan, Jaxan, Coolidge, Skylar, Brenin, Mylez and Hayden and great-great-grandchildren, Noah, Valerie and Milo, her sister, Ossie Mac Coombs and husband, Carl of Phoenix, AZ. We thank everyone for their outpouring of love to our Mama over the years and for the love shown to us in her Homegoing. A special thank you to Shannon Casteen and Deanne Batchelor for the love shown to our Mama, whom they also loved, and for the support they gave to us during this di cult time. We also thank ECU Home Health and Hospice and their support team, Susan Rivenbark, and Amanda Foy.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 13, at Rose Hill Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, 114 North Walnut Street, Rose Hill, with Reverend Jack Melvin and Reverend David Smith. Serving as pallbearers will be Bobby Gore, Danny Cottle, Lyn Mozingo, Philip Briggs, Buddy King, and Derry Giddings. The family is receiving friends at Mama’s home in Rose Hill.

In lieu of owers, the family asks that you make donations to your church or her church, Rose Hill Pentecostal Free Will Baptist, or a charity of your choice. Take a minute to send a card to let someone know what they mean to you. In a world of a million in uences, live like Sue!

March 18, 1964 –Nov. 11, 2025

61, of Warsaw, NC,

on November 11, 2025, at his residence. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Hawes Funeral Home in Warsaw.

Guy Kimble Smith

Guy Kimble Smith,

passed away

Marjorie Holloway

Dec. 23, 1952 – Nov. 12, 2025

Goldsboro- It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of Ms. Marjorie Holloway, age 72, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family. Though her voice is silent, her spirit lives on in every heart she touched. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8. The Celebration of Life will be Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Generation Church, 3016 Summit Road, Goldsboro, NC 27534. There will be a church viewing from 12-1212:50 p.m. She will be laid to rest at Johnson Chapel United Holy Church Cemetery, 2753 Arrington Bridge Road, Dudley, NC 28333.

Arline Rhodes

Dec. 19, 1936 – Nov. 13, 2025

Arline Cavenaugh Rhodes, 88, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in SECU Hospice House, Newport, NC.

Arline Cavenaugh Rhodes, born on December 19, 1936, in Chinquapin, NC, was the daughter of Frank and Bessie McKoy Cavenaugh. Arline was in the Beta Club, an academic honor society at Chinquapin High School, where she played basketball, cheered, and graduated in 1955. There she met the love of her life, Troy Payton Rhodes.

Troy and Arline married on November 12, 1955, and together they raised three sons. Throughout Troy’s 30 years of service in the United States Coast Guard, where he retired as Chief Warrant Of cer 4, they were stationed in Wilmington, NC; Elizabeth City, NC; New London, CT; Newark, NJ; Mullica Hill, NJ; Albany, NY; Norfolk, VA; Cape May, NJ; and Fort Macon, NC. Arline worked at Cavenaugh’s Five and Dime in Wallace, NC, a newspaper and a pharmacy in Wilmington, NC, drove a school bus in Cape May, NJ, and Waterford, NY, and clerked for Duplin County Tax Administration in Kenansville, NC.

Upon Troy’s retirement in 1985, he and Arline returned to the same land Arline grew up on in Chinquapin, NC where they farmed, traveled and hosted. Arline loved the Lord and was a devoted member of Sharon Baptist Church, where she participated in the Golden Agers seniors group. She had an af nity for maps, and visited all 50 of the United States, as well as the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, Jamaica and Mexico. Arline enjoyed musical stage shows, game shows and movies, and often hosted friends and family for games of Scrabble, SkipBo, RummiKub and Five Crowns.

Grandma Arline is well known among her family as the ultimate hostess. She lived for her family’s visits, made everyone feel at home, and cooked elaborate meals, prepared with what she called her most important ingredient: “L-O-V-E.”

Arline lived 88 years and spent her nal years under the loving care of Bryan and Millie Rhodes. She peacefully went to be with the Lord on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House of Newport, NC.

Arline is survived by one sister: Ernestine Manning of Manassas, VA, one brother-in-law: Joseph Rhodes (Jo Ann) of Kinston, NC, as well as her three children, nine grandchildren, and 15 greatgrandchildren.

Children:

Gregory Payton Rhodes, Troutman, NC

Bryan Clark Rhodes (Millie), Newport, NC

Andrew Stuart Rhodes (Stephanie), Terrell, NC

Grandchildren: John DeLaPava Rhodes, Amanda Leigh Ann Ralph (Douglas), Lisa Maria Rhodes, Kaitlin Arline McMahon (Patrick), Emily Kristen Schaefer (Michael), Saylor Mackenzie Shinn (Hunter), Mary Lynn Payton Henning (Sidney), Garrett McKoy Rhodes, Brody Jaxon Rhodes

Great-Grandchildren: Taylor Elizabeth Ann Ralph (16), Noah DeLaPava Rhodes (14), Courtlynn Millie Ralph (13), Juliana Joanne Ralph (13), Kyndall Maryann Ralph (13), August Sobotka Rhodes (11), Hatteras Paige Schaefer (11), Magnolia Joyce Schaefer (7), Alden James Rhodes (5), Landry Bryan Rhodes (5), Copeland Norah Eloise McMahon (4), Penelope Kollins Schaefer (4), Navie Faith Shinn (3), Callan Timothy McMahon (2), Payton Miles Henning (10 months)

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, from noon to 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1 p.m. at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC. Interment will follow at East Duplin Memorial Gardens, where Arline will be laid to rest beside her beloved Troy, who passed away in 2021.

Michael Wendell Anderson

Oct.19, 1961 – Nov. 11, 2025

Michael Wendell Anderson, 64, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at his home, surrounded by friends and family. Mr. Anderson was born on October 19, 1961, in Wayne County, NC, to Adell Gurley Anderson and the late Leonard Anderson.

Mr. Anderson enjoyed playing piano, which he did for his church for many years, as well as singing. He was a member of the Warsaw Seesaws Square Dance group for many years. He was also a loving Papa to all his grandchildren. He was also a veteran and his country was

Sharon Edwards Lawson

Sept. 18, 1946 – Nov. 13, 2025

Sharon Edwards Lawson, 79, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025. The funeral service is Wednesday, November 19, 2025,

always close to his heart.

Mr. Anderson is survived by wife, Mary Nichols Anderson of the home; mother, Adell Gurley Anderson; sisters, Connie Draughon and husband, Steve of Warsaw and Brenda Brucker and husband, Fred of PA and Warsaw; one brother, Don Simmons and wife, Belinda of Fayetteville; one daughter, Jamie Bonner and husband, Ben of Texas; four grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, special nieces and nephews and cousins, 1 special cousin Evelyn West of Faison along with her greatgranddaughter, Aiyana Holloman Jacobs. He is also survived by three close friends, Heidi Madrid, Nathan Parrish, and Cynthia Madrid and his fur babies, Mr. Wiggles, Cocoa and Gunner.

Mr. Anderson was preceded in death by his dad, Leonard Anderson, and a daughter, Kathy Garcia.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Community Funeral Home Chapel of Warsaw. Entombment will follow at 2 p.m. at Wayne Memorial Park in Goldsboro. A visitation will be held at 11 a.m. one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of owers, memorials may be made to the Warsaw First Original Free Will Baptist Church, 816 N. Pine Street, Warsaw, NC 28398.

at 7 p.m., followed by visitation at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC.

The graveside service will be Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 2 p.m. at East Duplin Memorial Gardens in Beulaville, NC

She is survived by her husband, William “Bill” Lawson of Jacksonville, NC; sons Eddie Dail McLeod of Jacksonville, NC, and William “Billy” Lawson Jr. of Ohio; daughters Wendy Adkins, Cindy McKnight annd Theresa Henderson, all of Jacksonville, NC; sister Geraldine Edwards Batchelor of Jacksonville, NC; grandchildren Dylan Adkins, Ryan Adkins and Lily Hessling; and two great-grandchildren.

Stanly NewS Journal

WHAT’S HAPPENING

House votes overwhelmingly to force release of Epstein les, sending bill to Senate Washington, D.C.

The House voted overwhelmingly to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its les on the convicted sex o ender Je rey Epstein. It’s a remarkable display of approval for an e ort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from President Donald Trump and Republican leadership. Trump now says he will sign the bill if it passes the Senate. Tuesday’s vote showed the pressure mounting on lawmakers and the Trump administration to meet long-held demands that the Justice Department release its case les on Epstein. He was a well-connected nancier who killed himself in a Manhattan jail while awaiting trial in 2019 on charges he sexually abused and tra cked underage girls.

Federal judges block Texas from using new U.S. House map in 2026 midterms

A panel of three federal judges has blocked Texas from using a new congressional map that Republicans drew in hopes of picking up ve U.S. House seats. The 2-1 ruling Tuesday was a blow to President Donald Trump’s e orts to have states draw more favorable maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections so the GOP can preserve its slim U.S. House majority. In Texas, civil rights groups and black and Hispanic voters have argued the new map is an illegal racial gerrymander. The judges were receptive enough to those claims to block the map’s use pending further court review. Texas’ expected appeal would be directly to the U.S. Supreme Court.

UN approves Trump administration’s plan for future of Gaza

United Nations

The Trump administration’s blueprint to secure and govern Gaza has won strong approval at the United Nations. It’s a crucial step that provides international support for U.S. e orts to move the devastated territory toward peace following two years of war. The U.S. proposal that passed the United Nations’ most powerful body on Monday authorizes an international stabilization force to provide security in Gaza and approves a transitional authority to be overseen by President Donald Trump.

Stanly County receives clean audit report for 2024-25

An accounting rm issued the county an unmodi ed report

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Stanly County has been given a clean audit report indicating the county’s nancial health for the scal year ending June 30, 2025, from Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams and Company.

At the Stanly County Board of Commissioners meeting on Monday night, the board re -

ceived the county’s nancial statements and an unmodied audit report from Alan Thompson, a representative of the full-service accounting rm based in Whiteville.

The audit includes the nancial statements of governmental activities, business-type activities, the discretely-presented component unit, each major fund and the aggregate remaining fund information of the county for scal year 2024-25.

“The main thing you hire us as an independent audit rm to do is issue an opinion

“If you have a takeaway from this presentation, you had an unmodi ed and clean report, and nancially you’re in good shape.”

Alan Thompson

on the nancial statements as a whole,” Thompson said.

“If you have a takeaway from this presentation, you had an

Albemarle receives nancial reporting award

The city was honored by the Government Finance O cers Association

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Albemarle’s nance department has been recognized for the quality of its reporting for the eighth consecutive year.

At the Albemarle City Council’s meeting Monday night, the department was awarded with the Government Finance O cers Association (GFOA) Certi cate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.

The honor was given for Albemarle’s annual compre-

hensive report for the scal year that ended on June 30, 2024.

“It is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting andnancial reporting,” said Jacob Weavil, Albemarle nance director. “Receiving the award demonstrates a constructive spirit of full disclosure that clearly communicates the city’s nancial story. Since we have received the award eight years in a row, it might be easy to assume this as routine or guaranteed, but that is far from the truth.” Weavil has served as the city’s full-time nance director since 2021 following a

unmodi ed and clean report, and nancially you’re in good shape.” Thompson added that there were no uncorrected misstatements or disagreements with management in the audit.

He went on to highlight key metrics, such as a general fund balance of $62.37 million — up from $40.06 million four years ago — along with an unavailable fund balance of $9.95 million, a general fund expenditure of $95.35 million, a fund balance available at 54.97% and a property tax collection percentage of 98.45%.

The county’s total debt is $43.7 million, with governmental debt at 73% and business-type activities at 27%.

Two minor ndings were noted in the audit report and

Holiday lights, hometown nights

Main Street was aglow in downtown Albemarle last Thursday night thanks to cars, streetlights and the city’s Christmas decorations.

THANKSGIVING ANNUAL FOOD DONATION DRIVE

Nov. 20

Annual Community

Nov. 22

Second

Ferguson

Holiday

A

ers participants an exclusive tour of 10 homes decked out with holiday decorations. For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit AlbemarleDowntown. com. Advance tickets are available for $20; tickets may be purchased on the day of the tour for $25 from 3:30-5 p.m. at Starnes Bramlett Jewelers at 127 W. Main St. in Albemarle. Downtown Albemarle

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Climate has a new head clown

Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson.

OVER, Al Gore. The climate clown car has a new self-anointed driver. His name is Gavin Newsom.

The California governor is trying to use the ongoing United Nations climate conference (COP30) to position himself as the leader of the U.S., if not the world, on climate change. In hopes of advancing his presidential aspirations in 2028, Newsom is attempting to exploit the vacuum created by the boycott of COP30 by the Trump administration.

Toward that end, Newsom has attacked President Donald Trump as “an invasive species,” boasted about California’s success in climate and traveled into the Amazon jungle to “absorb a deeper spiritual connection to this issue that connects all of us.” Cue the eyeroll.

But Newsom is actually more of a tragic nuisance than any kind of hero when it comes to climate.

Californians pay the highest prices for electricity in the continental U.S. This is because Newsom has loaded the California grid with expensive wind, solar and utility-scale batteries. Not only has all this green technology caused prices to soar, it has also weakened grid reliability. During periods of peak electricity demand, EV owners are warned not to charge their vehicles.

Californians also pay the highest prices for gasoline in the continental U.S because the state requires special blends of gasoline that are supposed to be improving air quality. One

might think that Newsom would be helping the oil industry to lower costs. But he’s not.

Newsom’s hostility to the oil and gas industry forces California to import gasoline from foreign countries that don’t produce oil as cleanly as we do in the U.S. He’s trying to block o shore drilling that would actually reduce oil pollution in the ocean. Oil from below the ocean oor naturally seeps into the ocean o the California coast. Oil drilling would reduce that natural seepage by reducing pressure.

Newsom is also chasing re neries out of California. The problem is so acute that Newsom is actually now forced to consider a state takeover of the re neries as the industry ees the state.

But it gets worse.

After more than four decades of forest mismanagement that has turned publicly owned forests and lands in California into tinderboxes just waiting for sparks to turn into deadly, out-of-control wild res, Newsom has opposed Trump’s suggestions to clean up the forests and public lands. These wild res have burned down forests that companies like Microsoft tried to preserve by purchasing carbon o sets.

While the California legislature had directed in 2012 that reservoirs be built to provide water to ght wild res and drought, Newsom failed to build any. When Trump directed the diversion of water from Southern California to end, Newsom opposed the move.

Democrats blame Republicans for multiple Democrat failures

No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it.

A KEY REASON Democrats make so many Republicans grind our molars is that they will not take responsibility for their own gargantuan failures. Instead, Democrats blame the GOP for the damage that they in ict on America.

It’s bad enough when someone takes a skillet and repeatedly wallops you across the back of your head. What really irks is when that person then screams at you: “Stop smacking your skull with a skillet!”

This is a big part of why Democrats have become utterly insu erable.

This month alone, Democrats refused to own their disastrous “Schumer Shutdown.” Thankfully, Democrats’ 43- day kidnapping conspiracy zzled out last Wednesday night.

The Republican-led House of Representatives voted to end the federal shutdown one day after eight Senate Democrats joined nearly unanimous Republicans, stopped the Democrats’ libuster, and adopted legislation to reopen the government.

Shortly before the House vote, Democrat leader Hakeem Je ries of Brooklyn took to the oor and presented a master class in how to shirk responsibility and shift blame.

“Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the presidency,” Je ries said. “(President) Donald Trump and Republicans made the decision to shut the government down, the longest shutdown in American history.”

Wrong!

House Republicans passed a “clean” continuing resolution on Sept. 19. It would have sustained Biden-era federal spending on autopilot until Jan. 30. There were

no strings, budget cuts or policy reforms attached.

This bill went to the Senate, where — as Je ries damn well knows — overall Republican control is limited by the requirement for 60 votes to overcome a libuster. Republicans have only 53 votes, seven short of the number needed to adopt the House bill.

Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer of New York weaponized this rule and launched the Democrat libuster that shut down the federal government on Oct. 1.

Fourteen separate times, Senate Republicans (absent the dissenting Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky) voted to end the Democrat libuster. While three Democrats concurred with the GOP, Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota still fell short of the 60-vote threshold needed to stop Schumer from holding the American people and their government hostage until Democrats scored $192.8 billion for illegal-alien health care.

Je ries knows all of this. Nonetheless, he stood up and lied about it.

Je ries continued to blame Republicans for his party’s ops. “House Democrats will continue to ght to address the health care crisis that Republicans have created,” Je ries said. A huge part of America’s pounding migraine on health insurance is Democrats’ proudest baby: Obamacare. To say that this is a baby only a mother could love is an insult to ugly babies.

Obamacare was supposed to lower insurance premiums by $2,500. Instead, they have soared by at least that much. The

At COP30, Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson that was not completely extinguished by re ghters. When the con agration later spread, aided by the naturally occurring Santa Ana winds, there was no water in the re hydrants. None of this is climate change. It’s incompetent government led by a vacuous hologram of a person.

Since 2012, California has charged the oil industry and consumers billions and billions of dollars as part of a cap-and-trade scheme to lower emissions. Not only have the wild res more than o set all the emissions cuts, but the California legislature recently approved a bill to drill 2,000 new oil wells so that the state could reap more revenue from the cap-and-trade scheme.

The beep-beep of Newsom’s climate clown car is deafening. It’s a warning for 2028.

Steve Milloy is a biostatistician and lawyer. He posts on X at @ JunkScience. This column was rst published by Daily Caller News Foundation.

entire boondoggle is a scal tumor that requires massive taxpayer subsidies to stay alive. Democrats are desperate to keep these subsidies owing, lest Obamacare atline. Democrats cannot blame the GOP for this mess. No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it. Democrats own Obamacare and every one of its painful symptoms.

Je ries then denounced “the Republican refusal to extend the A ordable Care Act tax credits.” Once again, Je ries cannot pin this on the GOP. These tax credits are scheduled to expire on New Year’s Eve because that is exactly what Democrats wanted!

As Sally Pipes of the Paci c Research Institute detailed for me, Section 9661 of the COVID-19-fueled Biden/Democrat American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included “expanding premium assistance” as a “Temporary rule for 2021 and 2022.” Later, Section 12001 of the Biden/Democrat In ation Reduction Act of 2022 aimed to “improve a ordability and reduce premium costs of health insurance … before Jan. 1, 2026.”

“A proposal being weighed by congressional Democrats and party advisers in recent weeks aims to temporarily extend the enhanced Obamacare subsidies that were part of the nancial aid package President Joe Biden signed into law last March,” Politico explained on June 24, 2022, regarding this second bill.

If Democrats wanted to subsidize Obamacare into 2026 and beyond, they should have written that into legislation that they, not Republicans, sponsored.

As the saying goes, “When you point a nger at someone, three ngers point back at you.” Je ries and other Democrats should remember that before, yet again, giving Republicans the nger.

Deroy Murdock is a Manhattan-based Fox News contributor and a contributing editor with The American Spectator. This column was rst published by The Daily Signal.

MOVE

COLUMN | STEVE MILLOY

Feds to expand immigration action to Raleigh

The capital’s mayor said the sweep will expand beyond Charlotte

By Erik Verduzco, Tim Sullivan and Gary D. Robertson

The Associated Press

CHARLOTTE — Federal immigration authorities will expand their enforcement action in North Carolina to Raleigh as soon as Tuesday, the mayor of the state’s capital city said, while Customs and Border Protection agents continue operating in Charlotte following a weekend that saw arrests of more than 130 people in that city.

Mayor Janet Cowell said Monday that she didn’t know how large the operation would be or how long agents would be present. Immigration authorities haven’t spoken about it. The Democrat said in a statement that crime was lower in Raleigh this year compared to last and that public safety was a priority for her and the city council.

“I ask Raleigh to remember our values and maintain peace and respect through any upcoming challenges,” Cowell said in a statement.

U.S. immigration agents arrested more than 130 people over the weekend in a sweep through Charlotte, North Carolina’s largest city, a federal ocial said Monday.

The movements in North Carolina come after the Trump administration launched immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles and Chicago. Both of those are deep blue cities in deep blue states run by nationally prominent o cials who make no secret of their anger at the White House. The political reasoning there seemed obvious.

But why North Carolina and why was Charlotte the rst target there?

Sure the mayor is a Democrat, as is the governor, but neither is known for wading into national political battles. In a state where divided government has become the norm, Gov. Josh Stein in particular has tried hard to get alongwith the GOP-controlled state legislature. The state’s two U.S. senators are both Republican, and President Donald Trump won the state in the last three presidential elections.

The Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on North Carolina because of so-called sanctuary policies, which limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents.

But maybe focusing on a place where politics is less outwardly bloody was part of the equation, some observers say.

The White House “can have enough opposition (to its crackdown), but it’s a weaker version” than what it faced in places like Chicago, said Rick Su, a professor at the University of North Carolina School of Law who studies local government, immigration and federalism.

“They’re not interested in just deporting people. They’re interested in the show,” he said.

The crackdown

The Trump administration has made Charlotte,

a Democratic city of about 950,000 people, its latest focus for an immigration enforcement surge it says will combat crime — despite local opposition and declining crime rates.

Residents reported encounters with immigration agents near churches, apartment complexes and stores.

Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that Border Patrol o cers had arrested “over 130 illegal aliens who have all broken” immigration laws. The agency said the records of those arrested included gang membership, aggravated assault, shoplifting and other crimes, but it did not say how many cases had resulted in convictions, how many people had been facing charges or any other details.

The crackdown set o erce objections from area leaders.

“We’ve seen masked, heavily armed agents in paramilitary

garb driving unmarked cars, targeting American citizensbased on their skin color,” Stein said in a video statement late Sunday. “This is not making us safer. It’s stoking fear and dividing our community.”

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said Monday she was “deeply concerned” about videos she’s seen of the crackdown but also said she appreciates protesters’ peacefulness.

“To everyone in Charlotte who is feeling anxious or fearful: You are not alone. Your city stands with you,” she said in a statement.

The debate over crime and immigration

Charlotte and surrounding Mecklenburg County have both found themselves part of America’s debates over crime and immigration, two of the most important issues to the White House.

“I ask Raleigh to remember our values and maintain peace and respect through any upcoming challenges.”

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell

The most prominent was the fatal stabbing this summer of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte lightrail train, an attack captured on video. While the suspect was from the U.S., the Trump administration repeatedly highlighted that he had been arrested previously more than a dozen times.

Charlotte, which had a Republican mayor as recently as 2009, is now a city dominated by Democrats, with a growing population brought by a booming economy. The racially diverse city includes more than 150,000 foreign-born residents, o cials say.

Lyles easily won a fth term as mayor earlier this month, defeating her Republican rival by 45 percentage points even as GOP critics blasted city and state leaders for what they call rising incidents of crime. Following the Nov. 4 election, Democrats are poised to hold 10 of the other 11 seats on the city council.

While the Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on the state because of sanctuary policies, North Carolina county jails have long honored “detainers,” or requests from federal o cials to hold an arrested immigrant for a limited time so agents can take custody of them. Nevertheless, some common, noncooperation policies have existed in a handful of places, including Charlotte, where the police do not help with immigration enforcement.

In Mecklenburg County, the jail did not honor detainer requests for several years, until after state law e ectively made it mandatory starting last year.

DHS said about 1,400 detainers across North Carolina had not been honored since October 2020, putting the public at risk.

For years, Mecklenburg Sheri Garry McFadden pushed back against e orts by the Republican-controlled state legislature to force him and a handful of sheri s from other urban counties to accept U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers.

Republicans ultimately overrode a veto by then-Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper late last year to enact the bill into law.

While McFadden has said his o ce is complying with the law’s requirement, he continued a public feud with ICE leaders in early 2025 that led to a new state law toughening those rules. Stein vetoed that measure, but the veto was overridden.

Republican House Speaker Destin Hall said in a Monday post on X that immigration agents are in Charlotte because of McFadden’s past inaction: “They’re stepping in to clean up his mess and restore safety to the city.”

Last month, McFadden said he’d had a productive meeting with an ICE representative.

“I made it clear that I do not want to stop ICE from doing their job, but I do want them to do it safely, responsibly, and with proper coordination by notifying our agency ahead of time,” McFadden said in a statement.

But such talk doesn’t calm the political waters.

“Democrats at all levels are choosing to protect criminal illegals over North Carolina citizens,” state GOP Chairman Jason Simmons said Monday.

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

Protesters holds signs amidst the arrival of federal law enforcement Monday in Charlotte.

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

U.S. Border Patrol Commander at large Gregory Bovino takes a phone call Monday in Charlotte.

Disney reaches new deal with YouTube TV, ending blackout that lasted more than 2 weeks

ESPN, ABC and more are back on the streaming service

By Wyatte Grantham-Philips

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Disney and YouTube TV reached a new deal to bring channels like ABC and ESPN back to the Google-owned livestreaming platform Friday, ending a blackout for customers that dragged on for over two weeks.

“As part of the new deal, Disney’s full suite of networks and stations — including ESPN and ABC — have already begun to be restored to YouTube TV subscribers,” The Walt Disney Co. said in a statement.

YouTube TV also con rmed the return of Disney content on its platform, noting that subscribers should see channels back “over the course of the day.” It apologized for the disruption and thanked customers for their “patience as we negotiated on their behalf.”

Disney content went dark on YouTube TV the night of Oct. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new licensing deal. In the days that followed, YouTube TV subscribers were left without Disney channels on the platform — notably disrupting coverage of top college football matchups and professional sports games, as well as news and entertainment programming.

Beyond ESPN and ABC, other Disney-owned content removed from YouTube TV during the impasse included channels like NatGeo, FX, Freeform, SEC Network, ACC Network and more.

Disney Entertainment CoChairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden and ESPN Chair-

AUDIT from page A1

presented to the commissioners for full transparency.

“There were two small ndings, nothing serious on that, making sure the subsidiary accounts reconciled to the general ledger,” Thompson said.

man Jimmy Pitaro said Friday that they were “pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.”

When talks broke down last month, YouTube TV said Disney was proposing costly terms that would lead to higher prices for and fewer choices for its subscribers. It accused Disney of using the blackout as a negotiating tactic — claiming the maneuver also bene ted Disney’s own streaming products like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. Disney, meanwhile, said that YouTube TV had refused to pay fair rates for its channels. The California entertainment giant

“There was a Medicaid testing issue. Medicaid has become challenging in the sense that we went from pandemic-era guidelines back to normal guidelines, which is a transition for everybody. So there are a couple things there that they’re working to make sure we’re all in compliance. We do 27 of the 100 counties in the state, so that’s a challenge statewide in making sure everybody gets in compliance back to the old way.”

AWARD from page A1

three-year stint as an assistant nance director.

“I’d like to sincerely thank my nance sta for their hard work and dedication,” Weavil said.

“With everything we do relating to our policies and our procedures, they are all designed to ensure we keep receiving the award each year. I would also like to extend my gratitude to the rest of the city, including all departments, administration and coun-

cil. We could not do what we do without your partnership and support.”

Founded in 1906, GFOA promotes government nance sustainability by providing practices, professional development, resource and practical research for more than 21,000 members and their respective communities.

“The report has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive spirit of full disclo-

also accused Google of “using its market dominance to eliminate competition.” And executives blasted the platform for pulling content “prior to the midnight expiration” of their deal in late October.

Both sides also publicly sparred over negotiations and content available leading up to Nov. 4 elections across the U.S.

By the time Disney’s channels returned to YouTube TV, Google’s streamer said it had “reached an agreement with Disney that preserves the value of our service for our subscribers and future exibility in our offers.” Disney executives maintained that the deal re ected the company’s “continued commitment to delivering ex-

Following Thompson’s presentation, Commissioner Bill Lawhon made a motion to approve the nancial audit as presented, and a 7-0 vote supporting that soon followed.

The Stanly County Board of Commissioners will hold its next regular meeting on Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.

sure to clearly communicate its nancial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report,” GFOA provided in a press release.

With ve responsibilities shared between two divisions, Albemarle’s nance department is tasked with administration, accounting, nancial reporting, treasury management and revenue collection.

Led by Weavil, the department’s rst division is responsible for maintaining the account-

ceptional entertainment and evolving with how audiences choose to watch.”

The two-week blackout is among a growing list of licensing disputes seen in the streaming world today, particularly as competition grows overs hosting live content. And consumers often pay the price when company negotiations break down. The showdown between Disney and YouTube was not their rst. YouTube TV subscribers lost access to all Disney content after 2021 contract talks broke down, but that disruption lasted less than two days.

And YouTube TV has removed other content from its platform after expired agree-

“(We are) pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.”

Disney executives

ments. Spanish-language broadcaster Univision has been unavailable on YouTube TV since Sept. 30, for example. Parent company TelevisaUnivision decried Google’s move, saying it would strip “millions of Hispanic viewers of the Spanish-language news, sports, and entertainment they rely on every day,” and called on the platform to reverse course.

YouTube TV’s base subscription plan costs $82.99 per month — which, beyond Disney content, currently includes live TV o erings from networks like NBC, CBS, Fox, PBS and more. The platform previously said it would give subscribers a $20 credit its dispute with Disney lasted “an extended period of time” — which it reportedly allowed customers to start claiming on Nov. 9.

Disney also doles out live TV through both traditional broadcasting and its own lineup of streaming platforms. ESPN launched its own streamer earlier this year, starting at $29.99 a month. And other Disney content can be found on platforms like Hulu, Disney+ and Fubo. Disney currently allows people to bundle ESPN along with Hulu and Disney+ for $35.99 a month — or $29.99 a month for the rst year.

ing and reporting system, paying nancial obligations, purchasing equipment, conducting the bidding process for all contracts, providing scal management for all city funds, preparing payroll and working with auditors in preparation of statements.

The department’s secondary division, led by Richard Lanzillotti, provides administrative and clerical services for the collections of all funds related to the city.

This category includes util-

Alan Thompson presented the county’s audit report on Monday night at the Stanly County Board of Commissioners meeting.

ity bills and related costs, water, sewer, street assessments, parking tickets, grant revenue, licenses, permits, tax revenue, parks and recreation admissions, and land ll dumping fees. Albemarle residents are encouraged to review the city’s current and past nancial reports at albemarlenc.gov/departments/ nance.

The Albemarle City Council will hold its next regular meeting on Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers.

PHELAN M. EBENHACK / AP PHOTO

An ESPN Monday Night Football broadcast camera on the sideline in Jacksonville, Florida, last month.

COURTESY STANLYTV

OBITUARIES

BILLY ANDREW SHAVER

AUG. 9, 1940 – NOV. 13, 2025

Billy Andrew Shaver, 85, of Rich eld, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Stanly Manor.

His funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Alleghany Global Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Fred Ingle o ciating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 2-2:45 p.m. prior to the service.

Born August 9, 1940, in Rowan County, Billy was the son of the late Daniel Shaver and Artie Treece Shaver Earnhardt. He graduated with honors from Rockwell High School in 1958. He attended Zion Methodist Church until joining Alleghany Methodist Church in 1960. He retired from a long career in the textile industry and was a devoted member of Alleghany Global Methodist Church. Billy began his career at Cannon Mills in Kannapolis and concluded his working years at Perfect Fit in Rich eld.

Billy will be remembered as a kind, hardworking, and thoughtful man, one who always put his family rst. A faithful husband and loving father, he was a steady provider and a gentle presence in the lives of those he loved. He enjoyed tending a small hobby farm with a plentiful vegetable garden and animals including goats, chickens, cows, and a donkey. He could often be found hauling hay or working outdoors—places where he felt most at peace.

He loved music, especially the old church hymns, and for many years he sang joyfully in the choir whenever his health allowed. Billy also loved sports, traveling with his wife, and attending concerts to hear a variety of gospel music groups.

Billy is survived by his wife, Kirksey Michael Shaver, and his son, Kelvin Shaver, both of Rich eld, as well as a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings Kenneth Shaver, Roy Shaver, Clara Mae Shaver Basinger, and Floyd Shaver.

The family requests that memorials be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Murray and the sta of Stanly Manor for their loving and compassionate care of Mr. Shaver during his time there.

JILL TURNER

SEPT. 28, 1967 – NOV. 13, 2025

Jill DeAnne Speight Turner, 58, of Oakboro, passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at CMC Main in Charlotte.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Oakboro. Pastors Jonathan Waits, Robert Leonard and Terrell Watts will o ciate. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the church fellowship hall. Burial will follow at St. Martin’s Lutheran Cemetery in Albemarle.

Jill was born on September 28, 1967, in Stanly County to Allen Dean Speight Sr. and Nancy E rd Haywood. She graduated from South Stanly High School in 1985 and went on to work as a telecommunicator for the NC State Highway Patrol. She retired as the center supervisor for Troop H. Jill was a member of First Baptist Church, Oakboro. She loved her family, friends and her special fur baby, Sullivan.

She is preceded in death by her ancé, Charles “Chip” Emery Osborne III.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her son Cade E rd Turner (Emma), siblings Allen Dean Speight Jr. (Wanda), and Jennifer Speight Black, stepmother Pat Boggan Speight, nephew and niece: Kyle Speight and Cortney Speight Davenport (Steven), great nieces and nephews: Ty, Aly, Kandyn and Kallen.

Jill was a bright light and proved to be a friend to all. Her zest for life will be remembered by all who loved her. The laughs we shared and the memories we made will sustain us until we meet again.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Oakboro Brotherhood.

BOBBY EFIRD

MAY 29, 1957 – NOV. 16, 2025

Bobby Allen E rd,68, of Albemarle, passed away Sunday, November 16, 2025, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Edwards Funeral Home, with Pastor Warren Brown o ciating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Mr. E rd was born on May 29, 1957, in Rowan County to the late Wayne Leverne E rd and Alma West Broadway, who survives. He was a retired Truck Driver. Bobby loved his animals, especially his dog Sandy, and he loved to sh.

In addition to his father, Wayne E rd, he is preceded in death by his wife, Sheila Burleson E rd; and brother Rickey E rd; and sisterin-law, Sonya E rd

In addition to his mother, Alma E rd, he is survived by his brothers: Rodney E rd (Vickie) and Je E rd (Marisa); his sister: Pam Je eries (Cli ); nieces: Tina Matthews (Jesse) and Christy Gilbert (Je ); and his canine companion, Sandy; and numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Sally Kirkland, stage and screen star who earned an Oscar nomination in ‘Anna,’ dead at age 84

She appeared in numerous lms, including a cameo in “Blazing Saddles”

By Mark Kennedy The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Sally Kirkland, a one-time model who became a regular on stage, lm and TV, best known for sharing the screen with Paul Newman and Robert Redford in “The Sting” and her Oscar-nominated title role in the 1987 movie “Anna,” has died. She was 84.

Her representative, Michael Greene, said Kirkland died Tuesday morning at a hospice in Palm Springs, California.

Friends established a GoFundMe account this fall for her medical care. They said she had fractured four bones in her neck, right wrist and left hip. While recovering, she also developed infections, requiring hospitalization and rehab.

“She was funny, feisty, vulnerable and self deprecating,” actor Jennifer Tilly, who costarred with Kirkland in “Sallywood,” wrote on X. “She never wanted anyone to say she was gone. ‘Don’t say Sally died, say Sally passed on into the spirits.’ Safe passage beautiful lady.”

Kirkland acted in such lms as “The Way We Were” with Barbra Streisand, “Revenge” with Kevin Costner, “Cold Feet” with Keith Carradine and Tom Waits, Ron Howard’s “EDtv,” Oliver Stone’s “JFK,” “Heatwave” with Cicely Tyson, “High Stakes” with Kathy Bates, “Bruce Almighty” with Jim Carrey and the 1991 TV movie “The Haunted,” about a family dealing with paranormal activity. She had a cameo in Mel Brooks’ “Blazing Saddles.”

Her biggest role was in 1987’s “Anna” as a fading Czech movie star remaking her life in the United States and mentoring to a younger actor, Paulina Porizkova. Kirkland won a Golden Globe and earned an Oscar nomination along with Cher in “Moonstruck,” Glenn Close in “Fatal Attraction, Holly Hunter in “Broadcast News” and Meryl Streep in “Ironweed.”

“Kirkland is one of those performers whose talent has been an open secret to her fellow actors but something of a mystery to the general public,” The Los Angeles Times critic wrote in her review. “There should be no confusion about her identity after this blazing comet of a performance.”

Kirkland’s small-screen acting credits include stints on “Criminal Minds,” “Roseanne” and “Head Case,” and she was a series regular on the TV shows “Valley of the Dolls” and “Charlie’s Angels.”

Born in New York City, Kirkland’s mother was a fashion editor at Vogue and Life magazine who encouraged her

daughter to start modeling at age 5. Kirkland graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and studied with Philip Burton, Richard Burton’s mentor, and Lee Strasberg, the master of the Method school of acting. An early breakout was appearing in Andy Warhol’s “13 Most Beautiful Women” in 1964. She appeared naked as a kidnapped rape victim in Terrence McNally’s o -Broadway “Sweet Eros.”

Some of her early roles were Shakespeare, including the lovesick Helena in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” for New York Shakespeare Festival producer Joseph Papp and Miranda in an o -Broadway production of “The Tempest.”

“I don’t think any actor can really call him or herself an actor unless he or she puts in time with Shakespeare,” she told the Los Angeles Times in 1991. “It shows up, it always shows up in the work, at some point, whether it’s just not being able to have breath control, or not being able to appreciate language as poetry and music, or not having the power that Shakespeare automatically instills you with when you take on one of his characters.”

Kirkland was a member

of several New Age groups, taught Insight Transformational Seminars and was a longtime member of the a liated Church of the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness, whose followers believe in soul transcendence.

She reached a career nadir while riding nude on a pig in the 1969 lm “Futz,” which a Guardian reviewer dubbed the worst lm he had ever seen. “It was about a man who fell in love with a pig, and even by the dismal standards of the era, it was dismal,” he wrote. Kirkland was also known for disrobing for so many other roles and social causes that Time magazine dubbed her “the latter-day Isadora Duncan of nudothespianism.”

Kirkland volunteered for people with AIDS, cancer and heart disease, fed homeless people via the American Red Cross, participated in telethons for hospices and was an advocate for prisoners, especially young people.

The actors union SAG-AFTRA called her “a fearless performer whose artistry and advocacy spanned more than six decades,” adding that as “a true mentor and champion for actors, her generosity and spirit will continue to inspire.”

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@stanlynewsjournal.com

MARK TERRILL / AP PHOTO

Sally Kirkland stands next to a poster of her lm “Anna” in Los Angeles in 1988.

REED SAXON / AP PHOTO

Michael Douglas, left, and Sally Kirkland appear with their awards for best actor for “Wall Street” and best actress for “Anna” at the 45th Annual Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills, California, in January 1988.

STANLY SPORTS

North Stanly eclipses East Surry in second round playo thriller

The two teams combined for 14 touchdowns

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

NEW LONDON — In a state playo shootout that came down to the nal minute, North Stanly defeated East Surry 49 - 45 on Friday night in R.N. Je rey Stadium.

The second round of the 3A playo s turned into a back-and-forth thriller, with the teams trading seven touchdowns apiece.

Trailing 45-42 with 37 seconds left, the No. 4 Comets (10 -1) used a 6-yard keeper from junior quarterback Brady

Lowder to deliver the fatal blow to the No. 13 Cardinals (5-7), who had climbed back from 10 points down in the fourth quarter.

North Stanly — now riding a ve-game winning streak — advanced to the third round where it will host No. 12. West Davidson (9-3) this Friday.

Coming o a rst round bye to kick o the tournament, North Stanly coach Chad Little said it took a while for his team to kick into gear.

“That bye week was really a kryptonite for us,” he said. “When you come back to play you’re rusty, and it’s just hard to keep that same game. So it took us until the second half to get rolling, but we’re here now.”

The Comets coach said his eyes were rmly on the clock during East Surry’s go-ahead scoring drive to go up 45-42 with four minutes left in the game.

“We knew we could come back and win it because our o ense was doing that good. If they’d held it too long, we wouldn’t have had time to do it,” Little said. “It’s about the senior leadership and our coaching sta preparing each week like we do. We watch a lot of lm, and it’s all about the coaching sta . Our coaches prepare, and that’s what gets us through.”

With 4:54 left in the rst quarter, East Surry quarterback JB Davis scored the rst touchdown of the game with a 2-yard

“We knew we could come back and win it because our o ense was doing that good.”

Chad Little, North Stanly coach

run to put the Cardinals up 7-0.

The Comets evened the scoreboard three minutes later as senior running back Juice Lilly ran in a 3-yard touchdown.

The teams traded scores in the second quarter, but a missed extra-point attempt and failed two-point try left the Cardinals trailing 21-19 at halftime. Lilly added another rushing

touchdown in the third quarter before East Surry’s Nathan Kiger trimmed North Stanly’s lead to 28-25.

In the fourth quarter, the Comets jumped to a 10-point lead twice, with the Cardinals nding themselves down 42-32 with seven minutes left in the game. Davis and Kiger each scored again to catapult East Surry back into the lead before North Stanly won the game on its nal touchdown of the night.

The Comets have now scored at least 49 points in three consecutive games.

“We have athletes left and right. We’re fast and we’re very good,” Little said. “And you know, that team (East Surry) right there is a very good team. They played a tough schedule, and their o ensive line surge outmatched our defensive line. But we came back and we had a good gameplan in the second half. We did some tweaks on defense, and it worked out.”

South Stanly prepares for rst road trip of state playo s

The Rowdy Rebel Bulls will travel to Boonville

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — In the second round of the NCHSAA state playo s, Stanly County’s two football teams playing on the road both su ered blowout losses to their higher-seeded opponents.

The two local squads playing at home against lower-seeded teams each won their games to stay alive and advance to the third round of postseason play.

No. 7 South Stanly at No. 2 Starmount

Coming o a rst-round bye week in the 2A bracket, the No. 7 South Stanly Rowdy Rebel Bulls came out swinging in their second round matchup with No. 10 Christ the King, shutting out the Crusaders 38-0 in Norwood.

The Bulls (9-2) will now head to Boonville for their third round game against No. 2 Starmount, which defeated No. 15 Cherryville 56-7 over the weekend.

South Stanly has won ve games in a row, but they will now travel to face a Mountain Valley Conference-winning Rams team (9-2) that has won its last three games by a margin of 163-7. Both teams used their rushing attacks in the second round, with the Bulls (297 rushing yards) and Rams (248 rushing yards) each driving their

o enses through the ground game.

No. 12 West Davidson at No. 4 North Stanly

In North Stanly’s 3A matchup, the No. 4 Comets (10-1) defeated No. 13 East Surry 49-45 in New London, capping o an o ense-heavy shootout with a game-winning drive. The Comets will get to play on their home eld again in

their third round game as they host West Davidson. The No. 12 Dragons (9-2) are coming o a 31-21 road victory over No. 5 Providence Grove. Aiming for its fth straight win, North Stanly will challenge an improved West Davidson roster that began the season 3-3 but hasn’t lost since Oct. 3. The Dragons had 440 yards of o ense in their upset win as four di erent running backs and two wide receiv-

ers each notched over 40 yards. No. 16 Albemarle (eliminated)

On Friday, the No. 16 Albemarle Bulldogs (5-7) were knocked out of the 2A bracket in a 57-14 road loss to the No. 1 Murphy Bulldogs. The top-seeded team blasted o to a 29-0 lead in the rst quarter before increasing its lead to 43-7 at halftime.

South Stanly’s football team has already put together three more wins than it had during its 6-5 campaign last year.

No. 24 West Stanly (eliminated)

In a 49-7 loss at No. 8 Burns in the 4A bracket, the No. 24 West Stanly fell to 2-10 on the season as the Colts scored an early touchdown but never added to it the rest of the game. The 49 points scored by the Bulldog were the most points allowed by the Colts since a 56-7 home loss to Monroe on Oct. 10.

North Stanly’s o ense prepares for a red-zone play during the third quarter of the Comets’ home game against East Surry on Nov. 14.

Football coach John Beam from ‘Last Chance U’ dead after shooting

Police call the on-campus shooting “a targeted incident”

By Mike Catalini and Haven Daley

The Associated Press

OAKLAND, Calif. — Oakland’s celebrated former football coach John Beam, who was featured in the Netix series “Last Chance U” that showcased his success with players others wouldn’t gamble on, died Friday, a day after being shot on the college campus where he worked.

Police arrested the 27-year- old suspect Friday. Authorities said he knew the 66-year-old coach, and it was a targeted attack.

The shooting at Laney College rattled Oakland, with scores holding a vigil outside the hospital before he died. He was remembered as someone who would help anyone.

Mayor Barbara Lee described Beam as a “giant” in the city who mentored thousands of young people, including her own nephew, and “gave Oakland’s youth their best chance” at success.

“For over 40 years, he has shaped leaders on and o the eld, and our community is shaken alongside his family,” Lee said.

Authorities credited technology, speci cally cameras at the college campus, private residences and on public transit, in tracking the suspect identi ed as Cedric Irving Jr. Irving was arrested without incident at a commuter rail station in Oakland just after 3 a.m. on Friday and police recovered the gun. He was being held at a local jail on charges of murder and carrying a concealed weapon.

Oakland Assistant Chief James Beere said the suspect went on campus for a “specific reason” but did not elaborate on what that was. “This was a very targeted incident,” he said.

Beere did not say how Beam and the suspect knew each other but said the suspect was known to loiter around the Laney campus. The suspect had played football at a high school where Beam had worked, but not at the time the coach was employed there.

Coach had deep relationships with players

The Net ix docuseries focused on athletes at junior colleges striving to turn their lives around, and

Laney College Athletic

Director John Beam poses with the trophy after Laney won the California state football championship in 2018.

Beam’s Laney College Eagles starred in the 2020 season. Beam developed deep relationships with his players while elding a team that regularly competed for championships.

Two of Beam’s former players — brothers Nahshon and Rejzohn Wright, now in the NFL with the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints — posted on social media after the shooting.

“You mean the world to me,” Rejzohn Wright said in a post with a photo of Beam.

His brother shared a photo of the coach alongside a broken heart emoji.

Piedmont Police Chief Fred Shavies, who previously served as a deputy chief in the Oakland Police Department said he was a friend, mentee and long time admirer of Beam.

“John was so much more than a coach,” he said. “He was a father gure to thousands of not only men but young women in our community.”

Shavies said he met Beam when he was in the eighth grade, and he supported him after Shavies lost his father in high school, calling him “an absolutely incredible human being.” He asked how did Beam leave his mark on so many people “with just 24 hours in a day, right?”

Beam’s family said in a statement that he was a “loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor and friend.”

“Our hearts are full from the outpouring of love,” the family said, requesting privacy.

Beam, who was serving as athletic director, joined Laney College in 2004 as a running backs coach and became head coach in 2012, winning two league titles. He retired from coaching in 2024 but stayed on at the school to shape its athletic programs. According to his biography on the college’s website, at least 20 of his players went on to the NFL.

COURTESY PERALTA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT VIA AP

Roundball kicks o on Stanly County courts

Stanly News Journal sta

South Stanly boys’ basketball, 0-0, 0-0 in Yadkin Valley 2A/3A (17-9 last year)

Last week’s scores: None

This week’s schedule: Nov. 24 at Piedmont

South Stanly girls’ basketball, 0-0, 0-0 in Yadkin Valley 2A/3A (1-20 last year)

Last week’s scores: None

This week’s schedule: Nov. 24 at Piedmont

West Stanly boys’ basketball, 0-1, 0-0 in Rocky River 4A/5A (10-15 last year)

Last week’s scores: Lost

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Pelicans re Green 12 games into fth season, Borrego named interim coach

New Orleans The New Orleans Pelicans red coach Willie Green on the heels of a 2-10 start to his fth season in charge. Pelicans rst-year basketball operations chief Joe Dumars named assistant James Borrego as interim coach. Green was hired to his rst head coaching job in 2021 and has gone 150-190 in four-plus seasons. His teams made the playo s twice, losing in the rst round to Phoenix in 2022 and Oklahoma City in 2024. Borrego was formerly the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets for four seasons from 2018 to 2022.

70-53 to Albemarle

This week’s schedule:

• Nov. 18 vs. Charlotte Latin

• Nov. 21 at North Stanly

• Nov. 24 at Gray Stone Day

West Stanly girls’ basketball, 0-1, 0-0 in Rocky River 4A/5A (14-12 last year)

Last week’s scores: Lost 52-47 to Albemarle

This week’s schedule:

• Nov. 18 vs. Charlotte Latin

• Nov. 21 at North Stanly

• Nov. 24 at Gray Stone Day

North Stanly boys’ basketball, 0-0, 0-0 in Yadkin Valley (22-7 last year)

Last week’s scores: None

This week’s schedule:

• Nov. 19 vs. East Rowan

• Nov. 21 vs. West Stanly

North Stanly girls’ basketball, 0-0, 0-0 in Yadkin Valley (13-13 last year)

Last week’s scores: None

This week’s schedule:

• Nov. 19 vs. East Rowan

• Nov. 21 vs. West Stanly

• Nov. 24 vs. Anson

Albemarle boys’ basketball, 1-0, 0-0 in Yadkin Valley (2-21 last year)

Last week’s scores: Won

70-53 vs. West Stanly

This week’s schedule:

• Nov. 18 vs. Forest Hills

• Nov. 21 vs. Anson

Albemarle girls’ basketball, 1-0, 0-0 in Yadkin Valley (25-5 last year)

Last week’s scores: Won 52-47 vs. West Stanly

This week’s schedule:

• Nov. 18 vs. Forest Hills

• Nov. 21 vs. Anson

NHL Devils leading scorer Hughes out 2 months after nger surgery

Newark, N.J. New Jersey Devils leading scorer Jack Hughes is expected to be out two months after undergoing surgery to repair a nger injury. The team announced Hughes had the operation at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. Hughes’ expected return-to-play timeline is eight weeks, and he’ll be reevaluated at the six-week mark. It wasn’t clear which nger or which hand Hughes had surgery on.

SPORTS BROADCASTING

Disney reaches new deal with YouTube TV, ending two -week blackout

New York Disney and YouTube TV have reached a new deal to bring channels like ABC and ESPN back to the Google-owned livestreaming platform. The agreement ends a blackout for customers that lasted about two weeks. Disney content went dark on YouTube TV the night of Oct. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new licensing deal. YouTube TV subscribers were left without Disney channels on the platform — notably disrupting coverage of top college football matchups and professional sports games, among other news and entertainment o erings.

Games last week (Nov. 14)

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NOTICES NOTICES

Notice NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE STANLY COUNTY

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 25SP000082-830 ANNMARIE STOLLE-ROCCO, Petitioner, vs. JOHN ABRUZZO, HOWARD G. STOLLE, JR., MARK STURT TRIPP, LINDA SUSAN VINICOMBE, and PATRICIA MARIE VANMIDDELEM, Respondents.

NOTICE OF SALE

Under and by virtue of an Order of the Clerk of Superior Court of Stanly County, North Carolina, entered on the 27th day of August, 2025, made in the above captioned Estate, the undersigned, was by said Order appointed Commissioner to sell the land described in the Petition, and will on the 24th day of November, 2025, at 12:00 Noon at the Stanly County Courthouse, Albemarle, North Carolina, o er for sale to the highest bidder for cash, that certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in Locust, Stanly County, North Carolina and being more particularly described as follows:

TRACT ONE BEING all of Lot 30 in Locust Valley Subdivision as shown on map thereof in Plat Book 19, page 153, Stanly County Public Registry. Reference to said plat being hereby made for a more complete description by metes and bounds. The above-described property is subject to a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants, including the creation of a homeowners association, as shown in Book 1077, page 89, Stanly County Registry. For reference see Deed Book 1166, Page 588, Stanly County Registry. For further reference see deed recorded in Book 1039, page 147, Stanly County Registry. Parcel ID: 557502665767

combinación de

That by deed dated April 16,

made by the defaulting bidder shall secure payment of the amount, if any, for which the defaulting bidder remains liable under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 45-21.30. 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

Esto informa al público de que se celebrará una audiencia pública sobre la propuesta de solicitud del Programa de Transporte Comunitario del Condado de Stanly, que debe presentarse al Departamento de Transporte de Carolina del Norte a más tardar el 30 de octubre de 2025. La audiencia pública se celebrará el 1 de diciembre de 2025 a las 18:00 horas ante los comisionados del condado de Stanly (de la junta directiva) en la sala de reuniones Gene McIntyre, situada en 1000 N. First Street, Albemarle, NC 28001. Quienes estén interesados en asistir a la audiencia pública y necesiten ayudas auxiliares y servicios bajo la Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades (ADA) o un traductor de idiomas deben contactar con Tyler Brummitt antes del 16 de noviembre de 2025, en el número de teléfono 704-986-3602 o por correo electrónico en tbrummitt@ stanlycountync.gov.

El Programa de Transporte Comunitario proporciona asistencia para coordinar los programas de transporte existentes que operan en el condado de Stanly , así como ofrece opciones y servicios de transporte para las comunidades dentro de esta área de servicio. Estos servicios se ofrecen actualmente mediante vías de demanda y respuesta y suscripción. Los servicios se prestan con furgonetas y vehículos ligeros de transporte. La cantidad total estimada solicitada para el periodo del 1 de julio de 2026 al 30 de junio de 2027.

NOTA: La cantidad de la participación local está sujeta a la disponibilidad de nanciación estatal.

Los programas de nanciación cubiertos son 5311, 5310, 5339 Bus e Instalaciones de Autobuses, 5307 (Rutas jas pequeñas, sistemas regionales y urbano-rurales consolidados)

Esta solicitud puede inspeccionarse en 1000 N. First Street, Suite 15, Albemarle, NC de 9:00 a 15:00. Los comentarios escritos deben dirigirse a Andy Lucas antes del 16 de octubre de 2025.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

Section 5311 (ADTAP), 5310, 5339, 5307 and applicable State funding, or combination thereof.

This is to inform the public that a public hearing will be held on the proposed Stanly County Community Transportation Program Application to be submitted to the North Carolina Department of Transportation no later than October 30, 2025. The public hearing will be held on December 01, 2025 at 6:00pm before the (governing board) Stanly County Commissioners in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room located at 1000 N. First Street, Albemarle, NC 28001.

Those interested in attending the public hearing and needing either auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or a language translator should contact Tyler Brummitt on or before November 16, 2025, at telephone number 704986-3602 or via email at tbrummitt@stanlycountync.gov.

The Community Transportation Program provides assistance to coordinate existing transportation programs operating in Stanly County as well as provides transportation options and services for the communities within this service area. These services are currently provided using demand and response and subscription routes. Services are rendered by vans and light transit vehicles.

The total estimated amount requested for the period July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027.

NOTE: Local share amount is subject to State funding availability.

Funding programs covered are 5311, 5310, 5339 Bus and Bus Facilities, 5307 (Small xed route, regional, and consolidated urban-rural systems)

‘Wicked: For

Good’ soundtrack, Ted Danson,

Aerosmith teams up with Yungblud for “One More Time”

The Associated Press

TED DANSON’S “A Man on the Inside” returning to Net ix for its second season, and Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo belting out the “Wicked: For Good” soundtrack 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: Aerosmith teaming up with Yungblud on a new EP, “The Bad Guys 2” hitting Peacock, and Jordan Peele looking at black cowboys in a new documentary series.

MOVIES TO STREAM

“Train Dreams,” (Friday on Net ix), Clint Bentley’s adaptation of Denis Johnson’s acclaimed novella, stars Joel Edgerton as Robert Grainier, a railroad worker and logger in the early 20th-century Pacific Northwest. The lm, scripted by Bentley and Greg Kwedar (the duo behind last year’s “Sing Sing”), conjures a frontier past to tell a story about an anonymous laborer and the currents of change around him.

The DreamWorks Animation sequel “The Bad Guys 2” (Friday on Peacock) returns the reformed criminal gang of animals for a new heist caper. In the lm, with a returning voice cast

NOTICES

‘The

Bad Guys 2,’ black cowboys

including Sam Rockwell, Awkwa na, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos and Marc Maron, the Bad Guys encounter a new robbery team: the Bad Girls. In his review, AP’s Mark Kennedy lamented an over-amped sequel with a plot that reaches into space: “It’s hard to watch a franchise drift so expensively and pointlessly in Earth’s orbit.”

In “The Roses,” Jay Roach (“Meet the Parents’), from a script by Tony McNamara (“Poor Things”), remakes Danny DeVito’s 1989 black comedy, “The War of the Roses.” In this version, Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star as a loving couple who turn bitter enemies. In his review, Kennedy called “The Roses” “an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Musical theater fans, your time has come … again. “Wicked: For Good” is upon us, and with it comes the release of its o cial soundtrack. On Friday, after or before you catch the lm in theaters, stream its life-afrming compositions to your heart’s content. Might we suggest Grande’s “The Girl in the Bubble?” Or Erivo’s “No Place Like Home?” And for the Je Goldblum and Jonathan Bailey lovers, yes, there’s gold to be unearthed too.

Rock this way: Aerosmith is back with new music. Following their 2023 “Greatest Hits” collection and just a few months

after the conclusion of their “Peace Out: The Farewell Tour” (the band said it would no longer hit the road due to singer Steven Tyler’s voice becoming permanently damaged by a vocal cord injury), they’re teaming up with next gen rock ’n’ roller Yungblud. It’s a collaborative EP called “One More Time,” out Friday. The anthemic opening track, “My Only Angel” sets the tone. What’s another one for the road?

SERIES TO STREAM

Raise your hand if you still miss “Succession” Sundays on HBO. An acclaimed Swedish drama called “Vanguard” debuts Tuesday on Viaplay that’s of the same vein. It’s a dramatization about Jan Stenbeck, one of Europe’s most in uential media moguls. There’s ambition,

betrayal and yes, sibling rivalry. Danson’s “A Man on the Inside” returns to Net ix for its second season on Thursday. Danson plays a widower named Charles who has found a new sense of purpose as an amateur private detective. In Season 1, Charles moved into a retirement home to catch his culprit. In Season 2, he goes back to college to solve a case. Danson’s real-life wife, Mary Steenburgen, joins the cast as Charles’s love interest as he explores the idea of a second chance at romance.

Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore co-star in “The Assassin” for AMC+. Hawes (“Bodyguard”) plays a retired assassin living in solitude on a Greek island whose peaceful life is turned upside down when her estranged son (Highmoore) comes to visit. When the two

“The Roses” is an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

Mark Kennedy, AP Film Writer

nd themselves in danger, they must work together to stay alive. It premieres Thursday.

Peele has a new documentary series called “High Horse: The Black Cowboy” coming to Peacock on Thursday. The three-part series examines how stories of black cowboys have been erased from both pop culture and history books.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

If you bought Mario Kart World when Nintendo launched the Switch 2 back in June, you may be wondering: Do I really need another racing game? Kirby Air Riders comes from designer Masahiro Sakurai, the mastermind behind Super Smash Bros., so it adds that franchise’s chaotic combat to the mix. Each of the competitors has di erent weapons and each of the vehicles has di erent bene ts and drawbacks. And everyone can use Kirby’s signature “inhale” technique, which lets you absorb an opponent’s skills by, well, swallowing them. So if you like your racing weird, get your motor running Thursday.

Clerk’s o ce at (704) 986-3600 at least 48 hours prior to the hearing.

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK Having quali ed as Co-Executors of

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given; a public hearing will be held by the City of Albemarle City Council pursuant to N.C.G.S. 158-7.1 on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 6:30pm or shortly thereafter in the City Council Chambers in City Hall located at 144 N. Second Street, Albemarle, North Carolina.

The purpose of the public hearing is to invite public comment on the proposed economic incentive agreement that will result in an eight (8) year, 75% business development grant between the City of Albemarle and an existing manufacturing company expanding their operations in the city limits of Albemarle, North Carolina. The grant will aid and encourage new taxable investment within the City of Albemarle and Stanly County. The company will invest an estimated $9,058,000 in equipment and create approximately 13 new jobs. The incentive agreement will be funded out of the General Fund revenues. The City of Albemarle will recover the cost from the new tax revenue, and the public will bene t from the additional property, business, and sales tax revenue, stimulation of the overall economy, and expanded employment opportunities in Albemarle and Stanly County.

All interested persons are invited to attend this hearing.

Person’s needing special assistance should contact the City Clerk’s O ce at 704-984-9411 at least 48 hours prior to the hearing.

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000584-830 Having quali ed as Co-Executors of the estate of Sherrill Edwin Clark deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, This is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Sherrill Edwin Clark to present them to the undersigned on or before February 20, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This 19th day of November, 2025 Brenda Shoe 16217 HWY 73 E Mt. Pleasant, NC 28124 Co-Executor Annette Harkey 28410 NC 73 HWY Albemarle, NC 28001 Co-Executor

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 23E000560-830 Having quali ed as Administrator CTA of the estate of Jack Delane Rowland, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, This is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Jack Delane Rowland to present them to the undersigned on or before February 6, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This 5th day of November, 2025 Amanda Delane Hathcock 32189 B Old Parker Road Albemarle, NC 28001 Administrator CTAStanly

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 23E000576-830

Having quali ed as Administratrix of the estate of Kevin Otis Lee, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, This is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Kevin Otis Lee to present them to the undersigned on or before February 6, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This 5th day of November, 2025 Faith Lee 310 Fairhaven Street Florence, SC 29501 Administratrix Tia Alicia Wallace 16208 Foreleigh Road Huntersville, NC 28078-7674

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000602-830

Having quali ed as Co-Executors of the estate of William Edward Pratt deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, This is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said William Edward Pratt to present them to the undersigned on or before February 20, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This 19th day of November, 2025 Gregory Allen Pratt 251 Admiral Cochrane Drive Apt 4024 Annapolis, MD 21401 Executor

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000545-830

Having quali ed as Administrator of the estate of James Lee Williams, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, This is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said James Lee Williams to present them to the undersigned on or before January 30, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This 29th day of October, 2025 Michael Ray Williams 259 Hilltop Road Oakboro, NC 28129

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION STANLY COUNTY BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E-000562-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Executrix of the estate of Dora

NOTICE

JAAP BUITENDIJK / SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES VIA AP

Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star in “The Roses,” Jay Roach’s remake of a 1989 black comedy.

Solution to last week’s puzzle

Solution to this week’s puzzles

Demon dance

Wake Forest’s Dallas Afalava (52) celebrates a play as the Demon Deacons handled the Tar Heels at home on Saturday 28-12 to improve to 7-3 on the season. The Deacs host Delaware this week.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Congress acts to force release of Epstein les, Trump agrees to sign Washington, D.C. Both the House and Senate have acted decisively to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its les on convicted sex o ender Je rey Epstein. It’s a remarkable display of approval for an e ort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from President Donald Trump and Republican leadership. Trump now says he will sign the bill. Just hours after the House passed the bill, the Senate approved a motion to pass the bill with unanimous consent once it is sent to the Senate. For survivors of Epstein’s abuse, passage of the bill was a watershed moment in a yearslong quest for accountability.

Federal judges block Texas from using new U.S. House map in 2026 midterms

WSFCS renames 2 facilities in honor of private donors

Interim superintendent Catty Moore gave a public farewell

By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald

WINSTON-SALEM — The Winston-Salem/Forsyth Coun-

ty Schools Board of Education is moving forward with the renaming of two high school facilities.

At its Nov. 10 meeting, the board approved the renaming of both the RJ Reynolds weight room and the eld at Thompson Stadium.

The RJ Reynolds weight room will be named the Wilson Weight Room, in honor of a private donation of $135,000 for improvements to the weight room.

The money, which was a do-

nation from The Wilson Family Foundation in conjunction with the RJ Reynolds booster club, will go toward replacing the ooring and most of the equipment in the weight room, and it’ll come at no cost to the county.

“The renovated space will not only serve our athletic teams, but also function as an instructional classroom for over 150 students each day,” said RJ Reynolds Athletic Director Brad Fisher. “The upgrades will modernize the space, create a safer and more e ective learning environment and bring Reynolds on par with our peer schools that have made similar improvements in the recent years.”

Thompson Stadium at Parkland High School will have its eld named Lambeth Family Field in honor of the Lambeth Family.

“For more than 60 years, the Lambeth family has profoundly impacted the lives of countless Parkland students,” said board chair Deanna Kaplan.

“Over the past three decades, they’ve become an inseparable part of the Mustang community. Their impact is immeasurable and their in uence will be felt for generations to come.”

“The Lambeth family’s dedication and commitment to Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools is truly inspiring and their consistent e ort in going above and beyond for our students is exceptional,” said board member Susan Miller.

The meeting was also thenal one for interim superintendent Catty Moore, as she will be replaced by new interim Don Phipps in December following the conclusion of her contract.

Moore has served as the interim superintendent since June and has helped to navigate the district through its budgetary crisis which resulted in the layo of several hundred employees.

“To the board, thank you for the opportunity and the invitation to come and support the district in the work that’s needed moving forward,” Moore said. “I want to thank the sta for being open-minded, for sharing even when it was hard and they didn’t want to, for teaching me the things that I needed to know to try and contemplate the di erent options that might be before us.”

“Her leadership, her experience and her steady presence has been exactly what we needed during a time of great challenge,” said board chair Deanna Kaplan. “Thank you for being an exceptional educator, a thoughtful leader and a source of calm and clarity. You were the right person at the right time and we are deeply grateful.”

The WSFCS Board of Education will next meet Dec. 9.

Immigration crackdown in NC expands to Raleigh

Border Patrol units were spotted in Durham, Raleigh and Cary

By Gary D. Robertson and Tim Sullivan The Associated Press

Federal agents expanded their North Carolina immigration crackdown to the area around the state capital of Raleigh on Tuesday, with fear spreading in at least one immigrant-heavy suburb where restaurants closed and many people stayed home. The North Carolina operation began over the weekend in the state’s largest city, Charlotte, where o cials said more than 130 people have been arrested.

A panel of three federal judges has blocked Texas from using a new congressional map that Republicans drew in hopes of picking up ve U.S. House seats. The 2-1 ruling Tuesday was a blow to President Donald Trump’s e orts to have states draw more favorable maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections so the GOP can preserve its slim U.S. House majority. In Texas, civil rights groups have argued the new map is an illegal racial gerrymander. The judges blocked the map’s use pending further court review. Texas’ expected appeal would be directly to the U.S. Supreme Court. $2.00

Speaking at a Raleigh City Council meeting, Mayor Janet Cowell said there had been “con rmed sightings” of Border Patrol o cers operating in Wake County, which includes

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Granddaughter of ‘Charlotte’s Web’ author upset with use of book’s title in immigration crackdown

She says the arrests go against what E.B. White stood for

The Associated Press

THE TRUMP administration is calling its new immigration sweep in North Carolina’s largest city “Operation Charlotte’s Web.”

But the granddaughter of E.B. White, the author of the classic 1952 children’s tale “Charlotte’s Web,” said the wave of immigra-

tion arrests goes against what her grandfather and his beloved book stood for.

“He believed in the rule of law and due process,” Martha White said in a statement. “He certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes and workplaces without IDs or summons.”

White, whose grandfather died in 1985, works as his literary executor. She pointed out that in “Charlotte’s Web,” the spider who is the main character devoted her life on the farm

“He

to securing the freedom of a pig named Wilbur. The Trump administration and Republican leaders have seized on a number of catchy phrases while carrying out mass deportation e orts — naming their holding facili-

ties Alligator Alcatraz in Florida, Speedway Slammer in Indiana and Cornhusker Clink in Nebraska.

Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol o cial now on the ground in Charlotte, was the face of the “Operation At Large” in Los Angeles and “Operation Midway Blitz” in Chicago, two enforcement surges earlier this year. As the Charlotte operation got underway, Bovino quoted from “Charlotte’s Web” in a social media post: “We take to the breeze, we go as we please.”

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: forsythcommunity@ northstatejournal.com

Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

“But I think everyone would rather close than operate.”

protesters to remain peaceful.

“And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today,” she added.

Federal o cials have said the crackdowns will reduce crime, though leaders in both Charlotte and Raleigh said crime was down. The o cials have also criticized so-called sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents in a handful of jurisdictions.

Anxiety spreads swiftly in Raleigh suburb

Federal o cials have given no information about activity in the Raleigh area.

But in Cary, a sprawling Raleigh suburb where o cials say almost 20% of the population was born outside the U.S. and the large Asian population tripled in the 1990s, fear spread quickly.

An area resident recorded as a large black SUV with darkly tinted windows and Texas license plates drove through Cary’s downtown, eventually linking up with another SUV.

The vehicles stopped at a construction site, where Pamela Hoile recorded Border Patrol agents detaining four workers.

Speaking by phone after post-

“And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today.”

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell

ing the video on Facebook, she described herself as a “very outraged, horri ed and concerned citizen.”

The Chatham Square shopping center, which is usually bustling at midday with workers eating at mom-and-pop ethnic restaurants, was quiet. Most of the restaurants — Mexican, Indian and Chinese among them — were closed. Nearby, the often-full parking lot at an Indian grocery store was largely empty, and tra c inside was nonexistent.

Esmeralda Angel’s family closed their restaurant, the Esmeralda Grill, to avoid any confrontations between customers and federal agents. At their separate grocery store, they were delivering items to customers who were avoiding going out in public.

The family businesses had scaled back to help their community, she said, but knew it would hurt nancially.

“Taco Tuesday is the busy day for all of these restaurants,” Angel said of the weekly specials.

Congresswoman calls deployment “profound abuse of power”

U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee, a Democrat who represents Durham, part of Raleigh and some suburbs, said Tuesday that the deployment of federal immigration agents in North Carolina “is a profound abuse of power, a violation of civil rights and a stain on our democracy.”

The region’s South Asian community has grown dramatically in recent decades, including many people drawn to the Research Triangle region by high-tech jobs.

Satish Garimella is mayor pro tempore in Morrisville, about 15 miles west of downtown Raleigh. Close to half of the town’s 30,000 people are Asian.

Garimella, who grew up in India but is now a U.S. citizen, said the expected arrival of immigration agents is “creating a lot of panic,” and he recommended residents carry identity documents.

“You just don’t know when you will be questioned and what things are needed,” Garimella said.

The Trump administration turned to North Carolina after immigration crackdowns in Los

Angeles and Chicago, both deep blue cities in deep blue states run by nationally prominent ofcials who are often loudly critical of President Donald Trump. They also increased operations in Portland, Oregon, where more than 560 immigration arrests were made in October, according to U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks. North Carolina was a more surprising target.

The mayors of Charlotte and Raleigh are both Democrats, as is the governor, but none are known for wading into national political battles. In a state where divided government has become the norm, Gov. Josh Stein in particular has tried to get along with the GOP-controlled state legislature. The state’s two U.S. senators are both Republican, and Trump won the state in the last three presidential elections.

State was drawn into national debates

A handful of cities and counties in North Carolina have been drawn into America’s debates over crime and immigration, two of the most important issues to the White House.

The most prominent was the fatal stabbing this summer of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light-

rail train, an attack captured on video. The suspect was from the U.S., but the Trump administration repeatedly highlighted that he had been arrested more than a dozen times.

While the Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on the state because of sanctuary policies, most North Carolina county jails have long honored “detainers,” or requests from federal o cials to hold an arrested immigrant for a limited time so agents can take custody of them.

Some common noncooperation policies have existed in few places, including Raleigh and Charlotte, where the police donot help with immigration enforcement.

In Mecklenburg County, the jail did not honor detainer requests for several years until state law e ectively made it mandatory starting last year. Wake County, where Raleigh is located, had a similar policy.

DHS said about 1,400 detainers across North Carolina had not been honored since October 2020, putting the public at risk.

Matt Mercer, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Republican Party, said in a text message that the arrival of immigration agents to Raleigh would show that failures by “radical Democrats will nally be taken seriously.”

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

U.S. Border Patrol Commander at large Gregory Bovino, right, looks on as a detainee sits by a car Monday in Charlotte.

believed in the rule of law and due process.”

Martha White

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Climate has a new head clown

Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson.

MOVE OVER, Al Gore. The climate clown car has a new self-anointed driver. His name is Gavin Newsom.

The California governor is trying to use the ongoing United Nations climate conference (COP30) to position himself as the leader of the U.S., if not the world, on climate change. In hopes of advancing his presidential aspirations in 2028, Newsom is attempting to exploit the vacuum created by the boycott of COP30 by the Trump administration.

Toward that end, Newsom has attacked President Donald Trump as “an invasive species,” boasted about California’s success in climate and traveled into the Amazon jungle to “absorb a deeper spiritual connection to this issue that connects all of us.” Cue the eyeroll.

But Newsom is actually more of a tragic nuisance than any kind of hero when it comes to climate.

Californians pay the highest prices for electricity in the continental U.S. This is because Newsom has loaded the California grid with expensive wind, solar and utility-scale batteries. Not only has all this green technology caused prices to soar, it has also weakened grid reliability. During periods of peak electricity demand, EV owners are warned not to charge their vehicles.

Californians also pay the highest prices for gasoline in the continental U.S because the state requires special blends of gasoline that are supposed to be improving air quality. One

might think that Newsom would be helping the oil industry to lower costs. But he’s not.

Newsom’s hostility to the oil and gas industry forces California to import gasoline from foreign countries that don’t produce oil as cleanly as we do in the U.S. He’s trying to block o shore drilling that would actually reduce oil pollution in the ocean. Oil from below the ocean oor naturally seeps into the ocean o the California coast. Oil drilling would reduce that natural seepage by reducing pressure.

Newsom is also chasing re neries out of California. The problem is so acute that Newsom is actually now forced to consider a state takeover of the re neries as the industry ees the state.

But it gets worse.

After more than four decades of forest mismanagement that has turned publicly owned forests and lands in California into tinderboxes just waiting for sparks to turn into deadly, out-of-control wild res, Newsom has opposed Trump’s suggestions to clean up the forests and public lands. These wild res have burned down forests that companies like Microsoft tried to preserve by purchasing carbon o sets.

While the California legislature had directed in 2012 that reservoirs be built to provide water to ght wild res and drought, Newsom failed to build any. When Trump directed the diversion of water from Southern California to end, Newsom opposed the move.

Democrats blame Republicans for multiple Democrat failures

No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it.

A KEY REASON Democrats make so many Republicans grind our molars is that they will not take responsibility for their own gargantuan failures. Instead, Democrats blame the GOP for the damage that they in ict on America.

It’s bad enough when someone takes a skillet and repeatedly wallops you across the back of your head. What really irks is when that person then screams at you: “Stop smacking your skull with a skillet!”

This is a big part of why Democrats have become utterly insu erable.

This month alone, Democrats refused to own their disastrous “Schumer Shutdown.” Thankfully, Democrats’ 43- day kidnapping conspiracy zzled out last Wednesday night.

The Republican-led House of Representatives voted to end the federal shutdown one day after eight Senate Democrats joined nearly unanimous Republicans, stopped the Democrats’ libuster, and adopted legislation to reopen the government.

Shortly before the House vote, Democrat leader Hakeem Je ries of Brooklyn took to the oor and presented a master class in how to shirk responsibility and shift blame.

“Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the presidency,” Je ries said. “(President) Donald Trump and Republicans made the decision to shut the government down, the longest shutdown in American history.”

Wrong!

House Republicans passed a “clean” continuing resolution on Sept. 19. It would have sustained Biden-era federal spending on autopilot until Jan. 30. There were

no strings, budget cuts or policy reforms attached.

This bill went to the Senate, where — as Je ries damn well knows — overall Republican control is limited by the requirement for 60 votes to overcome a libuster. Republicans have only 53 votes, seven short of the number needed to adopt the House bill.

Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer of New York weaponized this rule and launched the Democrat libuster that shut down the federal government on Oct. 1.

Fourteen separate times, Senate Republicans (absent the dissenting Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky) voted to end the Democrat libuster. While three Democrats concurred with the GOP, Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota still fell short of the 60-vote threshold needed to stop Schumer from holding the American people and their government hostage until Democrats scored $192.8 billion for illegal-alien health care.

Je ries knows all of this. Nonetheless, he stood up and lied about it.

Je ries continued to blame Republicans for his party’s ops. “House Democrats will continue to ght to address the health care crisis that Republicans have created,” Je ries said. A huge part of America’s pounding migraine on health insurance is Democrats’ proudest baby: Obamacare. To say that this is a baby only a mother could love is an insult to ugly babies.

Obamacare was supposed to lower insurance premiums by $2,500. Instead, they have soared by at least that much. The

At COP30, Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson that was not completely extinguished by re ghters. When the con agration later spread, aided by the naturally occurring Santa Ana winds, there was no water in the re hydrants. None of this is climate change. It’s incompetent government led by a vacuous hologram of a person.

Since 2012, California has charged the oil industry and consumers billions and billions of dollars as part of a cap-and-trade scheme to lower emissions. Not only have the wild res more than o set all the emissions cuts, but the California legislature recently approved a bill to drill 2,000 new oil wells so that the state could reap more revenue from the cap-and-trade scheme.

The beep-beep of Newsom’s climate clown car is deafening. It’s a warning for 2028.

Steve Milloy is a biostatistician and lawyer. He posts on X at @ JunkScience. This column was rst published by Daily Caller News Foundation.

entire boondoggle is a scal tumor that requires massive taxpayer subsidies to stay alive. Democrats are desperate to keep these subsidies owing, lest Obamacare atline. Democrats cannot blame the GOP for this mess. No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it. Democrats own Obamacare and every one of its painful symptoms.

Je ries then denounced “the Republican refusal to extend the A ordable Care Act tax credits.” Once again, Je ries cannot pin this on the GOP. These tax credits are scheduled to expire on New Year’s Eve because that is exactly what Democrats wanted!

As Sally Pipes of the Paci c Research Institute detailed for me, Section 9661 of the COVID-19-fueled Biden/Democrat American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included “expanding premium assistance” as a “Temporary rule for 2021 and 2022.” Later, Section 12001 of the Biden/Democrat In ation Reduction Act of 2022 aimed to “improve a ordability and reduce premium costs of health insurance … before Jan. 1, 2026.”

“A proposal being weighed by congressional Democrats and party advisers in recent weeks aims to temporarily extend the enhanced Obamacare subsidies that were part of the nancial aid package President Joe Biden signed into law last March,” Politico explained on June 24, 2022, regarding this second bill.

If Democrats wanted to subsidize Obamacare into 2026 and beyond, they should have written that into legislation that they, not Republicans, sponsored.

As the saying goes, “When you point a nger at someone, three ngers point back at you.” Je ries and other Democrats should remember that before, yet again, giving Republicans the nger.

Deroy Murdock is a Manhattan-based Fox News contributor and a contributing editor with The American Spectator. This column was rst published by The Daily Signal.

COLUMN | STEVE MILLOY

Czech Republic plans $19B nuclear expansion to double output, end fossil fuel reliance

The new facilities will replace coal- red power plants

By Karel Janicek

The Associated Press

DUKOVANY NUCLEAR

PLANT, Czech Republic — The eight huge cooling towers of the Dukovany power plant overlook a construction site for two more reactors as the Czech Republic pushes ahead with plans to expand its reliance on nuclear energy.

Mobile drilling rigs have been extracting samples 140 meters below ground for a geological survey to make sure the site is suitable for a $19 billion project as part of the expansion that should eventually at least double the country’s nuclear output and cement its place among Europe’s most nuclear-dependent nations.

South Korea’s KHNP beat France’s EDF in a tender to construct a new plant whose two reactors will have an output of more than 1,000 megawatts each. After becoming operational in the second half of the 2030s, they will complement Dukovany’s four 512-MW reactors that date from the 1980s.

The KHNP deal gives the Czechs an option to have two more units built at the other nuclear plant in Temelín, which currently has two 1,000-megawatt reactors.

Then, they are set to follow up with small modular nuclear reactors.

“Nuclear will generate between 50% and 60% around 2050 in the Czech Republic, or maybe slightly more,” Petr Závodský, chief executive of the Dukovany project, told The Associated Press in an interview.

The nuclear expansion is needed to help the country wean itself o fossil fuels, secure steady and reliable supplies at a reasonable price, meet low emission requirements and enable robust demand for electricity expected in the coming years to power data centers and electric cars, Závodský said.

Europe’s nuclear revival

The Czech expansion comes

People sh near the towering Dukovany nuclear power plant in Dukovany, Czech Republic last month.

at a time when surging energy demand and looming deadlines by countries and companies to sharply cut carbon pollution are helping to revive interest in nuclear technology. While nuclear power does produce waste, it does not produce greenhouse gas emissions, like carbon dioxide, the main driver of climate change.

The European Union has accepted nuclear by including it in the classi cation system for environmentally sustainable economic activities, opening the door to nancing. That has been a boost for the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and France — the continent’s nuclear lead-

er — that have heavily relied on nuclear.

Belgium and Sweden recently scrapped plans to phase out nuclear power. Denmark and Italy are reconsidering its use, while Poland is set to join a club of 12 nuclear-friendly nations in the European Union after signing a deal with U.S.-based Westinghouse to build three nuclear units.

The EU generated 24% of nuclear electricity in 2024.

Britain signed a cooperation deal with the United States in September that Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said would lead to “a golden age of nuclear in this country.” It will also in-

vest 14.2 billion pounds ($19 billion) to build the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, the rst in the U.K. since 1995.

CEZ, the dominant Czech power company in which the government holds a 70% stake, and Britain’s Rolls-Royce SMR have agreed on a strategic partnership to develop and deploy small modular nuclear reactors.

Money matters

The cost of the Dukovany project is estimated at more than $19 billion, with the government agreeing to acquire an 80% majority in the new plant. The government will secure

“Nuclear will generate between 50% and 60% around 2050 in the Czech Republic, or maybe slightly more.”

Petr Závodský, chief executive of the Dukovany project

a loan for the new units that CEZ will repay over 30 years.

The state will also guarantee a stable income from the electricity production for CEZ for 40 years. Approval is expected to be granted by the EU, which aims to become “climate-neutral” by 2050.

“We’re in a good position to argue that we won’t be able to do without new nuclear units,” Závodský said. “Today, we get some 40% electricity from nuclear, but we also currently get another 40% from coal. It’s clear we have to replace the coal.”

Uncertainty over nancing has caused a signi cant delay in the nuclear expansion. In 2014, CEZ canceled a tender to build two reactors at the existing Temelin nuclear plant after the government refused to provide nancial guarantees.

Russia’s energy giant Rosatom and China’s CNG were excluded from the Dukovany tender on security grounds following the Kremlin’s invasion of Ukraine.

CEZ signed a deal with Westinghouse and France’s Framatome to supply nuclear fuel for its two nuclear plants, eliminating the country’s dependence on Russia. The contract with KHNP secures fuel supplies for 10 years.

Opposition

While atomic energy enjoys public support, skeptical voices can be heard at home and abroad.

The Friends of the Earth say it is too costly and the money could be better used for improving the industry. The country also still does not have a permanent storage for spent fuel.

The Dukovany and Temelín plants are located near the border with Austria, which abandoned nuclear energy after the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear explosion. In 2000, a dispute over the Temelín plant resulted in a political crisis and blocked border crossings for weeks.

Austria remains the most nuclear-skeptical EU country, and its lower house of Parliament has already rejected the Czech small modular reactors plan.

Disney reaches new deal with YouTube TV, ending blackout that lasted more than 2 weeks

ESPN, ABC and more are back on the streaming service

By Wyatte Grantham-Philips The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Disney and YouTube TV reached a new deal to bring channels like ABC and ESPN back to the Google-owned livestreaming platform Friday, ending a blackout for customers that dragged on for over two weeks.

“As part of the new deal, Disney’s full suite of networks and stations — including ESPN and ABC — have already begun to be restored to YouTube TV subscribers,” The Walt Disney Co. said in a statement.

YouTube TV also con rmed the return of Disney content on its platform, noting that subscribers should see channels back “over the course of the day.” It apologized for the disruption and thanked customers for their “patience as we negotiated on their behalf.”

Disney content went dark on YouTube TV the night of Oct. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new licensing deal. In the days that followed, YouTube TV subscribers were left without Disney channels on the platform — notably disrupting coverage of top college football matchups and professional sports games, as well as news and entertain-

ment programming. Beyond ESPN and ABC, other Disney-owned content removed from YouTube TV during the impasse included channels like NatGeo, FX, Freeform, SEC Network, ACC Network and more.

Disney Entertainment CoChairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro said Friday that they were “pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.”

When talks broke down last month, YouTube TV said Disney was proposing costly terms that would lead to higher prices for and fewer choices for its sub -

scribers. It accused Disney of using the blackout as a negotiating tactic — claiming the maneuver also bene ted Disney’s own streaming products like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. Disney, meanwhile, said that YouTube TV had refused to pay fair rates for its channels. The California entertainment giant also accused Google of “using its market dominance to eliminate competition.” And executives blasted the platform for pulling content “prior to the midnight expiration” of their deal in late October.

Both sides also publicly sparred over negotiations and content available leading up to Nov. 4 elections across the U.S.

By the time Disney’s channels returned to YouTube TV,

“(We are) pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.” Disney executives

Google’s streamer said it had “reached an agreement with Disney that preserves the value of our service for our subscribers and future exibility in our offers.” Disney executives maintained that the deal re ected the company’s “continued commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment and evolving with how audiences choose to watch.”

The two-week blackout is among a growing list of licensing disputes seen in the streaming world today, particularly as competition grows overs hosting live content. And consumers often pay the price when company negotiations break down. The showdown between Disney and YouTube was not their rst. YouTube TV subscribers lost access to all Disney content after 2021 contract talks broke down, but that disruption lasted less than two days.

And YouTube TV has removed other content from its platform after expired agreements. Spanish-language broadcaster Univision has been unavailable on YouTube TV since Sept. 30, for example. Parent company TelevisaUnivision decried Google’s move, saying it would strip “millions of Hispanic viewers of the Spanish-language news, sports, and entertainment they rely on every day,” and called on the platform to reverse course. YouTube TV’s base subscription plan costs $82.99 per month — which, beyond Disney content, currently includes live TV o erings from networks like NBC, CBS, Fox, PBS and more. The platform previously said it would give subscribers a $20 credit its dispute with Disney lasted “an extended period of time” — which it reportedly allowed customers to start claiming on Nov. 9. Disney also doles out live TV through both traditional broadcasting and its own lineup of streaming platforms. ESPN launched its own streamer earlier this year, starting at $29.99 a month. And other Disney content can be found on platforms like Hulu, Disney+ and Fubo. Disney currently allows people to bundle ESPN along with Hulu and Disney+ for $35.99 a month — or $29.99 a month for the rst year.

PHELAN M. EBENHACK / AP PHOTO

An ESPN Monday Night Football broadcast camera on the sideline in Jacksonville, Florida, last month.

Forsyth SPORTS

ACC Commissioner Phillips stays optimistic amid league’s uncertain chances for multiple CFP bids

The league has no favorite, but several teams control their own destiny

By Aaron Beard The Associated Press

PITTSBURGH — Atlantic Coast Conference Commission-

er Jim Phillips knows his league is on uncertain footing when it comes to getting multiple bids to the College Football Playo , particularly as several ranked league teams stumbled in recent games.

He’s also quick to point out there’s still time for the ACC to hit that goal all the same.

“I’m not dejected. I’m not despondent or any of those types of things,” Phillips said Saturday, after watching No. 23 Pittsburgh lose at home to No. 9 Notre Dame in lopsided fashion. “You always want to win more games and the rest of it. But we still have games to be played against really good opponents.”

The ACC has ve AP Top 25 teams — yet no clear headliner. That means the league has multiple playo candidates after entering the weekend with ve 1-loss teams in the ACC standings, yet no one locked.

Phillips maintains optimism considering there are so many moving parts in play. For example: while Pitt (No. 22 CFP) lost ground with the loss, that only strengthens the Fighting Irish’s case — which in turn would aid No. 16 Miami (No. 15 CFP) by keeping the Hurricanes’ season-opening win against the Irish as a standout W.

Phillips’ message is simple: Multiple ACC teams still control their own destiny.

“I haven’t seen a week go by in college football that if you don’t

reached No. 8 while starting 8-0 and Virginia hit No. 12 after starting 5-0 in ACC play despite being picked to nish 14th in the 17-team football league.

And yet, the Hurricanes and Yellow Jackets both stumbled on Nov. 1, with Miami suffering its second loss at SMU and Georgia Tech falling at NC State. Virginia lost at home to Wake Forest last week before regrouping to win at Duke on Saturday. And No. 20 Louisville has lost consecutive home games to California and then Friday against Clemson after a 7-1 start that put the Cardinals in the chase.

It very nearly got worse, too. Georgia Tech survived Saturday on a nal-seconds eld goal against a Boston College that entered the day at 1-9.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Victoria Guthrie

win, you don’t move up,” Phillips said. “Maybe not drastically, but the idea is you have to continue to win. And if you continue to win, you have a strong possibility that you are going to move up within the rankings.”

Still, it has been a strange year for the ACC with unexpected highs and high-pro le ops.

Preseason favorite Clemson opened the year ranked No. 4 nationally but has been working in recent weeks just to become bowl eligible. Florida State looked to have regrouped from last year’s two-win disaster with a season-opening statement win against Alabama, only to start 0-4 in the league on the way to extending the 2024 misery. In the meantime, as Miami peaked at No. 2, Georgia Tech

“The league itself has played good football all year,” Phillips said. “We’ve su ered some from maybe not being as consistent from week to week. But we’ve also cannibalized ourselves some as well within the league. I think every league goes through that. It just seems like that’s happened more to us recently, over the last three weeks.”

Phillips can look back to last year’s results for hope. Clemson sneaked into the ACC title game when then-No. 6 Miami blew a 21-0 loss at Syracuse in a loss that ultimately kept the Hurricanes out of the CFP. The Tigers edged SMU for the ACC title to reach the CFP, while the Mustangs made the ACC a two -bid league.

“I’m still hopeful that we’ll be a multiple-bid league,” Phillips said. “There’s nothing that says that we’re eliminated from that. There’s football not only to be played in the ACC, but throughout the country.”

West Forsyth, volleyball

Victoria Guthrie is a senior middle blocker on the West Forsyth volleyball team. She has also played basketball for the Titans.

West Forsyth advanced to the state Class 8A championship game before losing to Green Level for the NCHSAA title. Guthrie was one of the team leaders. She was 12th in NCHSAA Class 8A in hitting percentage and 15th in blocks. She was also third on the team in kills.

Guthrie was named to the North Carolina Volleyball Coaches Association’s All-Region team for region 5. She was also named to the NCVCA All-State second team.

Heath, O’Reilly elected to US Soccer Hall of Fame

The former Tar Heel women’s stars lead a class of seven

The Associated Press

FRISCO, Texas — Women’s World Cup champions and Olympic gold medalists Tobin Heath and Heather O’Reilly were elected last Thursday to the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame along with men’s players Tony Sanneh and Chris Wondolowski.

Referee Kari Seitz also was elected along with Kevin Crow, known primarily for his time in indoor soccer.

They will be inducted May 1 at the hall in Frisco, Texas.

O’Reilly, 40, was a forward and winger who scored 47 goals in 231 international appearances, helping the U.S. win the 2015 World Cup and Olympic gold medals in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She won league titles with Sky Blue in 2009 in Women’s Professional Soccer and with Kansas City in 2015 and North Carolina in 2019 in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Heath, 37, was a mid elder and forward who had 36 goals in 181 appearances, winning World Cup titles with the U.S. in 2015 and 2019, and Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012.

Wondolowski, 42, is Major League Soccer’s career scoring leader with 171 regular-season goals and two in the playo s, playing for San Jose (2005, 2009-21) and Houston (200609). He scored 11 goals in 35 international appearances, playing in two games at the 2014 World Cup.

Sanneh, 54, was a defender who scored three goals in 43 international appearances, starting all ve games for the U.S. at the 2002 World Cup as the Americans reached the quarternals in their farthest advancement since 1930. He played for D.C. (1996-98), Columbus (2004), Chicago (2005-06), Col-

2019

The year Heather O’Reilly helped lead the N.C. Courage to the NWSL title

orado (2007) and the LA Galaxy (2009) along with stints at Hertha Berlin (1991-2001) and Nuremberg (2001-04), and won MLS titles in 1996 and 1997.

O’Reilly, Heath and Wondolowski were picked from the player ballot. The top two are elected if they each receive at

least 50% and a third is elected if receiving at least 75%.

O’Reilly got 47 of 48 votes for 97.9%, followed by Heath (45, 93.8%), Wondolowski (37, 77.1%), Keith Johnson (33, 68.8%), Samantha Mewis (32, 66.7%), Dwayne DeRosario (29, 60.4%), Amy Rodriguez (28, 58.3%), Kyle Beckerman (27, 56.3%), Robbie Keane (20, 41.7%), Oguchi Onyewu (19, 39.6%), Jermaine Jones (17, 35.4%), Maurice Edu (16, 33.3%), Diego Valeri (13, 27.1%), Michael Archer (12, 25%), Stephanie Lopez Cox (12, 25%), Chad Marshall (11, 22.9%), Mike Lawson (10, 20.8%), Carlos Ruiz (7, 14.6%), Matt Besler (6, 12.5%)

and Geo Cameron (5, 10.4%). Sanneh and Crow were chosen from the veteran ballot, in which the top vote-getter is elected if receiving at least 50% and a second if receiving at least 75%. Sanneh was on 21 of 24 ballots (87.55%) and was followed by Crow (19, 79.2%), Tatu (17, 70.8%), Ti any Roberts (16, 66.7%), David Beckham (11, 45.8%), Clint Mathis (10, 41.7%), Lorrie Fair (6, 25%), Chico Borja (5, 20.8%), Aly Wagner (5, 20.8%) and Francis Farbero (1, 4.2%). Seitz, 55, referred refereed nine games at the Women’s World Cup in 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011, and six at the Olym-

pics in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She became the U.S. Soccer Federation’s vice president of referees in 2024. Seitz was on the builder ballot, which this year included only referees. The top voter-getter is picked if receiving at least 50%. For the Builder Ballot, the 2026 rotation considered candidates from the referee category only. Election procedures call for the Builder named to the most ballots (and on at least 50% of the ballots) to be elected. Seitz got 19 of 24 votes (79.2%) and was followed by Gino D’Ippolito (10, 41.7%), Brian Hall (6, 25%) and Mark Geiger (4, 16.7%).

GENE J. PUSKAR / AP PHOTO

ACC Commissioner James

J. Phillips, right, visits with Pittsburgh head coach Pat Narduzzi in the locker room before a game against Notre Dame

MARTIN MEJIA / AP PHOTO

The United States’ Heather O’Reilly celebrates after scoring against New Zealand during their rst round soccer match at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Pelicans re Green 12 games into fth season, Borrego named interim coach

New Orleans

The New Orleans Pelicans red coach Willie Green on the heels of a 2-10 start to his fth season in charge. Pelicans rst-year basketball operations chief Joe Dumars named assistant James Borrego as interim coach. Green was hired to his rst head coaching job in 2021 and has gone 150-190 in four-plus seasons. His teams made the playo s twice, losing in the rst round to Phoenix in 2022 and Oklahoma City in 2024. Borrego was formerly the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets for four seasons from 2018 to 2022.

NHL Devils leading scorer Hughes out 2 months after nger surgery

Newark, N.J.

New Jersey Devils leading scorer Jack Hughes is expected to be out two months after undergoing surgery to repair a nger injury. The team announced Hughes had the operation at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. Hughes’ expected return-to-play timeline is eight weeks, and he’ll be reevaluated at the six-week mark. It wasn’t clear which nger or which hand Hughes had surgery on.

SPORTS BROADCASTING

Disney reaches new deal with YouTube TV, ending two-week blackout

New York

Disney and YouTube TV have reached a new deal to bring channels like ABC and ESPN back to the Google-owned livestreaming platform. The agreement ends a blackout for customers that lasted about two weeks. Disney content went dark on YouTube TV the night of Oct. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new licensing deal. YouTube TV subscribers were left without Disney channels on the platform — notably disrupting coverage of top college football matchups and professional sports games, among other news and entertainment o erings.

NCAA FOOTBALL

Texas state trooper who had run-in with Gamecocks player Harbor sent home College Station, Texas A Texas trooper who had an altercation with South Carolina’s Nyck Harbor after his touchdown was sent home from the game, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Harbor scored on an 80-yard reception in the second quarter and ran into the tunnel following the score. As he and three other players were walking back to the eld, the trooper walked in between Harbor and another player and bumped into them. The trooper and Harbor turned around and the trooper pointed at Harbor with both hands and said something to him.

Football coach John Beam from ‘Last Chance U’ dead after shooting

Police call the on-campus shooting “a targeted incident”

By Mike Catalini and Haven Daley The Associated Press

OAKLAND, Calif. — Oakland’s celebrated former football coach John Beam, who was featured in the Net ix series “Last Chance U” that showcased his success with players others wouldn’t gamble on, died Friday, a day after being shot on the college campus where he worked.

Police arrested the 27-year- old suspect Friday. Authorities said he knew the 66-year-old coach, and it was a targeted attack.

The shooting at Laney College rattled Oakland, with scores holding a vigil outside the hospital before he died. He was remembered as someone who would help anyone.

Mayor Barbara Lee described Beam as a “giant” in the city who mentored thousands of young people, including her own nephew, and “gave Oakland’s youth their best chance” at success.

“For over 40 years, he has shaped leaders on and o the eld, and our community is shaken alongside his family,”

Lee said.

Authorities credited technology, speci cally cameras at the college campus, private residences and on public transit, in tracking the suspect identied as Cedric Irving Jr.

Irving was arrested without incident at a commuter rail station in Oakland just after 3 a.m. on Friday and police recovered the gun. He was being

Laney College Athletic Director John Beam poses with the trophy after Laney won the California state football championship in 2018.

“For over 40 years, he has shaped leaders on and o the eld, and our community is shaken alongside his family.”

Barbara Lee, Oakland mayor

held at a local jail on charges of murder and carrying a concealed weapon.

Oakland Assistant Chief James Beere said the suspect went on campus for a “specific reason” but did not elaborate on what that was. “This was a very targeted incident,” he said.

Beere did not say how Beam

and the suspect knew each other but said the suspect was known to loiter around the Laney campus. The suspect had played football at a high school where Beam had worked, but not at the time the coach was employed there.

Coach had deep relationships with players

The Net ix docuseries focused on athletes at junior colleges striving to turn their lives around, and Beam’s Laney College Eagles starred in the 2020 season. Beam developed deep relationships with his players while elding a team that regularly competed for championships.

Two of Beam’s former players — brothers Nahshon and Rejzohn Wright, now in the NFL with the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints — posted on social media after the shooting.

“You mean the world to me,” Rejzohn Wright said in a post with a photo of Beam.

His brother shared a photo of the coach alongside a broken heart emoji.

Piedmont Police Chief Fred Shavies, who previously served as a deputy chief in the Oakland Police Department said he was a friend, mentee and long time admirer of Beam.

“John was so much more than a coach,” he said. “He was a father gure to thousands of not only men but young women in our community.”

Shavies said he met Beam when he was in the eighth grade, and he supported him after Shavies lost his father in high school, calling him “an absolutely incredible human being.” He asked how did Beam leave his mark on so many people “with just 24 hours in a day, right?”

Beam’s family said in a statement that he was a “loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor and friend.”

“Our hearts are full from the outpouring of love,” the family said, requesting privacy.

Beam, who was serving as athletic director, joined Laney College in 2004 as a running backs coach and became head coach in 2012, winning two league titles. He retired from coaching in 2024 but stayed on at the school to shape its athletic programs. According to his biography on the college’s website, at least 20 of his players went on to the NFL.

Reaching 67 points creating ‘6-7’ frenzy at college basketball games across the country

The fad has crowds excited, while older fans are confused

The Associated Press

NORMAN, Okla. — Oklahoma coach Jennie Baranczyk hears the popular catchphrase “6-7” all the time at home, possibly more often than please and thank you.

Getting an earful of it at a women’s basketball game, well, that was new for the mother of three.

Baranczyk and the sixth-ranked Sooners became the latest college team to send fans into a frenzy when they hit 67 points in an 89-61 victory against North Alabama on Friday.

Hundreds of students on a eld trip screamed their approval along with the ubiquitous phrase and juggled their hands up and down to mimic a video that went viral earlier this year.

Sports viewers might have seen the motion before, perhaps in six or seven NFL games.

“I did not do it because I was like, ‘Yep,’” said Baranczyk, who has a son and two daughters. “I knew it. But I’m like, ‘Gotta give the people what they want sometimes.’”

Raegan Beers, who nished with 20 points and 11 rebounds in the victory, raved about the OU bench reaction. Teammates, assistant coaches and sta ers celebrated simultaneously in similar fashion.

Beers said teammates Payton Verhulst, who made a 3-pointer to give Oklahoma a 66-33 lead, and Zya Vann were trying to draw fouls, presumably so they could shoot free throws.

“We got so excited to do that,” Beers said. “We knew the kids were going to get excited about that. That’s the joy of this game. That’s why I love this game. Just to have that energy in the building and lean into what is trending at the

moment, which is 6-7, whatev-

er that means. It was so much fun to have that moment and let the kids enjoy it.”

The trend has seeped into team introductions. UNC’s Elijah Davis, a reserve, has the role of “designated hand shaker” during player intros, coming up with a custom shake for each Tar Heel starter. Davis, who wears jersey No. 6 and No. 7 Seth Trimble — a starter before su ering an injury last week — did the hand-juggling gesture as part of their pregame handshake each game.

Dictionary.com made the viral term “6-7” its word of the year, and it isn’t even really a word. It’s a phrase kids and teenagers can’t stop repeating and laughing about while parents and teachers can’t make any sense of it. The word — if you can call it that — exploded in popularity over the summer. It’s more of an inside joke with an unclear meaning, driven by social media.

“Gotta give the people what they want sometimes.”

67 points

Dictionary.com says its annual selection is a linguistic time capsule re ecting social trends and events. But the site admitted it too is a bit confused by “6-7.”

“Don’t worry, because we’re all still trying to gure out exactly what it means,” the site said in its announcement last month.

How did “6-7” become a thing?

It all seems to trace back to rapper Skrilla’s song from 2024 called “Doot Doot (6-7).” That song started appear-

ing in TikTok videos with basketball players, including the Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball who stands 6-foot-7.

Then a boy, now known as “The 6-7 Kid,” shouted the ubiquitous phrase while another kid next to him juggled his hands in a video that went viral this year.

That’s all it took.

So what does “6-7” mean?

The real answer is no one knows, but it’s widely regarded as harmless. Unlike some other trends that have come and gone, there’s not believed to be an inappropriate backstory to the craze.

According to Dictionary. com, the phrase could mean “so-so,” or “maybe this, maybe that” when combined with the juggling hands gesture.

Merriam-Webster calls it a “a nonsensical expression used especially by teens and tweens.” Regardless, it’s trending at basketball games when a team nears 67 points.

DARREN ABATE / AP PHOTO

A scoreboard shows a point total that has suddenly skyrocketed in popularity.

Oklahoma coach Jennie Baranczyk on fans cheering for

the stream

‘Wicked:

For Good’ soundtrack, Ted Danson,

Aerosmith teams up with Yungblud for “One More Time”

The Associated Press

TED DANSON’S “A Man on the Inside” returning to Net ix for its second season, and Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo belting out the “Wicked: For Good” soundtrack 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: Aerosmith teaming up with Yungblud on a new EP, “The Bad Guys 2” hitting Peacock, and Jordan Peele looking at black cowboys in a new documentary series.

MOVIES TO STREAM

“Train Dreams,” (Friday on Net ix), Clint Bentley’s adaptation of Denis Johnson’s acclaimed novella, stars Joel Edgerton as Robert Grainier, a railroad worker and logger in the early 20th-century Pacific Northwest. The lm, scripted by Bentley and Greg Kwedar (the duo behind last year’s “Sing Sing”), conjures a frontier past to tell a story about an anonymous laborer and the currents of change around him.

The DreamWorks Animation sequel “The Bad Guys 2” (Friday on Peacock) returns the reformed criminal gang of animals for a new heist caper. In the lm, with a returning voice cast including Sam Rockwell, Awkwa na, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos and Marc Maron, the Bad Guys encounter a new robbery team: the Bad Girls. In his review, AP’s Mark Kennedy lamented an over-amped sequel with a plot that reaches into space: “It’s hard to watch a franchise drift so expensively and pointlessly in Earth’s orbit.”

‘The

Bad Guys 2,’ black cowboys

In “The Roses,” Jay Roach (“Meet the Parents’), from a script by Tony McNamara (“Poor Things”), remakes Danny DeVito’s 1989 black comedy, “The War of the Roses.” In this version, Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star as a loving couple who turn bitter enemies. In his review, Kennedy called “The Roses” “an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

MUSIC TO STREAM

Musical theater fans, your time has come … again. “Wicked: For Good” is upon us, and with it comes the release of its o cial soundtrack. On Friday, after or before you catch the lm in theaters, stream its life-afrming compositions to your heart’s content. Might we suggest Grande’s “The Girl in the Bubble?” Or Erivo’s “No Place Like Home?” And for the Je Goldblum and Jonathan Bailey lovers, yes, there’s gold to be unearthed too.

“The Roses” is an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

Mark Kennedy, AP Film Writer

Rock this way: Aerosmith is back with new music. Following their 2023 “Greatest Hits” collection and just a few months after the conclusion of their “Peace Out: The Farewell Tour” (the band said it would no longer hit the road due to singer Steven Tyler’s voice becoming permanently damaged by a vocal cord injury), they’re teaming up with next gen rock ’n’ roller Yungblud. It’s a collaborative EP called “One More Time,” out Friday. The anthemic opening track, “My Only Angel” sets the tone. What’s another one for the road?

SERIES TO STREAM

Raise your hand if you still miss “Succession” Sundays on

HBO. An acclaimed Swedish drama called “Vanguard” debuts Tuesday on Viaplay that’s of the same vein. It’s a dramatization about Jan Stenbeck, one of Europe’s most in uential media moguls. There’s ambition, betrayal and yes, sibling rivalry. Danson’s “A Man on the Inside” returns to Net ix for its second season on Thursday. Danson plays a widower named Charles who has found a new sense of purpose as an amateur private detective. In Season 1, Charles moved into a retirement home to catch his culprit. In Season 2, he goes back to college to solve a case. Danson’s real-life wife, Mary Steenburgen, joins the cast as Charles’s love interest as he explores the idea of a second chance at romance.

Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore co-star in “The Assassin” for AMC+. Hawes (“Bodyguard”) plays a retired assassin living in solitude on a Greek island whose peaceful life is turned upside down when her estranged son (Highmoore) comes to visit. When the two nd themselves in danger, they must work together to stay alive. It premieres Thursday.

Peele has a new documentary series called “High Horse: The Black Cowboy” coming to Peacock on Thursday. The three-part series examines how stories of black cowboys have been erased from both pop culture and history books.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

If you bought Mario Kart World when Nintendo launched the Switch 2 back in June, you may be wondering: Do I really need another racing game? Kirby Air Riders comes from designer Masahiro Sakurai, the mastermind behind Super Smash Bros., so it adds that franchise’s chaotic combat to the mix. Each of the competitors has di erent weapons and each of the vehicles has di erent bene ts and drawbacks. And everyone can use Kirby’s signature “inhale” technique, which lets you absorb an opponent’s skills by, well, swallowing them. So if you like your racing weird, get your motor running Thursday.

CHARLES SYKES / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, pictured performing a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne during the MTV Video Music Awards in 2025, release their latest album, “One More Time,” this week.

Joel Edgerton and Kerry Condon star in “Train Dreams,” an adaptation of Denis Johnson’s acclaimed novella.

Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star in “The Roses,” Jay Roach’s remake of a 1989 black comedy.

STATE & NATION

Foreign enrollment at US colleges holds steady

Some had feared a huge drop in foreign students

By Collin Binkey and Makiya Seminera

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Foreign students enrolled at U.S. colleges in strong numbers this fall despite fears that a Trump administration crackdown would trigger a nosedive, yet there are signs of turbulence as fewer new, rst-time students arrived from other countries, according to a new report.

Overall, U.S. campuses saw a 1% decrease in international enrollment this fall compared with last year, according to a survey from the Institute of International Education. But that gure is propped up by large numbers of students who stayed in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. The number of new students entering the United States for the rst time fell by 17%, the sharpest decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some universities are seeing backslides that have punched big holes in tuition revenue, but overall the fallo is less severe than some industry groups had forecast. Researchers credit colleges for helping students navigate visa issues through the summer.

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything

in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States,” said Mirka Martel, head of research, evaluation and learning for the institute.

At DePaul University, a Catholic university in Chicago, the number of international graduate students fell by almost 62% this fall, a driving factor in recent spending cuts. The university president blamed student visa troubles and declining interest to study in the U.S., calling it a “massive” disruption.

Overall, nearly 60% of colleges reported a decrease in new foreign students this fall, the survey found, while 30% saw increases and others held even. More than 800 schools responded to the survey, which offers an early look at trends before full data is released next year.

Trump administration presses for reductions in foreign enrollment

The Trump administration has sought to reduce America’s reliance on foreign students. The White House is pushing colleges to cap enrollment of foreign students and enroll more from the U.S. In June, the State Department began screening visa applications more closely after temporarily halting all interviews.

Visa processing has continued to lag in some countries, in-

cluding India, the largest source of America’s foreign students. Education rms have reported that future college students are now showing decreased interest in the U.S. and more in Europe and Asia. While international enrollment remained relatively steady, there are concerns about its sustainability.

“There are warning signs for future years, and I’m really concerned about what this portends for fall ’26 and ’27,” said Clay Harmon, the executive director of AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management, which represents colleges and recruitment agencies.

Foreign students make up about 6% of America’s college students, but they play an outsized role in campus budgets. Most pay higher tuition rates and don’t get nancial aid, effectively subsidizing U.S. students. Their numbers are far higher at elite campuses, often making up a quarter or more of the student body.

International students at the graduate level saw the biggest backslide this fall, with a 12% drop. That was mostly o set by rising numbers of students participating in Optional Practical Training, which allows students to stay in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. Undergraduate numbers ticked up slightly.

Graduate students make up

Blue Origin launches huge rocket carrying twin NASA spacecraft to Mars

The rst-stage booster successfully landed on a drone ship

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Blue Origin launched its huge New Glenn rocket last Thursday with a pair of NASA spacecraft destined for Mars.

It was only the second ight of the rocket that Je Bezos’ company and NASA are counting on to get people and supplies to the moon — and it was a complete success.

The 321-foot New Glenn blasted into the afternoon sky from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, sending NASA’s twin Mars orbiters on a drawn- out journey to the red planet. Lifto was stalled four days by lousy local weather as well as solar storms strong enough to paint the skies with auroras as far south as Florida.

In a remarkable rst, Blue Origin recovered the booster following its separation from the upper stage and the Mars orbiters, an essential step to recycle and slash costs similar to SpaceX. Company employees cheered wildly as the booster landed upright on a barge 375 miles o shore. An ecstatic

“Next stop, moon!”

Blue Origin employees following the booster landing

Bezos watched the action from Launch Control.

“Next stop, moon!” employees chanted following the booster’s bull’s-eye landing. Twenty minutes later, the rocket’s upper stage deployed the two Mars orbiters in space, the mission’s main objective. Congratulations poured in from NASA o cials as well as SpaceX’s Elon Musk, whose booster landings are now routine.

New Glenn’s inaugural test ight in January delivered a prototype satellite to orbit, but failed to land the booster on its oating platform in the Atlantic.

The identical Mars orbiters, named Escapade, will spend a year hanging out near Earth, stationing themselves 1 million miles away. Once Earth and Mars are properly aligned next fall, the duo will get a gravity assist from Earth to head to the red planet, arriving in 2027. Once around Mars, the spacecraft will map the planet’s upper atmosphere and scattered magnetic elds, study-

ing how these realms interact with the solar wind. The observations should shed light on the processes behind the escaping Martian atmosphere, helping to explain how the planet went from wet and warm to dry and dusty. Scientists will also learn how best to protect astronauts against Mars’ harsh radiation environment.

“We really, really want to understand the interaction of the solar wind with Mars better than we do now,” Escapade’s lead scientist, Rob Lillis of the University of California, Berkeley, said ahead of the launch. “Escapade is going to bring an unprecedented stereo viewpoint because we’re going to have two spacecraft at the same time.”

It’s a relatively low-budget mission, coming in under $80 million, that’s managed and operated by UC Berkeley. NASA saved money by signing up for one of New Glenn’s early ights. The Mars orbiters should have blasted o last fall, but NASA passed up that ideal launch window — Earth and Mars line up for a quick transit just every two years — because of feared delays with Blue Origin’s brand-new rocket.

Named after John Glenn, the rst American to orbit the world, New Glenn is ve times bigger than the New Shepard

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States.”

Mirka Martel, Institute of International Education

the biggest share of foreign students in the U.S., often coming for science, math and business programs. Numbers had already started leveling o last year after a post-pandemic surge, but the recent turmoil appears to have accelerated the downturn. In the survey, colleges that saw decreases cite factors including visa issues and other travel restrictions.

Drops lead to budget cuts at some colleges

Many smaller and regional colleges have reported downswings, especially among master’s and doctoral students.

In a recent campus address, the president of the University at Albany said a decrease in foreign graduate students was having a “disproportionate impact” on the school’s budget. At Kent State University in Ohio, falling international numbers

required an additional $4 million in cuts to balance the budget, the president wrote in an October update.

Even the biggest public universities weren’t immune. The University of Illinois’ agship campus saw its international numbers dip, fueled by a 6% drop in graduate students. At the University of Michigan, foreign graduate enrollment fell by a similar share. Arizona State University, which has more foreign students than any other public campus, saw its overall numbers fall by 3%.

Universities are o ering wider exibility to students who couldn’t make it to campus this fall, according to the survey. Almost three-quarters are allowing foreign students to defer their enrollment to the spring term, and more than half are allowing deferrals until fall 2026.

Colleges in other countries, meanwhile, have sought to capitalize on the disruption, said Joann Ng Hartmann, senior impact o cer at NAFSA, an agency that promotes international education. In Germany, Canada and some other countries, colleges are ramping up e orts to recruit students who might be rethinking college in the U.S.

“They have friendlier policies, and students realize that,” she said. “They have friendlier messaging for students that welcomes them.”

rockets sending wealthy clients to the edge of space from West Texas. Blue Origin plans to launch a prototype Blue Moon lunar lander on a demo mission in the coming months aboard New Glenn. Created in 2000 by Bezos, Amazon’s founder, Blue Origin already holds a NASA contract for the third moon landing by astronauts under the Artemis program. Musk’s SpaceX beat out Blue Origin for the rst and second crew landings, using Starships, nearly 100 feet taller than Bezos’ New Glenn. But last month NASA Acting Administrator Sean Du y reopened the contract for the

rst crewed moon landing, citing concern over the pace of Starship’s progress in ight tests from Texas. Blue Origin as well as SpaceX have presented accelerated landing plans.

NASA is on track to send astronauts around the moon early next year using its own Space Launch System, or SLS, rocket. The next Artemis crew would attempt to land; the space agency is pressing to get astronauts back on the lunar surface by decade’s end in order to beat China.

Twelve astronauts walked on the moon more than a half-century ago during NASA’s Apollo program.

JOHN RAOUX / AP PHOTO

A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket lifts o from Launch Complex 36 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida last week.

Randolph record

Heading to the nal

Southwestern Randolph’s Braydon Tyl heads the ball during a game last week in the state playo s for boys’ soccer. Southwestern Randolph won again Tuesday night to advance to face Newton-Conover at 4:30 p.m. Friday at Guilford College’s Appenzeller Field in Greensboro for the Class 4A state championship. For more, see Page B1.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

House votes overwhelmingly to force release of Epstein les, sending bill to Senate Washington, D.C.

The House voted overwhelmingly to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its les on the convicted sex o ender Je rey Epstein. It’s a remarkable display of approval for an e ort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from President Donald Trump and Republican leadership. Trump now says he will sign the bill if it passes the Senate. Tuesday’s vote showed the pressure mounting on lawmakers and the Trump administration to meet longheld demands that the Justice Department release its case les on Epstein. He was a wellconnected nancier who killed himself in a Manhattan jail while awaiting trial in 2019 on charges he sexually abused and tra cked underage girls.

Federal judges block Texas from using new U.S. House map in 2026 midterms

A panel of three federal judges has blocked Texas from using a new congressional map that Republicans drew in hopes of picking up ve U.S. House seats. The 2-1 ruling Tuesday was a blow to President Donald Trump’s e orts to have states draw more favorable maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections so the GOP can preserve its slim U.S. House majority.

RCSS executive director of operations to retire at end of month

By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — After 25 years of service with the district, Randolph County Schools Executive Director of Operations Dale Brinkley is retiring at the end of the month.

At the Randolph County Schools Board of Education’s Nov. 17 meeting, the board recognized Brinkley for his service to the board and the district.

“When you stay somewhere long enough, you start watching people you love and that you really care about and that have been great teammates to you make decisions with what they want to do in the next

phase of their life, and so one of those individuals we will be losing is Dale Brinkley,” said Superintendent Stephen Gainey. “We appreciate you and everything you’ve done for the Randolph County School System. You will be missed.”

Brinkley has served as the executive director of operations since November 2020 and before that spent 15 years as the director of information systems for the school system and also as a technician and WAN engineer.

“It has been a pleasure to work here, and one of the reasons I have worked for this school system for so many years is because of the people, the sta and also the community,” Brinkley said. “I grew up here, been here all my life. It’s been a great and rewarding career.”

“We have a lot of employ-

ees in the Randolph County School System, but I’ve never heard anybody say a negative thing about Dale Brinkley,” said board chair Gary Cook.

“What a joy it’s been to work with you.”

The board also approved the rst reading of the 2027-28 school calendar.

The calendar has the rst day of school on Aug. 23, 2027, and the last on June 7, 2028.

“The calendar includes 180 student days, 14 teacher workdays, 11 holidays and 10 leave days for a total of 215 days, as required by the calendar guidelines,” Brinkley said.

“It also includes an inclement weather makeup plan similar to the 2026-27 calendar.”

The board once again also discussed the potential merits of an early start calendar, namely stating that an early

“It’s been a great and rewarding career.”

Dale Brinkley, executive director of operations

start date would be better for students’ performances, especially to end the rst semester.

However, due to current state law, districts are not allowed to start any earlier than the Monday closest to Aug. 26.

“Until the state changes the law, there’s nothing we can do about it, and it’s a problem every year,” said Vice Chair Sharon Petty Farlow. “It’s a major issue. It makes no sense.”

The Randolph County Schools Board of Education will next meet Dec. 8.

pro-growth policies, and commitment to innovation. I want to thank Toyota for its continued investment in North Carolina and congratulate them on the start of production at Toyota’s rst U.S. battery manufacturing facility.”

O cials from the company were joined by others in lauding the next phase of production

Randolph Record sta

LIBERTY — Another celebration of the new Toyota Battery plant in Liberty came last week.

This came with formal recognitions with what was described as a grand opening.

“We’re excited to see this innovative facility come to life and to provide cutting-edge careers for more than 5,000 North Carolinians,” said Don Stewart, president of Toyota North Carolina. “(This) celebration would not be complete without thanking our team members. Their dedication, commitment, and

resolve have truly led us to this historic moment.”

During the ceremony, Toyota announced the second phase of Driving Possibilities in Guilford County Schools and the Asheboro City School District, with a Toyota USA Foundation grant of an additional $2.7 million.

It is Toyota’s 11th U.S. plant and the company’s rst and only battery plant outside of Japan. Company and government o cials have listed the possibility of up to 5,100 new jobs stemming from the plant.

Batteries had been shipped from the plant during the summer, so last week’s announcements were more of an o cial recognition.

Several North Carolina politicians lauded this next step involving the Liberty plant. In

Government o cials noted that Toyota had made a major impact in Randolph County and surrounding areas.

releasing statements, they noted that Toyota had made a major impact in Randolph County, Guilford County and surrounding areas in recent years and that this is another step in that connection. Destin Hall, North Carolina Speaker of the House said: “Toyota’s historic $13.9 billion investment in Randolph County is a tremendous win for North Carolina and a testament to our state’s strong workforce,

Gov. Josh Stein and Stewart recently attended a summit in Tokyo to promote North Carolina as part of the relationship with the manufacturer.

The 1,850-acre Liberty site will serve as Toyota’s hub for developing and producing lithium-ion batteries needed for its ever-growing portfolio of electri ed vehicles, according to the company’s information. The plant will house 14 battery production lines supporting hybrid electric vehicles, battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

The plant ships HEV modules to both Toyota Kentucky and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing in Alabama. Additional production lines at Toyota North Carolina are set to launch by 2030, the company announced.

THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF

Dale Brinkley has worked in the district for more than 25 years

PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD

THURSDAY 11.20.25

Granddaughter of ‘Charlotte’s Web’ author upset with use of book’s title in immigration crackdown

She says the arrests go against what E.B. White stood for

The Associated Press

THE TRUMP administration is calling its new immigration sweep in North Carolina’s largest city “Operation Charlotte’s Web.”

But the granddaughter of E.B. White, the author of the classic 1952 children’s tale “Charlotte’s Web,” said the wave of immigration arrests goes against what her grandfather and his beloved book stood for.

“He believed in the rule of law and due process,” Martha White said in a statement.

“He believed in the rule of law and due process.”

Martha White

“He certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes and workplaces without IDs or summons.”

White, whose grandfather died in 1985, works as his literary executor. She pointed out that in “Charlotte’s Web,” the spider who is the main character devoted her life on the farm to securing the freedom of a pig named Wilbur.

The Trump administra-

tion and Republican leaders have seized on a number of catchy phrases while carrying out mass deportation e orts — naming their holding facilities Alligator Alcatraz in Florida, Speedway Slammer in Indiana and Cornhusker Clink in Nebraska.

Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol o cial now on the ground in Charlotte, was the face of the “Operation At Large” in Los Angeles and “Operation Midway Blitz” in Chicago, two enforcement surges earlier this year. As the Charlotte operation got underway, Bovino quoted from “Charlotte’s Web” in a social media post: “We take to the breeze, we go as we please.”

THURSDAY NOV. 20

FRIDAY NOV. 21

SATURDAY NOV. 22

SUNDAY NOV. 23

MONDAY NOV. 24

TUESDAY NOV. 25

WEDNESDAY NOV. 26

CRIME LOG

Nov. 11

• Kamarean Hancock, 21, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of stolen rearm, possession of a rearm by felon and carrying a concealed gun.

• Kristen Lester, 31, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespassing, resisting a public o cer and misdemeanor breaking and entering.

• Kevin Udofa, 36, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespassing.

Nov. 12

• Gabriel Bartholow, 31, of Bennett, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a rearm by felon.

• Elijah Campbell, 33, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault by strangulation and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

• Ricardo Palacios, 45, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female.

Nov. 13

• Savion Crowe, 19, of Thomasville, was arrested by RCSO for breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering and possession of stolen property.

• Derrick Headen, 34, of Liberty, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of methamphetamine, possession of heroin, possession of controlled substance on prison/jail premises, possession of drug paraphernalia and providing ctitious information to an o cer.

• Michael Henderson, 37, of Spencer, was arrested by Randolph County Emergency Services for obtaining property by false pretense.

• Bobby Moore, 57, of Sophia, was arrested by RCSO for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Zachary Trepanier, 25, of Louisville, Kentucky, was arrested by NC Highway Patrol for driving while impaired and reckless

driving to endanger.

Nov. 14

• Steven Kearns, 36, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for injury to real property.

• Nancy Owens, 50, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for resisting a public o cer and assault on a government o cial/ employee.

• Robert Pugh, 43, of Seagrove, was arrested by RCSO for tra cking in opium or heroin, possession with intent to manufacture/sell/ deliver methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Ezequiel Sanchez, 33, of Seagrove, was arrested by Asheboro PD for injury to real property and disorderly conduct.

Nov. 15

• Gary Hughes, 52, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female.

• Zebulon Robinson, 20, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault with a deadly weapon in icting serious injury.

Randolph Guide

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Randolph County:

Nov.

21

Tim Moon’s Talent Showcase Part 2 7 p.m.

Free night of Friday Night Bluegrass as the students of local instrumental instructor Tim Moon put on their annual recital.

Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

Nov. 22 -23

43rd annual Seagrove Pottery Festival

This popular annual event celebrates the history and artistry of handmade N.C. pottery. Multiple vendors will be featured in the potters market; there will also be live demonstrations and an auction of signed and dated wares. Adult admission is 5$; no charge for Children 12 and under and retired/active military members.

Seagrove Elementary School 528 Old Plank Road Seagrove

Nov.

29

Asheboro Christmas Tree Lighting 6-8 p.m.

The annual tree lighting will also include a performance by the North Asheboro Middle School Choral Ensemble. The event coincides with Small Business Saturday, so numerous downtown restaurants and retailers will be open.

200 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

Dec.

1

Christmas with the Embers in Randleman 6-9 p.m.

The Embers will present a concert featuring holiday standards and modern renditions of Christmas music. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Contact 336-495-1100 for details.

Randleman Elementary School 100 Swaim St. Randleman

Dec.

4

“Oklahoma!”

The Randolph Youth Theatre Company presents the classic musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein. For more information, visit rytc.org.

Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

U.S. Border Patrol Commander at large Gregory Bovino, right, looks on as a detainee sits by a car Monday in Charlotte.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Climate has a new head clown

Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson.

MOVE OVER, Al Gore. The climate clown car has a new self-anointed driver. His name is Gavin Newsom.

The California governor is trying to use the ongoing United Nations climate conference (COP30) to position himself as the leader of the U.S., if not the world, on climate change. In hopes of advancing his presidential aspirations in 2028, Newsom is attempting to exploit the vacuum created by the boycott of COP30 by the Trump administration.

Toward that end, Newsom has attacked President Donald Trump as “an invasive species,” boasted about California’s success in climate and traveled into the Amazon jungle to “absorb a deeper spiritual connection to this issue that connects all of us.” Cue the eyeroll.

But Newsom is actually more of a tragic nuisance than any kind of hero when it comes to climate.

Californians pay the highest prices for electricity in the continental U.S. This is because Newsom has loaded the California grid with expensive wind, solar and utility-scale batteries. Not only has all this green technology caused prices to soar, it has also weakened grid reliability. During periods of peak electricity demand, EV owners are warned not to charge their vehicles.

Californians also pay the highest prices for gasoline in the continental U.S because the state requires special blends of gasoline that are supposed to be improving air quality. One

might think that Newsom would be helping the oil industry to lower costs. But he’s not. Newsom’s hostility to the oil and gas industry forces California to import gasoline from foreign countries that don’t produce oil as cleanly as we do in the U.S. He’s trying to block o shore drilling that would actually reduce oil pollution in the ocean. Oil from below the ocean oor naturally seeps into the ocean o the California coast. Oil drilling would reduce that natural seepage by reducing pressure.

Newsom is also chasing re neries out of California. The problem is so acute that Newsom is actually now forced to consider a state takeover of the re neries as the industry ees the state.

But it gets worse.

After more than four decades of forest mismanagement that has turned publicly owned forests and lands in California into tinderboxes just waiting for sparks to turn into deadly, out-of-control wild res, Newsom has opposed Trump’s suggestions to clean up the forests and public lands. These wild res have burned down forests that companies like Microsoft tried to preserve by purchasing carbon o sets.

While the California legislature had directed in 2012 that reservoirs be built to provide water to ght wild res and drought, Newsom failed to build any. When Trump directed the diversion of water from Southern California to end, Newsom opposed the move.

Democrats blame Republicans for multiple Democrat failures

No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it.

A KEY REASON Democrats make so many Republicans grind our molars is that they will not take responsibility for their own gargantuan failures. Instead, Democrats blame the GOP for the damage that they in ict on America.

It’s bad enough when someone takes a skillet and repeatedly wallops you across the back of your head. What really irks is when that person then screams at you: “Stop smacking your skull with a skillet!”

This is a big part of why Democrats have become utterly insu erable.

This month alone, Democrats refused to own their disastrous “Schumer Shutdown.” Thankfully, Democrats’ 43- day kidnapping conspiracy zzled out last Wednesday night.

The Republican-led House of Representatives voted to end the federal shutdown one day after eight Senate Democrats joined nearly unanimous Republicans, stopped the Democrats’ libuster, and adopted legislation to reopen the government.

Shortly before the House vote, Democrat leader Hakeem Je ries of Brooklyn took to the oor and presented a master class in how to shirk responsibility and shift blame.

“Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the presidency,” Je ries said. “(President) Donald Trump and Republicans made the decision to shut the government down, the longest shutdown in American history.”

Wrong!

House Republicans passed a “clean” continuing resolution on Sept. 19. It would have sustained Biden-era federal spending on autopilot until Jan. 30. There were

no strings, budget cuts or policy reforms attached.

This bill went to the Senate, where — as Je ries damn well knows — overall Republican control is limited by the requirement for 60 votes to overcome a libuster. Republicans have only 53 votes, seven short of the number needed to adopt the House bill.

Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer of New York weaponized this rule and launched the Democrat libuster that shut down the federal government on Oct. 1.

Fourteen separate times, Senate Republicans (absent the dissenting Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky) voted to end the Democrat libuster. While three Democrats concurred with the GOP, Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota still fell short of the 60-vote threshold needed to stop Schumer from holding the American people and their government hostage until Democrats scored $192.8 billion for illegal-alien health care.

Je ries knows all of this. Nonetheless, he stood up and lied about it.

Je ries continued to blame Republicans for his party’s ops. “House Democrats will continue to ght to address the health care crisis that Republicans have created,” Je ries said. A huge part of America’s pounding migraine on health insurance is Democrats’ proudest baby: Obamacare. To say that this is a baby only a mother could love is an insult to ugly babies.

Obamacare was supposed to lower insurance premiums by $2,500. Instead, they have soared by at least that much. The

At COP30, Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson that was not completely extinguished by re ghters. When the con agration later spread, aided by the naturally occurring Santa Ana winds, there was no water in the re hydrants. None of this is climate change. It’s incompetent government led by a vacuous hologram of a person.

Since 2012, California has charged the oil industry and consumers billions and billions of dollars as part of a cap-and-trade scheme to lower emissions. Not only have the wild res more than o set all the emissions cuts, but the California legislature recently approved a bill to drill 2,000 new oil wells so that the state could reap more revenue from the cap-and-trade scheme.

The beep-beep of Newsom’s climate clown car is deafening. It’s a warning for 2028.

Steve Milloy is a biostatistician and lawyer. He posts on X at @ JunkScience. This column was rst published by Daily Caller News Foundation.

entire boondoggle is a scal tumor that requires massive taxpayer subsidies to stay alive. Democrats are desperate to keep these subsidies owing, lest Obamacare atline. Democrats cannot blame the GOP for this mess. No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it. Democrats own Obamacare and every one of its painful symptoms.

Je ries then denounced “the Republican refusal to extend the A ordable Care Act tax credits.” Once again, Je ries cannot pin this on the GOP. These tax credits are scheduled to expire on New Year’s Eve because that is exactly what Democrats wanted!

As Sally Pipes of the Paci c Research Institute detailed for me, Section 9661 of the COVID-19-fueled Biden/Democrat American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included “expanding premium assistance” as a “Temporary rule for 2021 and 2022.” Later, Section 12001 of the Biden/Democrat In ation Reduction Act of 2022 aimed to “improve a ordability and reduce premium costs of health insurance … before Jan. 1, 2026.”

“A proposal being weighed by congressional Democrats and party advisers in recent weeks aims to temporarily extend the enhanced Obamacare subsidies that were part of the nancial aid package President Joe Biden signed into law last March,” Politico explained on June 24, 2022, regarding this second bill.

If Democrats wanted to subsidize Obamacare into 2026 and beyond, they should have written that into legislation that they, not Republicans, sponsored.

As the saying goes, “When you point a nger at someone, three ngers point back at you.” Je ries and other Democrats should remember that before, yet again, giving Republicans the nger.

Deroy Murdock is a Manhattan-based Fox News contributor and a contributing editor with The American Spectator. This column was rst published by The Daily Signal.

COLUMN | STEVE MILLOY

obituaries

James Douglas LaPrad

June 20, 1952 – Nov. 9, 2025

James Douglas LaPrad, born on June 20, 1952, in High Point, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, at the age of 73 at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro.

James dedicated his life to his craft, working for many years as a skilled carpenter in the construction business. He took great pride in trimming out newly built homes, bringing warmth and beauty to countless families through his meticulous work. His talents were not limited to his vocation; he possessed the remarkable ability to x anything made of wood, a gift he generously shared with friends and family alike. Outside of his work, James cherished the time spent with his beloved family. A devoted father, he loved his children deeply and held immense pride in each of their accomplishments. His bond with his own father was particularly special, and he treasured every moment they shared prior to his father’s passing. James also found joy on the golf course, enjoying countless rounds with his son and brother.

James was a man of faith, upholding the values and traditions of the Methodist church throughout his life. His favorite verse was 1 John 5:11-12 in part “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life”.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Jackie Bean LaPrad. He leaves behind a loving family who will carry on his memory: his devoted wife of 56 years, Gail Trogdon LaPrad, of the home; his son, James Douglas LaPrad II, and wife Melinda of Randleman; his daughters, Shannon Bowen and husband Curtis of Franklinville, and Sherri Roberts and husband Charlie of High Point. He was a proud grandfather to Kyndall Bowen and ancé Will of Franklinville and Elizabeth LaPrad of Randleman. He is also survived by his brother, Chuck Miller and wife Elaine of Browns Summit, and his sisters, Dianne Hunt of Sophia, Linda Barnes of Greensboro, and Kristie Cady of Greenville, SC.

In accordance with his wishes, the family will hold a private service of remembrance at a later date to honor his life.

Memorial contributions may be made to his favorite charity, The Shriners International Hospitals for Children, or to any animal rescue or pound. These causes held a special place in James’s heart, re ecting his generous spirit and concern for others.

James will be fondly remembered by all who knew him for his kind heart, unwavering dedication to his family, and his lifetime of craftsmanship that left a lasting impact on those around him. Midstate Cremation & Funeral Service is honored to assist the family of Mr. James Douglas LaPrad.

Russell Erwin Boettcher

May 30, 1968 – Nov. 9, 2025

Russell Erwin Boettcher, 57, of Asheboro, passed away Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem.

A Graveside Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Sunset Knoll Cemetery in Ramseur with Rev. Jason Bowser o ciating. Russell was born in Alamance County on May 30, 1968, and was a long-time resident of Randolph County. He was a graduate of Eastern Randolph and was a proud veteran of the US Army. Russell enjoyed gardening and working in his yard and with his owers. He also loved spending time with his cats. Mr. Boettcher was preceded in death by his father, Earl Boettcher Jr., as well as his brother, Hugh Allen Brinkley. Survivors: son, Collin Boettcher of Asheboro, daughter, Caitlin Wallace and husband Nick of Seagrove, mother, Florence Staley Boettcher of Coleridge, sister, Vickie Spivey and husband, Bryan, of Julian, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Marie VonCannon

Feb. 4, 1946 – Nov. 12, 2025

Jessica “Marie” Vuncannon VonCannon, 79, of Asheboro, NC, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025. She was born on February 4, 1946, the daughter of the late Jesse Franklin Vuncannon and Dorothy Grimes Vuncannon.

Throughout her career, Marie was a dedicated and valued employee at Rampon and Richard Grey Hosiery Mills, and later at Walker’s Shoe Store. She enjoyed her annual beach trips with family to Ocean Lakes Family Campground, crafting, keeping up with family and friends, and exploring genealogy. She especially loved toy poodles, including her longtime companion, Abby.

Marie is survived by her sister, Dianne Routh; her sons, Frank VonCannon (Tammy) of Asheboro, NC, and Neil VonCannon of Asheboro, NC; three grandchildren, Trevor VonCannon (Lindsey) of Fairhope, AL, Jonathan Frazier (Amber) of Sophia, NC, and Allison Exum (Wallace) of Clayton, NC; and four greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband, William “Bill” Ralph VonCannon Jr.

The family will receive friends at Pugh Funeral Home on Friday, November 14, from 6-8 p.m. and other times at the home of Frank VonCannon. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 15, at 2 p.m. in the Pugh Funeral Home Chapel, followed by a short graveside service at Oaklawn Cemetery. In lieu of owers, please consider making a donation in Marie’s memory to Hospice of Randolph.

Nathan Thomas Woolard

Dec. 19, 1954 – Nov. 14, 2025

Nathan Thomas Woolard, age 70, a resident of Washington, died Friday, November 14, 2025, at ECH Health Beaufort Hospital. A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 2p.m. at Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington with Rev. John Cooper o ciating. The family will receive friends

Rufus Britton Day Beavers

July 20, 1941 – Nov. 10, 2025

Rufus Britton Day Beavers, age 84, of Trinity, passed away on November 10, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born July 20, 1941, in McDowell County, West Virginia, to the late Arthur “Bus” Claude Beavers and Mary Hangerman Beavers. He is also preceded in death by his brothers, Holbert Beavers, Walter Beavers, Newt Beavers and Swanson Beavers; and a sister, Kate Smith.

Rufus leaves behind a legacy of kindness and warmth. His life was a continuous adventure in search of hidden treasures, often leading him to yard sales and ea markets where he collected not just objects but stories and friendships. There was never a stranger in Rufus’s life; once acquainted, you became family and were embraced by his generous spirit. His mission was simple: to bring a smile to every face he encountered. His enthusiasm for Christmas was emblematic of his joyful nature. He kept a tree twinkling brightly year-round for over two decades, a testament to his unwavering love for celebration and togetherness.

A man deeply rooted in faith, he lived the scriptures through action, always ready to lend a helping hand and share what he had with family and those in need. Whether it was xing a car with his mechanical talent or simply being there when needed, Rufus had a desire to help others. An avid fan of westerns like “Gunsmoke,” Rufus also had a profound love for horses, particularly Tennessee Walkers, which were his favorite breed of horses. His greatest delight was his family, especially his grandchildren, with whom he shared countless treasured moments. His life was a testament that touched everyone with generosity, humor, and an endless capacity for love.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Molly Fowler and husband Je , Bussy Beavers, Sarah Jacobs and husband Steve, and Rufus Wade Beavers; grandchildren, Alisha Conner, Brittany Conner, Holly Shoaf, Addison Daughety, Steelie Jacobs, and Wyatt Beavers; sister, Maxine Robinson; and numerous beloved family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Glenola Baptist Church, 8330 US Highway 311, Archdale, NC, with Evangelist Steve Jacobs o ciating. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

one hour prior to the service at Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington. Nathan was born on December 19, 1954, in Beaufort County to the late Benjamin Franklin Woolard Sr., and Edna Mae Congleton Woolard. Nathan loved animals, especially dogs and he loved to eat. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, William Marshall Woolard, Bobby Eugene Woolard, James Earl Woolard and Guy Lester Woolard. Survivors include his brother, Benjamin F. Woolard Jr. (Mary) of Washington, sisterin-law, Barbara A. Woolard of Washington, Sharon Woolard of Tarboro, Charlene Woolard of Washington and Kathy Chaparro of Lexington, many nieces, and nephews. The family would like to give special thanks to Barbara Woolard, ECU Health Beaufort Hospital and Gentiva Hospice for the care they provided to Nathan.

Clay “Jack” Jackson Sugg

July 17, 1939 – Nov. 12, 2025

Clay “Jack” Jackson Sugg, age 86, of Seagrove, North Carolina, passed away on November 12, 2025, in Randolph County. Jack was born on July 17, 1939, in Seagrove, NC, to Lewis Clay Sugg and Ruby BrooksSugg. He graduated from High Point College and lived a life marked by devotion to his faith, his family, and his community. A lifelong member of Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, Jack served faithfully as both a Sunday School teacher and church treasurer for over 40 years. His dedication to his church family was unwavering.

Jack remained active throughout his life, tending to the farm, raising cattle, and enjoying time riding horses. He was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hunting and shing. He proudly served in the United States Army Reserves for six years, and later spent more than three decades in the banking industry, retiring as Banking Vice President and head of the Mortgage Department.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Family meant everything to Jack, and he attended every event he could to support his children and grandchildren. His love for his wife, Phyllis Bulla Sugg, was steadfast—he visited her every single day when she became ill, demonstrating the depth of his commitment and care.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 58 years, Phyllis Bulla Sugg; and his sisters, Doris Sugg Gillispie and Nancy Sugg Auman.

He is survived by his sons, Je rey C. Sugg and Brian J. Sugg; his daughter, Kathy S. Fleetwood; and seven beloved grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to Mt. Olivet UMC, c/o Jane Teague, 7711 Erect Rd., Seagrove, NC 27341.

The family will hold a liein-state for Jack on Saturday, November 15, from 1-1:45 p.m. at Mt. Olivet UMC, 8102 Erect Road, Seagrove.

The funeral service will begin at 2 p.m., with Rev. Ron Wachs and Rev. Danny Keen o ciating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, and the family will receive friends afterward in the church fellowship hall.

Oteen Boykin

Aug. 30, 1936 – Nov. 10, 2025

Oteen Boykin, 89, of Asheboro, passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2025, at Asheboro Rehab and Healthcare Center in Asheboro.

A graveside service will be held at noon on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Randolph Memorial Park, Asheboro.

Born on August 30, 1936, in Randolph County, NC, Oteen was the daughter of the late George Dewey Luther and Lucille Hurley Luther. She was a strong woman and loving mother.

In addition to her parents, Oteen was preceded in death by her partner, Ronald McDaniel, daughters, Jeanette Smith, Sheila Young; brothers, Sampson Luther, George Luther, Cecil Luther; and sister, Mozelle Callicutt.

Surviving are her sisters, Florence Chisolm, Marcella Hill (Hoyle); brother, Ralph Luther; grandchildren, Brittany Fisher, Darrell Wilson, Timothy “Shawn” Wilson; great grandchildren, Amanda Wilson, Tabitha Wilson, Christian Wilson, Sampson Fisher, Ashley Garner, Dax Wilson and Julia Bauer; greatgreat grandchildren, Kaleb Wilson, Bryan Wilson, River Wilson, Colt Bauer, Everlei Bauer, John Lapine and Baylee Garner. The family will receive friends from 2-3:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Ridge Funeral Home, Asheboro.

Jan. 30, 1961 – Nov. 14, 2025

Mary Sue Hughes Wilson, 64, of Denton, passed away Friday, November 14, 2025, at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in WinstonSalem.

A funeral service will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Amity Hills Baptist Church, with Pastor Paul Mustain and Pastor Barry Wall o ciating. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park.

Mary was born on January 30, 1961, in Davidson County. She loved to teach kids in Sunday School and worked for many years as a director and teacher in Vacation Bible School. Mary loved to collect snowmen, birds, and loved to work with her owers, gardening, and canning vegetables. Mary especially loved her family and loved singing to her grandchildren.

Mary is preceded in death by her father, Eugene Hughes; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Frank and Edna Wilson; and ve infant grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Cecil Wilson; son, Barry Wilson; daughter, Dana Macfayden (David); mother, Beulah Hughes; sister, Bertha Le ew; brother, Thomas “Bo” Hughes (Crystal); grandchildren that she adored dearly, Arron and Bella Wilson, Daylin, Dakota and Cash Macfayden; many foster children; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Ridge Funeral Home.

Mary Hughes Wilson

William “Bill”

Clyde Short

Nov. 12, 1945 – Nov. 14, 2025

William “Bill” Clyde Short, 80, of Asheboro, died Friday, November 14, 2025, at Rowan Medical Center in Salisbury. Funeral Services, 11 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Zion Praise & Worship Center, Asheboro. O ciating, Rev. David Lawson. Burial, Randolph Memorial Park, Asheboro, with military honors by the Randolph County Honor Guard.

Bill was born in Cincinnati, OH, and was a longtime resident of Randolph County. He was a retired truck driver and a veteran of the US Air Force. Bill was a member of Zion Praise and Worship Center in Asheboro. He enjoyed riding his Honda Goldwing with his fellow club members. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Janice Hayes Short, grandson, Brenden William Short, parents, Harold Clyde and Thelma Stanforth Short, and his brother, Robert Clyde Short.

Survivors: daughters, Katherine Michelle York and husband, Todd, of Seagrove, Kara Ann Short, of Asheboro, son, Christopher Ray Short and wife, Julie, of High Point, two grandchildren, Elizabeth York and Jacob York, of Seagrove, step-grandson, Colton Seubert, of Virginia Beach, and nephew, Robert Short, of Gilroy, CA.

Visitation, 9:45-10:45 a.m. on Friday, at Zion Praise & Worship Center, Asheboro.

In lieu of owers, memorials may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 6675-8516, or to Salisbury VA Medical Center.

Eddie Lee Whitehead

March 12, 1935 – Nov. 13, 2025

Eddie Lee Whitehead, 90, of Ramseur, passed away Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Ramseur Rehab & Healthcare in Ramseur.

Memorial Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Lo in Funeral Home Chapel, Ramseur with Rev. Sam Harris o ciating. The family will receive friends following the service.

Eddie was a lifelong resident of Randolph County, born on March 12, 1935. Mr. Whitehead was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and worked as a plumber for over 60 years. Eddie was a hard worker and took pride in providing for his family. Eddie loved people and enjoyed cutting up and having conversations with others. He was also a faithful member of Concord Methodist Church. Mr. Whitehead was preceded in death by his parents, June and Jessie Bray Whitehead, wife, Rena Upchurch Whitehead, and brother, Rodger D. Whitehead Survivors: son, Lee Whitehead and wife Erin of Asheboro, grandchildren, Erica Welch of Ramseur and Bryson Whitehead of Asheboro, greatgrandchildren, Madison Welch, Zack Moore, and Thomas Manghese, step-grandchildren, Emma Adams, Shelbie Ramey, Daniel Ramey, and Melisa Ramey, and step-grandchildren, Emerson Kleeberg, Sicily Kleeberg, and Ellie Laing.

Memorials may be made to Concord Methodist Church, 6027 Concord Church Road, Ramseur, NC 27316.

Ruby Marlene Sochia

May 26, 1956 – Nov. 11, 2025

Ruby Marlene Sochia, age 69, of Randleman, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loved ones. She was born May 26, 1956, in Jacksonville, Florida, the daughter of the late Winford Roland Cribbs and Betty Jean Baker. She is also preceded in death by her sisters, Judith Bennett and Brenda Campbell. Marlene was a remarkable woman whose life was de ned by her unwavering love and devotion to her family and those around her. She was known for her heart of gold and pistol personality, always ready to drop everything at a moment’s notice to be there for anyone in need. Her nurturing spirit touched the lives of many, o ering comfort through a kind word, a listening ear, and a meal made with love. Known for her culinary magic, Marlene could transform a humble pantry into a feast, her meals always carrying the warmth of her generous heart. Her home was a haven where everyone felt welcome and cherished, no matter how far they had traveled to see her. She was a devoted caregiver, always present for her family, whether it was illness, a birthday or a family milestone.

Her close bonds with her siblings and her doting nature towards her grandchildren brought immense joy to her life. Despite any distance, she ensured her love was felt, sending thoughtful gifts and needed care packages. Her deep appreciation for those who served in the United States military was evident, and she spent time working for the commissary, proud of her heritage as a “military brat” in places like Camp Lejeune. Her love for animals and passion for decorating at Christmas time added vibrant colors and joy to her life and those of others.

Marlene leaves behind a legacy of compassion, sel essness, and an unyielding nurturing spirit. Her presence was a gift, and she will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, April Neal, Laura McDaniel and Crystal Scott; eight grandchildren; eight greatgrandchildren; brothers, Mike Baker and Edward Cribbs; and numerous other beloved family and friends.

A celebration of her life will be held privately at a later date.

The family would like to thank Hospice of the Piedmont for their compassionate care of Marlene. Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Piedmont by clicking the tab below.

Jan. 17, 1966 – Nov. 10, 2025

Richard Kell Dabbs, age 59, of Randleman, passed away on November 10, 2025, at the Randolph Hospice House.

Mr. Dabbs was born in Randolph County on January 17, 1966, to Jimmie and Patsy Bowman Dabbs, who preceded him in death. Kell was a graduate of Asheboro High School, where he played football for one season and then became an equipment manager for the team. Kell worked as a custodian with the Randolph County School System at Providence Grove High School. Kell was an avid Civil War enthusiast.

He is survived by his brother, Nyal Dabbs of Tall Timbers, MD; cousin, Teal Bowman; and close friends, Monica & Rob Stokes. No services are planned. Memorials may be made to the Randolph County SPCA, 300 West Bailey Street, Asheboro, NC 27203.

Robert Lowery Sample Jr.

April 8, 1945 – Nov. 10, 2025

Robert Lowery Sample Jr., age 80, of Troy, passed peacefully on November 10, 2025, at the First Health Hospice House. He was born April 8, 1945, in Waycross, Georgia, the son of the late Robert Sample Sr. and Lavinia Sample.

Robert met the love of his life in grade school, where they later became high school sweethearts. Following graduation, they married, and this union blossomed into a remarkable 62-year journey lled with dedication to building a family. Together, they raised ve daughters and were blessed with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As an accomplished HVAC Technician, Robert was dedicated to his career in the eld of Heating and Air, but his passion for life extended far beyond his work. In his leisure time, he found solace and inspiration in the natural world, capturing its majestic beauty through the lens of his camera. His philosophical and spiritual writings re ected a thoughtful soul with a profound appreciation for God’s creation. Robert cherished the beauty and tranquility found in nature. Whether shing, hunting, or embarking on family picnics and hikes, he reveled in the opportunity to educate his children organically about the ora and fauna surrounding them. His wisdom of the natural world was a gift he lovingly passed down to the next generation. A man of unwavering faith, Robert’s connection with the Lord was a guiding force in his life. This spiritual devotion permeated his every action and interaction, providing him with strength and purpose. In retirement, Robert continued to seek out life’s adventures alongside his beloved wife. Their explorations along the East Coast were lled with visits to serene beaches, historic lighthouses, and charming bedand-breakfasts, each journey enriching their bond and lling their hearts with cherished memories. His legacy is one that will live on in the hearts of those who are left behind.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Patricia Sample; their ve daughters, Heather (Kim), Lisa (Philip), Melody (Mick), Melinda (Jill), and Amy (Rodney); grandchildren, Austin, Gri n, Sophie, Carson, Jocelyn and Nick; great grandchildren, Kasch, Fred, Maddox, and Declan; brothers, Ronald and David; and numerous other beloved family and friends.

The family will hold a celebration of life privately at a later date.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to First Health Hospice of Pinehurst for their compassionate care of Robert and the dignity they brought to his nal days.

Viola Kidd Lambert

Oct. 5, 1932 – Nov. 15, 2025

With both sadness and gratitude, we share the passing of our dear beloved mother, Viola Alice Kidd Lambert, who peacefully departed this world in her sleep on the early morning hours of November 15, 2025. Viola, a ectionately known to her children as Mamma and to her many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren as “Granny”, leaves behind a beautiful legacy example of love, faith, and family. Born on October 5, 1932, Viola was the eldest daughter of Clyde and Ida Kidd of Coleridge, NC. She grew up in a loving, closeknit family with her siblings Lillie Kidd Hiatt, Charles Kidd, Geraldine Kidd, and Colon Kidd (Frances Kidd). A 1951 graduate of Coleridge High School. In 1951, she married Willie H. Lambert “Bill”, and they shared nearly ve decades of marriage before his passing in 2000. Together, they raised six children who were her pride and joy. She is survived by Laura Gail Seybold, Sara Gwen Mabe (Terry Cagle), Sharon Janette Moore (Anthony Moore), Willie Grant Lambert (Jacky Lambert), Stacy Bryan Lambert (Vonda Moon), and Gerald Clyde Lambert (Shari Lambert). Her family extended to 12 grandchildren, 12 greatgrandchildren, and one greatgreat-grandchild. Throughout her 93 years, Mamma wore many hats and had many titles – daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, wife (my bride-as Daddy would always say), mamma, granny, friend, coworker and caregiver. She embraced each role with an exceptional level of care, dedication, devotion, and love. She had talents that endeared

Ruby Hurley Whitley

Oct. 9, 1930 – Nov. 13, 2025

Ruby Jean Whitley, 95, of Greensboro, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 13, 2025.

A graveside service will be held at Randolph Memorial Park on Monday, November 17, at 2 p.m. Ruby was born in Asheboro, North Carolina, on October 9, 1930, to Franklin Eli and Grace Shaw Hurley. She was preceded in death by her parents and beloved husband of 69 years, Billy H. Whitley.

Ruby lived a long and happy life lled with love, laughter and some adventure. She enjoyed traveling, gardening, spending time with her family and never missed a good conversation. She brought people together through her cooking and her family cherishes the memories of those gatherings. A devoted wife and mother, Ruby also had a soft spot for every cat that crossed her path.

She loved her TV time — Dr. Phil, The View, and Oprah were her favorites — and she could tell you exactly what she thought about each of them! She had an eye for fashion and was rarely seen in public without her signature lipstick. She enjoyed sharing stories of her visits to Cabbage Island, ME.

Ruby is survived by her sons, Bill Whitley and his wife, Amy, of Raleigh, NC, and Christopher Whitley and his wife, Jennifer, of Virginia Beach, VA; and by her granddaughters, Christine Whitley of Raleigh, NC, and Allison Whitley of Denver, CO.

In honor of Ruby’s love for animals, memorials may be made to your local SPCA.

her to many. Known as the matriarch of our family, Mamma had a passion for cooking and caring for others and holding every baby she could get her hands on. She was making biscuits by hand on a stool before the age of ve. Her scratch-made biscuits and milk gravy were staples for our family, and her Thanksgiving turkey dressing and chicken and dumplings were legendary at family, church and community gatherings. And even her kitchen (ex)-“spearmints” were always just right.

Viola’s unwavering Christian faith was nurtured at Deep River Baptist Church, then Hulda Baptist, and later she and Bill became devoted members of Union Grove Christian Church, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband. She and Bill tried their hands at tobacco farming, then later ran a community grocery store for several years, before transitioning to Ramtex Textile in Ramseur, NC, where she worked for 37 years. And then later in her “retirement years” as a bus monitor for Randolph County Schools, where her kindness and steady presence left a lasting mark. She was a selftaught barber who cut the hair of the entire family and many of the neighbors throughout the Grantville community. She was always keen on staying technologically savvy. We will miss her daily text messages asking how our days were and telling us how much she loved us.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Union Grove Christian Church, 3985 Old NC Highway 13, Asheboro, NC 27205, conducted by Rev. Garry Reeder, with a reception to follow at the church’s fellowship hall. In lieu of owers, please consider a monetary donation to Union Grove Christian Church in Viola’s name.

Viola’s legacy of faith, love for her family, and the warmth she shared with everyone she knew will forever remain in our hearts. You can nally rest now, Mamma. We love you. And softly, we can hear her saying back, “I love you better.”

Our family would like to extend a special “thank you” to Authoracare of Eden for the compassion and care provided to Mamma over the last few weeks and months.

Nov. 19, 1935 – Nov. 12, 2025

Erline Snoddy Vickory, 89, of Liberty, passed away at her home on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Holly’s Chapel Pentecostal Holiness Church in Ramseur with Pastor Dwayne Lester o ciating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends in the sanctuary prior to the service from 1-1:45 p.m. and at other times at the home of Ms. Erline.

Erline was born in Surry County and was a longtime resident of Liberty. She was a member of Holly’s Chapel Pentecostal Holiness Church in Ramseur. Erline was preceded in death by her parents, George and Nellie Brinkley Snoddy, her husband, Robert Ray Vickory, daughter, Robin Cox, brother Wade Snoddy and sisters, Dorothy Staley, Betty Wright, Louise Hardister and Susie Parks.

Survivors: daughter, Angie Owen and husband Danny of Staley, son-in-law, Ricky Cox of Greensboro, brother, Larry Snody of Frederick, MD, sister, Shirley Langley of Liberty, her grandchildren, Jordan Cox, Casey Cox, Hannah Owen, as well as her great-grandchildren, Dublin, Amira, Oliver and Al e Cox.

The family would like to express a special “thank you” to Hospice of Randolph County, as well as the Staley Fire Department, for their help during this time.

Richard Kell Dabbs

Erline Snoddy Vickory

STATE & NATION

Foreign enrollment at US colleges holds steady

Some had feared a huge drop in foreign students

By Collin Binkey and Makiya Seminera

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Foreign students enrolled at U.S. colleges in strong numbers this fall despite fears that a Trump administration crackdown would trigger a nosedive, yet there are signs of turbulence as fewer new, rst-time students arrived from other countries, according to a new report.

Overall, U.S. campuses saw a 1% decrease in international enrollment this fall compared with last year, according to a survey from the Institute of International Education. But that gure is propped up by large numbers of students who stayed in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. The number of new students entering the United States for the rst time fell by 17%, the sharpest decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some universities are seeing backslides that have punched big holes in tuition revenue, but overall the fallo is less severe than some industry groups had forecast. Researchers credit colleges for helping students navigate visa issues through the summer.

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything

in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States,” said Mirka Martel, head of research, evaluation and learning for the institute. At DePaul University, a Catholic university in Chicago, the number of international graduate students fell by almost 62% this fall, a driving factor in recent spending cuts. The university president blamed student visa troubles and declining interest to study in the U.S., calling it a “massive” disruption.

Overall, nearly 60% of colleges reported a decrease in new foreign students this fall, the survey found, while 30% saw increases and others held even. More than 800 schools responded to the survey, which offers an early look at trends before full data is released next year.

Trump administration presses for reductions in foreign enrollment

The Trump administration has sought to reduce America’s reliance on foreign students. The White House is pushing colleges to cap enrollment of foreign students and enroll more from the U.S. In June, the State Department began screening visa applications more closely after temporarily halting all interviews.

Visa processing has continued to lag in some countries, in-

cluding India, the largest source of America’s foreign students. Education rms have reported that future college students are now showing decreased interest in the U.S. and more in Europe and Asia. While international enrollment remained relatively steady, there are concerns about its sustainability.

“There are warning signs for future years, and I’m really concerned about what this portends for fall ’26 and ’27,” said Clay Harmon, the executive director of AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management, which represents colleges and recruitment agencies.

Foreign students make up about 6% of America’s college students, but they play an outsized role in campus budgets. Most pay higher tuition rates and don’t get nancial aid, effectively subsidizing U.S. students. Their numbers are far higher at elite campuses, often making up a quarter or more of the student body.

International students at the graduate level saw the biggest backslide this fall, with a 12% drop. That was mostly o set by rising numbers of students participating in Optional Practical Training, which allows students to stay in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. Undergraduate numbers ticked up slightly.

Graduate students make up

Blue Origin launches huge rocket carrying twin NASA spacecraft to Mars

The rst-stage booster successfully landed on a drone ship

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. —

Blue Origin launched its huge New Glenn rocket last Thursday with a pair of NASA spacecraft destined for Mars.

It was only the second ight of the rocket that Je Bezos’ company and NASA are counting on to get people and supplies to the moon — and it was a complete success.

The 321-foot New Glenn blasted into the afternoon sky from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, sending NASA’s twin Mars orbiters on a drawn- out journey to the red planet. Lifto was stalled four days by lousy local weather as well as solar storms strong enough to paint the skies with auroras as far south as Florida.

In a remarkable rst, Blue Origin recovered the booster following its separation from the upper stage and the Mars orbiters, an essential step to recycle and slash costs similar to SpaceX. Company employees cheered wildly as the booster landed upright on a barge 375 miles o shore. An ecstatic

“Next stop, moon!”

Bezos watched the action from Launch Control.

“Next stop, moon!” employees chanted following the booster’s bull’s-eye landing. Twenty minutes later, the rocket’s upper stage deployed the two Mars orbiters in space, the mission’s main objective. Congratulations poured in from NASA o cials as well as SpaceX’s Elon Musk, whose booster landings are now routine.

New Glenn’s inaugural test ight in January delivered a prototype satellite to orbit, but failed to land the booster on its oating platform in the Atlantic.

The identical Mars orbiters, named Escapade, will spend a year hanging out near Earth, stationing themselves 1 million miles away. Once Earth and Mars are properly aligned next fall, the duo will get a gravity assist from Earth to head to the red planet, arriving in 2027. Once around Mars, the spacecraft will map the planet’s upper atmosphere and scattered magnetic elds, study-

ing how these realms interact with the solar wind. The observations should shed light on the processes behind the escaping Martian atmosphere, helping to explain how the planet went from wet and warm to dry and dusty. Scientists will also learn how best to protect astronauts against Mars’ harsh radiation environment.

“We really, really want to understand the interaction of the solar wind with Mars better than we do now,” Escapade’s lead scientist, Rob Lillis of the University of California, Berkeley, said ahead of the launch. “Escapade is going to bring an unprecedented stereo viewpoint because we’re going to have two spacecraft at the same time.”

It’s a relatively low-budget mission, coming in under $80 million, that’s managed and operated by UC Berkeley. NASA saved money by signing up for one of New Glenn’s early ights. The Mars orbiters should have blasted o last fall, but NASA passed up that ideal launch window — Earth and Mars line up for a quick transit just every two years — because of feared delays with Blue Origin’s brand-new rocket.

Named after John Glenn, the rst American to orbit the world, New Glenn is ve times bigger than the New Shepard

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States.”

Mirka Martel, Institute of International Education

the biggest share of foreign students in the U.S., often coming for science, math and business programs. Numbers had already started leveling o last year after a post-pandemic surge, but the recent turmoil appears to have accelerated the downturn. In the survey, colleges that saw decreases cite factors including visa issues and other travel restrictions.

Drops lead to budget cuts at some colleges

Many smaller and regional colleges have reported downswings, especially among master’s and doctoral students.

In a recent campus address, the president of the University at Albany said a decrease in foreign graduate students was having a “disproportionate impact” on the school’s budget. At Kent State University in Ohio, falling international numbers

required an additional $4 million in cuts to balance the budget, the president wrote in an October update.

Even the biggest public universities weren’t immune. The University of Illinois’ agship campus saw its international numbers dip, fueled by a 6% drop in graduate students. At the University of Michigan, foreign graduate enrollment fell by a similar share. Arizona State University, which has more foreign students than any other public campus, saw its overall numbers fall by 3%.

Universities are o ering wider exibility to students who couldn’t make it to campus this fall, according to the survey. Almost three-quarters are allowing foreign students to defer their enrollment to the spring term, and more than half are allowing deferrals until fall 2026. Colleges in other countries, meanwhile, have sought to capitalize on the disruption, said Joann Ng Hartmann, senior impact o cer at NAFSA, an agency that promotes international education. In Germany, Canada and some other countries, colleges are ramping up e orts to recruit students who might be rethinking college in the U.S.

“They have friendlier policies, and students realize that,” she said. “They have friendlier messaging for students that welcomes them.”

rockets sending wealthy clients to the edge of space from West Texas. Blue Origin plans to launch a prototype Blue Moon lunar lander on a demo mission in the coming months aboard New Glenn. Created in 2000 by Bezos, Amazon’s founder, Blue Origin already holds a NASA contract for the third moon landing by astronauts under the Artemis program. Musk’s SpaceX beat out Blue Origin for the rst and second crew landings, using Starships, nearly 100 feet taller than Bezos’ New Glenn. But last month NASA Acting Administrator Sean Du y reopened the contract for the

rst crewed moon landing, citing concern over the pace of Starship’s progress in ight tests from Texas. Blue Origin as well as SpaceX have presented accelerated landing plans.

NASA is on track to send astronauts around the moon early next year using its own Space Launch System, or SLS, rocket. The next Artemis crew would attempt to land; the space agency is pressing to get astronauts back on the lunar surface by decade’s end in order to beat China.

Twelve astronauts walked on the moon more than a half-century ago during NASA’s Apollo program.

JOHN RAOUX / AP PHOTO

A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket lifts o from Launch Complex 36 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida last week.

Blue Origin employees following the booster landing

RandolpH SPORTS

Cougars return to soccer state nal

Southwestern Randolph’s boys will try to nish on the right note this year

Randolph Record sta

ASHEBORO — Southwestern Randolph will have another chance in a state championship game for boys’ soccer.

And it took some dramatics in order for that to happen as the Cougars scored two late goals to defeat visiting Clinton 2-1 in Tuesday

night’s Class 4A Region nal.

“I think the right team won in the end,” Southwestern Randolph coach Jimmy Walker said. That sends Southwestern Randolph (26-1) to the statenal against Newton-Conover (24-1-3) at 4:30 p.m. Friday at Guilford College’s Appenzeller Field in Greensboro.

“This time we’re looking to take it all home,” Walker said.

About ve minutes after falling behind near the 13-minute mark, the Cougars struck with goals 27 seconds apart from

Kevin Garcia and Fernando Hernandez.

So after what looked gloomy for a few minutes with the clock ticking down, two goals with less than eight minutes remaining changed that from the Cougars’ perspective.

“It was really nip and tuck and could have gone either way,” Walker said.

Clinton (25-3) gave the Cougars looks with formations they hadn’t encountered this season.

“We had to work through

Only Eastern Randolph survives second round of playo s

Several of Randolph County’s football teams were ousted from the postseason with home losses

Randolph Record sta

RAMSEUR — The only football team from Randolph County to make it through the second round of the state playo s was Eastern Randolph.

The Wildcats rolled past visiting Union Academy 43-7 in Class 3A. The season ended for other teams from the county Friday night.

Here’s a rundown.

CLASS 3A

Eastern Randolph scored on three consecutive possessions in the second half after the game tightened.

The Wildcats, seeded No. 3 in the West Region, were up 14-0 at halftime after Kobe Walker scored on a pair of touchdown runs.

Four football teams in the county with winning records didn’t win a playo game.

No. 19 seed Union Academy (5-7) opened the second half with a touchdown before the Wildcats got clicking.

Quarterback Cade McCallum scored on an 80-yard run and threw a 36-yard touchdown pass to Chance Holdaway sandwiched around James Combs’ touchdown run. Combs later returned an interception for a touchdown.

Eastern Randolph (9-2) is home Friday night against No. 6 seed Walkertown (9-1).

• West Davidson 31, Providence Grove 21: At Climax, the visiting Dragons avenged a Central Carolina 3-A Conference loss, shutting out the Patriots in the second half.

Fifth-seeded Providence Grove (7-4) led 21-17 at halftime behind Andrew Thomas’ two touchdown runs and

Jackson Lawver’s touchdown pass to Holden Swift. No. 12 seed West Davidson (9-3), which has a sixgame winning streak since a one-point home loss to the Patriots, goes to third-seeded North Stanly (10-1) in the West Region’s third round.

• Walkertown 67, Wheatmore 0: At Walkertown, Wheatmore’s two-game winning streak ended. The No. 22 seed Warriors ended the season with a 3-9 record.

CLASS 4A

North Pitt scored a touchdown and two-point conversion in the fourth quarter to overcome host Randleman 28-23 in the East Region. John Kirkpatrick completed 11 of 18 passes for 169 yards and three touchdowns for the fth-seeded Tigers (7-4). Kirkpatrick also ran for 83 yards on 18 carries. Kirkpatrick’s touchdown passes went to Nazir Staton for 7 yards, to Tate Andrews for 3

See FOOTBALL, page B2

“We just took that momentum and went with it.”

Jimmy Walker, Southwestern Randolph coach

that,” Walker said. “We wanted to be a little bit more dangerous, a little more assertive and not hold the ball so much. … I wasn’t panicking inside.”

But time was winding down.

“We got impatient with our shots,” Walker said. “We had to nd that extra gear. We just took that momentum and went with it.”

There was a special atmosphere for the regional nal. Walker would like that to be replicated in Greensboro.

“I hope this crowd shows up at 4:30 Friday,” he said. In the West Region nal, top-seeded Newton-Conover

SOCCER, page B2

Cougars softball players pick colleges

The standouts have been part of Southwestern Randolph’s core for multiple seasons

Randolph Record sta ASHEBORO — A trio of softball players from Southwestern Randolph committed to playing college softball.

In elders Kami Dunn and Alyssa Harris and catcher Maddie Strider were part of last week’s announcement ceremony at the school. They all were starters on the school’s 2024 team, which won the Class 2A state championship.

Dunn chose Wingate, a Division II program in the South Atlantic Conference. Strider will go to Catawba, which is also a SAC member.

Harris, who was the co-Player of the Year in the Piedmont Athletic Conference in 2025, has picked Division III Pfei er.

All three players were on the All-PAC team as juniors. Strider, also a key member of the Cougars’ girls’ basketball program, is a three-time all-conference softball selection. Harris and Strider have been with the Cougars for the past three seasons. During that time, Southwestern Randolph has a combined 63-13 record.

The three players were part of a state championship.

Southwestern Randolph boys’ soccer teammates Fernando Hernandez, left, and Kevin Garcia react

Caden Revelle

Eastern Randolph, football

Caden Revelle has had some games with big production for Eastern Randolph’s football team.

UCA, Trinity wrestlers notch early successes

The basketball season for area high school has also started

Randolph Record sta

SEVERAL AREA wrestling teams had strong starts to their seasons last week.

Uwharrie Charter Academy won ve meets, including by 51-26 against Wilmington Laney in the nal, to win the Panther Creek Catamount Duals on Saturday.

Earlier in the week, UCA topped Cary 78-0 and Southeast Guilford 71-3 in home duals.

The senior receiver is among the leaders on the Wildcats’ o ense as one of quarterback Cade McCallum’s top targets. Revelle is averaging nearly three catches per game and has scored ve touchdowns.

Eastern Randolph has eclipsed the 40-point mark in each of its past three games.

The Wildcats (9-2) are the only football team from Randolph County remaining in the state playo s. They are home Friday night vs. Walkertown in the Class 3A third round.

Revelle also has been on Eastern Randolph’s track and eld team.

FOOTBALL from page B1

yards and to Jamari Rice for 23 yards. Owen Leonard kicked a 30-yard eld goal.

No. 12 seed North Pitt (75) scored a touchdown and two -point conversion late in the second quarter for a 20-13 halftime lead. But Randleman had the only 10 points of the third quarter to go back ahead.

Next for the Panthers is a trip to fourth-seeded Central Davidson (10-1), which nished one spot ahead of second-place Randleman in the Piedmont Athletic Conference.

Eastern Wayne 49, Southwestern Randolph 0: At Asheboro, the host Cougars, who held the No. 8 seed, failed to score for the second time this season. Eighth-seeded Southwestern Randolph nished with a

7-3 record. Ninth-seeded Eastern Wayne (8-3) goes on to face top-seeded Reidsville (9-2) in the East Region.

CLASS 6A

Sixth-seeded Asheboro matched Greensboro Dudley’s early touchdown but didn’t score again in a 21-6 West Region home loss.

The No. 11-seeded Panthers eliminated Asheboro (7-4) for the second year in a row.

Dallas Brinton scored on a 4-yard touchdown run as the Blue Comets closed to within 7-6. But the Panthers scored two second-quarter touchdowns before a scoreless second half.

Greensboro Dudley (8-4) takes on third-seeded Ashbrook (11-0) in the third round.

• In the Atkins Invitational, Asheboro’s Oscar Zelaya was an individual champion at 132 pounds, defeating Rhodes Shaw of West Wilkes by 14-10 in the nal.

Zelaya reached the title bout with a pin and two earlier decisions. The Blue Comets were 15th out of 19 teams in the team standings. Greensboro Dudley was the team champion.

In girls’ competition, Asheboro placed seventh out of 17, led by Andrea Thornton’s rst-place nish.

• Trinity’s boys won three dual meets last week at Asheboro, topping the host Blue

• Trinity placed third out of 23 in the two-day Wakeeld Wolverine Challenge in Raleigh, boosted by Jeven Palmer and Joseph Trahan with undefeated records and Edgar Vasquez with six victories. On the girls’ side, Trinity was 15th out of 25, with Briana Joyce the team’s top participant.

Comets 48-17 and defeating Jordan-Matthews 65-0 and Pinecrest 46-30. Asheboro also defeated Jordan-Matthews 59-18 but lost 70-6 to Pinecrest. Meanwhile, Southwestern Randolph topped Salisbury 48-30.

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

Lainey Thomas scored 19 points, Nevaeh Staples had 17 points and Naimah Al-Arif added 10 points as Uwharrie Charter Academy opened the season with a 68-48 victory at Falls Lake.

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

UCA dropped a 58-54 decision at Falls Lake to begin its season. Camden Cooke posted 18 points for Falls Lake.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA

Pelicans re Green 12 games into fth season, Borrego named interim coach

New Orleans The New Orleans Pelicans red coach Willie Green on the heels of a 2-10 start to his fth season in charge. Pelicans rst-year basketball operations chief Joe Dumars named assistant James Borrego as interim coach. Green was hired to his rst head coaching job in 2021 and has gone 150-190 in four-plus seasons. His teams made the playo s twice, losing in the rst round to Phoenix in 2022 and Oklahoma City in 2024. Borrego was formerly the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets for four seasons from 2018 to 2022.

SPORTS BROADCASTING

Disney reaches new deal with YouTube TV, ending two-week blackout

New York

Disney and YouTube TV have reached a new deal to bring channels like ABC and ESPN back to the Google-owned livestreaming platform. The agreement ends a blackout for customers that lasted about two weeks. Disney content went dark on YouTube TV the night of Oct. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new licensing deal. YouTube TV subscribers were left without Disney channels on the platform — notably disrupting coverage of top college football matchups and professional sports games, among other news and entertainment o erings.

SOCCER from page B1

defeated second-seeded Ashe County 2-0.

The East Region nal between the top-seeded Cougars and second-seeded Clinton was a rematch of last year’s Class 2A state nal (prior to the move to an eight-classi cation set-up) in a game won 3-1 by Clinton.

The East Region nal was also a rematch from a Sept. 24 game, which Southwestern Randolph won 5-1 at Clinton Southwestern Randolph topped First Flight 5-0 in last Thursday night’s fourth round. Garcia scored two goals, Aaron Avina posted one goal

NHL

Devils leading scorer Hughes out 2 months after nger surgery

Newark, N.J.

New Jersey Devils leading scorer Jack Hughes is expected to be out two months after undergoing surgery to repair a nger injury. The team announced Hughes had the operation at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. Hughes’ expected return-toplay timeline is eight weeks, and he’ll be reevaluated at the six-week mark. It wasn’t clear which nger or which hand Hughes had surgery on.

NCAA FOOTBALL

Texas state trooper who had run-in with Gamecocks player Harbor sent home

College Station, Texas

A Texas trooper who had an altercation with South Carolina’s Nyck Harbor after his touchdown was sent home from the game, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Harbor scored on an 80-yard reception in the second quarter and ran into the tunnel following the score. As he and three other players were walking back to the eld, the trooper walked in between Harbor and another player and bumped into them. The trooper and Harbor turned around and the trooper pointed at Harbor with both hands and said something to him.

and one assist and Chris Betancourt and Gri n Hall each had one goal against First Flight. Hernandez provided two assists. Jonathan Perez made four saves. Fifth-seeded First Flight (14-4-2) was a shutout victim for the second time this season. In last week’s third round, Betancourt scored three goals and Avina had the other goal when Southeastern Randolph drilled eighth-seeded Jordan Matthews 4-0 in a clash between Four Rivers Conference rivals.

Class 6A

Asheboro’s bid to reach a

state nal for the second year in a row was derailed with a West Region third-round loss to second-seeded Charlotte Catholic, which won 5-1. Despite a goal by Carlos Gonzalez, the 10th-seeded Blue Comets (17-7-3) couldn’t keep up. Going into the regional nal, it marked the only time Charlotte Catholic allowed a goal in this year’s state playo s.

Class 3A

Second-seeded Wallace RoseHill defeated seventh-seeded Trinity 8-2 in last week’s East Region third round. The Bulldogs nished with an 11-9-3 record.

PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD

PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD

Uwharrie Charter Academy’s Ayven Virasone Chitavong, right, locks up with a Cary wrestler during a match in last week’s dual meet.

pen & paper pursuits

this week in history

Nazis tried at Nuremberg, Blackbeard killed near Ocracoke, “Casablanca” premieres

The Associated Press

NOV. 20

1910: Francisco Madero led a revolt against Mexican President Por rio Díaz, marking the beginning of the decade-long Mexican Revolution.

1945: Twenty-two former Nazi o cials went on trial for war crimes in Nuremberg, Germany; 12 were sentenced to death, seven imprisoned and three acquitted a year later.

2003: Music producer Phil Spector was charged with murder in the shooting of actor Lana Clarkson at his California home.

NOV. 21

1920: On “Bloody Sunday,” the Irish Republican Army killed 14 suspected British intelligence o cers in the Dublin area; British forces responded by raiding a soccer match, killing 14 civilians.

1964: New York City’s Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, then the longest suspension bridge in the world, opened to tra c.

1980: An estimated 83 million TV viewers tuned in to the CBS prime-time soap opera “Dallas” to nd out “who shot J.R.”

NOV. 22

1718: English pirate Edward Teach — better known as “Blackbeard” — was killed during a battle with British naval forces near Ocracoke Island in North Carolina.

1963: President John F. Kennedy was assassinated during a Dallas motorcade. Texas Gov. John B. Connally was wounded, Lee Harvey Os-

On

wald was arrested, and Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as president.

1935: A ying boat, the China Clipper, took o from Alameda, California, carrying more than 100,000 pieces of mail on the rst trans-Paci c airmail ight.

NOV. 23

1863: Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s Union forces drove Confederates from Chattanooga, Tennessee, in a key Civil War victory.

1939: The British cruiser HMS Rawalpindi was sunk by German warships near Iceland, killing over 200.

1984: Boston College quarterback Doug Flutie completed one of the most famous passes in college football history, connecting with Gerald Phelan for a 48-yard touchdown as time expired to beat Miami 47-45.

NOV. 24

1859: British naturalist Charles Darwin published “On

the Origin of Species,” outlining his theory of evolution through natural selection.

1963: Jack Ruby shot and fatally wounded Lee Harvey Oswald, the accused assassin of President John F. Kennedy, in a scene broadcast live on television.

1971: Hijacker “D.B. Cooper” parachuted from a Northwest Orient jet with a $200,000 ransom and was never found.

NOV. 25

1783: Following the end of the Revolutionary War, the last British troops in the United States were evacuated from New York City.

1963: The body of President John F. Kennedy was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery after a funeral procession through Washington, D.C.

1986: The Iran-Contra affair broke when President Ronald Reagan revealed profits from secret Iran arms sales were sent to Nicaraguan rebels.

1999: Elian Gonzalez, a 5-year-old Cuban boy, was rescued by two sport shermen o the coast of Florida, setting o an international custody battle that eventually saw him repatriated to his father in Cuba.

NOV. 26

1791: President George Washington held his rst full cabinet meeting with Thomas Je erson, Alexander Hamilton, Henry Knox and Edmund Randolph.

1864: English mathematician Charles Dodgson presented “Alice’s Adventures Under Ground” to 12-year-old Alice Liddell, later published as “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” under the pen name Lewis Carroll.

1942: The lm “Casablanca,” starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, premiered in New York City.

ALAN DIAZ / AP PHOTO

Nov. 25, 1999, shermen o Florida’s coast pulled 5-year-old Elian Gonzalez from the sea, igniting a monthslong custody clash between the U.S. and Cuba that ended with his return to his father.

JIM ALTGENS / AP PHOTO

President John F. Kennedy waves from his motorcade in Dallas moments before he was shot Nov. 22, 1963, . Riding with him were rst lady Jacqueline Kennedy, Nellie Connally and Texas Gov. John Connally.

Bagpipers claim world record with AC/DC’s ‘It’s a Long Way to the Top’

Guitarist Angus Young joined the “Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash” last week

By Rod McGuirk

The Associated Press

MELBOURNE, Australia

— Hundreds of bagpipers claimed a new world record last Wednesday by belting out AC/DC’s rock and roll classic

“It’s a Long Way to the Top.”

Billed as “The Great Melbourne Bagpipe Bash,” the eclectic performance took place in Melbourne’s Federation Square on Swanston Street, which was the scene of the Australian hard rock band’s 1976 lm clip in which they played the hit on the back of a atbed truck traveling slowly through downtown tra c with music blaring from speakers.

Federation Square is also a short stroll from the Melbourne Cricket Ground where AC/DC were scheduled to play their rst Australian gig in a decade last Wednesday. Guitarist Angus Young, 70, is the only band member who played on the truck and is performing on the latest Australian tour.

Thousands of spectators crammed the square for the world record attempt. Many of the 374 pipers had to squeeze through the crowd to the stage area. The oldest piper was 98 years old, organizers said.

Among the bagpipers was Les Ken eld and Kevin Conlon, two of the three members of Rats of Tobruk Memorial Pipes and Drums who played with AC/DC on the truck 49 years ago.

“It didn’t strike you at the time how big this event is until now,” Ken eld told Australian Broadcasting Corp. “Now it’s one of the greatest things — probably the greatest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”

Bagpipers gather to break a world record for the largest bagpipe ensemble playing “It’s a Long Way to the Top” by Australian rock band AC/DC in Melbourne, Australia, on Nov. 12.

“I think Aussie crowds are going to be way better than the U.S. I think it’s going to be more eventful, more head banging, more excitement with the crowds.”

Keegan Kohler, AC/DC fan

Having been declared world record holders, the massed pipers played “Happy Birthday” on request, followed by an impromptu “Amazing Grace” to a cheering crowd, many using their phones to record the moment.

The Australian Book of Records, which has been certifying records since 2012, conrmed that 374 pipers had together broken a record set by 333 pipers in Bulgaria in 2012.

One AC/DC fan who didn’t see the record set was Keegan Kohler, 23, a self-employed electrician from Columbus, Ohio. He had been waiting outside the concert stadium since 4:50 a.m. to ensure he’d be rst in when the gates opened at

5 p.m. The bagpipes record was set nearby at 5:15 p.m.

Kohler had seen AC/DC perform their “Power Up Tour” this year in Cleveland, Ohio, Washington, D.C., Detroit and Pittsburgh, but expected the experience would be better in the band’s home country.

“I think Aussie crowds are going to be way better than the U.S.,” he said. “I think it’s going to be more eventful, more head banging, more excitement with the crowds.”

Kohler also reacquainted himself outside the stadium with Stephen Scott from Charlotte.

Scott, a 33-year-old real estate agent, has seen the current tour multiple times in Europe, and the United States, and he wanted to see the band perform in Australia.

“I’ve always talked about wanting to see them here. This is the rst opportunity really to do it and maybe the last,” Scott said.

His ancée, Amber Thompson ,said it was Scott’s idea to travel 10,000 miles for the concert.

“I enjoy it, but I probably wouldn’t be here if I didn’t know him,” she said, referring to Scott, whom she described as the true fan.

Writer David Szalay wins prestigious Booker Prize for ction with ‘Flesh’

The award has established a reputation for transforming writers’ careers

By Jill Lawless

The Associated Press

LONDON — Canadian Hungarian British writer David Szalay won the Booker Prize for ction on Monday for “Flesh,” the story of one man’s life from working-class origins in Hungary to mega-wealth in Britain, in which what isn’t on the page is just as important as what is.

Szalay, 51, beat ve other nalists, including favorites Andrew Miller of Britain and Indian author Kiran Desai, to take the coveted literary award, which brings a $66,000 payday and a big boost to the winner’s sales and pro le.

He was chosen from 153 submitted novels by a judging panel that included Irish writer Roddy Doyle and “Sex and the City” star Sarah Jessica Parker.

Doyle said “Flesh” — a book “about living, and the strangeness of living” — emerged as the judges’ unanimous choice after a ve-hour meeting.

Szalay’s book recounts in spare, unadorned style the life of taciturn István, from a teenage relationship with an older woman through time as a struggling immigrant in Britain to unlikely denizen of London high society.

Szalay said he wrote “Flesh” under pressure; after abandoning a novel he’d been working on for four years.

He said the story grew from “simple, fundamental ingredients.” He knew he “wanted a book that was partly Hungarian and partly English” and was about “life as a physical experience.”

Accepting his trophy at London’s Old Billingsgate — a former sh market turned glitzy

KIRSTY WIGGLESWORTH / AP PHOTO

Hungarian British author David Szalay, third from right, stands with the judges after receiving the trophy for winning the Booker Prize 2025 for his book “Flesh” at Old Billingsgate in London on Nov. 10.

“(István) doesn’t explain himself to the reader. He isn’t very articulate. So I really didn’t know quite how people would respond to him as a character.”

David Szalay

events venue — Szalay thanked the judges for rewarding his “risky” novel.

He recalled asking his editor “whether she could imagine a novel called ‘Flesh’ winning the Booker Prize.”

“You have your answer,” he said.

Doyle, who chaired the judges, said István belongs to a group overlooked in ction: a working-class man. He said that since reading it, he looks more closely when he walks past bouncers standing in the doorways of Dublin pubs.

“I’m kind of giving him a second look because I feel I might know him a bit better,” said Doyle, whose funny, poi-

SOLUTIONS FOR THIS WEEK

gnant stories of working-class

Dublin life won him the 1993 Booker Prize for “Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha.”

“It presents us with a certain type of man that invites us to look behind the face.”

Szalay, who was born in Montreal to a Hungarian father and Canadian mother, raised in the U.K. and now lives in Vienna, was previously a Booker nalist in 2016 for “All That Man Is,” a series of stories about nine wildly different men.

“Flesh” was praised by many critics but frustrated others with its refusal to ll in the gaps in István’s story — great swathes of life, including incarceration and wartime service in Iraq, occur o the page — and its stubbornly unexpressive central character, whose most common remark is “Okay.”

“He is quite an opaque character,” Szalay acknowledged at a news conference. “He doesn’t explain himself to the reader. He isn’t very articulate. So I really didn’t know quite how people would respond to him as a character.”

Doyle said the judges “loved the spareness of the writing.”

JOEL CARRETT / AAP IMAGE VIA AP

famous birthdays this week

Joe Biden turns 83, Goldie Hawn is 80, Björk turns 60, Billie Jean King turns 82

The Associated Press NOV. 20

ACTOR ESTELLE Parsons is 98. Author Don DeLillo is 89. Comedian Dick Smothers is 87. Former President Joe Biden is 83. Musician Joe Walsh is 78. Actor Bo Derek is 69. Rapper Michael “Mike D” Diamond (Beastie Boys) is 60.

NOV. 21

Actor Marlo Thomas is 88. Basketball Hall of Famer Earl Monroe is 81. Actor Goldie Hawn is 80. Musician Björk is 60. Football Hall of Famer Troy Aikman is 59. Baseball Hall of Famer Ken Gri ey Jr. is 56.

NOV. 22

Actor- lmmaker Terry Gilliam is 85. Tennis Hall of Famer Billie Jean King is 82. Rock musician-actor Steven Van Zandt is 75. Rock musician Tina Weymouth (Talking Heads) is 75. Actor Jamie Lee Curtis is 67. Actor Scarlett Johansson is 41.

NOV. 23

Actor Franco Nero (“Django”) is 84. Singer Bruce Hornsby is 71. Poet and author Jennifer Michael Hecht is 60. Olympic gold medal sprinter Asafa Powell is 43. Ice hockey player Nicklas Bäckström is 38. Singer-actor Miley Cyrus is 33.

NOV. 24

Basketball Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson is 87. Rock drummer Pete Best is 84. Actor-comedian Billy Connolly is 83. Actor Colin Hanks is 48.

NOV. 25

Football Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs is 85. Actor John Larroquette is 78. Dance judge Bruno Tonioli (TV: “Dancing

with the Stars”) is 70. Musician Amy

Grant is 65. Television personality Jenna Bush Hager and twin sister Barbara Pierce Bush, daughters of former President George W. Bush, are 44. NOV. 26

Impressionist Rich Little is 87. Football Hall of Famer Jan Stenerud is 83. Author Marilynne Robinson is 82. Bass guitarist John McVie (Fleetwood Mac) is 80. Football Hall of Famer Art Shell is 79.

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO Singer Miley Cyrus turns 33 on Sunday.

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO Ken Gri ey Jr. turns 56 on Friday.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO Tina Weymouth, the former Talking Heads bassist, turns 75 on Saturday.

the stream

‘Wicked:

For Good’ soundtrack, Ted Danson,

Aerosmith teams up with Yungblud for “One More Time”

The Associated Press

TED DANSON’S “A Man on the Inside” returning to Net ix for its second season, and Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo belting out the “Wicked: For Good” soundtrack 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: Aerosmith teaming up with Yungblud on a new EP, “The Bad Guys 2” hitting Peacock, and Jordan Peele looking at black cowboys in a new documentary series.

MOVIES TO STREAM

“Train Dreams,” (Friday on Net ix), Clint Bentley’s adaptation of Denis Johnson’s acclaimed novella, stars Joel Edgerton as Robert Grainier, a railroad worker and logger in the early 20th-century Pacific Northwest. The lm, scripted by Bentley and Greg Kwedar (the duo behind last year’s “Sing Sing”), conjures a frontier past to tell a story about an anonymous laborer and the currents of change around him.

The DreamWorks Animation sequel “The Bad Guys 2” (Friday on Peacock) returns the reformed criminal gang of animals for a new heist caper. In the lm, with a returning voice cast including Sam Rockwell, Awkwa na, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos and Marc Maron, the Bad Guys encounter a new robbery team: the Bad Girls. In his review, AP’s Mark Kennedy lamented an over-amped sequel with a plot that reaches into space: “It’s hard to watch a franchise drift so expensively and pointlessly in Earth’s orbit.”

‘The

Bad Guys 2,’ black cowboys

“The Roses” is an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

Mark Kennedy, AP Film Writer

HBO. An acclaimed Swedish drama called “Vanguard” debuts Tuesday on Viaplay that’s of the same vein. It’s a dramatization about Jan Stenbeck, one of Europe’s most in uential media moguls. There’s ambition, betrayal and yes, sibling rivalry. Danson’s “A Man on the Inside” returns to Net ix for its second season on Thursday. Danson plays a widower named Charles who has found a new sense of purpose as an amateur private detective. In Season 1, Charles moved into a retirement home to catch his culprit. In Season 2, he goes back to college to solve a case. Danson’s real-life wife, Mary Steenburgen, joins the cast as Charles’s love interest as he explores the idea of a second chance at romance.

Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore co-star in “The Assassin” for AMC+. Hawes (“Bodyguard”) plays a retired assassin living in solitude on a Greek island whose peaceful life is turned upside down when her estranged son (Highmoore) comes to visit. When the two nd themselves in danger, they must work together to stay alive. It premieres Thursday.

Peele has a new documentary series called “High Horse: The Black Cowboy” coming to Peacock on Thursday. The three-part series examines how stories of black cowboys have been erased from both pop culture and history books.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

MUSIC TO STREAM

Musical theater fans, your time has come … again. “Wicked: For Good” is upon us, and with it comes the release of its

In “The Roses,” Jay Roach (“Meet the Parents’), from a script by Tony McNamara (“Poor Things”), remakes Danny DeVito’s 1989 black comedy, “The War of the Roses.” In this version, Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star as a loving couple who turn bitter enemies. In his review, Kennedy called “The Roses” “an escalating hate fest that, by the time a loaded gun comes out, all the fun has been sucked out.”

o cial soundtrack. On Friday, after or before you catch the lm in theaters, stream its life-afrming compositions to your heart’s content. Might we suggest Grande’s “The Girl in the Bubble?” Or Erivo’s “No Place Like Home?” And for the Je Goldblum and Jonathan Bailey lovers, yes, there’s gold to be unearthed too.

Rock this way: Aerosmith is back with new music. Following their 2023 “Greatest Hits” collection and just a few months after the conclusion of their “Peace Out: The Farewell Tour” (the band said it would no longer hit the road due to singer Steven Tyler’s voice becoming permanently damaged by a vocal cord injury), they’re teaming up with next gen rock ’n’ roller Yungblud. It’s a collaborative EP called “One More Time,” out Friday. The anthemic opening track, “My Only Angel” sets the tone. What’s another one for the road?

SERIES TO STREAM

Raise your hand if you still miss “Succession” Sundays on

If you bought Mario Kart World when Nintendo launched the Switch 2 back in June, you may be wondering: Do I really need another racing game? Kirby Air Riders comes from designer Masahiro Sakurai, the mastermind behind Super Smash Bros., so it adds that franchise’s chaotic combat to the mix. Each of the competitors has di erent weapons and each of the vehicles has di erent bene ts and drawbacks. And everyone can use Kirby’s signature “inhale” technique, which lets you absorb an opponent’s skills by, well, swallowing them. So if you like your racing weird, get your motor running Thursday.

CHARLES SYKES / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, pictured performing a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne during the MTV Video Music Awards in 2025, release their latest album, “One More Time,” this week.

Joel Edgerton and Kerry Condon star in “Train Dreams,” an adaptation of Denis Johnson’s acclaimed novella.

Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star in “The Roses,” Jay Roach’s remake of a 1989 black comedy.

HOKE COUNTY

Honoring service

The JROTC Honor Guard from Hoke County High School posts colors at a Veterans Day ceremony held on Nov. 11, 2025, at 11 a.m.

The American Legion Post 20 held a Veterans Day ceremony at J.W. Turlington School in Raeford last Tuesday. Those gathered included veterans, community leaders, scouts and military supporters from Hoke County. Pictured are JROTC students, left to right, Neydy Sosa Bonilla, Trey Redmond, Logan Colon and Hayleigh Co man.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Hoke County

Congress acts to force release of Epstein les, Trump agrees to sign Washington, D.C. Both the House and Senate have acted decisively to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its les on convicted sex o ender Je rey Epstein. It’s a remarkable display of approval for an e ort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from President Donald Trump and Republican leadership. Trump now says he will sign the bill. Just hours after the House passed the bill, the Senate approved a motion to pass the bill with unanimous consent once it is sent to the Senate. For survivors of Epstein’s abuse, passage of the bill was a watershed moment in a yearslong quest for accountability.

Federal judges block Texas from using new U.S. House map in 2026 midterms

A panel of three federal judges has blocked Texas from using a new congressional map that Republicans drew in hopes of picking up ve U.S. House seats. The 2-1 ruling Tuesday was a blow to President Donald Trump’s e orts to have states draw more favorable maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections so the GOP can preserve its slim U.S. House majority. In Texas, civil rights groups have argued the new map is an illegal racial gerrymander. The judges blocked the map’s use pending further court review. Texas’ expected appeal would be directly to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Sheri ’s O ce to start functioning at paramedic level

The advancement in credentials will allow for better and quicker emergency care from deputies

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

RAEFORD — The Hoke County Sheri ’s O ce will be advancing its level of care for its medical response team.

At the Nov. 17 meeting of the Hoke County Board of Commissioners, the commissioners unanimously approved the transition of the Hoke County Sheri ’s O ce from Advanced EMT (AEMT) to full paramedic-level care.

“Due to the demand that we have in our community, we see that it would be very, very indicative and very needful that we increase the level of our care to paramedics,” said Sheri Rod-

erick Virgil. “We’ve spoken with the medical director, sat down and looked at our numbers and there have been countless situations where if we had certain medications or skill levels, where we could have potentially saved a life.”

According to Virgil, this advancement comes at no additional costs to the county and the Sheri ’s O ce already has everything they’ll need on hand.

“This is a win-win to me,” said board chair James Leach. “You can’t deny something like this. It’s not costing us at this moment, but you also can’t deny it if it will cost something later on, because to save a life, that’s something you can never get back.”

The step up in credentialing will allow for more advanced medical interventions, faster response times, better coordination between law enforcement and EMS and an elevated stan-

dard of public safety.

The Sheri ’s O ce has been a trendsetter in medical response in North Carolina, as just last year, they became the rst law enforcement agency in the state to send deputies who are certi ed medics to 911 calls.

“This program was designed to bridge the gap between law enforcement and emergency medical services,” Virgil wrote in a Facebook post. “With deputies often arriving on scene prior to EMS, the ability to provide advanced, life-saving interventions can signi cantly in uence patient outcomes.

Transitioning to a Paramedic credential brings the highest level of prehospital care directly to the community, especially in the county’s rural areas where minutes matter most.”

With the Board of Commissioners approval, the Sheri ’s O ce will now submit the required documentation to the

“Our constituents, our supporters and our community are very supportive of what we have here and I appreciate that.”

Sheri Roderick Virgil

North Carolina O ce of EMS to nalize the credentialing process.

“This Sheri ’s O ce has taken a serious hit in the last three weeks in this county,” Virgil said. “But we’re a resilient group of people because our constituents, our supporters and our community are very supportive of what we have here and I appreciate that.”

The Hoke County Board of Commissioners will next meet Dec. 1.

Immigration crackdown in NC expands to Raleigh

Border Patrol units were spotted in Durham, Raleigh and Cary

By Gary D. Robertson and Tim Sullivan The Associated Press

Federal agents expanded their North Carolina immigration crackdown to the area around the state capital of Raleigh on Tuesday, with fear spreading in at least one immigrant-heavy suburb where restaurants closed and many people stayed home.

The North Carolina operation began over the weekend in the state’s largest city, Charlotte, where o cials said more than 130 people have been arrested.

Speaking at a Raleigh City Council meeting, Mayor Janet Cowell said there had been “con rmed sightings” of Border Patrol o cers operating in Wake County, which includes

U.S. Border Patrol

Raleigh, and nearby Durham County, which includes the city of Durham. She said earlier that she did not know how large the operation would be

or how long agents would be present. She encouraged residents to call the police department if they felt unsafe and urged pro -

testers to remain peaceful.

“And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today,” she added.

Federal o cials have said the crackdowns will reduce crime, though leaders in both Charlotte and Raleigh said crime was down. The o cials have also criticized so-called sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents in a handful of jurisdictions.

Anxiety spreads swiftly in Raleigh suburb

Federal o cials have given no information about activity in the Raleigh area.

But in Cary, a sprawling Raleigh suburb where o cials say almost 20% of the population was born outside the U.S. and the large Asian population tripled in the 1990s, fear spread

See ICE, page A2

THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

ELAINA J. MARTIN FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

Commander at large Gregory Bovino takes a phone call Monday in Charlotte.

“Join the

quickly.

An area resident recorded as a large black SUV with darkly tinted windows and Texas license plates drove through Cary’s downtown, eventually linking up with another SUV. The vehicles stopped at a construction site, where Pamela Hoile recorded Border Patrol agents detaining four workers. Speaking by phone after posting the video on Facebook, she described herself as a “very outraged, horri ed and concerned citizen.”

The Chatham Square shopping center, which is usually bustling at midday with workers eating at mom-and-pop ethnic restaurants, was quiet. Most of the restaurants — Mexican, Indian and Chinese among them — were closed. Nearby, the often-full parking lot at an Indian grocery store was largely empty, and tra c inside was nonexistent.

Esmeralda Angel’s family closed their restaurant, the Esmeralda Grill, to avoid any confrontations between customers and federal agents. At their separate grocery store, they were delivering items to customers who were avoiding going out in public.

The family businesses had scaled back to help their community, she said, but knew it would hurt nancially.

“Taco Tuesday is the busy day for all of these restaurants,” Angel said of the weekly

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: hokecommunity@northstatejournal.com

Weekly deadline is Monday at noon

specials. “But I think everyone would rather close than operate.”

Congresswoman calls deployment “profound abuse of power”

U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee, a Democrat who represents Durham, part of Raleigh and some suburbs, said Tuesday that the deployment of federal immigration agents in North Carolina “is a profound abuse of power, a violation of civil rights and a stain on our democracy.”

The region’s South Asian community has grown dramatically in recent decades, including many people drawn to the Research Triangle region by high-tech jobs.

Satish Garimella is mayor pro tempore in Morrisville, about 15 miles west of downtown Raleigh. Close to half of the town’s 30,000 people are Asian.

Garimella, who grew up in India but is now a U.S. citizen, said the expected arrival of immigration agents is “creating a lot of panic,” and he recommended residents carry identity documents.

“You just don’t know when you will be questioned and what things are needed,” Garimella said.

The Trump administration turned to North Carolina after immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles and Chicago, both deep blue cities in deep blue

states run by nationally prominent o cials who are often loudly critical of President Donald Trump. They also increased operations in Portland, Oregon, where more than 560 immigration arrests were made in October, according to U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks.

North Carolina was a more surprising target.

The mayors of Charlotte and Raleigh are both Democrats, as is the governor, but none are known for wading into national political battles. In a state where divided government has become the norm, Gov. Josh Stein in particular has tried to get along with the GOP-controlled state legislature. The state’s two U.S. senators are both Republican, and Trump won the state in the last three presidential elections.

State was drawn into national debates

A handful of cities and counties in North Carolina have been drawn into America’s debates over crime and immigration, two of the most important issues to the White House.

The most prominent was

the fatal stabbing this summer of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte lightrail train, an attack captured on video. The suspect was from the U.S., but the Trump administration repeatedly highlighted that he had been arrested more than a dozen times.

While the Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on the state because of sanctuary policies, most North Carolina county jails have long honored “detainers,” or requests from federal o cials to hold an arrested immigrant for a limited time so agents can take custody of them.

Some common noncooperation policies have existed in few places, including Raleigh and Charlotte, where the police donot help with immigration enforcement.

In Mecklenburg County, the jail did not honor detainer requests for several years until state law e ectively made it mandatory starting last year. Wake County, where Raleigh is located, had a similar policy.

DHS said about 1,400 detainers across North Carolina had not been honored since October 2020, putting the public at risk.

Matt Mercer, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Republican Party, said in a text message that the arrival of immigration agents to Raleigh would show that failures by “radical Democrats will nally be taken seriously.”

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Climate has a new head clown

Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson.

MOVE OVER, Al Gore. The climate clown car has a new self-anointed driver. His name is Gavin Newsom.

The California governor is trying to use the ongoing United Nations climate conference (COP30) to position himself as the leader of the U.S., if not the world, on climate change. In hopes of advancing his presidential aspirations in 2028, Newsom is attempting to exploit the vacuum created by the boycott of COP30 by the Trump administration.

Toward that end, Newsom has attacked President Donald Trump as “an invasive species,” boasted about California’s success in climate and traveled into the Amazon jungle to “absorb a deeper spiritual connection to this issue that connects all of us.” Cue the eyeroll.

But Newsom is actually more of a tragic nuisance than any kind of hero when it comes to climate.

Californians pay the highest prices for electricity in the continental U.S. This is because Newsom has loaded the California grid with expensive wind, solar and utility-scale batteries. Not only has all this green technology caused prices to soar, it has also weakened grid reliability. During periods of peak electricity demand, EV owners are warned not to charge their vehicles.

Californians also pay the highest prices for gasoline in the continental U.S because the state requires special blends of gasoline that are supposed to be improving air quality. One

might think that Newsom would be helping the oil industry to lower costs. But he’s not.

Newsom’s hostility to the oil and gas industry forces California to import gasoline from foreign countries that don’t produce oil as cleanly as we do in the U.S. He’s trying to block o shore drilling that would actually reduce oil pollution in the ocean. Oil from below the ocean oor naturally seeps into the ocean o the California coast. Oil drilling would reduce that natural seepage by reducing pressure.

Newsom is also chasing re neries out of California. The problem is so acute that Newsom is actually now forced to consider a state takeover of the re neries as the industry ees the state.

But it gets worse.

After more than four decades of forest mismanagement that has turned publicly owned forests and lands in California into tinderboxes just waiting for sparks to turn into deadly, out-of-control wild res, Newsom has opposed Trump’s suggestions to clean up the forests and public lands. These wild res have burned down forests that companies like Microsoft tried to preserve by purchasing carbon o sets.

While the California legislature had directed in 2012 that reservoirs be built to provide water to ght wild res and drought, Newsom failed to build any. When Trump directed the diversion of water from Southern California to end, Newsom opposed the move.

Democrats blame Republicans for multiple Democrat failures

No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it.

A KEY REASON Democrats make so many Republicans grind our molars is that they will not take responsibility for their own gargantuan failures. Instead, Democrats blame the GOP for the damage that they in ict on America.

It’s bad enough when someone takes a skillet and repeatedly wallops you across the back of your head. What really irks is when that person then screams at you: “Stop smacking your skull with a skillet!”

This is a big part of why Democrats have become utterly insu erable.

This month alone, Democrats refused to own their disastrous “Schumer Shutdown.” Thankfully, Democrats’ 43- day kidnapping conspiracy zzled out last Wednesday night.

The Republican-led House of Representatives voted to end the federal shutdown one day after eight Senate Democrats joined nearly unanimous Republicans, stopped the Democrats’ libuster, and adopted legislation to reopen the government.

Shortly before the House vote, Democrat leader Hakeem Je ries of Brooklyn took to the oor and presented a master class in how to shirk responsibility and shift blame.

“Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the presidency,” Je ries said. “(President) Donald Trump and Republicans made the decision to shut the government down, the longest shutdown in American history.”

Wrong!

House Republicans passed a “clean” continuing resolution on Sept. 19. It would have sustained Biden-era federal spending on autopilot until Jan. 30. There were

no strings, budget cuts or policy reforms attached.

This bill went to the Senate, where — as Je ries damn well knows — overall Republican control is limited by the requirement for 60 votes to overcome a libuster. Republicans have only 53 votes, seven short of the number needed to adopt the House bill.

Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer of New York weaponized this rule and launched the Democrat libuster that shut down the federal government on Oct. 1.

Fourteen separate times, Senate Republicans (absent the dissenting Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky) voted to end the Democrat libuster. While three Democrats concurred with the GOP, Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota still fell short of the 60-vote threshold needed to stop Schumer from holding the American people and their government hostage until Democrats scored $192.8 billion for illegal-alien health care.

Je ries knows all of this. Nonetheless, he stood up and lied about it.

Je ries continued to blame Republicans for his party’s ops. “House Democrats will continue to ght to address the health care crisis that Republicans have created,” Je ries said. A huge part of America’s pounding migraine on health insurance is Democrats’ proudest baby: Obamacare. To say that this is a baby only a mother could love is an insult to ugly babies.

Obamacare was supposed to lower insurance premiums by $2,500. Instead, they have soared by at least that much. The

At COP30, Newsom blamed the Los Angeles wild res on global warming even though the res were started by arson that was not completely extinguished by re ghters. When the con agration later spread, aided by the naturally occurring Santa Ana winds, there was no water in the re hydrants. None of this is climate change. It’s incompetent government led by a vacuous hologram of a person.

Since 2012, California has charged the oil industry and consumers billions and billions of dollars as part of a cap-and-trade scheme to lower emissions. Not only have the wild res more than o set all the emissions cuts, but the California legislature recently approved a bill to drill 2,000 new oil wells so that the state could reap more revenue from the cap-and-trade scheme.

The beep-beep of Newsom’s climate clown car is deafening. It’s a warning for 2028.

Steve Milloy is a biostatistician and lawyer. He posts on X at @ JunkScience. This column was rst published by Daily Caller News Foundation.

entire boondoggle is a scal tumor that requires massive taxpayer subsidies to stay alive. Democrats are desperate to keep these subsidies owing, lest Obamacare atline. Democrats cannot blame the GOP for this mess. No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it. Democrats own Obamacare and every one of its painful symptoms.

Je ries then denounced “the Republican refusal to extend the A ordable Care Act tax credits.” Once again, Je ries cannot pin this on the GOP. These tax credits are scheduled to expire on New Year’s Eve because that is exactly what Democrats wanted!

As Sally Pipes of the Paci c Research Institute detailed for me, Section 9661 of the COVID-19-fueled Biden/Democrat American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included “expanding premium assistance” as a “Temporary rule for 2021 and 2022.” Later, Section 12001 of the Biden/Democrat In ation Reduction Act of 2022 aimed to “improve a ordability and reduce premium costs of health insurance … before Jan. 1, 2026.”

“A proposal being weighed by congressional Democrats and party advisers in recent weeks aims to temporarily extend the enhanced Obamacare subsidies that were part of the nancial aid package President Joe Biden signed into law last March,” Politico explained on June 24, 2022, regarding this second bill.

If Democrats wanted to subsidize Obamacare into 2026 and beyond, they should have written that into legislation that they, not Republicans, sponsored.

As the saying goes, “When you point a nger at someone, three ngers point back at you.” Je ries and other Democrats should remember that before, yet again, giving Republicans the nger.

Deroy Murdock is a Manhattan-based Fox News contributor and a contributing editor with The American Spectator. This column was rst published by The Daily Signal.

COLUMN | STEVE MILLOY

Czech Republic plans $19B nuclear expansion to double output, end fossil fuel reliance

The new facilities will replace coal- red power plants

By Karel Janicek

The Associated Press

DUKOVANY NUCLEAR

PLANT, Czech Republic — The eight huge cooling towers of the Dukovany power plant overlook a construction site for two more reactors as the Czech Republic pushes ahead with plans to expand its reliance on nuclear energy.

Mobile drilling rigs have been extracting samples 140 meters below ground for a geological survey to make sure the site is suitable for a $19 billion project as part of the expansion that should eventually at least double the country’s nuclear output and cement its place among Europe’s most nuclear-dependent nations.

South Korea’s KHNP beat France’s EDF in a tender to construct a new plant whose two reactors will have an output of more than 1,000 megawatts each. After becoming operational in the second half of the 2030s, they will complement Dukovany’s four 512-MW reactors that date from the 1980s.

The KHNP deal gives the Czechs an option to have two more units built at the other nuclear plant in Temelín, which currently has two 1,000-megawatt reactors.

Then, they are set to follow up with small modular nuclear reactors.

“Nuclear will generate between 50% and 60% around 2050 in the Czech Republic, or maybe slightly more,” Petr Závodský, chief executive of the Dukovany project, told The Associated Press in an interview.

The nuclear expansion is needed to help the country wean itself o fossil fuels, secure steady and reliable supplies at a reasonable price, meet low emission requirements and enable robust demand for electricity expected in the coming years to power data centers and electric cars, Závodský said.

Europe’s nuclear revival

The Czech expansion comes

People sh near the towering Dukovany nuclear power plant in Dukovany, Czech Republic last month.

at a time when surging energy demand and looming deadlines by countries and companies to sharply cut carbon pollution are helping to revive interest in nuclear technology. While nuclear power does produce waste, it does not produce greenhouse gas emissions, like carbon dioxide, the main driver of climate change.

The European Union has accepted nuclear by including it in the classi cation system for environmentally sustainable economic activities, opening the door to nancing. That has been a boost for the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and France — the continent’s nuclear lead-

er — that have heavily relied on nuclear.

Belgium and Sweden recently scrapped plans to phase out nuclear power. Denmark and Italy are reconsidering its use, while Poland is set to join a club of 12 nuclear-friendly nations in the European Union after signing a deal with U.S.-based Westinghouse to build three nuclear units.

The EU generated 24% of nuclear electricity in 2024.

Britain signed a cooperation deal with the United States in September that Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said would lead to “a golden age of nuclear in this country.” It will also in-

vest 14.2 billion pounds ($19 billion) to build the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, the rst in the U.K. since 1995.

CEZ, the dominant Czech power company in which the government holds a 70% stake, and Britain’s Rolls-Royce SMR have agreed on a strategic partnership to develop and deploy small modular nuclear reactors.

Money matters

The cost of the Dukovany project is estimated at more than $19 billion, with the government agreeing to acquire an 80% majority in the new plant. The government will secure

“Nuclear will generate between 50% and 60% around 2050 in the Czech Republic, or maybe slightly more.”

Petr Závodský, chief executive of the Dukovany project

a loan for the new units that CEZ will repay over 30 years.

The state will also guarantee a stable income from the electricity production for CEZ for 40 years. Approval is expected to be granted by the EU, which aims to become “climate-neutral” by 2050.

“We’re in a good position to argue that we won’t be able to do without new nuclear units,” Závodský said. “Today, we get some 40% electricity from nuclear, but we also currently get another 40% from coal. It’s clear we have to replace the coal.”

Uncertainty over nancing has caused a signi cant delay in the nuclear expansion. In 2014, CEZ canceled a tender to build two reactors at the existing Temelin nuclear plant after the government refused to provide nancial guarantees.

Russia’s energy giant Rosatom and China’s CNG were excluded from the Dukovany tender on security grounds following the Kremlin’s invasion of Ukraine.

CEZ signed a deal with Westinghouse and France’s Framatome to supply nuclear fuel for its two nuclear plants, eliminating the country’s dependence on Russia. The contract with KHNP secures fuel supplies for 10 years.

Opposition

While atomic energy enjoys public support, skeptical voices can be heard at home and abroad.

The Friends of the Earth say it is too costly and the money could be better used for improving the industry. The country also still does not have a permanent storage for spent fuel.

The Dukovany and Temelín plants are located near the border with Austria, which abandoned nuclear energy after the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear explosion. In 2000, a dispute over the Temelín plant resulted in a political crisis and blocked border crossings for weeks.

Austria remains the most nuclear-skeptical EU country, and its lower house of Parliament has already rejected the Czech small modular reactors plan.

Disney reaches new deal with YouTube TV, ending blackout that lasted more than 2 weeks

ESPN, ABC and more are back on the streaming service

By Wyatte Grantham-Philips The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Disney and YouTube TV reached a new deal to bring channels like ABC and ESPN back to the Google-owned livestreaming platform Friday, ending a blackout for customers that dragged on for over two weeks.

“As part of the new deal, Disney’s full suite of networks and stations — including ESPN and ABC — have already begun to be restored to YouTube TV subscribers,” The Walt Disney Co. said in a statement.

YouTube TV also con rmed the return of Disney content on its platform, noting that subscribers should see channels back “over the course of the day.” It apologized for the disruption and thanked customers for their “patience as we negotiated on their behalf.”

Disney content went dark on YouTube TV the night of Oct. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new licensing deal. In the days that followed, YouTube TV subscribers were left without Disney channels on the platform — notably disrupting coverage of top college football matchups and professional sports games, as well as news and entertain-

ment programming. Beyond ESPN and ABC, other Disney-owned content removed from YouTube TV during the impasse included channels like NatGeo, FX, Freeform, SEC Network, ACC Network and more.

Disney Entertainment CoChairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro said Friday that they were “pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.”

When talks broke down last month, YouTube TV said Disney was proposing costly terms that would lead to higher prices for and fewer choices for its sub -

scribers. It accused Disney of using the blackout as a negotiating tactic — claiming the maneuver also bene ted Disney’s own streaming products like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. Disney, meanwhile, said that YouTube TV had refused to pay fair rates for its channels. The California entertainment giant also accused Google of “using its market dominance to eliminate competition.” And executives blasted the platform for pulling content “prior to the midnight expiration” of their deal in late October.

Both sides also publicly sparred over negotiations and content available leading up to Nov. 4 elections across the U.S.

By the time Disney’s channels returned to YouTube TV,

“(We are) pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.” Disney executives

Google’s streamer said it had “reached an agreement with Disney that preserves the value of our service for our subscribers and future exibility in our offers.” Disney executives maintained that the deal re ected the company’s “continued commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment and evolving with how audiences choose to watch.”

The two-week blackout is among a growing list of licensing disputes seen in the streaming world today, particularly as competition grows overs hosting live content. And consumers often pay the price when company negotiations break down. The showdown between Disney and YouTube was not their rst. YouTube TV subscribers lost access to all Disney content after 2021 contract talks broke down, but that disruption lasted less than two days.

And YouTube TV has removed other content from its platform after expired agreements. Spanish-language broadcaster Univision has been unavailable on YouTube TV since Sept. 30, for example. Parent company TelevisaUnivision decried Google’s move, saying it would strip “millions of Hispanic viewers of the Spanish-language news, sports, and entertainment they rely on every day,” and called on the platform to reverse course. YouTube TV’s base subscription plan costs $82.99 per month — which, beyond Disney content, currently includes live TV o erings from networks like NBC, CBS, Fox, PBS and more. The platform previously said it would give subscribers a $20 credit its dispute with Disney lasted “an extended period of time” — which it reportedly allowed customers to start claiming on Nov. 9. Disney also doles out live TV through both traditional broadcasting and its own lineup of streaming platforms. ESPN launched its own streamer earlier this year, starting at $29.99 a month. And other Disney content can be found on platforms like Hulu, Disney+ and Fubo. Disney currently allows people to bundle ESPN along with Hulu and Disney+ for $35.99 a month — or $29.99 a month for the rst year.

PHELAN M. EBENHACK / AP PHOTO

An ESPN Monday Night Football broadcast camera on the sideline in Jacksonville, Florida, last month.

HOKE SPORTS

Winter sports begin as fall sports wrap up

Several athletes get all-conference honors

North State Journal sta

HOKE COUNTY opened the girls’ basketball season with a 64-27 win over Ascend Leadership.

A pair of freshmen had big nights in their high school debuts as both Brylah Scott and Jada Bowers led the way with 16 points each. Senior Karmen Campbell added nine rebounds and Janiyah Leak had 10 points.

The Bucks wrestling team also got o to a fast start, sweeping the Bucktown Classic. The boys put up 235 points, more than doubling up their nearest competitor — Terry Sanford, which had 104. The girls scored 170.5 points, also more than doubling second place Terry Sanford, which had 74.

As winter sports started up, Hoke put the nishing touches on a successful fall season.

East Hoke Middle School’s football team advanced to the Southeastern Middle School championship game but

fell to Rockingham 20-14.

Several fall sports released their all-conference teams, and Hoke had a number of athletes named Mid-South 7A/8A all-conference.

In soccer, senior mid elder Carson Hewitt, junior midelder Duglas Cruz Mejia, sophomore D/MF Kim Morales, senior mid elder Gabriel Morgan and senior forward Pedro Ramos got the honors. Hewitt was third in the conference in goals and points.

Volleyball saw senior setter Emilee Mandarino, senior setter Aaliyah Carter, senior MC/ MB Karmen Campbell and senior libero Aubrey Carpenter make all-conference. Campbell led the conference in blocks, while Carpenter led in digs. Carter nished second in aces. In tennis, junior Fa’aletino Lin was named all-conference.

ACC Commissioner Phillips stays optimistic amid league’s uncertain chances for multiple CFP bids

The league has no favorite, but several teams control their own destiny

By Aaron Beard

The Associated Press

PITTSBURGH — Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner Jim Phillips knows his league is on uncertain footing when it comes to getting multiple bids to the College Football Playo , particularly as several ranked league teams stumbled in recent games.

He’s also quick to point out there’s still time for the ACC to hit that goal all the same.

“I’m not dejected. I’m not despondent or any of those types of things,” Phillips said Saturday, after watching No. 23 Pittsburgh lose at home to No. 9 No-

tre Dame in lopsided fashion. “You always want to win more games and the rest of it. But we still have games to be played against really good opponents.”

The ACC has ve AP Top 25 teams — yet no clear headliner.

That means the league has multiple playo candidates after entering the weekend with ve 1-loss teams in the ACC standings, yet no one locked. Phillips maintains optimism considering there are so many moving parts in play. For example: while Pitt (No. 22 CFP) lost ground with the loss, that only strengthens the Fighting Irish’s case — which in turn would aid No. 16 Miami (No. 15 CFP) by keeping the Hurricanes’ season-opening win against the Irish as a standout W.

Phillips’ message is simple:

Multiple ACC teams still control their own destiny.

“I haven’t seen a week go by in college football that if you don’t win, you don’t move up,” Phillips said. “Maybe not drastically, but the idea is you have to continue to win. And if you continue to win, you have a strong possibility that you are going to move up within the rankings.”

Still, it has been a strange year for the ACC with unexpected highs and high-pro le ops.

Preseason favorite Clemson opened the year ranked No. 4 nationally but has been working in recent weeks just to become bowl eligible. Florida State looked to have regrouped from last year’s two-win disaster with a season-opening statement win against Alabama, only to start 0-4 in the league on the way to extending the 2024 misery.

See ACC, page B2

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Karmen Campbell

Hoke County, volleyball

Karmen Campbell is a senior middle hitter for the Hoke County volleyball team and a center on the girls’ basketball team.

Campbell led Bucks volleyball in blocks, kills and hitting percentage, and last week, she was honored as a member of the Mid-South 7A/8A All-Conference team.

She was already onto other things, however, leading the Lady Bucks basketball team in rebounding in the season opener with nine. She has heard from Concordia, Coker and Allen University about playing either of the two sports at the college level.

COURTESY HOKE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

COURTESY HC ATHLETICS / FACEBOOK

Hoke’s girls’ basketball team, led by senior Karmen Campbell (22) got o to a fast start to the season.

Heath, O’Reilly elected to US Soccer Hall of Fame

Tar Heel women’s

The Associated Press

FRISCO, Texas — Women’s World Cup champions and Olympic gold medalists Tobin Heath and Heather O’Reilly were elected last Thursday to the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame along with men’s players Tony Sanneh and Chris Wondolowski.

Referee Kari Seitz also was elected along with Kevin Crow, known primarily for his time in indoor soccer.

They will be inducted May 1 at the hall in Frisco, Texas.

O’Reilly, 40, was a forward and winger who scored 47 goals in 231 international appearances, helping the U.S. win the 2015 World Cup and Olympic gold medals in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She won league titles with Sky Blue in 2009 in Women’s Professional Soccer and with Kansas City in 2015 and North Carolina in 2019 in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Heath, 37, was a mid elder and forward who had 36 goals in 181 appearances, winning World Cup titles with the U.S. in 2015 and 2019, and Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012.

Wondolowski, 42, is Major League Soccer’s career scoring leader with 171 regular-season goals and two in the playo s, playing for San Jose (2005, 2009-21) and Houston (200609). He scored 11 goals in 35 international appearances, playing in two games at the 2014 World Cup.

elected if they each receive at least 50% and a third is elected if receiving at least 75%.

The year Heather O’Reilly helped lead the N.C. Courage to the NWSL title

Sanneh, 54, was a defender who scored three goals in 43 international appearances, starting all ve games for the U.S. at the 2002 World Cup as the Americans reached the quarternals in their farthest advancement since 1930. He played for D.C. (1996-98), Columbus (2004), Chicago (2005-06), Colorado (2007) and the LA Galaxy (2009) along with stints at Hertha Berlin (1991-2001) and Nuremberg (2001-04), and won MLS titles in 1996 and 1997.

In the meantime, as Miami peaked at No. 2, Georgia Tech reached No. 8 while starting 8-0 and Virginia hit No. 12 after starting 5-0 in ACC play despite being picked to nish 14th in the 17-team football league.

And yet, the Hurricanes and Yellow Jackets both stumbled on Nov. 1, with Miami su ering its second loss at SMU and Georgia Tech falling at NC State. Virginia lost at home to Wake Forest last week before regrouping to win at Duke on Saturday. And No. 20 Louisville has lost consecutive home games to California and then Friday against Clemson after a 7-1 start that put the Cardinals in the chase.

It very nearly got worse, too.

Georgia Tech survived Saturday on a nal-seconds eld goal against a Boston College that entered the day at 1-9.

“The league itself has played

O’Reilly, Heath and Wondolowski were picked from the player ballot. The top two are

good football all year,” Phillips said. “We’ve su ered some from maybe not being as consistent from week to week. But we’ve also cannibalized ourselves some as well within the league. I think every league goes through that. It just seems like that’s happened more to us recently, over the last three weeks.”

Phillips can look back to last year’s results for hope. Clemson sneaked into the ACC title game when then-No. 6 Miami blew a 21-0 loss at Syracuse in a loss that ultimately kept the Hurricanes out of the CFP. The Tigers edged SMU for the ACC title to reach the CFP, while the Mustangs made the ACC a two-bid league.

“I’m still hopeful that we’ll be a multiple-bid league,” Phillips said. “There’s nothing that says that we’re eliminated from that. There’s football not only to be played in the ACC, but throughout the country.”

O’Reilly got 47 of 48 votes for 97.9%, followed by Heath (45, 93.8%), Wondolowski (37, 77.1%), Keith Johnson (33, 68.8%), Samantha Mewis (32, 66.7%), Dwayne DeRosario (29, 60.4%), Amy Rodriguez (28, 58.3%), Kyle Beckerman (27, 56.3%), Robbie Keane (20, 41.7%), Oguchi Onyewu (19, 39.6%), Jermaine Jones (17, 35.4%), Maurice Edu (16, 33.3%), Diego Valeri (13, 27.1%), Michael Archer (12, 25%), Stephanie Lopez Cox (12, 25%), Chad Marshall (11, 22.9%), Mike Lawson (10, 20.8%), Carlos Ruiz (7, 14.6%), Matt Besler (6, 12.5%) and Geo Cameron (5, 10.4%). Sanneh and Crow were chosen from the veteran ballot, in which the top vote-getter is elected if receiving at least 50% and a second if receiving at least 75%. Sanneh was on 21 of 24 ballots (87.55%) and was followed by Crow (19, 79.2%), Tatu (17, 70.8%), Ti any Roberts (16, 66.7%), David Beckham (11, 45.8%), Clint Mathis (10, 41.7%), Lorrie Fair (6, 25%), Chico Borja (5, 20.8%), Aly Wagner (5, 20.8%) and Francis Farbero (1, 4.2%).

pics in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She became the U.S. Soccer Federation’s vice president of referees in 2024.

Seitz was on the builder ballot, which this year included only referees. The top voter-getter is picked if receiving at least 50%.

Seitz, 55, referred refereed nine games at the Women’s World Cup in 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011, and six at the Olym-

For the Builder Ballot, the 2026 rotation considered candidates from the referee category only. Election procedures call for the Builder named to the most ballots (and on at least 50% of the ballots) to be elected. Seitz got 19 of 24 votes (79.2%) and was followed by Gino D’Ippolito (10, 41.7%), Brian Hall (6, 25%) and Mark Geiger (4, 16.7%).

MARTIN MEJIA / AP PHOTO

The United States’ Heather O’Reilly celebrates after scoring against New Zealand during their rst round soccer match at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

GENE J. PUSKAR / AP PHOTO

ACC Commissioner James J. Phillips, right, visits with Pittsburgh head coach Pat Narduzzi in the locker room before a game against Notre Dame

John “Rock” Patrick Pope Jr.

Feb. 27, 1950 – Nov. 14, 2025

John Patrick Pope Jr., 75 years old, lifelong resident of Raeford and Hoke County, passed away on November 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Autumn Care.

Born in Raeford on February 27, 1950, John was the son of Jack and Clara Pope. John “Rock” was a man who stood for many ideals. He was a great friend and brother, a very avid history reader, home contractor with integrity, teacher of God’s word, loved Raeford and Hoke County.

He taught himself how to play the guitar, always watched the Washington D.C. football team, and was very skilled in making various wooden items to give to family and friends.

He was man of deep faith and was a lifelong member of Raeford United Methodist Church. John was very active at church where he found purpose in service to others by helping with cooking barbecue and sh fries and teaching a Bible class. His commitment to his faith was the cornerstone of his life.

He served in the Marines during the Vietnam War, returned home and got his Bachelor of Business degree at East Carolina University. He did not pursue this vocation, but worked for a turf company, and later became a contractor.

Later in his career, he would do odd jobs for whoever needed his help. John is survived by his three sisters: Betty Pope, Bert Patrick (Ward) and Becky Pope; his many beloved nieces and nephews; and his great nieces and great nephews, as well as extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory forever.

He will be remembered for his dedication to family and friends, his professional integrity, and his service to the church. His legacy of kindness and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 18, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Crumpler Funeral Home in Raeford.

A Service of Resurrection will be held on Wednesday, November 19, at 11 a.m. at Raeford United Methodist Church, Main Street, Raeford, NC.

Elizabeth Cummings Willis

March 31, 1938 – Nov. 11, 2025

Mrs. Elizabeth Cummings Willis age 87 of Aberdeen, North Carolina was born on March 31, 1938, to the late Temmis Cummings and the late Lula Bryant Cummings in Robeson County, North Carolina. She departed this life on November 11, 2025, at her residence. Along with her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Leon Jasper, her siblings, Edward Cummings, E J Cummings, Jakie Cummings and Millie Hammonds.

Mrs. Elizabeth leaves to cherish her memories four sons: Billy Ray Willis, Ander Lee Willis both of Aberdeen, North Carolina, Patrick Willis and Michael Willis both of Dunn, North Carolina, two daughters: Lois Claramont of Raeford, North Carolina, Janie Willis of Dunn, North Carolina, two brothers: Ernest Cummings of Rowland, North Carolina, Bill Cummings of Parkton, North Carolina, sixteen grandchildren, fteen great grandchildren, twelve great great grandchildren, along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Rhonda Hodge

Sept. 5, 1950 – Nov. 12, 2025

Raeford, NC

Rhonda Hodge, formerly of Raeford, NC, passed away on November 12, 2025, at the First Health Hospice house in Pinehurst, NC.

A lifelong resident of Hoke County, Rhonda was a faithful follower of the Lord and most recently attended services at Dundarrach Community Church in Shannon, NC. She enjoyed spending time visiting with family and friends. She was an accomplished marksman with numerous awards to her name. She was also very skilled in making various items to donate to di erent causes.

She is survived by her daughter, Julie CameronLeonard (Scott) of Robbins NC; her brother Gene Saunders (Donna) of Supply, NC; her sister, Patricia Byrd (Kenny) of Boiling Springs, NC; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by parents, Albert Eugene and Dorothy Hollingsworth Saunders; and her brothers, Kenneth and Larry Saunders.

A memorial service will be held at Dundarrach Community Church on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Terry Dooley o ciating.

The family will accept visitors at the house on Friday, November 13, 2025, from noon to 7 p.m., and on Saturday, after the service, until 5 p.m.

While owers are always cherished, donations to Dundarrach Community Church or First Health Hospice House in West End would be greatly appreciated.

Theolder Malloy

Sept. 12, 1935 – Nov. 12, 2025

Ms. Theolder Malloy, age 90, went home to rest with her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. The Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, November 19, at 1 p.m. at Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church.

Jimmy Allen Thomas

Oct. 12, 1973 – Nov. 10, 2025

Mr. Jimmy Allen Thomas, age 52 of Raeford, North Carolina, was born on October 12, 1973, to the late Jeanie Inez Thomas Cummings in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He departed this life on November 10, 2025, at Firsthealth Hoke Campus, Raeford, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jeanie Inez Cummings, brother, Chester Jay Vincent, grandma, Josephine Mims, grandma, Pauline Cummings, great niece, Journey Neveah Culbertson.

Mr. Jimmy leaves to cherish his memories, one son: Jacob Johnson (Kaleen), one grandson: Jaylen Johnson “Jumping Jack”, dad: Jerry Cummings, two sisters: Mary White and Rosie Vincent, two brothers: Glenn Cummings Jr., Curtis Vincent, lots of friends, along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Sally “Mema” Locklear

Oct. 16, 1950 – Nov. 12, 2025

Ms. Sally Locklear “Mema”, age 75 of Shannon, North Carolina, was born on October 16, 1950, to the late Berlin Locklear and Ida Mae Locklear. She departed this life on November 12, 2025, at home.

Ms. Sally began her career pursuing substitute teaching at Red Springs Middle School, where her love for teaching and her gentle spirit touched many young lives. She cherished taking her children to the beach to sh, and she treasured trips to the mountains with her sisters. Although she always hoped to one day see the “real mountains,” we are sure she has the very best view now.

Ms. Sally found her greatest joy in her grandchildren, creating memories as simple and sweet as coloring together and spoiling them in every way she could. She also cherished time with her nieces and nephews, delighting in their laughter, sharing stories, and nurturing each bond with the same love and care she showed her own children. She spent countless meaningful moments with her best friend, Margie, and the two lovingly referred to themselves as “Thelma and Louise.”

Ms. Sally leaves to cherish her memory her two sons, Chris and Jamie; her daughter, Crystal, and her devoted son-in-law, Daniel; her ve beloved grandchildren, Ronald Ray, Da’Nasia, Shania, Mariah, and Bella; her seven sisters, Dollie Johnson, Delois Locklear, Marylin Brooks (Stancil), Sherrie Locklear, Sarah Oxendine (Rev. Jimmy Oxendine), Monica McLean, and Vickie Oxendine (Randy); her nieces and nephews; her special friends; and the Brooks family, who all held a special place in her heart, a special caregiver: Cathy Locklear (Sandy), along with a host of other relatives and friends.

Americana troubadour Todd Snider, alt-country singer-songwriter, dead at 59

The casket will be open from 10-10:45 a.m. The music prelude will begin at 10:45 a.m. and the church service will start at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at Bethesda Cemetery, located at 1020 Bethesda Road, Aberdeen, NC 28315. While owers are always cherished, the family requests that donations be made to Raeford United Methodist Church, 308 N. Main Street, Raeford, NC 28376. He was diagnosed with pneumonia following an assault

The Associated Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Todd Snider, a singer whose thoughtfully freewheeling tunes and cosmic-stoner songwriting made him a beloved gure in American roots music, has died. He was 59. His record label said Saturday in a statement posted to his social media accounts that Snider died last Friday.

“Where do we nd the words for the one who always had the right words, who knew how to distill everything down to its essence with words and song while delivering the most devastating, hilarious, and impactful turn of phrases?” the statement read. “Always creating rhyme and meter that immediately felt like an old friend or a favorite blanket. Someone who could almost always nd the humor in this crazy ride on Planet Earth.”

Snider’s family and friends had said in a Friday statement that he had been diagnosed with pneumonia at a hospital in Hendersonville, Tennessee, and that his situation had since grown more complicated and he was transferred elsewhere.

The diagnosis came on the heels of the cancellation of a tour af-

ter Snider had been the victim of a violent assault in the Salt Lake City area, according to a Nov. 3 statement from his management team. But Salt Lake City police later arrested Snider himself when he at rst refused to leave a hospital and later returned and threatened sta ers, the Salt Lake Tribune reported.

The scrapped tour was in support of his most recent album, “High, Lonesome and Then Some,” which released in October. Snider combined elements of folk, rock and country in a three-decade career. In reviews of his recent albums, The Associated Press called him a “singer-songwriter with the perso-

na of a fried folkie” and a “stoner troubadour and cosmic comic.” He modeled himself on — and at times met and was mentored by — artists like Kris Kristo erson, Guy Clark and John Prine. His songs were recorded by artists including Jerry Je Walker, Billy Joe Shaver and Tom Jones. And he co-wrote a song with Loretta Lynn that appeared on her 2016 album, “Full Circle.”

“He relayed so much tenderness and sensitivity through his songs, and showed many of us how to look at the world through a di erent lens,” the Saturday statement from his label read. “He got up every morning and started writing,

always working towards nding his place among the songwriting giants that sat on his record shelves, those same giants who let him into their lives and took him under their wings, who he studied relentlessly.”

Snider would do his best-known and most acclaimed work for Prine’s independent label Oh Boy in the early 2000s. It included the albums “New Connection,” “Near Truths and Hotel Rooms” and “East Nashville Skyline,” a 2004 collection that’s considered by many to be his best. Those albums yielded his best known songs, “I Can’t Complain,” “Beer Run” and “Alright Guy.”

Snider was born and raised in Oregon before settling and making his musical chops in San Marcos, Texas. He eventually made his way to Nashville and was dubbed by some the uno cial “mayor of East Nashville,” assuming the title from a friend memorialized thusly in his “Train Song.” In 2021, Snider said a tornado that ripped through the neighborhood home to a vibrant arts scene severely damaged his house.

Snider had an early fan in Jimmy Bu ett, who signed the young artist to his record label, Margaritaville, which released his rst two albums, 1994’s “Songs for the Daily Planet” and 1996’s “Step Right Up.”

ANGELINA CASTILLO VIA AP

Todd Snider poses for a portrait in Hendersonville, Tennessee, in September.

STATE & NATION

Foreign enrollment at US colleges holds steady

Some had feared a huge drop in foreign students

By Collin Binkey and Makiya Seminera

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Foreign students enrolled at U.S. colleges in strong numbers this fall despite fears that a Trump administration crackdown would trigger a nosedive, yet there are signs of turbulence as fewer new, rst-time students arrived from other countries, according to a new report.

Overall, U.S. campuses saw a 1% decrease in international enrollment this fall compared with last year, according to a survey from the Institute of International Education. But that gure is propped up by large numbers of students who stayed in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. The number of new students entering the United States for the rst time fell by 17%, the sharpest decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some universities are seeing backslides that have punched big holes in tuition revenue, but overall the fallo is less severe than some industry groups had forecast. Researchers credit colleges for helping students navigate visa issues through the summer.

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything

in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States,” said Mirka Martel, head of research, evaluation and learning for the institute.

At DePaul University, a Catholic university in Chicago, the number of international graduate students fell by almost 62% this fall, a driving factor in recent spending cuts. The university president blamed student visa troubles and declining interest to study in the U.S., calling it a “massive” disruption.

Overall, nearly 60% of colleges reported a decrease in new foreign students this fall, the survey found, while 30% saw increases and others held even. More than 800 schools responded to the survey, which offers an early look at trends before full data is released next year.

Trump administration presses for reductions in foreign enrollment

The Trump administration has sought to reduce America’s reliance on foreign students. The White House is pushing colleges to cap enrollment of foreign students and enroll more from the U.S. In June, the State Department began screening visa applications more closely after temporarily halting all interviews.

Visa processing has continued to lag in some countries, in-

cluding India, the largest source of America’s foreign students. Education rms have reported that future college students are now showing decreased interest in the U.S. and more in Europe and Asia. While international enrollment remained relatively steady, there are concerns about its sustainability.

“There are warning signs for future years, and I’m really concerned about what this portends for fall ’26 and ’27,” said Clay Harmon, the executive director of AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management, which represents colleges and recruitment agencies.

Foreign students make up about 6% of America’s college students, but they play an outsized role in campus budgets. Most pay higher tuition rates and don’t get nancial aid, effectively subsidizing U.S. students. Their numbers are far higher at elite campuses, often making up a quarter or more of the student body.

International students at the graduate level saw the biggest backslide this fall, with a 12% drop. That was mostly o set by rising numbers of students participating in Optional Practical Training, which allows students to stay in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. Undergraduate numbers ticked up slightly.

Graduate students make up

Blue Origin launches huge rocket carrying twin NASA spacecraft to Mars

The rst-stage booster successfully landed on a drone ship

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Blue Origin launched its huge New Glenn rocket last Thursday with a pair of NASA spacecraft destined for Mars.

It was only the second ight of the rocket that Je Bezos’ company and NASA are counting on to get people and supplies to the moon — and it was a complete success.

The 321-foot New Glenn blasted into the afternoon sky from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, sending NASA’s twin Mars orbiters on a drawn- out journey to the red planet. Lifto was stalled four days by lousy local weather as well as solar storms strong enough to paint the skies with auroras as far south as Florida.

In a remarkable rst, Blue Origin recovered the booster following its separation from the upper stage and the Mars orbiters, an essential step to recycle and slash costs similar to SpaceX. Company employees cheered wildly as the booster landed upright on a barge 375 miles o shore. An ecstatic

“Next stop, moon!”

Blue Origin employees following the booster landing

Bezos watched the action from Launch Control.

“Next stop, moon!” employees chanted following the booster’s bull’s-eye landing. Twenty minutes later, the rocket’s upper stage deployed the two Mars orbiters in space, the mission’s main objective. Congratulations poured in from NASA o cials as well as SpaceX’s Elon Musk, whose booster landings are now routine.

New Glenn’s inaugural test ight in January delivered a prototype satellite to orbit, but failed to land the booster on its oating platform in the Atlantic.

The identical Mars orbiters, named Escapade, will spend a year hanging out near Earth, stationing themselves 1 million miles away. Once Earth and Mars are properly aligned next fall, the duo will get a gravity assist from Earth to head to the red planet, arriving in 2027. Once around Mars, the spacecraft will map the planet’s upper atmosphere and scattered magnetic elds, study-

ing how these realms interact with the solar wind. The observations should shed light on the processes behind the escaping Martian atmosphere, helping to explain how the planet went from wet and warm to dry and dusty. Scientists will also learn how best to protect astronauts against Mars’ harsh radiation environment.

“We really, really want to understand the interaction of the solar wind with Mars better than we do now,” Escapade’s lead scientist, Rob Lillis of the University of California, Berkeley, said ahead of the launch. “Escapade is going to bring an unprecedented stereo viewpoint because we’re going to have two spacecraft at the same time.”

It’s a relatively low-budget mission, coming in under $80 million, that’s managed and operated by UC Berkeley. NASA saved money by signing up for one of New Glenn’s early ights. The Mars orbiters should have blasted o last fall, but NASA passed up that ideal launch window — Earth and Mars line up for a quick transit just every two years — because of feared delays with Blue Origin’s brand-new rocket.

Named after John Glenn, the rst American to orbit the world, New Glenn is ve times bigger than the New Shepard

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States.”

Mirka Martel, Institute of International Education

the biggest share of foreign students in the U.S., often coming for science, math and business programs. Numbers had already started leveling o last year after a post-pandemic surge, but the recent turmoil appears to have accelerated the downturn. In the survey, colleges that saw decreases cite factors including visa issues and other travel restrictions.

Drops lead to budget cuts at some colleges

Many smaller and regional colleges have reported downswings, especially among master’s and doctoral students.

In a recent campus address, the president of the University at Albany said a decrease in foreign graduate students was having a “disproportionate impact” on the school’s budget. At Kent State University in Ohio, falling international numbers

required an additional $4 million in cuts to balance the budget, the president wrote in an October update.

Even the biggest public universities weren’t immune. The University of Illinois’ agship campus saw its international numbers dip, fueled by a 6% drop in graduate students. At the University of Michigan, foreign graduate enrollment fell by a similar share. Arizona State University, which has more foreign students than any other public campus, saw its overall numbers fall by 3%.

Universities are o ering wider exibility to students who couldn’t make it to campus this fall, according to the survey. Almost three-quarters are allowing foreign students to defer their enrollment to the spring term, and more than half are allowing deferrals until fall 2026.

Colleges in other countries, meanwhile, have sought to capitalize on the disruption, said Joann Ng Hartmann, senior impact o cer at NAFSA, an agency that promotes international education. In Germany, Canada and some other countries, colleges are ramping up e orts to recruit students who might be rethinking college in the U.S.

“They have friendlier policies, and students realize that,” she said. “They have friendlier messaging for students that welcomes them.”

rockets sending wealthy clients to the edge of space from West Texas. Blue Origin plans to launch a prototype Blue Moon lunar lander on a demo mission in the coming months aboard New Glenn. Created in 2000 by Bezos, Amazon’s founder, Blue Origin already holds a NASA contract for the third moon landing by astronauts under the Artemis program. Musk’s SpaceX beat out Blue Origin for the rst and second crew landings, using Starships, nearly 100 feet taller than Bezos’ New Glenn. But last month NASA Acting Administrator Sean Du y reopened the contract for the

rst crewed moon landing, citing concern over the pace of Starship’s progress in ight tests from Texas. Blue Origin as well as SpaceX have presented accelerated landing plans.

NASA is on track to send astronauts around the moon early next year using its own Space Launch System, or SLS, rocket. The next Artemis crew would attempt to land; the space agency is pressing to get astronauts back on the lunar surface by decade’s end in order to beat China.

Twelve astronauts walked on the moon more than a half-century ago during NASA’s Apollo program.

JOHN RAOUX / AP PHOTO

A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket lifts o from Launch Complex 36 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida last week.

MOORE COUNTY

Spreading cheer

The Village of Pinehurst Christmas Tree is up in Tufts Park ahead of the annual tree-lighting ceremony on Friday, Dec. 5 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Congress acts to force release of Epstein les, Trump agrees to sign Washington, D.C.

Both the House and Senate have acted decisively to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its les on convicted sex o ender Je rey Epstein. It’s a remarkable display of approval for an e ort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from President Donald Trump and Republican leadership. Trump now says he will sign the bill. Just hours after the House passed the bill, the Senate approved a motion to pass the bill with unanimous consent once it is sent to the Senate. For survivors of Epstein’s abuse, passage of the bill was a watershed moment in a yearslong quest for accountability.

Federal judges block Texas from using new U.S. House map in 2026 midterms

A panel of three federal judges has blocked Texas from using a new congressional map that Republicans drew in hopes of picking up ve U.S. House seats. The 2-1 ruling Tuesday was a blow to President Donald Trump’s e orts to have states draw more favorable maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections so the GOP can preserve its slim U.S. House majority. In Texas, civil rights groups have argued the new map is an illegal racial gerrymander. The judges blocked the map’s use pending further court review. Texas’ expected appeal would be directly to the U.S. Supreme Court.

County purchases property adjacent to sports complex

Commissioners hope to see the land transformed into a future park

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

CARTHAGE — The Moore County Board of Commissioners met Nov. 18 for a short meeting, mostly dealing with setting up upcoming business.

The board rst approved the purchase of four contiguous parcels of land totalling approximately 4.4 acres for a total sale price of $85,000.

The purpose for the purchase is to have the land available for future county uses according to County Manager Wayne Vest.

“I think this is an excellent acquisition for the county, and I congratulate the manager and the sta for negotiating these

four lots at a very reasonable cost,” said Commissioner Tom Adams. “I talked about it before that once you reach Carthage, there are no county parks north of here, and that’s something that I think this commission needs to take a strong look at in the years ahead.”

The land, which is adjacent to the Moore County Sports Complex and fronting Elizabeth Road, contains a single-family and a manufactured home that are no longer habitable and will need to be removed.

The county will also incur additional costs related to the property for combining the four parcels into one, closing the purchase, removing the structures, as well as potentially fencing the property.

“There are no county parks north of here, and that’s something that I think this commission needs to take a strong look at in the years ahead.”

Commissioner Tom Adams

plat satis ed the UDO requirements,” said Planning Director Ruth Pedersen.

The site is currently vacant, wooded and has access to all necessary infrastructure. The lots will be served by Moore County Public Utilities for water, but each development will utilize individual, private septic systems.

It will have one access point and is designed to have just over 11 acres of open space.

“Part of the parcel is north of Holly Grove School Road and the rest of it is to the south,” Pedersen. “If the subdivision is approved, they plan to split o the portion to the north. They’ll subdivide it and that will be its own separate parcel.”

The board will also hold three public hearings on Dec. 1 that will deal with amendments to chapters 7, 8 and 9 of the Uni ed Development Ordinance.

The development is to be located on 111 acres of property on Holly Grove School Road and the plan is for it to contain 68 lots.

“The subdivision review board met on Oct. 28 and found that the major conventional subdivision preliminary

The board also set a date for a quasi-judicial hearing on Dec. 1 to consider issuing a special use permit as well as the preliminary plat for the Holly Grove Pines subdivision.

These amendments will address noncontiguous uses, allowed uses on state-owned land and allowed uses in Urban Transition Sub-Districts.

The Moore County Board of Commissioners will next meet Dec. 1.

Immigration crackdown in NC expands to Raleigh

Border Patrol units were spotted in Durham, Raleigh and Cary

By Gary D. Robertson and Tim Sullivan The Associated Press

Federal agents expanded their North Carolina immigration crackdown to the area around the state capital of Raleigh on Tuesday, with fear spreading in at least one immigrant-heavy suburb where restaurants closed and many people stayed home.

The North Carolina operation began over the weekend in the state’s largest city, Charlotte, where o cials said more than 130 people have been arrested.

Speaking at a Raleigh City Council meeting, Mayor Janet Cowell said there had been “con rmed sightings” of Border Patrol o cers operating in Wake County, which includes

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11.20.25

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CRIME LOG

Nov. 10

• Darrell Lynn McNeill III, 35, was arrested by MCSO for possession of schedule II controlled substance, maintaining vehicle/ dwelling/place for controlled substance, possession of schedule III controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while license revoked.

• James Semaj Morton Jr., 26, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for resisting public o cer and communicating threats.

Nov. 11

• Christopher Shane Sloan, 36, was arrested by FirstHealth Company Police for assault in icting physical injury on emergency personnel, assault on company campus police o cer, communicating threats and carrying concealed weapon.

Nov. 12

• Eric Wayne Callihan, 44, was arrested by MCSO for possession of rearm by felon and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Allan Ray Ritter Jr., 32, was arrested by Carthage PD for breaking or entering and injury to real property.

Nov. 14

• Corey Tyler Hussey, 26, was arrested by MCSO for eeing or eluding arrest with a motor vehicle, obtaining property by false pretenses, resisting public o cer, injury to personal property, unauthorized use of motor vehicle, possession of methamphetamine, possession of schedule II controlled substance and possession of schedule IV controlled substance.

• Jan Janette Tysinger, 20, was arrested by MCSO for felony conspiracy, resisting public o cer and possession of methamphetamine.

Granddaughter of ‘Charlotte’s

Web’ author upset with use of book’s title in immigration crackdown

She says the arrests go against what E.B. White stood for

The Associated Press

THE TRUMP administration is calling its new immigration sweep in North Carolina’s largest city “Operation Charlotte’s Web.”

But the granddaughter of E.B. White, the author of the classic 1952 children’s tale “Charlotte’s Web,” said the wave of immigration arrests goes against what her grandfather and his beloved book stood for.

“He believed in the rule of law and due process,” Martha White said in a statement. “He certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes and workplaces without IDs or summons.”

White, whose grandfather died in 1985, works as his literary executor. She pointed out that in “Charlotte’s Web,” the spider who is the main charac-

ICE from page A1

testers to remain peaceful.

“And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today,” she added.

Federal o cials have said the crackdowns will reduce crime, though leaders in both Charlotte and Raleigh said crime was down. The o cials have also criticized so-called sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents in a handful of jurisdictions.

Anxiety spreads swiftly in Raleigh suburb

Federal o cials have given no information about activity in the Raleigh area.

But in Cary, a sprawling Raleigh suburb where ocials say almost 20% of the population was born outside the U.S. and the large Asian population tripled in the 1990s, fear spread quickly.

An area resident recorded as a large black SUV with darkly tinted windows and Texas license plates drove through Cary’s downtown, eventually linking up with another SUV. The vehicles stopped at a construction site, where Pamela Hoile recorded Border Patrol agents detaining four workers. Speaking by phone after posting the video on Facebook, she described herself as a “very outraged, horri ed and concerned citizen.”

The Chatham Square shopping center, which is usually bustling at midday with workers eating at mom-andpop ethnic restaurants, was quiet. Most of the restaurants — Mexican, Indian and Chinese among them — were closed. Nearby, the often-full parking lot at an Indian grocery store was largely empty, and tra c inside was nonexistent.

Esmeralda Angel’s family closed their restaurant, the Esmeralda Grill, to avoid any confrontations between customers and federal agents. At their separate grocery store, they were delivering items to customers who were avoiding going out in public.

The family businesses had

ter devoted her life on the farm to securing the freedom of a pig named Wilbur.

The Trump administration and Republican leaders have seized on a number of catchy phrases while carrying out mass deportation e orts — naming their holding facilities Alligator Alcatraz in Florida, Speedway Slammer in Indiana and Cornhusker Clink in Nebraska.

scaled back to help their community, she said, but knew it would hurt nancially.

“Taco Tuesday is the busy day for all of these restaurants,” Angel said of the weekly specials. “But I think everyone would rather close than operate.”

Congresswoman calls deployment “profound abuse of power”

U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee, a Democrat who represents Durham, part of Raleigh and some suburbs, said Tuesday that the deployment of federal immigration agents in North Carolina “is a profound abuse of power, a violation of civil rights and a stain on our democracy.”

The region’s South Asian community has grown dramatically in recent decades, including many people drawn to the Research Triangle region by high-tech jobs.

Satish Garimella is mayor pro tempore in Morrisville, about 15 miles west of downtown Raleigh. Close to half of the town’s 30,000 people are Asian.

Garimella, who grew up in India but is now a U.S. citizen, said the expected arrival of immigration agents is “creating a lot of panic,” and he recommended residents carry identity documents.

“You just don’t know when you will be questioned and what things are needed,” Garimella said.

The Trump administration turned to North Carolina after immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles and Chicago, both deep blue cities in deep blue states run by nationally prominent o cials who are often loudly critical of President Donald Trump. They also increased operations in Portland, Oregon, where more than 560 immigration arrests were made in October, according to U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks.

North Carolina was a more surprising target.

The mayors of Charlotte and Raleigh are both Democrats, as is the governor, but none are known for wading into national political bat-

moore happening

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:

U.S. Border Patrol Commander at large Gregory Bovino, right, looks on as a detainee sits by a car Monday in Charlotte.

Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol o cial now on the ground in Charlotte, was the face of the “Operation At Large” in Los Angeles and “Operation Midway Blitz” in Chicago, two enforcement surges earlier this year. As the Charlotte operation got underway, Bovino quoted from “Charlotte’s Web” in a social media post: “We take to the breeze, we go as we please.”

tles. In a state where divided government has become the norm, Gov. Josh Stein in particular has tried to get along with the GOP-controlled state legislature. The state’s two U.S. senators are both Republican, and Trump won the state in the last three presidential elections.

State was drawn into national debates

A handful of cities and counties in North Carolina have been drawn into America’s debates over crime and immigration, two of the most important issues to the White House.

The most prominent was the fatal stabbing this summer of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light-rail train, an attack captured on video. The suspect was from the U.S., but the Trump administration repeatedly highlighted that he had been arrested more than a dozen times.

While the Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on the state because of sanctuary policies, most North Carolina county jails have long honored “detainers,” or requests from federal o cials to hold an arrested immigrant for a limited time so agents can take custody of them. Some common noncooperation policies have existed in few places, including Raleigh and Charlotte, where the police donot help with immigration enforcement. In Mecklenburg County, the jail did not honor detainer requests for several years until state law e ectively made it mandatory starting last year. Wake County, where Raleigh is located, had a similar policy. DHS said about 1,400 detainers across North Carolina had not been honored since October 2020, putting the public at risk. Matt Mercer, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Republican Party, said in a text message that the arrival of immigration agents to Raleigh would show that failures by “radical Democrats willnally be taken seriously.”

Nov. 21

Movie: “Die My Love” 7-9:30 p.m.

Based on the novel by the same name by Ariana Harwicz, the movie stars Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson. The lm explores the pressures that accompany becoming a mother for the rst time and its e ects on relationships and career aspirations. Rated R; tickets are $10.

Sunrise Theater 250 NW Broad St. Southern Pines

Nov. 22

Sandhills Children’s Center Festival of the Trees

10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The annual Winter Wonderland display of Christmas trees and other holiday decorations will be on display in the lower level of the Carolina Hotel. A monetary donation to the center gains entry to view the exhibit of items, which are also up for auction to bene t the organization.

80 Carolina Vista Drive Pinehurst

Nov. 22

Christmas Holiday Market & Toy Drive

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus along with the elves and the Grinch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Opportunities for family holiday photos, shopping and food purchases from Tanglewood Farms Food Truck. No admission charge for shoppers.

Cox’s Double Eagle Harley-Davidson 7540 U.S. 15, West End

Nov. 29

2025 Christmas Tree Lighting 4:40-6:30 p.m.

This annual event, celebrating the start of the Christmas season, will also o er the opportunity to meet and take photos with Santa. Concessions will be available on-site, and evening entertainment will follow the tree lighting.

Downtown Southern Pines

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

Private donations help save babies’ lives

Life Care has seen 24 babies born because women changed their minds about abortion after meeting with sta and medical teams.

PREGNANCY RESOURCE Centers across North Carolina shine as beacons of hope, working daily with women facing unplanned or unsupported pregnancies.

Centers such as Life Care Pregnancy Center in Moore County exist solely to help women and families navigate these challenging journeys. However, unlike governmentfunded programs, PRCs operate entirely through fundraising — a critical reality that determines their ability to serve their communities.

Fundraising is not merely important for Pregnancy Resource Centers; it is their lifeblood. These ministries depend completely on benevolent donors — churches, businesses, and individuals — who believe protecting life and supporting mothers, fathers, and families is the right thing to do. Without consistent fundraising e orts, PRCs cannot provide the free services that make life-changing di erences for women in crisis.

The fundraising challenge is compounded by controversy. Despite their compassionate mission, PRCs often face media criticism and public tension. This makes fundraising more di cult, as potential donors may hesitate to support organizations portrayed negatively.

Yet the work continues because dedicated supporters understand the profound impact.

Over the last two years, Life Care alone has seen 24 babies born because women changed their minds about abortion after meeting

with sta and medical teams.

Successful fundraising enables PRCs to o er comprehensive support. Donors make it possible to provide ultrasounds, parenting classes, Bible studies, and connections to over 100 community resources. Thousands of diapers, wipes, and baby clothing are distributed annually thanks to generous contributions. Transportation services through taxis and ride-sharing remove barriers for clients who need to reach the center. Partnerships with organizations such as HopeSync provide 24-hour nurse hotlines, ensuring women can access immediate guidance any time.

Major fundraising events prove especially vital. Life Care’s recent gala featured Brandon Tatum, a former police o cer and passionate advocate for life and family. Such events raise both funds and awareness, challenging communities to commit to supporting life. Tatum’s powerful testimony about choosing fatherhood over abortion during college resonated deeply, encouraging men and women alike to take the responsible road and speak life into di cult situations.

Individual donor generosity creates extraordinary opportunities. One incredibly generous donor enabled Life Care to partner with FirstHealth hospital, o ering clients scholarships to attend college and secure employment at the hospital. This transforms lives — women receive education and options

Democrats blame Republicans for multiple Democrat failures

No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it.

A KEY REASON Democrats make so many Republicans grind our molars is that they will not take responsibility for their own gargantuan failures. Instead, Democrats blame the GOP for the damage that they in ict on America.

It’s bad enough when someone takes a skillet and repeatedly wallops you across the back of your head. What really irks is when that person then screams at you: “Stop smacking your skull with a skillet!”

This is a big part of why Democrats have become utterly insu erable.

This month alone, Democrats refused to own their disastrous “Schumer Shutdown.” Thankfully, Democrats’ 43- day kidnapping conspiracy zzled out last Wednesday night.

The Republican-led House of Representatives voted to end the federal shutdown one day after eight Senate Democrats joined nearly unanimous Republicans, stopped the Democrats’ libuster, and adopted legislation to reopen the government.

Shortly before the House vote, Democrat leader Hakeem Je ries of Brooklyn took to the oor and presented a master class in how to shirk responsibility and shift blame.

“Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the presidency,” Je ries said. “(President) Donald Trump and Republicans made the decision to shut the government down, the longest shutdown in American history.”

Wrong!

House Republicans passed a “clean” continuing resolution on Sept. 19. It would have sustained Biden-era federal spending on autopilot until Jan. 30. There were

no strings, budget cuts or policy reforms attached.

This bill went to the Senate, where — as Je ries damn well knows — overall Republican control is limited by the requirement for 60 votes to overcome a libuster. Republicans have only 53 votes, seven short of the number needed to adopt the House bill.

Senate Democrat leader Chuck Schumer of New York weaponized this rule and launched the Democrat libuster that shut down the federal government on Oct. 1.

Fourteen separate times, Senate Republicans (absent the dissenting Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky) voted to end the Democrat libuster. While three Democrats concurred with the GOP, Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota still fell short of the 60-vote threshold needed to stop Schumer from holding the American people and their government hostage until Democrats scored $192.8 billion for illegal-alien health care.

Je ries knows all of this. Nonetheless, he stood up and lied about it.

Je ries continued to blame Republicans for his party’s ops. “House Democrats will continue to ght to address the health care crisis that Republicans have created,” Je ries said. A huge part of America’s pounding migraine on health insurance is Democrats’ proudest baby: Obamacare. To say that this is a baby only a mother could love is an insult to ugly babies.

Obamacare was supposed to lower insurance premiums by $2,500. Instead, they have soared by at least that much. The

for professional medical careers while the hospital builds its professional sta . Another volunteer’s husband designed and installed a stroller ramp for free, saving the center $6,000 that was redirected to client services funding.

PRCs also fundraise to support collaborative e orts. Life Care works closely with the rst Jeremiah 2911 House in Lee County, a ministry providing housing for pregnant mothers experiencing homelessness. These partnerships multiply impact but require sustained nancial support.

The mission is simple but profound: PRCs don’t produce widgets; their product is unconditional love and support for human beings. Fundraising remains an intentional and critical aspect of maintaining this ministry. Every dollar raised represents tangible hope, restored dignity, and practical help for women who bravely walk through PRC doors seeking assistance.

As birthrates decline nationally and globally, the work of Pregnancy Resource Centers becomes increasingly urgent and stands as a force of love and hope. Benevolent donors and caring volunteers ensure these centers can continue speaking life, supporting families, and changing the world — one baby and family at a time.

Barbara Lamblin is Executive Director of Life Care Pregnancy Center in Carthage.

entire boondoggle is a scal tumor that requires massive taxpayer subsidies to stay alive. Democrats are desperate to keep these subsidies owing, lest Obamacare atline. Democrats cannot blame the GOP for this mess. No Republican wanted Obamacare, and no congressional Republican voted for it. Democrats own Obamacare and every one of its painful symptoms.

Je ries then denounced “the Republican refusal to extend the A ordable Care Act tax credits.” Once again, Je ries cannot pin this on the GOP. These tax credits are scheduled to expire on New Year’s Eve because that is exactly what Democrats wanted!

As Sally Pipes of the Paci c Research Institute detailed for me, Section 9661 of the COVID-19-fueled Biden/Democrat American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included “expanding premium assistance” as a “Temporary rule for 2021 and 2022.” Later, Section 12001 of the Biden/Democrat In ation Reduction Act of 2022 aimed to “improve a ordability and reduce premium costs of health insurance … before Jan. 1, 2026.”

“A proposal being weighed by congressional Democrats and party advisers in recent weeks aims to temporarily extend the enhanced Obamacare subsidies that were part of the nancial aid package President Joe Biden signed into law last March,” Politico explained on June 24, 2022, regarding this second bill.

If Democrats wanted to subsidize Obamacare into 2026 and beyond, they should have written that into legislation that they, not Republicans, sponsored.

As the saying goes, “When you point a nger at someone, three ngers point back at you.” Je ries and other Democrats should remember that before, yet again, giving Republicans the nger.

Deroy Murdock is a Manhattan-based Fox News contributor and a contributing editor with The American Spectator. This column was rst published by The Daily Signal.

COLUMN | BARBARA LAMBLIN

plans $19B nuclear

The new facilities will replace coal- red power plants

By Karel Janicek

The Associated Press DUKOVANY NUCLEAR

PLANT, Czech Republic — The eight huge cooling towers of the Dukovany power plant overlook a construction site for two more reactors as the Czech Republic pushes ahead with plans to expand its reliance on nuclear energy.

Mobile drilling rigs have been extracting samples 140 meters below ground for a geological survey to make sure the site is suitable for a $19 billion project as part of the expansion that should eventually at least double the country’s nuclear output and cement its place among Europe’s most nuclear-dependent nations.

South Korea’s KHNP beat France’s EDF in a tender to construct a new plant whose two reactors will have an output of more than 1,000 megawatts each. After becoming operational in the second half of the 2030s, they will complement Dukovany’s four 512-MW reactors that date from the 1980s.

The KHNP deal gives the

Czechs an option to have two more units built at the other nuclear plant in Temelín, which currently has two 1,000-megawatt reactors.

Then, they are set to follow up with small modular nuclear reactors.

“Nuclear will generate between 50% and 60% around 2050 in the Czech Republic, or maybe slightly more,” Petr Závodský, chief executive of the Dukovany project, told The Associated Press in an interview.

The nuclear expansion is needed to help the country wean itself o fossil fuels, secure steady and reliable supplies at a reasonable price, meet low emission requirements and enable robust demand for electricity expected in the coming years to power data centers and electric cars, Závodský said.

Europe’s nuclear revival

The Czech expansion comes at a time when surging energy demand and looming deadlines by countries and companies to sharply cut carbon pollution are helping to revive interest in nuclear technology. While nuclear power does produce waste, it does not produce greenhouse gas emissions, like carbon dioxide, the

main driver of climate change.

The European Union has accepted nuclear by including it in the classi cation system for environmentally sustainable economic activities, opening the door to nancing. That has been a boost for the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and France — the continent’s nuclear leader — that have heavily relied on nuclear.

Belgium and Sweden recently scrapped plans to phase out nuclear power. Denmark and Italy are reconsidering its use, while Poland is set to join a club of 12 nuclear-friendly nations in the European Union after signing a deal with U.S.-based Westinghouse to build three nuclear units.

The EU generated 24% of nuclear electricity in 2024.

Britain signed a cooperation deal with the United States in September that Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said would lead to “a golden age of nuclear in this country.” It will also invest 14.2 billion pounds ($19 billion) to build the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, the rst in the U.K. since 1995.

CEZ, the dominant Czech power company in which the government holds a 70% stake, and Britain’s Rolls-Royce SMR have agreed on a strategic part-

nership to develop and deploy small modular nuclear reactors.

Money matters

The cost of the Dukovany project is estimated at more than $19 billion, with the government agreeing to acquire an 80% majority in the new plant.

The government will secure a loan for the new units that CEZ will repay over 30 years.

The state will also guarantee a stable income from the electricity production for CEZ for 40 years. Approval is expected to be granted by the EU, which aims to become “climate-neutral” by 2050.

“We’re in a good position to argue that we won’t be able to do without new nuclear units,” Závodský said. “Today, we get some 40% electricity from nuclear, but we also currently get another 40% from coal. It’s clear we have to replace the coal.”

Uncertainty over nancing has caused a signi cant delay in the nuclear expansion. In 2014, CEZ canceled a tender to build two reactors at the existing Temelin nuclear plant after the government refused to provide nancial guarantees.

Russia’s energy giant Rosatom and China’s CNG were

“Nuclear will generate between 50% and 60% around 2050 in the Czech Republic, or maybe slightly more.”

Petr Závodský, chief executive of the Dukovany project

excluded from the Dukovany tender on security grounds following the Kremlin’s invasion of Ukraine.

CEZ signed a deal with Westinghouse and France’s Framatome to supply nuclear fuel for its two nuclear plants, eliminating the country’s dependence on Russia. The contract with KHNP secures fuel supplies for 10 years.

Opposition

While atomic energy enjoys public support, skeptical voices can be heard at home and abroad.

The Friends of the Earth say it is too costly and the money could be better used for improving the industry. The country also still does not have a permanent storage for spent fuel.

The Dukovany and Temelín plants are located near the border with Austria, which abandoned nuclear energy after the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear explosion. In 2000, a dispute over the Temelín plant resulted in a political crisis and blocked border crossings for weeks.

Austria remains the most nuclear-skeptical EU country, and its lower house of Parliament has already rejected the Czech small modular reactors plan.

MOORE SPORTS

Union Pines advances to top 16 in state

The Vikings will play for a spot in the quarter nals on Friday

North State Journal sta

UNION PINES advanced to the sweet 16 of the NCHSAA Class 6A football playo s. The No. 4 seed Vikings will play No. 5 Williams at home Friday with a trip to the state quarternals on the line.

After a rst-round bye, Union Pines shut out Lee County 35-0 in the second round.

The win came three weeks after the Vikings had posted a 42-3 regular season win over Lee.

In the rematch, Union Pines picked up where it left o in the regular season game. After throwing for 164 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 75, senior quarterback Ian Hicks completed 17 of 20 passes for 225 yards and three scores in the playo game, adding 14 yards on the ground.

Running back Adrian Colon, who rushed for 66 yards and two touchdowns the rst time around, went for 67 and two scores in the rematch. The senior added 50 receiving yards and a touchdown catch.

Seniors Hayne Tobias (5 catches for 74 yards) and Talik

Graham (2 for 48) also added touchdown catches.

The defense also stepped up, posting Union Pines’ second straight shutout and fourth of the year. The Vikings have won their last ve games by more than 30-point margins.

Now Union Pines faces Williams. Like the Vikings, the Bulldogs are 10-1 and had an undefeated run through their conference. They’ve won their last three by 28 points or more and have turned in two shutouts this season. After a rst-round bye, Williams overwhelmed Franklinton 49-12.

The Bulldogs are led by senior quarterback Kyrian Fuller, who is seventh in Class 6A in total yards with more than 1,700 passing and 700 rushing. Running back Amarion Richmond is 11th in rushing with more than 1,200 yards, and his 19 touchdowns are sixth in the class.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Adrian Colon

Union Pines, football

Adrian Colon is a junior running back on the Union Pines football team.

The Vikings advanced to the third round of the NCHSAA Class 6A state championships with a 35-0 win over Lee County. Colon was responsible for three of the ve touchdowns, rushing for two and catching one. He nished with 11 rushes for 67 yards, a 6.1 yards per carry average. He also had two catches for 50 yards.

For the year, Colon nished third in the Carolina Pines conference in rushing and second in total touchdowns scored.

Heath, O’Reilly elected to US Soccer Hall of Fame

The former Tar Heel women’s stars lead a class of seven

The Associated Press

FRISCO, Texas — Women’s World Cup champions and Olympic gold medalists Tobin Heath and Heather O’Reilly were elected last Thursday to the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame along with men’s players Tony Sanneh and Chris Wondolowski.

Referee Kari Seitz also was elected along with Kevin Crow, known primarily for his time in indoor soccer.

They will be inducted May 1 at the hall in Frisco, Texas.

O’Reilly, 40, was a forward and winger who scored 47 goals in 231 international appearances, helping the U.S. win the 2015 World Cup and Olympic gold medals in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She won league titles with Sky Blue in 2009 in Women’s Professional Soccer and with Kansas City in 2015 and North Carolina in 2019 in the National Women’s Soccer League.

Heath, 37, was a mid elder and forward who had 36 goals in 181 appearances, winning World Cup titles with the U.S. in 2015 and 2019, and Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012.

Wondolowski, 42, is Major League Soccer’s career scoring leader with 171 regular-season goals and two in the playo s, playing for San Jose (2005, 2009-21) and Houston (200609). He scored 11 goals in 35 international appearances, playing in two games at the 2014 World Cup.

Sanneh, 54, was a defender who scored three goals in 43 international appearances, starting all ve games for the U.S. at the 2002 World Cup

The United States’ Heather O’Reilly celebrates after scoring against New Zealand during their rst round soccer match at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

2019

The year Heather O’Reilly helped lead the N.C. Courage to the NWSL title

as the Americans reached the quarter nals in their farthest advancement since 1930. He played for D.C. (1996-98), Columbus (2004), Chicago (200506), Colorado (2007) and the LA Galaxy (2009) along with stints at Hertha Berlin (19912001) and Nuremberg (200104), and won MLS titles in 1996 and 1997.

O’Reilly, Heath and Wondolowski were picked from the player ballot. The top two are elected if they each receive at least 50% and a third is elected if receiving at least 75%.

O’Reilly got 47 of 48 votes for 97.9%, followed by Heath (45, 93.8%), Wondolowski (37, 77.1%), Keith Johnson (33, 68.8%), Samantha Mewis (32, 66.7%), Dwayne DeRosario (29, 60.4%), Amy Rodriguez (28, 58.3%), Kyle Beckerman (27, 56.3%), Robbie Keane (20, 41.7%), Oguchi Onyewu (19, 39.6%), Jermaine Jones (17, 35.4%), Maurice Edu (16, 33.3%), Diego Valeri (13, 27.1%), Michael Archer (12, 25%), Stephanie Lopez Cox (12, 25%), Chad Marshall (11, 22.9%), Mike Lawson (10, 20.8%), Carlos Ruiz (7, 14.6%), Matt Besler (6, 12.5%) and Geo Cameron (5, 10.4%).

Sanneh and Crow were chosen from the veteran ballot, in which the top vote-getter is elected if receiving at least 50% and a second if receiving at least 75%. Sanneh was on 21 of 24 ballots (87.55%) and was followed by Crow (19, 79.2%), Tatu (17, 70.8%), Ti any Roberts (16, 66.7%), David Beckham (11, 45.8%), Clint Mathis (10, 41.7%), Lorrie Fair (6, 25%), Chico Borja (5, 20.8%), Aly Wagner (5, 20.8%) and Francis Farbero (1, 4.2%). Seitz, 55, referred refereed nine games at the Women’s World Cup in 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011, and six at the Olympics in 2004, 2008 and 2012. She became the U.S. Soccer Federation’s vice president of referees in 2024. Seitz was on the builder ballot, which this year included only referees. The top voter-getter is picked if receiving at least 50%. For the Builder Ballot, the 2026 rotation considered candidates from the referee category only. Election procedures call for the Builder named to the most ballots (and on at least 50% of the ballots) to be elected. Seitz got 19 of 24 votes (79.2%) and was followed by Gino D’Ippolito (10, 41.7%), Brian Hall (6, 25%) and Mark Geiger (4, 16.7%).

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Union Pines quarterback Ian Hicks (11) bulls forward for extra yardage during a game against Pinecrest earlier this season.

MARTIN MEJIA / AP PHOTO

Susan “Susie” Lynn Althof

Dec. 17, 1955 – Nov. 9, 2025

Susan “Susie” Lynn Althof, of Fox re Village, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 69 years old.

Born on December 17, 1955, in Peoria, Illinois, to the late Donald and Carol Joan Johnston. Susie lived a life lled with warmth, kindness, and a deep love for her family and friends. She is survived by her devoted husband, Roger Althof, her beloved children Eric (Ashley) Althof and Sara (Steve) Mondziel, and her cherished grandchildren Silas and Avery Mondziel and Zachary Althof, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her loving siblings Greg (Patty) Johnston and Carol (Matt) Greek, as well as many treasured nieces and nephews.

Susie was an extraordinary wife, mother, grammy and friend. She had a rare gift for making everyone around her feel special, loved, and seen. Her warm smile and caring spirit touched countless lives. She had a passion for country décor and a talent for turning her home into a cozy, welcoming haven, especially during the holidays, which she made magical for everyone who gathered around her table.

More than anything, Susie loved spending time with her grandchildren. Whether she was baking cookies, decorating for the seasons, or simply sharing stories and laughter, she created lasting memories that will be cherished forever.

Susie’s legacy is one of love, family, and kindness. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Susie’s life will take place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Rubicon Farms, 570 Rubicon Road, West End, NC 27376. Lunch will be provided. Pastor Andy Robertson will be o ciating.

In lieu of owers, the family asks that you honor her memory by spending time with loved ones and making someone feel special just as Susie always did.

Tyshawn K. McMillan

March 17, 2006 –Nov. 10, 2025

Tyshawn K. McMillan, 19, of Maxton, departed this life on November 10, 2025. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Jones Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the Hillside Memorial Park. A viewing and visitation will be held from 1-5 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Purcell Funeral Home. Services are entrusted to Purcell Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Floyd Thomas Tyner

Aug. 27, 1943 – Nov. 15, 2025

Floyd Thomas Tyner, age 82, of Carthage, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 15, 2025.

A native of Moore County, he was the son of the late Albert and Jessie Pearl Speer Tyner. Floyd graduated from Carthage High School and was a Carthage volunteer re ghter for 20 years. He retired as manager of Carthage Farm Supply, where he worked for 35 years. After that, he worked at McDonald Brothers for 10 years doing deliveries.

In addition to his parents, Floyd was preceded in death by a brother, Roger Tyner, and two sisters, Brenda Cummings and Clara She eld.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Joyce Maness Tyner; sons, Michael Tyner and his wife, Hallie, and Brian Tyner and his wife, Barbara; sister, Janet Sineath; and brother, Randy Tyner, all of Carthage; three grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; and one stepgreat-grandchild.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday at Priest Hill Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Archie Stevens o ciating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. at Fry & Prickett Funeral Home and at other times at the home.

Memorials may be made to Carthage Fire & Rescue, 4396 US-501, Carthage, NC 28327.

Thelma Womack

May 17, 1928 – Nov. 11, 2025

Thelma Blue Williams Womack, age 97, of Sanford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Central Carolina Hospital in Sanford.

A native of Lee County, she was a daughter of the late Monroe and Maude Brown Williams.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Leon Womack, an infant child, and brother Max Williams. Funeral Service will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Cool Springs Baptist Church in Sanford. The family will receive friends prior to the service, starting at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery in Mamers, NC.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for all the love and support they have received during this di cult time.

Thomas Eugene Tannehill

June 10, 1967 – Nov. 12, 2025

Thomas Eugene Tannehill, age 58, of Carthage, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst with family by his side.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 4 p.m. at New Covenant Fellowship in Carthage with Pastor Lee McKinney o ciating. A meal will be provided following the service.

Thomas was born on June 10, 1967, in Germany to the late Eugene Edward and Kathleen Mastin Tannehill.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Ellen Sollazzo Tannehill; son, Levi Thomas Tannehill of Carthage and brother, John Tannehill of Fayetteville.

Brenda Morris Litton

Oct. 7, 1943 – Nov. 15, 2025

Brenda Morris Litton, a longtime resident of Doral Woods in Pinehurst, NC, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours on November 15, 2025. Brenda fought a sixyear battle with dementia and will be missed for her smile and loving demeanor by her family. The family would like to thank the nurses and sta at Quail Haven Village for their compassion and loving care they gave her in her nal days. Brenda was born in Salisbury, NC, on October 7, 1943. She spent her early years in Spencer, NC, living with her mother and grandparents during the war years. Upon the return of her father from the Navy, the family relocated to Albemarle, NC. Brenda was a graduate of Albemarle High School and attended Meredith University and Wingate University. Brenda loved her family and especially the grandchildren. Brenda started her career in real estate as a joint owner of Lewis and Grubbs Reality World in Laurinburg, NC. She retired as the Redevelopment Director for the City of Laurinburg after many years of service.

Brenda loved the coast, and her fondest memories were having the grandchildren in the summers to what she called “Camp Mimi”. Brenda had many friends at the coast and at our Condominium in Little River, SC. As well as many friends from Laurinburg and Pinehurst. Brenda is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Bill. She is also survived by her brother John B. Morris III and wife Viki of Chapel Hill, NC, her two sons John Lewis and wife Jami of Tabor City and Charles Lewis of Lexington, SC. Brenda had a special love for family and her four grandchildren, John Morgan Lewis of Washington, DC, Ireland Lewis of Winston Salem, Ben Lewis and wife Leah of Forest City, Wilson Lewis of Columbia, SC. She is also survived by three stepsons, Chad, Curt and Adam, with their wives and children. She also is survived by numerous cousins and their families.

There will be a celebration of her life on Monday, November 24, at 11 a.m. with Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines providing the assistance to the family. The service will be o ciated by Rev. Elizabeth Forester. In lieu of owers, the family asked you to make a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in her honor. The address is 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. A private interment will be held at a later date at Fairview Cemetery in Albemarle, NC.

Katherine Biles Lillie

May 27, 1934 – Nov. 12, 2025

Katherine Biles Lillie, 91, died on Nov. 12, 2025, at FirstHealth Cardiology Reid Heart Center. She was born on May 27, 1934, in Albemarle, N.C., to Marvin Amos Biles and Katherine Covington. Her family and friends a ectionately called her Katty.

Katty grew up in Maxton and was always proud of her North Carolina roots. She attended Maxton High School and at 6 feet, she was the tallest player on the Eagles’ basketball team. After graduating in 1952, she earned a B.A. degree in education from Woman’s College of North Carolina in 1956.

Katty had a distinguished teaching career beginning in Charlotte and then Camp Lejeune, Virginia Beach, VA., Coral Gables, FL., Cocoa Beach, FL., and Abbeville, LA. While living in Florida, she earned an M.E. degree in guidance counseling from Rollins College in Winter Park. In 1969, while living in Cocoa Beach during the height of America’s space program, the tall blonde from North Carolina met a dashing Air Force Lieutenant, Chuck Lillie, when out for an evening of fun and dancing. They were married at Pope Air Force Base, N.C., on Dec. 19, 1970. They enjoyed over 54 loving years together.

Katty was a devoted military spouse as they moved from one assignment to the next in Florida, Virginia, Louisiana, Ohio, Maryland and Washington, D.C. Always warm and engaging, she never lost her strong North Carolina accent. She was an avid reader, crossword solver, loved the color blue, and was a lifelong Tarheels basketball fan; interrupting her during a game would earn the culprit a stare that only an elementary school teacher could deliver.

Following their military career, Katty and Chuck lived in Morgantown, W.V., and Crystal City, VA., before returning to North Carolina. They settled in Southern Pines and frequented the Java Bean Roasting Company co ee shop on Broad Street where Katty enjoyed lively discussions of current events and whatever was on the minds of customers.

Katty is survived by her husband Chuck, son Charles, niece Emily Gaskins and 20 other nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Amos and nephew Amos.

A service for Katty will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Penick Village Chapel, 500 E. Rhode Island Ave., Southern Pines, N.C., with interment immediately afterward at Pinelawn Memorial Park, 1105 Morganton Rd., Southern Pines. In lieu of owers, consider donating to the Friends of Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Rd., Southern Pines, N.C. 28387.

Paul Johnson Hussey

April 5, 1935 – Nov. 11, 2025

Paul Johnson Hussey, 90, went Home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

Paul was a native of Moore County, born April 5, 1935, to the late Elcanie and Rosa Maness Hussey. He retired from Builders First Source, “The Block Plant”, as the Manager of Hollow Metal Shop, with over 50 years of service. He enjoyed work and modeled a good work ethic for all who knew him. Paul was a son, brother, husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Paul was a member of Beulah Baptist Church, a faithful and loyal servant to the Lord. He loved life, whether it was farming, gardening or keeping a manicured yard, he was always busy. The family also said he enjoyed a cherry Pepsi as often as he could. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings: John Landon Hussey, Irene Hussey Brewer, Maxine Hussey Holden; son-inlaw: Charlie Sessoms.

Paul is survived by his wife of 68 years, Mae Hussey, children: Ronnie Hussey (Robin), Rhonda Sessoms; grandchildren: Morgan Gordon, Emma Parrish (David), Luke Hussey (Bailey), Ethan Sessoms; great grandchildren: Nathanael, Samuel, Maelee, Salem, Josie Beth; sisters: Maylene Ritter, Libby Moscato (Paul), Dottie Davis (Pete), Molcy Solberg, Lorene Slack (Nicky); Special friend, Ethan’s girlfriend, Matti Moore; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Beulah Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service, beginning at 10 a.m.

The body will lie in state from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Kennedy Funeral Home.

Memorials may be given to Beulah Baptist Church Building Fund, 8454 Howards Mill Road, Bennett, NC 27208s or FirstHealth Hospice.

April 27, 1972 – Nov. 15, 2025

Sharonda Williams, 53, of Fayetteville, departed this life on November 15, 2025. A celebration of life will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at the Tylertown Community Center in Raeford.

Mary Agnes McPherson

Nov. 4, 1939 – Nov. 11, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Agnes McPherson, aged 86. A beloved mother, sister, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and friend, who departed this life on November 11, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Mary was born on November 4, 1939, in Staten Island, NY, to Edward and Florence Parsons.

She spent her life serving her community through nursing, Girl Scouts, and church. Outside of work, Mary loved to read, watch hallmark movies, doing puzzles, and being around family. She also loved frogs.

Mary is survived by her three sons, Anthony Tomeski, John Tomeski and Gary Tomeski. Also, 16 grandchildren and 27 greatgrandchildren, and one greatgreat-grandchild. Her brother George Parsons and sister Pat DiMarco.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Dawn Embrey and her son, Alan Tomeski. Also, her sister, Anne Penland. Her brother, Ronald Parsons. Her former husband, Anthony E Tomeski.

Mary will be truly missed by all who loved her.

“Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.”

“If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.”

Have a wonderful day!

Bonnie Lyczkowski

Sept. 16, 1953 – Nov. 12, 2025

Bonnie Marks Lyczkowski, age 72, of Cameron, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at First Health Hospice House in Pinehurst with her family by her side.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant Christian Church in Vass with Pastor Chandler Wilkes o ciating. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 2-3 p.m. Burial will immediately follow in the church cemetery.

Bonnie was born in Lee County on September 16, 1953, to the late Norman Clarence and Ida West Marks. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her sisters, Nancy, Louine, Mildred and Glenda, brothers, Clarence, DeWitt and Harold.

Bonnie is survived by her husband of 45 years, John Lyczkowski, and her son, Bryan Lyczkowski, and his wife, Kelly, of Cameron, as well as her four grandpups. However, “Marshal” held a special place in her heart. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to FirstHealth Hospice Foundation, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374, in memory of Bonnie.

Dorothy “Dot” King Conner

March 29, 1926 –Nov. 13, 2025

Dot was born in Bridgetown, RI, to Frederick and Mildred King. She grew up in Goshen, VA, where she married her husband of 67 years, James Marshall Conner. After moving to NC, she lived in Rockingham (14 years) and Aberdeen (60 years). She passed away peacefully at the age of 99 in Pinehurst.

She was predeceased by her husband, James; daughter, Thursey Smith; sons-in-law, Denny Spivey and Je Smith; three sisters; and three brothers. She is survived by three children: Sherry Spivey, Fred Conner (Eve), and Mark Conner (Geri); Nina Smith; ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and dear family and friends.

Dot possessed deep faith, a keen mind, a joyful sense of humor, a strong will, and a generous heart. She and James enjoyed hosting friends and family, pairing lively conversation with home-cooked meals. They worked year-round on treasured heirloom gifts. Dot’s artistic painting brought James’s carved Santas to life. She used her strong hands to knit blankets, weave cane-bottom chairs, and nurture plants and loved ones. She leaves behind memories of weddings and birthdays made more special by her cakes and owers.

The family greatly appreciates the loving care of the associates at Quail Haven Village, Pinehurst. Instead of owers, please contribute to Aberdeen First Baptist Church or Samaritan’s Purse. Graveside service: Sunday, 11/16, at 2:30 p.m., Culdee Presbyterian Church, West End, NC.

Dec. 6, 1964 – Nov. 13, 2025

Pamela Darby, 60, of Carthage, departed this life on November 13, 2025. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Sandhills United Church of Christ, Aberdeen. Interment will follow in the Bu alo Spring Church Cemetery, Raeford. A viewing and visitation will be held one hour prior. Services are entrusted to Purcell Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Richard L. Meadows

April 29, 1938 – Nov. 13, 2025

Richard L Meadows was born in Huntington, West Virginia, on April 29, 1938, to Mollie Hutchison Meadows. He reunited with her in death on November 13, 2025. He was a graduate of Huntington East High School in 1956. In 1961, he graduated from Marshall University with a BBA, where he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. His 28-year military career began in college as a member of ROTC and continued by serving as a Unit Commander of the US Army Human Resource Center. His rst post was Fort Jackson, SC. He was later stationed at the Scho eld Barracks in Hawaii, from 1963 to 1967. In 1968 he was deployed to Saigon, Viet Nam and was assigned to the position of Communications Control O cer, reporting directly to General Creighton Abrams. He was awarded the Bronze star for meritorious achievement in ground operations against hostile forces and was promoted to Captain. In 1969, he was deployed to Vint Hill Farm Station in Virginia as the Post Adjutant General. The next twenty years were spent as a Military Reservist, serving in the 80th Division, Adjutant General Division, Richmond, Virginia, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He graduated from the Command and General Sta College and later accepted a position as Director of Personnel for the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. He completed his education by earning an MBA from the University of Richmond in 1976. He was elected to serve a two-year term as president of the American Society for Personnel Administration in Virginia. In 1990, he became a member of the Richmond Business Men’s Association. During his tenure, he participated in a golf tournament and hit a hole in one; in a foursome with James Gilmore, a friend and the Governor of Virginia. It was one of the highlights of his life. He accepted a position as a Life Specialist and Financial Planner for Allstate Insurance Company and after ve years relocated to Pinehurst, North Carolina to enjoy the golf retirement of his dreams. He continued to donate his time, supporting the work of the Republican Men’s Club and the Military O cers Association. He will be remembered for his eternal love and loyalty to every friend he ever knew, his infectious smile, his love of all sports, his mastery of the gracious art of competition and the love of his family. He valued life and fought a courageous battle against the ravages of Agent Orange, from his service in Viet Nam.

He is survived by a daughter, three sons, two grandsons, and three granddaughters. The wonderful mother of his children, Margaret “Peggy” Meadows, preceded him in a premature death.

He will lie in peace at the University of Richmond Columbarium, Richmond, Virginia, surrounded by a garden, honoring the life of his late wife. A celebration of his life will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of owers, donations may be sent to: Marshall University General Scholarship Fund, 519 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV 23703.

Pamela Darby

Sharonda Williams

STATE & NATION

Foreign enrollment at US colleges holds steady

Some had feared a huge drop in foreign students

By Collin Binkey and Makiya Seminera

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Foreign students enrolled at U.S. colleges in strong numbers this fall despite fears that a Trump administration crackdown would trigger a nosedive, yet there are signs of turbulence as fewer new, rst-time students arrived from other countries, according to a new report.

Overall, U.S. campuses saw a 1% decrease in international enrollment this fall compared with last year, according to a survey from the Institute of International Education. But that gure is propped up by large numbers of students who stayed in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. The number of new students entering the United States for the rst time fell by 17%, the sharpest decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some universities are seeing backslides that have punched big holes in tuition revenue, but overall the fallo is less severe than some industry groups had forecast. Researchers credit colleges for helping students navigate visa issues through the summer.

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything

in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States,” said Mirka Martel, head of research, evaluation and learning for the institute.

At DePaul University, a Catholic university in Chicago, the number of international graduate students fell by almost 62% this fall, a driving factor in recent spending cuts. The university president blamed student visa troubles and declining interest to study in the U.S., calling it a “massive” disruption.

Overall, nearly 60% of colleges reported a decrease in new foreign students this fall, the survey found, while 30% saw increases and others held even. More than 800 schools responded to the survey, which offers an early look at trends before full data is released next year.

Trump administration presses for reductions in foreign enrollment

The Trump administration has sought to reduce America’s reliance on foreign students. The White House is pushing colleges to cap enrollment of foreign students and enroll more from the U.S. In June, the State Department began screening visa applications more closely after temporarily halting all interviews.

Visa processing has continued to lag in some countries, in-

cluding India, the largest source of America’s foreign students. Education rms have reported that future college students are now showing decreased interest in the U.S. and more in Europe and Asia. While international enrollment remained relatively steady, there are concerns about its sustainability.

“There are warning signs for future years, and I’m really concerned about what this portends for fall ’26 and ’27,” said Clay Harmon, the executive director of AIRC: The Association of International Enrollment Management, which represents colleges and recruitment agencies.

Foreign students make up about 6% of America’s college students, but they play an outsized role in campus budgets. Most pay higher tuition rates and don’t get nancial aid, effectively subsidizing U.S. students. Their numbers are far higher at elite campuses, often making up a quarter or more of the student body.

International students at the graduate level saw the biggest backslide this fall, with a 12% drop. That was mostly o set by rising numbers of students participating in Optional Practical Training, which allows students to stay in the U.S. for temporary work after graduating. Undergraduate numbers ticked up slightly.

Graduate students make up

Blue Origin launches huge rocket carrying twin NASA spacecraft to Mars

The rst-stage booster successfully landed on a drone ship

By Marcia Dunn

The Associated Press

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — Blue Origin launched its huge New Glenn rocket last Thursday with a pair of NASA spacecraft destined for Mars.

It was only the second ight of the rocket that Je Bezos’ company and NASA are counting on to get people and supplies to the moon — and it was a complete success.

The 321-foot New Glenn blasted into the afternoon sky from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, sending NASA’s twin Mars orbiters on a drawn- out journey to the red planet. Lifto was stalled four days by lousy local weather as well as solar storms strong enough to paint the skies with auroras as far south as Florida.

In a remarkable rst, Blue Origin recovered the booster following its separation from the upper stage and the Mars orbiters, an essential step to recycle and slash costs similar to SpaceX. Company employees cheered wildly as the booster landed upright on a barge 375 miles o shore. An ecstatic

“Next stop, moon!”

Blue Origin employees following the booster landing

Bezos watched the action from Launch Control.

“Next stop, moon!” employees chanted following the booster’s bull’s-eye landing. Twenty minutes later, the rocket’s upper stage deployed the two Mars orbiters in space, the mission’s main objective. Congratulations poured in from NASA o cials as well as SpaceX’s Elon Musk, whose booster landings are now routine.

New Glenn’s inaugural test ight in January delivered a prototype satellite to orbit, but failed to land the booster on its oating platform in the Atlantic.

The identical Mars orbiters, named Escapade, will spend a year hanging out near Earth, stationing themselves 1 million miles away. Once Earth and Mars are properly aligned next fall, the duo will get a gravity assist from Earth to head to the red planet, arriving in 2027. Once around Mars, the spacecraft will map the planet’s upper atmosphere and scattered magnetic elds, study-

ing how these realms interact with the solar wind. The observations should shed light on the processes behind the escaping Martian atmosphere, helping to explain how the planet went from wet and warm to dry and dusty. Scientists will also learn how best to protect astronauts against Mars’ harsh radiation environment.

“We really, really want to understand the interaction of the solar wind with Mars better than we do now,” Escapade’s lead scientist, Rob Lillis of the University of California, Berkeley, said ahead of the launch. “Escapade is going to bring an unprecedented stereo viewpoint because we’re going to have two spacecraft at the same time.”

It’s a relatively low-budget mission, coming in under $80 million, that’s managed and operated by UC Berkeley. NASA saved money by signing up for one of New Glenn’s early ights. The Mars orbiters should have blasted o last fall, but NASA passed up that ideal launch window — Earth and Mars line up for a quick transit just every two years — because of feared delays with Blue Origin’s brand-new rocket.

Named after John Glenn, the rst American to orbit the world, New Glenn is ve times bigger than the New Shepard

“I think colleges and universities did absolutely everything in their power to advocate to get these students to the United States.”

Mirka Martel, Institute of International Education

the biggest share of foreign students in the U.S., often coming for science, math and business programs. Numbers had already started leveling o last year after a post-pandemic surge, but the recent turmoil appears to have accelerated the downturn. In the survey, colleges that saw decreases cite factors including visa issues and other travel restrictions.

Drops lead to budget cuts at some colleges

Many smaller and regional colleges have reported downswings, especially among master’s and doctoral students.

In a recent campus address, the president of the University at Albany said a decrease in foreign graduate students was having a “disproportionate impact” on the school’s budget. At Kent State University in Ohio, falling international numbers

required an additional $4 million in cuts to balance the budget, the president wrote in an October update.

Even the biggest public universities weren’t immune. The University of Illinois’ agship campus saw its international numbers dip, fueled by a 6% drop in graduate students. At the University of Michigan, foreign graduate enrollment fell by a similar share. Arizona State University, which has more foreign students than any other public campus, saw its overall numbers fall by 3%.

Universities are o ering wider exibility to students who couldn’t make it to campus this fall, according to the survey. Almost three-quarters are allowing foreign students to defer their enrollment to the spring term, and more than half are allowing deferrals until fall 2026.

Colleges in other countries, meanwhile, have sought to capitalize on the disruption, said Joann Ng Hartmann, senior impact o cer at NAFSA, an agency that promotes international education. In Germany, Canada and some other countries, colleges are ramping up e orts to recruit students who might be rethinking college in the U.S.

“They have friendlier policies, and students realize that,” she said. “They have friendlier messaging for students that welcomes them.”

rockets sending wealthy clients to the edge of space from West Texas. Blue Origin plans to launch a prototype Blue Moon lunar lander on a demo mission in the coming months aboard New Glenn. Created in 2000 by Bezos, Amazon’s founder, Blue Origin already holds a NASA contract for the third moon landing by astronauts under the Artemis program. Musk’s SpaceX beat out Blue Origin for the rst and second crew landings, using Starships, nearly 100 feet taller than Bezos’ New Glenn. But last month NASA Acting Administrator Sean Du y reopened the contract for the

rst crewed moon landing, citing concern over the pace of Starship’s progress in ight tests from Texas. Blue Origin as well as SpaceX have presented accelerated landing plans.

NASA is on track to send astronauts around the moon early next year using its own Space Launch System, or SLS, rocket. The next Artemis crew would attempt to land; the space agency is pressing to get astronauts back on the lunar surface by decade’s end in order to beat China.

Twelve astronauts walked on the moon more than a half-century ago during NASA’s Apollo program.

JOHN RAOUX / AP PHOTO

A Blue Origin New Glenn rocket lifts o from Launch Complex 36 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida last week.