North State Journal Vol. 10, Issue 50

Taylor, 23, and his

House passes bill to end partial shutdown

Washington, D.C.

The House on Tuesday passed a roughly $1.2 trillion spending package to end the partial government shutdown, sending the measure to President Donald Trump and setting the stage for a debate in Congress over Homeland Security funding. The vote was 217-214 and wraps up congressional work on 11 of the 12 annual appropriations bills, funding the vast majority of the government for the budget year ending Sept. 30. The last bill still to be worked out covers the Department of Homeland Security, where Democrats are demanding more restrictions on enforcement operations.

Trump has said he will sign the bill when it reaches his desk.

Jill Biden’s rst husband charged with killing wife

Wilmington, Del.

The rst husband of former rst lady Jill Biden has been charged with killing his wife at their Delaware home in late December, authorities announced in a news release

Tuesday. William Stevenson, 77, of Wilmington, was married to Biden from 1970 to 1975. Stevenson remains in jail after failing to post $500,000 bail after his arrest Monday on rst-degree murder charges. He is charged with killing Linda Stevenson, 64, on Dec. 28. Police were called to the home for a reported domestic dispute after 11 p.m. and found a woman unresponsive in the living room. Life-saving measures were unsuccessful.

Hearing postponed on crime, safety in Charlotte

A U.S. magistrate’s order blocked the state House committee from disclosing or discussing the Iryna Zarutska murder case

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — A legislative hearing on public safety and crime in Charlotte set

for Jan. 29 was postponed to Feb. 9 due to clari cation needed regarding a federal court order limiting lawmakers from disseminating materials obtained in the Iryna Zarutska murder case.

“North Carolinians deserve the truth about what happened to Iryna Zarutska, and the mismanagement in Mecklenburg County,” House Select Committee on Oversight and

See HEARING, page A2

Snow hits NC as winter bares teeth

A week after an ice storm mostly spared the state, a winter system blanketed areas from the mountains to the coast and beyond

By Trân Nguyen The Associated Press

BLIZZARDLIKE conditions stemming from a “bomb cyclone” hammered parts of the Carolinas on Saturday and ushered in frigid temperatures to much of the East Coast. Charlotte saw one of its heaviest snowfalls in years, with roughly a foot or more in parts of the region.

That caused an hourslong mess on Interstate 85 northeast of the city after a noninjury crash left dozens of semis and other vehicles backed up into the evening, according to the State Highway Patrol. The agency said it counted at least 750 tra c collisions, but there were no fatalities.

As snow came down steadi-

State getting $233M more in Helene recovery funds

The key recipients include NCDOT, Emergency Management, the Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation and the town of Lake Lure

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — More than $233 million in federal public assistance grant reimbursement funds is headed to North Carolina for Hurricane Helene recovery e orts. The funding reimburses local governments, utilities, state agencies and other eligible entities for costs they fronted in response and recovery e orts such as debris removal, infra-

structure repairs and other emergency measures.

“Communities across Western North Carolina have fronted millions of dollars to clear and repair damage caused by Hurricane Helene,” Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) said in a Jan. 28 press release.

“I’ve continued to engage with the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA to expedite the release of federal aid for recovery and repairs that had been stalled, and I am proud to announce that another $233 million is on the way. I am grateful to President (Donald) Trump for his consistent support for Western North Carolina and to his administration for helping

See HELENE, page A3

“I am grateful to President Trump for his consistent support for Western North Carolina and to his administration for helping get these funds out the door.”

Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.)

ly throughout the day, some people went out sledding with their families and dogs. Others stayed cozy at home to avoid treacherous traveling conditions.

About 240 million people were under cold weather advisories and winter storm warnings, said Bob Oravec, lead meteorologist for the National Weather Service in College Park, Maryland. A low of minus 27 Fahrenheit was recorded in West Virginia, and the frigid cold was expected to plunge as far south as Florida. Hundreds of ights were canceled or delayed at airports in Atlanta, Charlotte and Raleigh, according to FlightAware, a ight tracking and data company.

Snow blanketed the neighborhood of Lee Harrison, an insurance agent in a town outside of Greenville, and he planned to take his three daughters sledding in the backyard.

“We’re not gonna drive

See STORM, page A3

ERIK VERDUZCO / AP PHOTO

Alex

dog Daisy make their way down a snowy hill in Charlotte on Saturday.

the word | An utter impossibility

“Because there is wrath, beware lest He take you away with one blow! For a great ransom would not help you avoid it.”

Every member of Adam’s race richly merits God’s wrath. Our sins have mounted up to Heaven. Our pro tless lives have been spent in sel sh grati cation with no regard for God’s glory or for our soul’s future welfare. Our repeated refusals to respond to the invitations of God’s grace — all cry aloud for judgment and wrath to descend upon us.

But God’s mercy has provided a ransom — a covering for sin — Christ! Our text speaks of this ransom as “great” — great in its value, great in its scope, great in its e ectiveness — great because it delivers from so great a destruction and secures so great a salvation. But as great as this ransom is, it avails nothing for those who ignore and reject it.

“Because there is wrath … a great ransom would not help you avoid it.” If this ransom be despised, then there is no possible escape for the sinner. If Christ is rejected, there remains nothing but wrath.

How e ectively this text repudiates any possibility of a “second chance” in the next world! Let the stroke of God remove such from this world and “then a great ransom cannot deliver” them. There are other Scriptures equally explicit. “He who being often reproved hardens his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed and that without remedy” (Proverbs 29:1). For the sinner there is no remedy, no deliverance, no hope whatever beyond the grave.

“Then a great ransom cannot deliver you.” Why? Because it is appointed unto man once to die, and after that — not a second chance, not a further probation — but the judgment. Why? Because at death the sinner goes immediately to Hell (Luke 16:22, 23) and in that place there is no preaching of the Gospel and no Holy Spirit to quicken into newness of life. Why? Because there awaits all such nothing but

“the resurrection of damnation” (John 5:29) and the judgment.

“Then a great ransom cannot deliver you.” Why? Because repentance then will be too late. “Therefore I will deal with them in anger; I will not look on them with pity or spare them. Although they shout in my ears, I will not listen to them.” (Ezekiel 8:18).

Then a great ransom cannot deliver you. Why? Because whoever’s name was not found written in the book of life was cast into the Lake of Fire — and a “lake” has no outlet!

Here then is a solemn warning against indi erence, “Because there is wrath.”

Here is a solemn warning against procrastination, “Beware lest He take you away with one blow!”

Here is a solemn warning against hoping in another chance after death.

“Then a great ransom cannot deliver you.”

Here is a powerful plea for accepting Christ now. “How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?” We shall not! There will be no escape!

“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him, and to our God, for He will freely pardon!” Isaiah 55:6–7

Arthur W. Pink, born in Nottingham, England, in 1886, pastored churches in Colorado, California, Kentucky and South Carolina. His works are now in the public domain.

Top teacher regional nalists named

The 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Teacher of the Year contenders were selected from eight K-12 regions plus one charter school

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has named this year’s nine regional nalists for the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund’s North Carolina Teacher of the Year.

The nalists are Gina Holste,

Reform Co-Chair Rep. Brenden Jones (R-Columbus) wrote on X. “As such, we are asking the court to remove any ambiguity in the order to ensure the full story is told on February 9th.”

A related committee press release says, “Clear court guidance is necessary so committee members can thoroughly question Charlotte o cials in light of recent tragedies.”

Decarlos Brown Jr. is accused of the stabbing murder of 23-year-old Zarutska on Charlotte’s light rail system in August 2025. The case drew national attention after surveillance footage from the train was made public. Brown faces a rst-degree murder charge in North Carolina and a federal charge of committing murder on public transportation.

The committee rst sent letters last December to top Charlotte o cials, including Mayor Vi Lyles, Mecklenburg Sheri Garry McFadden and others requesting information regarding public safety policies and crime. Those letters were later followed by requests to appear before the committee on Jan. 22, but the hearing was pushed back to Jan. 29 and has now been rescheduled for Feb. 9.

The federal court order referenced is a preliminary injunction issued Jan. 15 blocking Mecklenburg District Attorney Spencer Merriweather from sharing or releasing any les in the case with “any third party.”

The order was issued by U.S. Magistrate Judge David Keesler

Valle Crucis School, Watauga County (Northwest); Shannon Campbell, Wilson Early College Academy, Wilson County (North Central); Heather Dail, Hertford Grammar School, Perquimans County (Northeast); Jonathan Lancho Villa, Pilot Mountain Elementary School, Surry County (Piedmont Triad); Cason Justice, Swansboro High School, Onslow County (Southeast); Melissa Hollar Culp, St. James Elementary School, Lincoln County (Southwest); Nishelle Henson, Macon Middle School, Macon County (Western); Manzell Spencer Jr.; Douglas Byrd Middle School, Cumberland County (Sandhills); and

Stephanie Lane, Lake Norman Charter School, Mecklenburg County (Charter School).

“These nine individuals represent the very best of public education,” State Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green said in a press release. “From di erentiating instruction for every child to coaching sports teams to planning school-wide initiatives, their impact goes far beyond the walls of their own classrooms. Their excellence is an inspiration.”

The 2026 Teacher of the Year will be named at an awards ceremony on April 24 at the Umstead Hotel in Cary. The ceremony will be livestreamed on the

of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina. His order also speci cally says, “any Legislator, sta , and/ or volunteer, such recipient is prohibited from disclosing and/ or releasing the les without prior authorization from this court.”

The public defender representing Brown led the emergency motion to block the le release after Merriweather informed him Jan. 14 that the Oversight Committee had requested the Zarutska investigation case les. The Oversight Committee had made a request to Merriweather on Dec. 19, 2025.

In a response ling, lawmakers said most of their requested documents “are of limited or

no relevance to the Defendant’s case” but acknowledged the time frame used in their request spanned the “train stabbing of Kenyan Dobbie.” The stabbing of Dobbie on a Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) train occurred Dec. 5, 2025. Oscar Gerardo Solorzano-Garcia, 33, was arrested and charged with attempted rst-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon, carrying a concealed weapon and other crimes.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) placed a detainer on Solorzano, who is from Honduras and in the country illegally. ICE noted Solarzano’s criminal history, including “aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, destroy-

Department of Public Instruction’s social media accounts. The winner will take over for the 2025 Teacher of the Year, Rachel Candaso, a middle school teacher from Pitt County Schools. North Carolina’s Teacher of the Year recognition program started in 1970, and the state’s Department of Public Instruction and Burroughs Wellcome Fund have partnered on the Teacher of the Year award since 2013.

For more information on the Teacher of the Year award, visit the Department of Public Instruction website’s educator recognition programs page.

ing evidence, resisting arrest, using a false ID, and convictions for robbery and illegally re-entry.”

In its response to Keesler’s order, lawmakers stated they “found no evidence” they or their members were served with the emergency motion led by Brown’s attorney nor were they given a chance to object.

The legislative probe stems from broader scrutiny of North Carolina’s criminal justice system, pretrial release policies like cashless bail and mental health holds, as well as the release of repeat violent o enders like Brown, who was free when he allegedly murdered Zarutska despite prior arrests earlier in 2025.

In response to these issues, legislative leaders signaled last September the General Assembly would enact criminal justice reforms. Around the same time, a Sept. 30 state audit of CATS found that security had been cut by 40% in the years leading up to Zarutska’s murder.

By the end of September, lawmakers passed Iryna’s Law, which Gov. Josh Stein signed on Oct. 3, 2025.

Iryna’s Law ends cashless bail for certain defendants and limits the discretion of magistrates and judges to release a person on a promissory note to appear before the court, as was the case with Brown. The law creates a pretrial release “violent o ense” category requiring a secured bond or GPS-monitored house arrest for rst-time o enders, and mandatory house

State Superintendent Mo Green, pictured in December, named the nine nalists for the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Teacher of the Year award.

arrest and monitoring for repeat o enders. Under Iryna’s Law, judicial o cers must order a mental health evaluation for those charged with a violent crime who have either been involuntarily committed within a three-year period or if it is evident the person is experiencing a current mental health crisis. If an evaluation nds the person may be a danger to the public, an involuntary commitment process is required before any pretrial release is decided.

Four days before Stein signed Iryna’s Law, the U.S. House Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight held a eld hearing in Charlotte which focused on violent crime in the Charlotte area and repeat o enders being set free through “lenient pretrial release policies.” The hearing was marked by angry testimony from victims’ families like Steve Federico, father of murder victim Logan Federico.

“She was 5-foot-3. She weighed 115 pounds. Bang. Dead. Gone. Why?” asked Federico. “Because Alexander Devonte Dickey, who was arrested 39 goddamn times, 25 felonies, was on the street.”

Last fall, House Speaker Rep. Destin Hall (R-Granite Falls) also established a Select Committee on Involuntary Commitment and Public Safety. The 18-member committee will “study and make recommendations” on the “intersection of mental health services, involuntary commitment processes, and the safety of the general public.”

COURTESY NCDPI

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“The Last Judgment” (1617) by Peter Paul Rubens is a painting in the collection of The Alte Pinakothek in Munich.

White House urges governors to join school choice program

North Carolina is the only state in the Southeast to not opt into the

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The White House and top o cials in the Trump administration are calling on governors to opt in to President Donald Trump’s school choice federal tax credit program.

“The Trump Administration is delivering the largest national investment in education choice through the Education Freedom Tax Credit, now supported by nearly half of America’s governors from both sides of the aisle,” U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said in a press release.

“The Working Families Tax Cuts created the rst-ever federal tax credit for K-12 scholarships at his direction and I congratulate the Governors who have worked to provide greater access to education and educational programs for millions of Americans,” said U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. “I encourage those who have not opted in to act immediately.”

The White House also launched a website showing which states have opted in and which have not. So far, 23 states have opted in, but North Carolina is not on that list and is the only state in the Southeast yet to opt in.

get these funds out the door.”

According to Budd’s release, the Department of Homeland Security released the funds, which follows $116 million sent to the state Jan. 14. A chart of the incoming $233 million was included in Budd’s press release. Key recipients include:

• Emergency Management — $200 million for emergency protective measures, including temporary water restoration, shelters, generators and disaster response operations across western North Carolina.

• Department of Transportation — $2.7 million for road repairs in Avery County.

• Department of Transportation — More than $11 million for roadway repairs across multiple routes in Buncombe County.

• Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation — $8.8 million for permanent repairs to electric and broadband infrastructure.

• Town of Lake Lure (Lake Lure Marina) — $1.8 million for repairs to marine docks.

Other various local entities in the Hickory Nut Gorge area will get $1.61 million for repairs to Edney Inn Road and Hog Rock Road, including mitigation measures like riprap and erosion control, and $4.5 million for repairs to Pot Shoals Road.

STORM from page A1

anywhere,” Harrison said. “It’s thick enough that I would not feel comfortable driving with our family.”

Subfreezing weather and heavy snow were forecast in the Carolinas, Virginia and northeast Georgia continuing through the weekend.

Cindy Symonds, a teacher who lives near Columbia, South Carolina, said her husband stocked up “every snack known to mankind” in preparation. Storms in the area typically drop just an inch or two, so the plan now was to stay o the roads.

“This is a complete, you know, aberration for us to have this kind of snow, where it’s coming down consistently for hours on end,” Symonds said.

Under the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), the Education Freedom Tax Credit is a federal tax credit for individuals contributing to scholarship granting organizations (SGOs).

The White House website also says the credits through SGO organizations can be taken advantage of beginning Jan. 1, 2027, but “families cannot receive a scholarship if their governor blocks their state’s participation.”

Following passage of the OBBB, Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) ran a bill to opt North Carolina into the program called the Educational Choice for Children Act. The bill passed both chambers and was sent to Gov. Josh Stein on Aug. 1, 2025.

The governor vetoed the bill on Aug. 8, stating that while school choice is “good for students and parents,” Congress and the Trump administration “should strengthen our public schools, not hollow them out.”

“Once the federal government issues sound guidance, I intend to opt North Carolina in so we can invest in the public school students most in need of after school programs, tutoring, and other resources,” Stein wrote in his veto message. “Therefore, HB 87 is unnecessary, and I veto it.”

In a Dec. 12, 2025, press release, the U.S. Treasury and Internal Revenue Service issued guidance. After the guidance was issued, North State Jour-

A map highlights which states,

nal emailed the governor’s ofce about the program, including two inquiries since Jan. 8, but has not received a response.

Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina (PEFNC), a nonpro t that has helped expand school choice in the state, applauded Berger’s bill, noting the “requirement for states to opt-in was added at the 11th hour and put a barrier in front of many states, including ours.”

PEFNC has not yet announced o cial plans to vie to become an SGO, but nationally the American Federation for Children has announced the launch of the AFC Scholarship Fund, described as a “national scholarship granting organization (SGO) with over $10 million in generous funding” obtained through an “ambitious national awareness campaign.”

Trump’s school choice tax credit comes with rules for SGOs and eligibility guidelines.

SGOs must be a 501(c)(3) organization, maintain sepa-

“The Trump Administration is delivering the largest national investment in education choice through the Education Freedom Tax Credit, now supported by nearly half of America’s governors from both sides of the aisle.”

Linda McMahon, Education secretary

rate accounts for quali ed contributions, spend at least 90% of its income on scholarships and going forward must prioritize students who previously received the credit or have siblings who did.

SGOs also must meet strict requirements like annual audits

by independent certi ed public accountants and make sure scholarships aren’t awarded to disquali ed individuals to prevent “self-dealing.”

U.S. citizens or residents can claim up to $1,700 annually for cash contributions to SGOs that fund scholarships for eligible K-12 students in participating states.

Students eligible must be from households with incomes up to 300% of the area median gross income and are eligible for public school enrollment. U.S. Census Bureau data for 2023 puts the average median family income in North Carolina at $70,804, meaning an eligibility range of up to $212,400.

The U.S. Senate altered language for the tax credit before Trump signed the bill, dictating SGO selection to be made “by the Governor of the state or by another individual, agency, or entity designated under state law to make such elections on behalf of the state with respect to federal tax bene ts.”

In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — whose o cial seal is the sun, palm trees and a seagull — snow started to accumulate in the evening, with up to 8 inches possible overnight. With no snow-removal equipment of its own, the city was working with county and state o cials, Mayor Mark Kruea said. More than 197,000 customers were without electricity, mostly in Mississippi and Tennessee, according to the outage tracking website poweroutage.

us. Amanda Linton, a resident of Holly Springs, Mississippi, near the Tennessee border, and her family of ve have tried to keep busy and stay positive during the weeklong outage. They have been stuck in the house for days

“It’s thick enough that I would not feel comfortable driving with our family.”

Lee Harrison, North Carolina resident

with their dogs, chickens and ducks, with roads outside coated by inches (centimeters) of ice.

Linton said they managed to buy a generator ahead of the storms.

“Just lots of games and reading and really just trying to keep mine and my husband’s spirits up so that we’re staying positive for our kids,” Linton said.

Some 48,000 customers in

and around Nashville, Tennessee, were still waiting for power to return. Nashville Electric Service said it could take until the weekend — two weeks after the ice storm — for some to have power restored.

Gov. Bill Lee said he shared “strong concerns” with leadership of the utility, which has defended its response and said the storm was unprecedented.

Mississippi o cials said that was the state’s worst winter storm since 1994. About 80 warming centers were opened, and National Guard troops delivered supplies by truck and helicopter.

In Georgia, 65-year-old Dolla Johnson, who is homeless, slept in a warming center.

“If I hadn’t have been here, I would be sleeping outside,”

Johnson said. “There’s nowhere else to go. The bridges are not safe. Everything’s freezing over.” Experts warned of the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. More than 100 people have died from Texas to New Jersey, roughly half of them in Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana. Some deaths have been attributed to hypothermia, while others are suspected to be related to carbon monoxide exposure. Ofcials have not released details about some deaths.

O cials closed a nearly 13-mile stretch of a main road in the Outer Banks, citing deteriorating conditions and poor visibility. Through social media, the state Department of Transportation warned of likely “ocean overwash” and urged people to stay home.

tax credits

CHRIS CARLSON / AP PHOTO

Workers cleanup debris and mud at Lake Lure last September near Chimney Rock.

COURTESY THE WHITE HOUSE

in blue, have opted into the Trump administration’s school choice tax credit program.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill,

senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL

| FRANK HILL

In defense of the printed word

There were the oversized glossy print editions of Life and Look magazines, weekly issues from Time, Newsweek, U.S. News & World Report and Sports Illustrated.

DURING THE RECENT ICE and snow storms, I was brought back to my youth when we would play in the snow, sled all over the neighborhood, have snowball ghts and then go home to warm up and get some hot chocolate and rest before heading out again.

The latest edition of Our State magazine arrived the day before the rst storm hit. It brought back childhood memories when we had dozens of magazines covering the co ee table in the library or den. Each magazine was expected to be read each week by everyone in our house — from parents to teenagers to elementary school-aged children — who were expected to at least look at the pictures and ask questions about them.

Being snowed in made reading current and past issues almost a contest to see who could get them and nish them rst.

We were not required to read each issue cover to cover, but it was highly encouraged if you had any chance of participating in the lively dinner discussions, especially during the holidays at the Hill house.

I wonder if we have lost a very important thread in American life where great writing combined with great photography and graphic design connected older generations with younger ones. Printed magazines and newspapers have a permanence about them which electronic stories on social media simply can’t match.

It seemed as if every issue of the following magazines from the 1960s and 1970s ashed through my memory banks. There were the

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

oversized glossy print editions of Life and Look magazines. Sandwiched between them were weekly issues from Time, Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report. Every new Sports Illustrated would be devoured immediately depending on the season of the sports calendar. Occasionally, a National Geographic would come in the mail and youngsters would be lost for hours reading about places they wished they could visit but probably never would.

The adults, of course, had priority to read the magazines. They left the magazines on the living room co ee table or in a rack in the den where any of us could pick up any edition, read it and ask questions to get a fuller understanding of what was going on in the tumultuous world of the 1960s and ’70s.

I remember picking up a full-sized copy of Look or Life magazine as an impressionable second grader and staring at the face of a young President John Kennedy next to his wife Jacqueline and asking my parents and older brother and sisters, “Why did anyone want to kill this president?”

Those magazines lying on the co ee table o ered a tangible way for children and parents to read the same material, or at least look at the same photos, and carry on a serious discussion and come back to it later after lunch, dinner or the next day.

Internet stories don’t have the same sense of permanence and can be ignored, lost to spam folders or deleted never to be found again. On top of that, with the advent of AI and the sophistication of internet bots to selectively pick and choose what information

a publisher can pass along to the unaware reader, the ow of trustworthy information from generation to generation can be called into question. At least the publishers of hard print publications had to abide by generally accepted ethics and mandated laws of respectable journalism back then.

There has been research about the connection between knowledge retention of material read from hard copies of printed material versus the electronic transfer through the internet. The one thing that can never be duplicated online is the intimacy of a parent or older brother or sister sitting down with a younger sibling while ipping through the amazing photos in a Life or Look magazine. Better yet, reading aloud a Frank Deford or George Plimpton story from Sports Illustrated was a special treat. Discussing a column in Time or Newsweek about the civil rights marches of the ’60s or the Vietnam War gave youngsters the chance to learn the seriousness of life and perhaps start to think of ways to avoid the mistakes of the past and make things better for the future.

There may have been more transfer of history, culture and American philosophy, morals and ethics through such interactions between parent and child while reading Time, Newsweek, Look and Life magazines than could ever be transferred through the public education system.

These snow and ice storms might be a good time to pick up a printed copy of a newspaper or magazine and start reading with your family again.

The emerging problem of extremist ‘woke’ medical professionals

“Injecting someone with succinylcholine — a ‘temporary paralysis drug,’ would be attempted murder.”

Dr. Kelly Victory

YOU KNOW, there is a lot of weirdness on social media, whether it be on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or what have you.

As a writer, it’s good to gauge some of the things you see on there from a cultural or political standpoint from time to time to be able to document if a trend is emerging.

Oftentimes, the more troubling things you see on these platforms are simply one-o s. But there are other times when you see certain types of worrisome patterns forming that are worth documenting, and that is where we nd ourselves today on the subject of extremist “woke” medical professionals.

Urban Dictionary, Jan. 30: Larp’s de nition of woke suggests it is an “umbrella term for individuals who are engrossed by social justice and (who think) of themselves as saviors with a moral high ground, but remain willfully ignorant to the irrationality of their claims and the problems they create.”

In other words, it describes many modern leftists, especially those who have an obsession with things like gender identity politics, who believe America is a racist country and think the so - called “patriarchy” is responsible for all the problems our society faces. They also have a hyperfocus on allowing unfettered illegal immigration and oppose all attempts from the Trump administration to arrest those with criminal backgrounds and deport them.

One VCU Health nurse’s obsession with this issue has found her out of a job after videos she posted to TikTok urging others in her eld to do things that could medically harm or otherwise incapacitate immigration enforcement o cers went viral and sparked backlash.

Malinda Cook, CRNA at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, referred to her suggestions as acceptable “sabotage tactics” against ICE and border patrol agents. Among the tactics was to “grab some syringes with needles on the end. Have them full of saline or succinylcholine, you know, whatever. That will probably be a deterrent. Be safe.”

As Colorado’s Dr. Kelly Victory explained, however, this could actually kill someone.

“Injecting someone with succinylcholine — a ‘temporary paralysis drug,’ would be attempted murder,” Victory wrote on X. “This is a paralytic drug that prevents an individual from breathing. Unless arti cial respiration is provided, that individual will die.”

Two Florida nurses are also in hot water over recent social media postings. One of them, anesthesiologist Erik Martindale, is no longer a registered nurse in Florida after he was put on blast over something he allegedly posted on Facebook indicating he would not give anesthesia to any “MAGA” patient ahead of surgery. He called it his “ethical oath.”

Another Florida nurse, Boca Raton labor and delivery registered nurse Lexie Lawler, sickeningly expressed a desire for Trump White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt to have serious, debilitating health complications after her baby was born. According to CBS 12, in one video, Lawler stated that “it ‘gives (her) great joy’ to wish Leavitt — who is currently expecting a child — a fourth- degree tear, the most severe obstetric injury.”

Per the state’s attorney general, James Uthmeier, Lawler “is no longer allowed to practice medicine in Florida.”

These are by far not the only instances, but I’ve seen enough to be seriously concerned because somewhere along the way, extreme wokeness has replaced “do no harm” in the minds of some of these people. It almost seems inconceivable that a medical professional would think or behave in this way, but unfortunately, these are the times we’re living in, where right is wrong, wrong is right, and a growing number of people are too confused or blinded by ideology to understand the di erence anymore.

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.

A Netflix-Warner Bros.

merger deserves a fair look for North Carolina families and American competitiveness

NORTH CAROLINA has become an increasingly important home for lm and television production, and the state’s ability to attract and retain this kind of investment matters to our broader economic future. I was pleased to see that recent television shows here in our state generated more than $100 million in production spending and created 4,900 jobs for our local economy. Those bene ts extend well beyond any single community, strengthening supply chains, small businesses and workforce opportunities statewide.

As a North Carolina business owner who has spent years working on economic development initiatives and public policy, I pay close attention to decisions that a ect investment, job creation and consumer costs. That’s why recent discussion around a potential merger between Net ix and Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) deserves a fair, thoughtful review. The discussion around a potential merger ought to be focused on long-term economic impact, not short-term politics.

At its core, debate should be about consumers and sustainable growth. The modern streaming market has become increasingly fragmented, forcing families to juggle multiple subscriptions just to access content they want. From a nancial planning perspective, ine ciency and duplication rarely bene t the consumer. Instead, they drive up costs and reduce value. That’s not healthy competition; it’s a market weighed down by unnecessary complexity.

A combined Net ix-Warner Bros. platform would help address this problem by consolidating content, requiring fewer subscriptions and providing better long-term value. Importantly, this kind of consolidation would occur in a market that remains highly competitive. Consumers would still continue to see o erings from platforms and studios, including Paramount+, Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, YouTube TV and a host of short-form platforms. The result is a marketplace that delivers clearer choices and better value.

While recent headlines of a potential merger between Net ix and Warner Bros. Discovery have been met with questions and initial skepticism, when evaluated on the basis of consumer impact and free-market principles, it is clear that it warrants North Carolina’s support.

That is because there is a direct economic development consideration for North Carolina. Strong American media rms with the ability to invest in production, technology and infrastructure consistently are better positioned to support job growth. That isn’t just lm production but also high-skilled roles in technology, marketing, logistics and data services. When companies have con dence in the rules, they are more likely to invest here.

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Furthermore, Net ix has a proven track record and a willingness to invest in North Carolina, lming large projects that showcase our state, including hits like “Outer Banks.” As I consider the consumer impact the Net ix-WBD deal would have on American content and what it could do for lm production in our state, it is clear that Congress should not overreach and let it through.

The entertainment market works the same as any other: People want more options and easy access to them. Combining Warner Bros.’ legendary library with Net ix’s technology and reach would mean more movies, more TV shows and more original content made under the same U.S.-backed umbrella. By cutting unnecessary overhead and licensing costs, more money can go straight into making great content and supporting the American workers who bring it to life.

This is not just good for business and consumers. It is inherently an America First approach. Foreign-owned and state-backed platforms, including some with ties to China, are rapidly expanding in the global entertainment market, with the United States as their primary target. Weakening American companies through heavy-handed or unpredictable rules does not help consumers, businesses or the country. It hands ground to competitors who do not share our values. Applying unpredictable or uneven regulatory scrutiny to U.S. companies simply undermines our ability to compete globally.

Conservatives have always believed the government should set fair rules, not punish growth or size for its own sake. The Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission have cleared even bigger, complicated media deals before, including Disney buying Fox and Amazon buying MGM. Changing the rules now would raise real concerns about fairness and consistency. That consistency sends an important signal to investors, employers and workers alike.

Sen. Thom Tillis has long emphasized the importance of economic growth, innovation and keeping America competitive. Families and businesses in North Carolina are watching closely to see if this merger is judged on its real bene ts or blocked by ideology. With household budgets stretched and competition intensifying worldwide, the smart choice is the one that bene ts consumers, supports workers, is pro-growth and strengthens America for the long term.

Letting the Net ix-Warner Bros. Discovery merger move forward does exactly that.

William Morgan is CEO of Capital Management Group of the Carolinas and former Statesville mayor pro tem.

Democrats’ response to Minneapolis chaos could be to their detriment

THE UNREST surrounding federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis did not arise by accident. It is the product of a combustible mix: deliberate obstruction by Democratic o cials, wall-to-wall legacy media coverage and two tragic incidents that were mishandled by senior gures inside the Trump administration. Together, these forces have produced exactly the chaos critics warned about — and have now forced the administration into a public course correction.

Last Tuesday, the administration announced that Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol chief overseeing operations in Minnesota, has been removed from his post and is expected to return to El Centro, California. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is reportedly under intense scrutiny as well following her department’s handling of two fatal encounters in which American citizens were shot by federal agents under disputed circumstances. Those failures have placed the administration on the defensive and handed political momentum to its opponents.

But the story does not begin with those shootings. It begins with the systematic obstruction of federal law by Democratic leaders in blue states and cities.

For months, Democratic o cials have sought to block cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement while publicly pressuring the administration to scale back deportations altogether. This has collided with the political reality of immigration enforcement. While “mass deportation” has long been a feature of President Donald Trump’s rhetoric, public support has always been far more speci c. Americans overwhelmingly favor removing illegal immigrants who commit serious crimes — rape, assault, arson and murder — not indiscriminate sweeps.

Early in the administration, enforcement largely re ected that reality. Criminal o enders were the priority. But as blue states increasingly refused to cooperate with ICE, that strategy became harder to sustain. In jurisdictions that work with federal authorities, local police can ag immigration status after an arrest and transfer dangerous o enders to ICE custody safely inside jails. In sanctuary cities, that option disappears.

The result is predictable. Suspects may be released back into the community, and ICE agents are forced to pursue targets in public spaces — knocking on doors, making street arrests and triggering confrontations. Those confrontations produce protests, viral videos and disturbing images that dominate television screens.

This is the paradox of law enforcement: Americans say they want law and order, but they recoil from seeing it enforced in real time. The work is messy, tense and often ugly. That discomfort is not unique to immigration enforcement. Police o cers face similar backlash every time videos circulate showing them intervening on what is often the worst day of someone’s life.

When those images include disputed deaths — particularly of American citizens — the e ect is magni ed. Media narratives quickly broaden from individual incidents to sweeping indictments of law enforcement itself.

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel o ered a vivid example this week, portraying federal agents as “mask-wearing goons” committing “one atrocity after another” in Minneapolis. His monologue described families being terrorized, “babies being tear-gassed,” and Americans being targeted for little more than “having an accent or whatever.” It was a story designed to provoke outrage — and one that Democrats’ obstruction has helped make plausible.

Kimmel went further, misrepresenting key facts surrounding the shooting of Renee Good, weaving partial truths into a broader ction that framed the incident as emblematic of lawless tyranny. The Department of Homeland Security’s own missteps — prematurely labeling cases as acts of domestic terrorism — made that narrative easier to sell. But Kimmel’s conclusion was not limited to those failures. It amounted to a rejection of immigration enforcement itself.

Equally misleading was his suggestion that this chaos is unfolding everywhere. It is not. The disturbances are concentrated in blue cities that refuse to cooperate with ICE. In red cities, where cooperation exists, enforcement occurs quietly and without spectacle.

For voters trying to assess the situation honestly, the dynamic is deeply frustrating. State and local o cials obstruct federal law, enforcement becomes riskier and more visible, and then federal agents are blamed when things go wrong. Public opinion, however, does not pause for nuance. As CNN analyst Harry Enten recently noted, ICE’s approval ratings have sharply declined.

That political reality has now forced the administration to recalibrate. Border czar Tom Homan — long viewed as the most disciplined and clear-eyed voice on enforcement — has been put front and center. From the beginning, Homan has emphasized investigations, lawful process and deescalation where possible. He has often appeared to be the adult in the room.

Whether that recalibration succeeds will depend in large part on Minnesota’s leaders and Minneapolis o cials. Democrats clearly sense momentum. They believe obstruction is paying dividends. That belief should give pause.

History o ers a warning. In 2020, police were vili ed, departments were defunded and law enforcement brie y became politically radioactive. Then crime surged, public opinion snapped back, and Democrats found themselves underwater on policing for years.

Minneapolis may follow the same trajectory. Democrats may win the immediate battle — turning ICE into a temporary villain and shifting attention away from illegal immigration. But in doing so, they risk losing the war. When consequences arrive, voters tend to remember who dismantled enforcement, not who defended it.

Ben Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+. He is a three-time New York Times bestselling author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Big surprises in the 2030 census estimates

ABOUT A MONTH LATE , presumably due to last fall’s government shutdown, the Census Bureau has released its estimates of the populations of the 50 states and the District of Columbia for July 1, 2025.

It provides an interesting picture of what the country is, and is becoming, halfway through the decade of the 2020s and one-quarter of the way through (have we really gotten this far?) the 21st century. It also provides some political dynamite, all the more explosive because of Census Bureau statisticians’ deserved reputation for apolitical rigor and willingness to admit mistakes, as it did on the COVID -19-plagued 2020 Census.

The headline story is the sharp rise and sharp fall in immigration. The notion that immigration exploded sharply during the Biden administration and contracted sharply during the second Trump administration is not political propaganda.

After the expiration of most COVID -19 restrictions, immigration rose to 1.8 million in 2021-22, 2.6 million in 2022-23, and 3.2 million in 2023-24.

The snapback to 1.9 million in 2024 -25 re ects changes in both outgoing and incoming administrations. With the election looming, the Biden administration in early 2024 discovered that current legislation let it restrict immigration in ways it had claimed it didn’t before, and under the same legislation, the Trump administration immediately stopped almost all illegal border crossings. Government policy can make a di erence.

Taking that into account, the Census Bureau estimates immigration will fall well below 500,000 in 2025-26. That’s comparable to the sharp fallo of immigration during the nancial and economic crises of 2007-08.

That means the nation’s total population increase is sharply down, especially in the states centered on the nation’s four largest metropolitan areas, which either grew just barely (New York and Illinois) or lost population (California). Meanwhile, every state in the Midwest gained population, and ve states grew above the national rate.

Even more striking, 44% of the nation’s population gains in 2020-25 came in just the two states of Texas and Florida. When you add in North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, South Carolina — with the nation’s higher percentage growth in 2024 -25 — and Tennessee, you have 70% of the total national popular gain, all in states carried by Donald Trump in 2024.

Projecting 2020-25 or 2024 -25 patterns ahead of the 2030 Census and the reapportionment of U.S. House seats among the states that automatically follows results in a sharp change of political balance. Two di erent projections have California losing four House seats and Texas gaining four, leaving California with 48, only marginally larger than Texas’s 42.

One has Florida gaining four and New York and Illinois losing two each, while the other has Florida gaining two and New York and Florida losing one each, with the same net partisan e ect. There is agreement that ve more or less Republican states will gain one seat each (Georgia, North Carolina, Arizona, Utah, Idaho) and that ve more or less Democratic states will lose one each — Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Oregon. Apply either set of projections to the 2024 presidential election totals, and Trump gains either nine or 11 electoral votes — and wins even if he loses his three closest states, Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania. The blue wall has become a purple owerbed.

That doesn’t mean Democrats will be frozen out of the White House. Changes in opinion of a magnitude often experienced can render the 2024 numbers obsolete. But one can see di culties, even in 2028, if Democrats nominate one of the two California politicians, Gavin Newsom or Kamala Harris, who top their polls. Will the nation be well served by policies that have prompted more people to leave than to head to a state with California’s beautiful scenery and comfortable climate?

It’s harder to be sure whether the 2030 Census will give Republicans a boost in Congress. The current ructions over mid-decade redistricting make prediction perilous. An intermediate court has blocked Virginia Democrats from gerrymandering, and a trial judge has ruled that the Voting Rights Act requires linking a Staten Island-dominated district to Manhattan rather than Brooklyn.

But almost certainly any political redistricting would rather be a Republican adding multiple districts in Texas and Florida than a Democrat required to eliminate some of his party’s incumbents in California, New York or Illinois. And heavily Democratic central cities will no longer be entitled to as much representation from masses of illegal immigrants protected from deportation but counted by census takers.

A nal caveat. Issues aren’t static, politicians aren’t around forever (even if Trump Derangement Syndrome su erers fear that), and voters move around amid changes in the political landscape. The Trump era has been full of surprises — who thought he’d win in 2024 because of increased Latino support? — and the 2030s, when Trump won’t be president nor be running for president, will have its surprises for us too.

Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime co-author of “The Almanac of American Politics.” (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Murphy to Manteo Jones & Blount

James Beard Foundation elevates top NC chefs, restaurants

western North Carolina related to the recent winter storm. There were three passengers in the vehicle, and all were transported to the hospital after sustaining serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that Atkins was driving eastbound when his truck struck the NCDOT-contracted motor grader. Atkins was pronounced dead at the scene.

WLOS

PIEDMONT

National Guard called in to clear massive pileup on I-85

Cabarrus County

The North Carolina Highway Patrol reported Monday that I-85 had reopened following a crash that left more than 100 vehicles stranded on the highway. Troopers said more than 30 tractor-trailers and 70-plus vehicles were trapped on the highway. The National Guard was called in to assist in clearing the roads. The State Highway Patrol said it also worked with crews from the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s IMAP to help remove stranded drivers.

WNCN

Man rescued after truck plunges into retention pond

Mecklenburg County

A driver is safe after a pickup truck lost control and ended up in a retention pond in east Charlotte, according to reports. The Charlotte Fire Department responded Sunday to a reported vehicle in the water at a local intersection after calls saying a pickup truck lost control, left the roadway and went into a retention pond. Callers advised that the driver had exited the vehicle and was standing in the bed of the truck.

WGHP

UNC Health reports surge of sledding injuries

Wake County Emergency departments across the Triangle are seeing a signi cant increase in winter-related injuries, according to UNC Health. Over the past two weeks, hospitals have treated about 10 times the normal number of trauma cases linked to winter weather, including car crashes, slips, falls and sledding accidents. Medical sta say last weekend nearly half of children’s ER visits at WakeMed were related to sledding, with common injuries including wrist and forearm fractures, hip injuries and head trauma. Doctors warn that slick spots and thin ice under snow make outdoor activities riskier than they appear and urge people of all ages to take precautions, including wearing helmets when sledding and planning safe routes.

EAST

Car re extinguished with snow before rescue crews arrive

Edgecombe County Maccles eld Rural Volunteer Fire Department crews responded early Sunday morning to a vehicle re at the intersection of N.C. 124 West and N.C. 111 South in Edgecombe County.

O cials said the vehicle’s owner acted quickly and was able to use snow to put out the re before it could spread, helping limit damage. No injuries were reported.

NSJ Community asked to stay vigilant as multiple houses collapse

Dare County Four homes on the Outer Banks have collapsed since Sunday, according to reports. O cials said a home collapsed at 46201 Tower Circle Road in Buxton early Sunday morning. O cials said two additional unoccupied and privately owned homes fell overnight.

The National Park Service said it was noti ed around 9 a.m. Monday that a fourth unoccupied home collapsed in Buxton. The beach in front of the village of Buxton is closed due to potentially hazardous debris. Cape Hatteras National Seashore advised everyone to stay away from the collapse sites and the surrounding beach area. O cials are still working to con rm the addresses of the nal three homes. Last year, 16 unoccupied homes on the Outer

The indictment includes two counts of unlawful distribution of food or beverage and one count of intentional child abuse

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — Former Surry County Board of Elections Chair James Yokeley Jr. was indicted on three new charges linked to his arrest for allegedly doctoring ice cream for his granddaughters with narcotics last August.

Yokeley’s new indictment includes two counts of unlawful distribution of food or beverage and one count of intentional child abuse. Court records also show an additional charge not included in the indictment of felony possession of a Schedule I drug.

Yokeley was released last November under a $100,000 secured bond with the conditions that he have no contact with the victims, his granddaughters, and must comply with electronic monitoring.

On Aug. 8, 2025, Yokeley allegedly placed illegal narcotics (MDMA and cocaine) into the ice cream of his two juvenile granddaughters while at a Dairy Queen. He initially reported to police that the girls had found hard objects in their treats, but surveillance video showed him putting the pills in the ice cream. The girls did not ingest any of the drugs, and at that time Yokeley was charged with felony child abuse,

possession of Schedule I substances and contaminating food with controlled substances.

North Carolina State Auditor Dave Boliek, who had appointed Yokeley to the Surry Board earlier in 2025, publicly called for his immediate resignation, citing the distraction from election duties in Surry County. Yokeley resigned shortly after, stating in his resignation letter it was in the best interest of the board amid his “falsely accused circumstances” and he believed he would be exonerated.

“After much prayer, thoughtful re ection and consultation, I have concluded that it’s in the best interest of the State Board of Elections and Surry County Board of Elections, regarding my own falsely accused circumstances, to step down at this time,” Yokeley wrote in his resignation letter. “Based on the truth and facts, I remain prayerfully con dent that I will be exonerated of all accusations levied against me.” The North Carolina State Board of Elections canceled a planned emergency session following the resignation, allowing focus to shift to appointing a replacement.

Chris White later replaced Yokeley as chair in late October. White was selected after nominations from the North Carolina Republican Party. He is a previous chair of the Surry County Republican Party and has served on local boards like the Planning Board

NATION & WORLD

Trump says feds won’t intervene during protests unless asked

The president instructed DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to stand down in Democrat-led cities

By Will Weissert

The Associated Press

ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE

— President Donald Trump said Saturday that he has instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests occurring in cities led by Democrats unless local authorities ask for federal help amid mounting criticism of his administration’s immigration crackdown.

On his social media site, Trump posted that “under no circumstances are we going to participate in various poorly run Democrat Cities with regard to their Protests and/or Riots unless, and until, they ask us for help.”

He provided no further details on how his order would a ect operations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and DHS personnel, or other federal agencies, but added, “We will, however, guard, and very powerfully so, any and all Federal Buildings that are being attacked by these highly paid Lunatics, Agitators, and Insurrectionists.”

Trump said that in addition to his instructions to Noem he had directed “ICE and/or Border Patrol to be very forceful in this protection of Federal Government Property.”

Later Saturday night, Trump said to reporters as he ew to Florida for the weekend that he felt Democratic cities are “always complaining.”

“If they want help, they have to ask for it. Because if we go

in, all they do is complain,”

Trump said.

He predicted that those cities would need help but said if the leaders of those cities seek it from the federal government, “They have to say, ‘Please.’”

The Trump administration has already deployed the National Guard, or federal law enforcement o cials, in several Democratic areas, including Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Chicago and Portland, Oregon.

But Saturday’s order comes as opposition to such tactics has grown, particularly in Minnesota’s Twin Cities region.

Trump said Saturday night that protesters who “do anything bad” to immigration ocers and other federal law enforcement, “will have to su er” and “will get taken care of in at least an equal way.”

“You see it, the way they treat our people,” Trump said. “And I said, you’re allowed, if somebody does that, you can do something back. You’re not go -

ing to stand there and take it if somebody spits in your face.”

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul have challenged a federal immigration enforcement surge in those cities, arguing that DHS is violating constitutional protections. A federal judge says she won’t halt enforcement operations as the lawsuit proceeds. State and local o cials had sought a quick order to halt the enforcement action or limit its scope. Justice Department lawyers have called the lawsuit “legally frivolous.”

The state, particularly Minneapolis, has been on edge after federal o cers fatally shot two people in the city: Renee Good on Jan. 7 and Alex Pretti on Jan. 24. Thousands of people have taken to the streets to protest the federal action in Minnesota and across the country.

Trump’s border czar, Tom

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a White House meeting on Nov. 17, 2025.

U.S. approves

$15B-plus Middle East arms sale

Washington, D.C.

The Trump administration approved a massive new series of arms sales to Israel totaling $6.67 billion and to Saudi Arabia worth $9 billion. The State Department announced the sales to America’s allies in the Middle East late Friday as tensions rise in the region over the possibility of U.S. military strikes on Iran. The sales also come as President Donald Trump pushes ahead with his cease re plan for Gaza. The Saudi deal is for 730 Patriot missiles and related equipment. The sales to Israel are split into four packages, including one for 30 Apache attack helicopters and related equipment and weapons as well as another for 3,250 light tactical vehicles.

Homan, has suggested the administration could reduce the number of immigration enforcement o cers in Minnesota — but only if state and local o cials cooperate. Trump sent Homan to Minneapolis following the killings of Good and Pretti, seeming to signal a willingness to ease tensions in Minnesota.

The president on Saturday night said he intended to speak to Homan and Noem on Sunday and he seemed to endorse the idea of immigration agents wearing body cameras or having their interactions lmed.

Trump was asked by a reporter if he thought it was a good thing having lots of cameras capturing incidents with law enforcement.

“I think it would help law enforcement, but I’d have to talk to them,” Trump said. He went on and added, “That works both ways. But overall, I think it’s 80% in favor of law enforcement.”

Menefee wins Texas election for US House

The runo was between two Democrats following an all-parties primary in November

By John Hanna The Associated Press

DEMOCRAT CHRISTIAN

Menefee won a Texas U.S. House seat in a special election Saturday that will narrow Republicans’ already-slim majority, telling President Donald Trump that the Democratic district “topples corrupt presidencies.”

Menefee, the Harris County attorney, prevailed in a runo against Amanda Edwards, a former Houston City Council member. He will replace the late Rep. Sylvester Turner, a former Houston mayor, who died in March 2025.

The seat representing the heavily Democratic Houston-based district has been vacant for nearly a year.

Texas GOP Gov. Greg Abbott didn’t schedule the rst round of voting until November. Menefee and Edwards were the top vote-getters in a 16-candidate, all-parties primary. They advanced to a runo because no candidate won a majority of the vote.

Speaking to supporters at his victory party, Menefee promised to ght for universal health insurance, seek to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem over U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations and “tear ICE up from the roots.”

He also addressed Trump directly after noting that one of the district’s most storied representatives, Democrat Barbara Jordan, was an eloquent voice for President Richard Nixon’s impeachment

ahead of his 1974 resignation. “The results here tonight are a mandate for me to work as hard as I can to oppose your agenda, to ght back against where you’re taking this country and to investigate your crimes,” Menefee said. Menefee will ll the remainder of Turner’s term, which ends when a new Congress is sworn into o ce in January 2027.

Abbott had argued that Houston o cials needed the six months between Turner’s death and the rst round of voting to prepare for the special election, but Democrats criticized the long wait as a move designed to give the GOP a slightly bigger cushion in the House for di cult votes.

While campaigning Saturday, Edwards, 44, referenced the long vacancy in a video she posted to social media, saying voters have gone too long without a voice in Washington. Later, she told supporters at her watch party that the race “nev-

er was about winning a particular seat.”

“This journey has always been about creating a community where every single person in it, no matter what their background, no matter where they were from, no matter where they lived, would have the opportunity to thrive,” she said. “That means access to health care. That means education. That means economics.”

Menefee, 37, was endorsed by several prominent Texas Democrats, including former congressman Beto O’Rourke and Rep. Jasmine Crockett. He was joined Saturday by Crockett, who is running for the U.S. Senate.

Menefee ousted an incumbent in 2020 to become Harris County’s rst black county attorney, representing it in civil cases, and he has joined legal challenges of President Donald Trump’s executive orders on immigration.

Edwards served four years on the Houston City Coun-

“The results here tonight are a mandate for me to work as hard as I can to oppose your agenda.”

Christian Menefee addressing President Donald Trump

cil starting in 2016. She ran for U.S. Senate in 2020 but nished fth in a 12-person primary. She unsuccessfully challenged U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee in the 2024 primary, and when Lee died that July, local Democrats narrowly nominated Turner over Edwards as Lee’s replacement. Menefee nished ahead of Edwards in the primary, but Edwards picked up the endorsement of the third-place nisher, state Rep. Jolanda Jones, who said Edwards had skills “best suited to go against Trump.”

After Saturday, yet another election lies ahead in little over a month. Both Menefee and Edwards are on the ballot again on March 3, when they will face Democratic Rep. Al Green in another one a Democratic primary in a newly drawn 18th congressional district, for the full term that starts in 2027.

GOP lawmakers who control Texas state government drew a new map last summer for this year’s midterms, pushed by Trump to create ve more winnable seats for Republicans to help preserve their majority.

Winter weather added to voters’ confusion, forcing local o cials to cancel two days of advance voting this week, prompting civil rights groups to go to court to win a two-day extension, into Thursday.

Teenagers charged in La. parade shootings

Clinton, La.

Authorities in Louisiana said Sunday they have arrested two teenagers in the shootings of a 6-year- old child and four others wounded during a small town’s weekend parade. The suspects, ages 19 and 15, are charged with attempted murder, obstructing justice and reckless discharge of a rearm, the East Feliciana Parish Sheri ’s O ce said in a statement posted on social media. Gun re sent people scrambling for cover Saturday during the Mardi Gras in the Country Parade in Clinton, located about 30 miles north of Baton Rouge. All ve victims were expected to survive, o cials said.

Mine collapse in Congo kills at least 200 Goma, Conga A landslide earlier this week collapsed several mines at a major coltan mining site in eastern Congo, leaving at least 200 people dead, rebel authorities said Saturday. The collapse took place last Wednesday at the Rubaya mines, which are controlled by the M23 rebels, said a spokesperson of the rebelappointed governor of North Kivu province. He said the landslide was caused by heavy rains. The rebelappointed governor of North Kivu has temporarily halted artisanal mining on the site and ordered the relocation of residents who had built shelters near the mine.

Nigerian army says it killed Boko Haram commander

Abuja, Nigeria

The Nigerian army said Sunday it killed a top commander of Boko Haram and 10 members of the Islamic extremist group in a night raid in the northeastern part of the country. Abu Khalid, a commander of Boko Haram in the Sambisa Forest in Borno state, was a key gure within “the terrorist hierarchy, coordinating operations and logistics in the Sambisa axis,” an army spokesman said in a statement. The soldiers attacked the Boko Haram militants on Saturday night in the Kodunga area of Borno state, o cials said.

KAREN WARREN / AP PHOTO

Texas congressional candidate Christian Menefee speaks to supporters during his watch party in Houston on Saturday.

EVAN VUCCI / AP PHOTO

Disney parks chief Amaro to succeed Iger

Disney is naming parks chief Josh D’Amaro as its next CEO, succeeding Bob Iger. D’Amaro has served as Disney Experiences chairman, spearheading e orts for the company’s theme parks, cruises and resorts. The decision on the next chief executive at Disney comes almost four years after the company’s choice to replace Iger went badly, forcing Iger back into the job. Only two years after stepping down as CEO, Iger returned to Disney in 2022 after a period of clashes, missteps and a weakening nancial performance under his hand-picked successor, Bob Chapek.

PayPal replaces CEO Chriss with HP’s Lores

PayPal is replacing CEO Alex Chriss with Enrique Lores, saying that the pace of change and execution at the company has not met board expectations over the past two years. Lores has served as a PayPal board member for almost ve years and has been board chair since July 2024. He’s also spent more than six years as president and CEO of HP Inc. Lores will take over as PayPal CEO on March 1. David Dorman will serve as independent chair, e ective immediately. PayPal’s Chief Financial and Operating O cer Jamie Miller will serve as interim CEO until Lores assumes the position.

PepsiCo plans price cuts amid slipping demand

Purchase, N.Y.

PepsiCo is cutting prices on Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos and Tostitos chips in an e ort to win back consumers exasperated by rising prices. PepsiCo has leaned on price increases in recent years as the cost of packaging, ingredients and transportation grew. That has boosted revenue but weakened demand for its products. PepsiCo said Tuesday its net revenue rose 5.6% to $29.3 billion in the October-December period. But volumes for snacks like Doritos and Cheetos fell 1% in the fourth quarter, while North American beverage volumes dropped 4%.

Waymo gets $16B injection to accelerate expansion plans

Robotaxi pioneer Waymo has raised another $16 billion to help fuel its ambition for its eet of self-driving cars to provide rides throughout the world. The fundraising announced Monday values Waymo at $126 billion. The appraisal underscores investors’ desire to own a piece of the rapidly expanding robotaxi market, as well as how far Waymo has come since starting as a “moonshot” project within Google 17 years ago. The lofty valuation may feed recurring speculation that Waymo will eventually go public as part of a spino from its corporate parent Alphabet Inc, which also owns Google.

NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING JAN. 30

Beginning Cash

$2,355,982,099

Receipts (income)

$377,071,101

Disbursements

$164,091,898 Cash Balance

$2,568,961,302

Undercover investigation of Meta heads to rst stand-alone trial in New Mexico

More than 40 states have led lawsuits against the social media giant

By Morgan Lee

The Associated Press

SANTA FE, N.M. — The rst stand-alone trial from state prosecutors in a stream of lawsuits against Meta is getting underway in New Mexico.

New Mexico’s case is built on a state undercover investigation using proxy social media accounts and posing as kids to document sexual solicitations and the response from Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. It could give states a new legal pathway to go after social media companies over how their platforms affect children by using consumer protection and nuisance laws.

Attorney General Raúl Torrez led suit in 2023, accusing Meta of creating a marketplace and “breeding ground” for predators who target children for sexual exploitation and failing to disclose what it knew about those harmful e ects.

“So many regulators are keyed up looking for any evidence of a legal theory that would punish social media that a victory in that case could have ripple e ects throughout the country and the globe,” said Eric Goldman, codirector of the High-Tech Law Institute at Santa Clara University School of Law in California. “Whatever the jury says will be of substantial interest.”

The trial, with opening statements scheduled for Feb. 9, could last nearly two months.

Meta denies the civil charges and says prosecutors are taking a “sensationalist” approach.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg was

dropped as a defendant in the case, but he has been deposed, and documents in the case carry his name.

Allegations against Meta in New Mexico

Prosecutors say New Mexico is not seeking to hold Meta accountable for content on its platforms, but rather its role in pushing out that content through complex algorithms that proliferate material that can be addictive and harmful to children.

The approach could sidestep immunity provisions for social media platforms under a First Amendment shield and Section 230, a 30-year-old provision of the U.S. Communications Decency Act that has protected tech companies from liability for material posted on their platforms.

An undercover investigation by the state created several decoy accounts for minors 14 and younger, documented the arrival of online sexual solicitations and monitored Meta’s responses when the behavior was brought to the company’s attention. The state says Meta’s responses placed pro ts ahead of children’s safety.

How Meta responded

Meta denies the civil charges while accusing the attorney general of cherry-picking select documents and making “sensationalist, irrelevant and distracting arguments.”

In a statement, Meta said ongoing lawsuits nationwide are attempting to place the blame for teen mental health struggles on social media companies in a way that oversimpli es matters. It points to the steady addition of account settings and tools —

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl

pictured in 2023, accused Meta of fostering an environment that facilitates and attracts people who sexually exploit children.

including safety features that provide teens more information about the person they’re chatting with and content restrictions based on PG-13 movie ratings. Goldman says the company is bringing enormous resources to bear in courtrooms this year, including in New Mexico.

“If they lose this,” he said, “it becomes another beachhead that might erode their basic business.”

Many other lawsuits underway

More than 40 state attorneys general have led lawsuits against Meta, claiming it is harming young people and contributing to the youth mental health crisis by deliberately designing features that addict children to its platforms. The majority led their lawsuits in federal court.

Starbucks feeling heat as more chains vie for US co ee

Even McDonald’s and Taco Bell are bolstering their beverage o erings

By Dee-Ann Durbin The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Americans are drinking more co ee than they have in decades. But fewer of them are getting it from Starbucks.

The company that revolutionized the United States’ co ee culture remains America’s biggest player, with nearly 17,000 U.S. stores and plans to open hundreds more. But it’s facing unprecedented competition, which will make it harder to win back the customers it already lost.

Starbucks’ share of spending at all U.S. co ee shops fell in 2024 and 2025; it now stands at 48%, down from 52% in 2023, according to Technomic, a food industry consulting rm. Dunkin’, a perennial rival that just opened its 10,000th U.S. store, gained market share in both of those years.

Starbucks has other challengers, like the fast-growing drive-thru chains 7 Brew, Scooter’s Co ee and Dutch Bros. Chinese chains like Luckin Co ee and Mixue are opening U.S. stores. High-end co ee shop Blue Bottle, which has 78 U.S. stores, has opened two more since the start of the year.

“People haven’t fallen out of love with Starbucks, but they’re now polyamorous in their coffee choices,” said Chris Kayes, chair of the management department in the George Washington University School of Business.

Ca eination nation

Americans love co ee. In both 2024 and 2025, an estimated 66% of Americans reported drinking co ee every day, up from 62% in 2020, according to the National Co ee

The bellwether trial underway in California against social video companies, including Meta’s Instagram and Google’s YouTube, focuses on a 19-year-old who claims her use of social media from an early age addicted her to technology and exacerbated depression and suicidal thoughts. TikTok and Snapchat parent company Snap Inc. settled claims in the case that affects thousands of consolidated plainti s.

A federal trial starting in June in Oakland, California, will be the rst to represent school districts that have sued social media platforms over harms to children.

In New Mexico, prosecutors also sued Snap Inc. over accusations its platform facilitates child sexual exploitation.

Jury weighs guilt; judge has nal say on sanctions

A jury assembled from residents of Santa Fe County, including the politically progressive state capital city, will weigh whether Meta engaged in unfair business practices and to what extent.

But a judge will have nal say later on any possible civil penalties and other remedies and decide the public nuisance charge against Meta.

The state’s Unfair Practices Act allows penalties of $5,000 per violation, but it’s not yet clear how violations would be tallied.

“The reason the damage potential is so great here is because of how Facebook works,” said Mollie McGraw, a Las Cruces-based plainti ’s attorney. “Meta keeps track of everyone who sees a post. The damages here could be signi cant.”

drinkers

Association, an industry trade group.

Co ee chains are racing to cash in on that demand. The number of chain co ee stores in the U.S. jumped 19% to more than 34,500 over the last six years, according to Technomic.

Seattle-based Starbucks was a small, regional chain when former CEO Howard Schultz acquired it in 1987. Now, other small chains are seeing explosive growth. Nebraska-based Scooter’s Co ee had 200 locations in 2019; it now has more than 850.

From grande to venti

Starbucks is undaunted. At a conference for investors, the company said an ongoing e ort to improve service while making stores warmer and more welcoming was boosting U.S. store tra c. It plans to add 25,000 seats to its U.S. cafes by this fall.

“Growth doesn’t require us to become something new,” Starbucks Chief Operating Ofcer Mike Grams said. “It requires us to be exceptionally

“We o er something that most people don’t, which is a legitimate space to sit down, enjoy and use it for a variety of di erent reasons.”

Mike Grams, Starbucks COO

good at what we already are.” Starbucks expects to open more than 575 new U.S. stores over the next three years. It developed a smaller-format store that is cheaper to build but still has indoor seating, drive-thru lanes and mobile pickup.

What’s on the menu

Lack of menu innovation is one reason Starbucks has struggled, especially among younger consumers who like novelty and will try new places to nd it.

Arizona-based Dutch Bros, for example, added protein co ee drinks in January 2024, nearly two years before

Starbucks did. Energy drinks make up 25% of Dutch Bros’ business almost 14 years after the chain introduced them. Starbucks o ered iced energy drinks for a limited time in 2024; executives said Thursday that customizable energy drinks would appear on the Starbucks menu soon.

Dutch Bros, which is led by former Starbucks executive Christine Barone, has just over 1,000 shops in the U.S. and hopes to double that number by 2029. It’s betting that customers want speed and convenience; nearly all of its stores are drive-thrus with walk-up windows.

Starbucks’ future

In 2024, the average customer spent $9.34 at Starbucks, compared to $8.44 at Dutch Bros and $4.68 at Dunkin’, according to an analysis by the investment research company Morningstar.

Starbucks didn’t raise prices in its 2025 scal year and has vowed to be judicious about future increases. But Ari Felhandler, an equity analyst with Morningstar, said it would be a mistake for Starbucks to try to win over customers with discounts because competitors will always go lower.

“Keep your prices the same and try to justify them,” Felhandler said. He thinks Starbucks’ store redesigns and new menu items will bring back tra c.

Grams, Starbucks’ chief operating o cer, said the company rmly believes its best way forward is not drive-thru-only stores or mobile pickup kiosks. It’s building cafes with comfortable seating — the “soul of Starbucks,” as he put it — that also serve mobile, drive-thru and delivery customers. Customers sometimes want something convenient, and they sometimes want to dwell, he said.

“There’s always going to be competition. We’re aware of it, we keep an eye on it for sure, but we don’t try to be them,” Grams said. “We o er something that most people don’t, which is a legitimate space to sit down, enjoy and use it for a variety of di erent reasons.”

RICHARD DREW / AP PHOTO

Starbucks Executive Vice President and COO Mike Grams speaks during the company’s Investor Day in New York last Thursday.

SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN / AP PHOTO

Torrez,

Beck releases covers, deep cuts in ‘Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime’

The album re ects the artist’s long, winding creative path

By Dan Reeves North State Journal

WHEN BECK splashed into the zeitgeist, I was in sixth grade. It was the early 1990s, and my identity fell somewhere between skate rat and wannabe punk — anything alternative, according to the culture dictated by MTV. My malleable mind, ripe for the plucking, was jolted by this white-boy whirling dervish who could rap, mix records and sing, all while dancing like James Brown. It was a moment de ned by two towering anthems for the fringy set

— Beck’s “Loser” and Radiohead’s “Creep” — with Nirvana and others helping popularize a new strain of angst and ennui. As the faux costume of world-weariness — or what the Germans (and my father) call “weltschmerz” — eventually fell away, my musical tastes expanded as I debatably matured. Still, Beck and a select few from that era grew with me. His authenticity and refusal to calcify into a single sound or marketable lane has been the constant. Beck never resigned himself to mediocrity or nostalgia, and that restless curiosity has paid o across three decades.

“I’m

a musician. I’m not, like, a personality. I’ve never really pretended to perform that kind of function.”

Beck

That arc is on full display with “Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime,” a newly announced collection of rarities, deep cuts and covers. The digital version is out now, with a physical release set for Feb. 13. The album takes its name from Beck’s 2004 cover of The Korgis’ “Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime,” memorably featured on the soundtrack to “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.” The song opens the col-

lection and sets the tone for a re ective, wide-ranging listen. The track list pulls from across Beck’s long orbit, including his versions of Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” The Flamingos’ “I Only Have Eyes for You,” John Lennon’s “Love” and Caetano Veloso’s “Michelangelo Antonioni.” Also included are “Ramona,” one of Beck’s contribution to the “Scott Pilgrim vs. The World” soundtrack, along with reinterpretations of Hank Williams’ “Your Cheatin’ Heart” and Daniel Johnston’s “True Love Will Find You in the End.”

Many of these songs have surfaced in Beck’s live sets over the years, particularly during his recent orchestral performances, where his catalog has

‘Melania’ documentary, panned by some critics, opens with

The lm about the rst lady placed third at the box o ce, earning $7 million

By Jake Coyle The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Promoted by President Donald Trump as “a must watch,” the Melania Trump documentary “Melania” debuted with a better-than-expected $7 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday.

The release of “Melania” was unlike any seen before. Amazon MGM Studios paid $40 million for the rights, plus some $35 million to market it, making it the most expensive documentary ever. Directed by Brett Ratner, who had been exiled from Hollywood since 2017, the lm about the rst lady debuted in 1,778 theaters in the midst of Trump’s turbulent second term.

While the result would be a op for most lms with such high costs, “Melania” was a success by documentary standards. It’s the best opening weekend for a documentary, outside of concert lms, in 14 years. Going into the weekend, estimates ranged from $3 million to $5 million.

But there was little to compare “Melania” to, given that presidential families typically eschew in-o ce memoir or documentary releases to avoid

strong ticket sales

the appearance of capitalizing on the White House. The lm chronicles Melania Trump over 20 days last January, leading up to Trump’s second inauguration.

On Thursday, Trump hosted a premiere of the lm at the Kennedy Center, with attendees including Cabinet members and members of Congress. There, Ratner downplayed its box-ofce potential, noting, “You can’t expect a documentary to play in theaters.”

The No. 1 movie of the weekend was Sam Raimi’s “Send Help,” a critically acclaimed survival thriller starring Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien. The Walt Disney Co. release debuted with $20 million. The lm, with a $40 million budget, was an in-between kind of release for Raimi, whose hits have

typically ranged from low-budget cult (“Army of Darkness”) to big-budget blockbuster (2002’s “Spider-Man”).

The microbudget sci- horror lm “Iron Lung,” directed by YouTuber and lmmaker Markiplier, came in second with $17.9 million, far exceeding expectations. The Jason Statham action thriller “Shelter” debuted with $5.5 million.

But most of the curiosity was on how “Melania” would perform. A week earlier, the White House hosted a black-tie preview attended by Amazon chief executive Andy Jassy, Apple chief executive Tim Cook and former boxer Mike Tyson.

The lm arrived in a week dominated by coverage of federal immigration tactics in Minnesota after a U.S. Border Patrol

“An excellent opening for a political documentary.”

David A. Gross, FranchiseRe

agent fatally shot 37-year-old Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.

“Melania” didn’t screen in advance for critics, but reviews that rolled out Friday, once the lm was in theaters, weren’t good. Xan Brooks of The Guardian compared the lm to a “medieval tribute to placate the greedy king on his throne.” Owen Gleiberman of Variety called it a “cheese ball informercial of staggering inertia.” Frank Scheck of The Hollywood Reporter wrote, “To say that ‘Melania’ is a hagiography would be an insult to hagiographies.”

But among those who bought tickets over the weekend, the response was far more positive. “Melania” landed an “A” CinemaScore. Audiences were overwhelmingly 55 and older (72% of ticket buyers), female (72%) and white (75%).

David A. Gross, who runs the movie consulting rm FranchiseRe called it “an excellent opening for a political documentary.”

Musician Beck has released “Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime,” a collection of covers, rarities and deep cuts. The album is available digitally now, with a physical release set for Feb. 13.

taken on new shape and scale. The collection arrives with Beck’s résumé already rmly cemented. Since breaking through with “Mellow Gold” in 1994, he has moved e ortlessly between lo- folk (“One Foot in the Grave”), sample-heavy alt-pop (“Odelay”), melancholy singer-songwriter turns (“Sea Change”), glossy modern pop (“Colors”) and the sleek, synth-driven “Hyperspace.” Along the way, Beck has earned multiple Grammy Awards, including album of the year for “Morning Phase” in 2015, and has been nominated across rock, alternative and pop categories — a rare cross-genre feat.

“Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime” doesn’t rewrite that history so much as punctuate it. For an artist whose career has been de ned by motion and reinvention, the collection functions as connective tissue — a reminder of how Beck has consistently followed his curiosity and why so many listeners have followed him right along.

“Melania” is Ratner’s rst lm since he was accused of sexual misconduct in 2017. Multiple women, including the actor Olivia Munn, accused Ratner of sexual harassment and misconduct. Ratner has denied the allegations. Last fall, after Trump’s reported intervention, Paramount Pictures said it would distribute his “Rush Hour 4.”

“Melania,” which will stream on Prime Video following its theatrical run, was released globally. Shortly before its debut, South African distributor Film nity said it would no longer release it. The company said it changed course “based on recent developments.” International ticket sales for “Melania” were expected to be minuscule.

Top 10 movies by domestic box o ce

This list factors in the estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore.

1. “Send Help,” $20 million

2. “Iron Lung,” $17.9 million

3. “Melania,” $7 million

4. “Zootopia 2,” $5.8 million

“For any other lm, with $75 million in costs and limited foreign potential, it would be a problem,” said Gross. “But this is a political investment, not a for-pro t movie venture, and if it helps Amazon with a regulatory, taxation, tari or other government issue, then it will pay back. $75 million is insigni cant to Amazon.”

“Shelter,” $5.5 million

“Avatar: Fire and Ash,” $5.5 million

“Mercy,” $4.7 million

“The Housemaid,” $3.5 million

“Marty Supreme,” $2.9 million

“28 Years Later: The Bone Temple,” $1.5 million

JOSE LUIS MAGANA / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump and rst lady Melania Trump arrive for the premiere of “Melania” at the Kennedy Center last Thursday in Washington, D.C.

KATY WINN / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Bad Bunny wins top album at Grammys, rst for Spanish-language album

Black Mountain native Roberta Flack was honored with an in-memoriam tribute

By Maria Sherman The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Bad Bunny won album of the year at the 2026 Grammy Awards for his critically acclaimed “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” closing out a surprising and history-making night. It is the rst time a Spanish-language album has taken home the top prize.

“Puerto Rico, believe me when I tell you that we are much bigger than 100 by 35,” he said in his acceptance speech in Spanish, referring to a Puerto Rican colloquialism about the island’s small size. “And there is nothing we can’t achieve. Thank God, thank you to the Academy, thank you to all the people who have believed in me throughout my career.

“To all the people who worked on this album, thank you, Mami, for giving birth to me in Puerto Rico, I love you,” he continued.

Then he switched to English: “I want to dedicate this award to all the people who had to leave their homeland to follow their dreams.”

Harry Styles presented the award — the English singer previously took home the top prize in 2023 for “Harry’s House.” He beat Bad Bunny that year, who was nominated for “Un Verano Sin Ti” — the rst Spanish-language album to be up in the category.

Anti-ICE messages from the stage

Billie Eilish won song of the year for “Wild ower” and used the moment to add her voice to the chorus of musicians criticizing immigration authorities Sunday.

“No one is illegal on stolen land,” she said while accepting the award for the song from her 2024 album “Hit Me Hard and Soft.” “(Expletive) ICE is all I want to say.”

Immigration was a central theme of the night. The rst time Bad Bunny was on stage — after winning the award for música urbana album — he used his speech to share an

anti-ICE message, highlighting the humanity of all people.

“Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say ICE out,” he said, starting out his speech in English to huge applause.

“We’re not savage, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens. We are humans, and we are Americans.”

Before that, Olivia Dean was named best new artist.

“I never really imagined that I would be up here,” she said, receiving her rst Grammy while wiping away tears. “I’m up here as a granddaughter of an immigrant. I wouldn’t be here … I am a product of bravery, and I think that those people deserve to be celebrated.”

Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Jelly Roll, more win big

Kendrick Lamar and SZA won record of the year at an electric 2026 Grammy Awards Sunday night for “Luther.”

Cher presented the award and mistakenly said it goes to “Luther Vandross” instead of Kendrick Lamar and SZA.

Lamar also won the rst televised award of the night, rap album for “GNX,” accepting the trophy from Queen Latifah and Doechii.

“It’s an honor to be here,” he said in his acceptance speech.

“Hip-hop is always going to be right here … We’re gonna

be having the culture with us.”

Pop vocal album went to Lady Gaga for “Mayhem,” while pop solo performance went to Lola Young for “Messy,” whose speech playfully lived up to the song’s spirit.

“I don’t know what to say,” she joked about “obviously” not having a speech prepared. “I’m very, very grateful for this.”

The inaugural contemporary country album category went to Jelly Roll for “Beautifully Broken.”

This year, the Grammys renamed country album to contemporary country album and added a traditional country album category, a distinction that exists in other genres. But the news arrived right after Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” won best country album, inspiring backlash online.

“I believe music had the power to change my life,” Jelly Roll said in his acceptance speech, which he spent the majority of thanking God.

Pharrell Williams received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award.

Live concert experience

A powerful Grammy Awards in memoriam segment celebrated the legacies of the late D’Angelo and Roberta Flack at the 68th annual ceremony Sunday night.

“I believe

music had the power to change my life.”

Jelly Roll

Lauryn Hill appeared on the Grammy stage for the rst time since 1999, when she became the rst hip-hop artist to win album of the year for her “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.”

The D’Angelo tribute was rst: a medley of several songs, among them “Brown Sugar” with Lucky Daye, “Lady” with Raphael Saadiq and Anthony Hamilton and “Devil’s Pie” with Leon Thomas.

Then, Hill focused her attention on Roberta Flack: “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” with Jon Batiste, “Where Is The Love” with John Legend and Chaka Khan, and a mesh of “Feel Like Makin’ Love” and “Killing Me Softly with His Song” with her Fugees bandmate Wyclef Jean.

All eight nominees in the best new artist category participated in a medley at the award show across multiple stages, the back halls of the arena and even the venue’s loading dock. It was an interesting and impressive mod-podge of di erent styles, from the British soul of Young and Dean to Addison Rae and

Katseye’s hypnotic pop. The Marías kicked things o with their dreamy indie rock; sombr and Alex Warren o ered their radio hits — “12 to 12” and “Ordinary” respectively. The hits arrived fast and furious in the show’s rst hour. Rosé and Bruno Mars opened Grammys with an electric rendition of their multicultural pop smash, “APT.”; the Blackpink singer channeled a pop -punk Gwen Stefani in her tie and platinum blond hair. Sabrina Carpenter with her “Manchild” kiss-o .

First-time winners abundant — even before show started

During the Premiere Ceremony, the Dalai Lama won his rst Grammy for audiobook, narration and storytelling recording, beating out Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. You read that correctly.

“Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters” won song written for visual media at the Premiere Ceremony, marking the rst time a K-pop act has won a Grammy. Songwriters delivered their acceptance speech in both English and Korean, highlighting the song’s bilingual appeal.

Music lm went to “Music for John Williams,” which means director Steven Spielberg has o cially won his rst Grammy.

Raimi’s ‘Send Help’ devoid of substance, inventiveness

Rachel McAdams and her overbearing boss are stranded on a deserted island

By Bob Garver The Sun

DID YOU KNOW that getting stranded on a deserted island has a way of shaking up social hierarchies? I suppose that was a big part of the plot for recent Best Picture Oscar nominee “Triangle of Sadness.” As well as the literary classic “Lord of the Flies.” And it’s represented on television in everything from “Survivor” to “Lost” to “Gilligan’s Island.” And it was at the center of a play I did in high school called “The Admirable Crichton,” where I played a rich snob who gets taken down several pegs. Director Sam Raimi is hoping you’ve somehow avoided all of these precursors, plus others I’m sure I’m forgetting, because only then can you nd originality in “Send Help.”

Rachel McAdams stars as Linda Liddle, a doormat of an employee in the strategy and planning department of a nancial consulting rm. She does great work, but she doesn’t have the best social skills, and her bro-y male colleagues take her work for granted while overlooking her as a person. This is especially true of her boss, Bradley (Dylan O’Brien), who gives a college buddy a promotion over her and is ready to boot her from the o ce over the smell of her tuna sandwich. But he needs her numbers’ skills for a conference in Bangkok, so he reluctantly lets her tag along on his private plane. Wouldn’t you know it, the plane goes down, and only Linda and an injured Bradley make it to a nearby island. Linda is an adept survivalist, having read many books on the subject. She’s able to build a makeshift shelter, get a re going, and round up some food and water for the passed-out Brad-

Rachel McAdams stars in Sam Raimi’s “Send Help.”

ley, all before he even wakes up. When he does come around, he’s grateful for about 10 seconds before chiding Linda for not making more of an e ort to get the two of them rescued. She walks o , leaving him to the elements. He soon learns that he can’t survive on his own and has to sheepishly ask her to go back to caring for him.

This establishes a pattern that continues for the rest of the mov-

ie: He’ll think that the power he wields in the o ce also applies to the island, and she keeps easily proving him wrong. Eventually she becomes the powerful one, and she insists she’s a better boss than he ever was, but … is she? Or is she destined to become the tyrant that Bradley was on the mainland? Could she even become something worse? It’s hard to imagine Bradley, even at his most piggish, making some

of the decisions Linda makes. Speaking of piggishness, Raimi hopes that audiences are too distracted by select scenes of visual spectacle to notice that there’s nothing original about the story. One is a battle between Linda and a supposedly scary CGI boar. Others include the plane crash, a dream sequence, a physical altercation, and a high-tension confrontation involving a poisonous octopus and a dead rat. I’d chide Raimi for relying too much on his old crutches of extreme violence and body horror, but it’s not like he was doing better with the nongruesome elements of the movie. Basically, I spent the entirety of “Send Help” doing that “move it along” gesture with my hand because the story was so routine. Bradley was never going to learn his lesson, Linda was only going to get worse, and rescue wouldn’t come until much more blood (and possibly other innards) had been spilled. The lm isn’t devoid of properly built suspense, but it’s nothing that hasn’t been seen in other, better cat-and-mouse horror movies (“Misery,” from the late Rob Reiner, came to mind). Sometimes people like to debate which movies they wish they could have with them on a deserted island. I wouldn’t want “Send Help” even if I didn’t have to waste a pick on it.

Grade: C-

“Send Help” is rated R for strong/bloody violence and language. Its running time is 113 minutes.

PHOTOS BY CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Left, Bad Bunny accepts the award for album of the year for “Debí Tirar Más Fotos” during the 68th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday in Los Angeles. Right, Lauryn Hill performs an in-memoriam tribute during Sunday’s Grammy Awards.

Maye, Darnold lead NC connections to Super Bowl, B4

The net falls on Carolina Hurricanes

season and future with the team in an exclusive interview.

the Thursday SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Snowstorm grounds Spurs

Charlotte

The San Antonio Spurs moved the start time for Sunday’s home game three hours later, after heavy snow stranded them in Charlotte. The Hornets moved Saturday’s game three hours earlier, but ights were cancelled and the Spurs had to spend the night. They left Sunday morning at 9:20 but landed in Atlanta due to mechanical issues. After more than two hours, the Spurs switched planes and arrived in San Antonio 25 minutes after the original tip time

NHL Hurricanes have historic comeback against Utah

Raleigh

The Carolina Hurricanes put together one of the most improbable comebacks in NHL history last Thursday. With three late goals against the Utah Mammoth, the Hurricanes became the rst team in more than 30 years and third ever to rally from two goals down in the nal two minutes and win in regulation, joining the Dallas Stars in 1995 and the Montreal Maroons in 1932.

NASCAR

NASCAR’s Bi e wasn’t ying plane before crash that killed him, 6 others

The NTSB’s preliminary report states that retired NASCAR driver Greg Bi e was not ying his jet when it crashed last month, killing him and six others. Bi e, retired airline pilot Dennis Dutton and his son Jack noticed gauge malfunctions. The plane crashed while trying to return to Statesville Regional Airport. Bi e’s wife, Cristina, children Ryder and Emma, and friend Craig Wadsworth, also died in the crash.

Blue Heaven: UNC, Duke prepare for holy war

The best rivalry in college basketball resumes on Saturday

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

ALL UNC coach Hubert Davis needs to know about rivalry games, he learned from his bible.

“Was it Proverbs 4:25?” he asked after UNC nearly blew a 30-point lead over Syracuse in the game before this season’s rst meeting with Duke. “Keep your eyes straight ahead. Ignore all sideshow distractions.”

The best rivalry in college basketball is here, with all the sideshow distractions it usually brings. ESPN’s crew will be arriving in Chapel Hill, along with College Gameday, and the attention of the college basketball world turns to the eight-mile stretch between Chapel Hill and Durham.

Then on Saturday night, after all the buildup, the breathless coverage, the celebrity guests in the stands, the water-cooler arguments and wagers, two teams in blue will take the court. And if history is any guide, they’ll live up to the impossible expectations. Again.

“Today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terri ed by them.”

Deuteronomy 20:1-4

Two weeks ago, Davis was supposedly on the hot seat after a winless West Coast trip against Cal and Stanford. It didn’t help that Duke went on the same trip, returning with a pair of fairly easy wins.

Since then, UNC has won four straight — blowouts of Notre Dame and at Georgia Tech, a signature win at Virginia and the blowout-turned-nail-biter against Syracuse. Up until the nal stretch against the Orange, it appeared the Tar Heels were peaking at just the right time.

That would be good for the folks in light blue because Duke has been stringing together lopsided wins. The Blue Devils have won nine straight, and the last ve haven’t been close despite a challenging schedule: 71-56 at Cal, a Quad I game; 80-50 at Stanford; 90-69 over Wake Forest; 83-52 over Louisville, another Quad I; and 72-58 at Virginia Tech, yet another

Tulsky talks Canes’ trades, contracts, goaltending

The Carolina GM discussed contract negotiations with Brandon Bussi, the trade market and more

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

IN PART 1 of his interview with North State Journal, Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky discussed his team’s season, and the integration of new and young players into Carolina’s lineup. In the latter half of the discussion, Tulsky talked about contract negotiations with key players, the team’s goaltending, Jesperi Kotkaniemi’s status and what moves he might look to do before the trade deadline.

Have there been any contract extension talks with Alexander Nikishin and his representation?

We talked about it before the season, but given that he had just gotten here, it made sense to wait a little bit.

Jesperi Kotkaniemi has been a frequent healthy scratch this season and has been mentioned in trade rumors. What’s his status?

Just as a point of order: A lot of the missed games were because we were being cautious with the timeline as he came back from an injury. But he has had some scratches, which has led to teams calling to see what our plan was with him. We have a really deep team, which makes ice time hard to come by — almost everyone on our team could play a bigger role somewhere else. If there’s something that makes sense, then of course we’ll look at it, but the rst priority is trying to win a Cup, and having this kind of depth is part of our path.

Do you view a possible trade as an opportunity to give him a fresh start, and if you are able to trade him, do you think his contract allows for you to get something of value in return?

I don’t really want to get into hypotheticals. As you know, we never stop looking for ways to improve our team, but of course everyone understands that we aren’t going to make a move just to make a move.

You certainly must consider yourself lucky to have ended up with Brandon Bussi given the season he’s having. That said, there was work put in to identify him as a target for the team. Can you give a peek into how long the team has had an eye on him? Did you approach him when he was a free agent in the summer?

Our goalie group watched him a lot in college and liked him then. We followed his time in Providence closely. We didn’t really talk to him this summer because the timing didn’t work — we had already signed (Amir) Miftakhov and traded for (Cayden) Primeau before free agency opened. But while I can’t claim that we knew he would do this, we did see him as someone who had talent and should get a chance somewhere.

How would you characterize current contract negotiations with Bussi and his team? Are you con dent the two sides will be able to agree to an extension?

We’ve been talking to his agent about what an extension might look like since very early in the season. It’s obviously an See CANES, page B3

JOHN WOODS / THE CANADIAN PRESS VIA AP

goaltender Brandon Bussi (32) during a recent game with Ottawa. GM Eric Tulsky spoke at length on Bussi’s impressive

COLIN HUBBARD / AP PHOTO

UNC forward Caleb Wilson (8) dunks during a recent win at Georgia Tech.

THURSDAY

2.5.26

TRENDING

Ronald Curry

The former UNC two-sport star is highly sought after in this NFL coach hiring season. The Bills’ quarterbacks coach has had the Ravens reportedly ask Bu alo for permission to interview him for the same position. Curry has also interviewed for o ensive coordinator jobs with the Broncos and Jets.

Vonterius Woolbright:

The former Western Carolina point guard has company in the record book. In his SoCon Player of the Year season of 2023-24, the Catamounts senior had 21 straight games with at least 14 points, ve rebounds and two assists, the longest streak in NCAA history.

Duke freshman Cameron Boozer tied him against Virginia Tech on Saturday. Boozer has done it in the rst 21 games of his college career.

Brian Vickers:

The Thomasville native and former NASCAR driver is in the Epstein les. Vickers sent Je rey Epstein emails, including a Valentine’s Day greeting in 2019, months before Epstein’s death, and a dirty joke in 2012. There were also messages about sponsorships and concern over his association with Epstein after Vickers’ ex-wife, Sarah Kellen, was named as an unindicted co-conspirator of Epstein’s.

Beyond the box score

POTENT QUOTABLES

“It felt like my whole insides were erupting.”

Former NFL safety Tyrann Mathieu, telling about the time he tried to beat a league drug test by drinking Coca-Cola mixed with bleach.

“I’ll probably just leave that alone. … They’re pretty hostile toward me.”

Former Duke quarterback Darian Mensah when asked if he had a message to Duke fans after transferring to Miami.

PRIME NUMBER

24

Number of career appearances it took Carolina Hurricanes’ goalie Brandon Bussi to reach 20 wins, setting an NHL record for fastest to 20 wins. He won his 21st, in 25 games, on Sunday.

NBA

Former Charlotte Hornet Amari Bailey has hired an agent and lawyer to attempt to get NCAA eligibility to return to college for one more season. Bailey left UCLA in 2023 after one season. He was drafted in the second round by the Hornets and played 10 games for the team. He would become the rst former NBA player to return to a college team.

Carlos Alcaraz became the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam, winning the Australian Open over Novak Djokovic, who had never lost in 10 previous nals in Melbourne. The 22-year-old broke the mark set by Don Budge in 1938. Elena Rybakina won the women’s title over Aryna Sabalenka.

Snow forced NASCAR to reschedule its preseason exhibition at Bowman Gray Stadium to Wednesday. The Clash was initially set for Sunday but was postponed twice. NASCAR rst condensed the event to a Sunday-only show, then moved it to Monday. On Sunday, they announced the shift to Wednesday because of the weather.

After the Charlotte area got a foot of snow, the Charlotte Checkers closed Sunday’s game to the public. A skeleton crew of front o ce employees helped out with operating video equipment and ice maintenance. The team still played music during breaks and even had the kiss cam promotion with empty seats and mannequins. The Checkers lost 3-0 to Providence.

TENNIS NASCAR

ASANKA BRENDON RATNAYAKE / AP PHOTO MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

TYLER KAUFMAN / AP PHOTO

SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO

HOCKEY

Hornets storm back to win seventh straight game

Charlotte erased a 22-point de cit against New Orleans

By Jesse Deal North State Journal

CHARLOTTE — Turning around the outlook of their season, the Charlotte Hornets are riding a seven-game winning streak for the rst time since 2016.

At 23-28 overall, Charlotte has gone 8-2 over its last 10 games and currently sits one game back of Atlanta for the Eastern Conference’s nal play-in spot.

No team in the NBA has been hotter over the past two weeks, and Monday afternoon’s dramatic comeback at the Spectrum Center proved to be another de ning moment of the surge.

Charlotte held an early rst-quarter lead against the New Orleans Pelicans before a frightening collision between star guard LaMelo Ball and Hornets coach Charles Lee sent Ball to the locker room.

The Pelicans seized the moment, ripping o a 19-6 run followed by a 22-7 spurt to seize control.

Trailing by as many as 22 points with just over three minutes left in the rst half, the Hornets were staring at their rst loss since Jan. 21. Instead, they delivered one of the most

resilient performances in recent franchise memory.

Charlotte closed the game on a 68-39 run, erasing the massive de cit to defeat New Orleans 102-95 in what became a tale of two halves.

Ball returned soon after the collision, having a one-inch laceration above his eye glued shut by trainers. He nished with 26 points on 8 of 20 shooting to go with eight rebounds, ve assists and two steals.

Lee took full responsibility for the sideline incident.

“I took a play o and you’re not supposed to take any plays o ,” Lee said. “I thought the ball was going out of bounds and I was going to save it from going into the stands and he was going to save the ball. We went head to head. Credit to him he didn’t yell at me too bad.”

Ball brushed it o , focusing instead of his team’s end result.

“He went for the ball and I went for the ball and obviously we bumped heads,” Ball said. “It was unfortunate, but hey, I’m still alive and breathing, so who cares? We got the win, so that’s what is most important.”

Charlotte’s supporting cast once again delivered. Rookie sharpshooter Kon Knueppel scored 17 points, knocking down four 3-pointers, while Brandon Miller and Grant Williams each added 16.

For Williams, the performance marked his rst double-digit scoring game since

“We talked at halftime about how this is going to be a character game.”

Charles Lee, Hornets coach

returning from an injury that sidelined him since November 2024. He nished with 16 points and nine rebounds, shooting 5 of 7 from the eld and 2 of 4 from beyond the arc.

New Orleans was led by Trey Murphy III, who scored 27 points; Zion Williamson posted 14 points and 11 rebounds as rookie Derik Queen added 16.

At halftime, Lee challenged his team to respond.

“We talked at halftime about how this is going to be a character game,” Lee said. “We’ve built a ton of resiliency over the last month or so, and I love what we’ve been doing. To me, it was a ton of the defensive stu that we needed to clean up in the second half and we did it.”

Miller, who was recently named the NBA’s Eastern Conference Player of the Week, said the comeback re ected the group’s mentality, with Charlotte committing 17 turnovers but never fracturing.

“I think that’s why the game is the game,” Miller said. “We come out here and play as hard as we can with the mindset that we’re always ghting against

Local NFL Draft hopefuls shine

ahead of Senior Bowl

The showcase is a chance for college upperclassmen to impress NFL scouts

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

THE 2026 SENIOR Bowl was held in Mobile, Alabama this past week and over 100 upperclassman college standouts were invited to take part in hopes of raising their draft stocks.

The invitees underwent three days of on- eld practices and concluded with a game on Saturday all under the eye of scouts from all 32 NFL teams.

In total, eight players with ties to North Carolina were invited to the event. Here’s how they did.

Biggest standouts

The biggest winners overall from the practices and game seemed to be the defensive players as they dominated all over the eld.

And amongst them, two cornerbacks really stood out to scouts and onlookers.

Duke cornerback Chandler Rivers was one of the best corners in Power Four football in 2024, but had a bit of a less dominant showing in 2025. However, a strong showing in the practices may just be what he needed to potentially sneak into the rst round.

PFF analyst Dalton Wasserman said that Rivers looked like “one of the best players” during day three. Despite being a bit on the smaller side, Rivers highlighted his high football IQ, athleticism and strong coverage instincts on the eld.

UNC cornerback Thaddeus Dixon also had a good showing at practices and ESPN’s Jordan Reid called him “the best corner on the eld,” on Thursday due to his aggressive man-to-man coverage and his poise along with multiple pass breakups. In the game itself, he had two tackles.

After appearing in just seven games for the Tar Heels this past season and struggling a bit, Dixon’s strong showing should generate a little more buzz amongst teams looking for secondary help.

He’s projected to be a Day 3 pick, but perhaps his standout

performance can help him slide up some boards.

And despite the defense dominating the event, there was a little bit of glory for some o ensive players too.

NC State tight end Justin Joly earned MVP honors for the tight end group following practices as he proved to be a full package player, especially with his work in the red zone.

Overall receivers didn’t get much help from the quarterbacks at the Senior Bowl, as the prevailing report out of the practices and game was how inaccurate they were, and in the game, Joly had just one catch.

But it’s clear that Joly still made a strong impression from the practices amongst a few NFL teams who sat down with the former Wolfpack standout.

Had impactful moments

It’s not easy for running backs to stand out much at the Senior Bowl due to the rotating of snaps, but Virginia running back and Charlotte native J’Mari Taylor made the most of his touches, with 41 yards on three rushes.

Taylor was de nitely not given the best opportunities, as Oklahoma’s Jayden Ott and Indiana’s Kaelon Black got the majority of snaps, including Ott getting the nal carry for a 5-yard touchdown run after Taylor’s 41-yard series. Duke defensive end Vincent Anthony Jr. may not have necessarily stood out much throughout the season or in the Senior Bowl practices, but he certainly had a strong game performance. The 6-foot-5 edge rusher had

adversity. The only thing that’s going to help us with adversity is everybody in the locker room. They did a great job tonight and it’s all great vibes from there.”

The Hornets’ current starting lineup — Ball, Miller, Knueppel, Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate — is now 13-1 together. That chemistry has powered wins over Orlando, Washington, Philadelphia, Memphis, Dallas, San Antonio and New Orleans during the streak.

Consistent bench production has helped stabilize the rotation, including contributions from eighth-year guard Collin Sexton, who is averaging 14.4 points and 3.8 assists in his rst season with Charlotte, and

CANES from page B1

unusual situation, but we’ve had some really good conversations about how to approach it.

Are you prepared to make a long-term commitment to him given his relatively small sample size?

You’re right to ask about the sample size. We’ve shown over the years that we’re willing to gamble on early signings when the deal is right, but sometimes the sweet spot for both sides is a shorter deal. We’ve talked about a lot of options here.

Are you con dent with your overall goaltending and the depth at that position?

two tackles, a sack and a forced fumble in his snaps, showcasing his ability to get o blocks and penetrate into the back eld.

Having that sort of impact in a live game situation is certainly a good way to make an impression, especially with not having stood out as much.

NC State defensive end Cian Slone also didn’t necessarily stand out too much in the practices either, but he did record a sack in the game too. He’s a high-motor player who could potentially get some deep draft interest.

Forgetful performances

South Carolina defensive tackle and Goldsboro native Nick Barrett had a bit of a tougher outing, with quite a few losses to various o ensive linemen such as Miami’s James Brockmeyer and Florida’s Jake Slaughter. He followed that up with just one tackle in the game.

Maybe one of the biggest losers from the event was former Blue Devil, Tennessee running back Star Thomas who went viral for throwing punches at his own teammate.

During warmups before Saturday’s game, Thomas was upended by a hit from Oregon linebacker Bryce Boettcher.

Boettercher attempted to help Thomas up, but the running back was seeing red and threw a punch and then spiked a football o of his helmet.

In the game itself, Thomas had one carry for negative yardage. That was all Thomas got to showcase too as he was a late addition and therefore didn’t take part in the practices.

Yes, absolutely. Obviously, it hurt to lose (Pyotr) Kochetkov. But Bussi has helped us cover for that and put us back in roughly the situation we had entering the year. I know there is a lot of discussion out there about (Frederik) Andersen, but he’s been playing a lot better than what his basic NHL.com stats would say.

If you go through the video, there are a lot of goals where a passing sequence left him hung out to dry or where he was well positioned but the shot was perfectly tucked under the bar or inside the post, and you just have to tip your cap to the shooter. It’s natural for people to say, “Sometimes you just have to make a save,” but he’s given us some saves and not gotten rewarded for it.

In the second Florida game, he made a huge save on a 2-on- 0, but then a shot that was going 6 feet wide of the net hit a defender’s skate and went in. Which reminds me: In Freddie’s games in the month of December, our skaters put more goals into our own net than into the other team’s net. It’s tough for him to collect wins when that’s happening, so I don’t think his record tells the whole story here.

You often say the team can always get better until you have the 20 best players in the world on the ice for you. What would you say is your team’s biggest need ahead of the trade deadline?

Truthfully, I don’t think there is a clear need. We have one of the deepest teams in the league; I don’t think there’s a single spot in our lineup that’s a must- x crisis. But as you say, there are always opportunities out there to get better, so we’re spending a lot

rookie center Ryan Kalkbrenner, who is posting 8.6 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. Charlotte’s defensive growth has been a signi cant factor in the team’s progression. The Hornets now rank 12th in the NBA in points allowed at 114.6 per game, surpassing even their 14th-ranked o ense (116.2). Against New Orleans, Charlotte surrendered just 13 points in the fourth quarter. The Hornets will travel to Houston on Thursday night, where an eighth straight win would mark their longest streak since 1999. Charlotte then heads to Atlanta on Saturday night for a matchup with the Hawks.

“There are always opportunities out there to get better, so we’re spending a lot of time right now exploring options and making sure we don’t miss an opportunity to improve.”

Eric Tulsky, Hurricanes GM

of time right now exploring options and making sure we don’t miss an opportunity to improve. You have a lot of players with some type of no-trade clause. Does that make any potential trades more di cult?

Not really. I mean, I don’t think we’re really trying to move players out right now; we’re trying to win a Cup. But even if we did, a lot of those clauses still give us plenty of exibility — letting a player rule out a handful of places he really doesn’t like usually wouldn’t prevent you from getting a deal done.

The 9-1 win over the Panthers early this month seemed like a catharsis for the players and coaching sta . How important do you think it was to make a statement against a team that has beaten you twice in the conference nal and rallied for two wins earlier in the year?

You’re going to hate my answer because it’s not good media content. The business team will hate it too, for that matter, so maybe I’m supposed to be a good soldier and just talk about it like a big regular season game is a mini Cup. But truthfully, I think a big regular season game is still just a game. You get a little more hyped up for it and maybe the play is a hair more intense, but in the end, when it’s over, we move on and the next game is the new most important game of the season.

Do you think this year’s team o ers the best chance to win a Stanley Cup since Tom Dundon bought the franchise?

It’s hard to say because with all the injuries, I feel like I still haven’t really seen this year’s team play. But it certainly has that potential if things come together.

NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball brings the ball upcourt against New Orleans Pelicans guard Jeremiah Fears during Monday’s game in Charlotte.

BUTCH DILL / AP PHOTO

NC State tight end Justin Joly (17) runs through drills during Senior Bowl practice.

NC Courage make big changes ahead of 2026 NWSL season

Lind is named the third coach in club history

By Asheebo Rojas North State Journal

AFTER A TURBULENT

2025 season, the North Carolina Courage seem to be turning the page for year 10.

Last year, North Carolina stumbled to a 9-8-9 record (win-draw-loss) and missed the playo s for the second time in team history. Coach Sean Nahas was red mid-season for “multiple factors,” and Nathan Thackeray was named the interim in early August. The Courage went on to lose ve of its last 12 games, capping o the year with a 3-2 loss to the eventual champions Gotham FC with a playo berth on the line.

Leading up to the 2026 season opener against Racing Louisville FC at home on March 14, the Courage have made major moves in hopes to right the ship.

North Carolina announced Mak Lind as its new head coach on Jan. 24.

Lind, 37, most recently coached the BK Häcken Women from 2023 to 2025, leading the team to its second title in the Damallsvenskan, Sweden’s top division of women’s soccer, in November. He played center back in his professional playing career, spending most of his

playing days with BK Häcken, where he was eventually named the club captain. On the international level, Lind earned 10 caps with the Lebanese men’s national team between 2013 and 2015. Over the past decade, Lind has managed and coached multiple professional clubs. “I am extremely excited and humble by the opportunity to serv as the next head coach of the North Carolina Courage,” Lind said. “This is a club with an incredible history and a clear expectation to compete for trophies. I’m very aligned with the system and style of play already in place and look forward

to continuing to evolve it alongside the players and sta .”

Said Courage Chief Soccer O cer Ceri Bowley, “Mak’s ability to combine performance, culture and player development makes him a perfect t for our club. We believe his leadership will help push us to the next level, and we’re thrilled to have him on board.”

Since the beginning of December, North Carolina has also been retooling its roster.

One of the biggest losses of the o season was the transfer of longtime mid elder Denise O’Sullivan to Liverpool FC of the Barclays Women’s Super

League for an agreed-upon fee on Jan. 17. O’Sullivan nished her nine-year stint with the Courage as the team’s all-time leader in appearances. She helped North Carolina to an NWSL record seven league trophies, including three shields, two championships and two Challenge Cups.

Following the announcement of a new coach, the Courage welcomed defender Cameron Brooks and mid elder Carly Wickenheiser last weekend.

Brooks, signed to a two-year contract through 2027 and a club option for 2028, last played for Napoli in the Italian Serie A Femminile, Italy’s top women’s soccer league. The 25-year-old started her professional career with Fort Lauderdale United in the Gainbridge Super League in 2024, winning 68% of her tackles and 80% of her aerial duels in 19 appearances.

“She’s a center back who enjoys having the ball, takes responsibility in possession and defends with anticipation,” Bowley said.

Wickenheiser, 28, came over with Lind from the 2025 BK Häcken championship team. She also signed a two -year, fully guaranteed contract, adding multiple years of professional experience. Across stints with three teams in the Damallsvenskan, Wickenheiser scored 11 goals in 145 appearances.

Maye, Darnold, Walker have plenty of company with NC roots in Super Bowl LX

Former Demon Deacon

Kenneth Walker III is expected to star in the game

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

THE SUPER BOWL prop bet odds are out, and the biggest favorite to score a touchdown in the game is Kenneth Walker III. The Seahawks running back turned in the second 1,000 yard season of his career and has taken on a bigger role in the postseason after lead back Zach Charbonnet went down with a season-ending injury.

The team roster lists Walker’s alma mater as Michigan State, but area fans will remember that he began his college career rushing for 1100 yards and 17 touchdowns in two seasons at Wake Forest.

While former Tar Heel Drake Maye and former Panther Sam Darnold are getting most of the headlines leading into the game, they are far from the only North Carolina connections to the big game. Here’s a look at who else has passed through our state on the way to the Super Bowl.

The Patriots

Maye is from the Charlotte area and played for Myers Park before heading to UNC. Receiver Mack Hollins is also a former Tar Heel, as is practice squad linebacker Amari Gainer.

WAR from page B1

Quad I. Duke had a trap game of its own, against Boston College, Tuesday night, after press time.

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8

As usual, Duke has plenty of weapons at its disposal.

““I don’t care what we do as coaches; if you don’t have guys that take pride in being coached, if they don’t want to grow as players, I don’t care what we do,” coach Jon Scheyer said. “I think it starts there. We have the right

LINDSEY WASSON / AP

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) hands the ball o to running back Kenneth Walker III (9) during the NFC Championship Game. The former Carolina Panther (Darnold) and Wake Forest Demon Deacon (Walker) will be two of the state’s representatives in the Super Bowl.

Center Garrett Bradbury and defensive lineman Cory Durden both played for NC State.

Linebacker Harold Landry III is from Spring Lake and played for Pine Forest High School. Defensive lineman Jared Wilson is from Winston-Salem and West Forsyth High.

Linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson signed as a free agent with the Carolina Panthers prior to the 2024 season, but the team cut him late in training camp.

The Seahawks

Walker played two seasons at Wake Forest. Darnold started 17 games for the Panthers over

people in the room. We have the right people. We get a chance to coach them.” Cameron Boozer is a top- ve NBA draft pick who is the frontrunner for ACC Player of the Year. He can score inside and out. He has help in the paint from sophomore Patrick Ngongba and senior Maliq Brown. On the outside, Isaiah Evans is a 3-point threat, as is Boozer himself. And Duke has guards Caleb Foster and Cayden Boozer distributing the ball. Duke has a su ocating defense that can force turnovers and spark the break, as well as an explosive o ense. The Blue Devils will be favored on the road at Chapel Hill.

the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

Receiver Jake Bobo started his college career at Duke.

Linebacker Drake Thomas is a former NC State Wolfpack player and a native of Wake Forest who played at Heritage High.

Former UNC quarterback and linebacker Chazz Surratt is on the Seahawks’ injured reserve.

Wide receiver Dareke Young is from Raleigh and played at Lenoir Rhyne after Middle Creek High.

Veteran defensive tackle Jarren Reed is a native of Goldsboro.

Cornerback Shaquill Grifn played three games with the Panthers in 2023.

“Take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Ephesians 6:12

The Heels have struggled with consistency at times — the Syracuse roller coaster was in many ways a microcosm of their season. However, freshman Caleb Wilson has helped anchor the team, making sure it doesn’t sink too low during bad times. Wilson leads the team in scoring and the conference in rebounding. He’s anked by 7-footer Henri Veesar, who is also a double-double threat. Former European pro Luka Bogavac o ers an outside threat, and veteran Seth Trimble is a leader and defensive presence. The team has

Arguably one of the more interesting signings of the oseason was the acquisition of Swedish striker Evelyn Ijeh. Ijeh, 24, is coming over from AC Milan on a four-year contract. In the 2024-25 Serie A Femminile season, Ijeh nished third in the Golden Boot race with 12 goals in 29 games.

“Evelyn is a dynamic attacking player who brings pace, physicality and a real presence in the nal third,” Bowley said. “She ts our game model well — aggressive in transition, committed to the press and dangerous attacking space behind the defense.”

The Courage also signed goalkeepers Kailen Sheridan (formerly San Diego Wave FC) and Molly Pritchard (formerly Ohio State) to two-year deals. Sheridan was named to the NWSL Best XI Frist Team in 2021 and 2022 (second team in 2023), and she was named the Goalkeeper of the Year in 2022.

Earlier in the o season North Carolina signed Nigerian national team forward Chioma Okafor, free agent goalkeeper Madi White and free agent forward Lauryn Thompson, a Wake Forest native.

The Courage extended defender Maycee Bell through 2028. Regarding more departures, North Carolina transferred forward Aline Gomes to Pachuca of the Liga MX Femenil for an agreed-upon fee.

In exchange for a 2026 international spot, the Courage traded goalkeeper Marisa Jordan to the Kansas City Current. Jordan made nine appearances in NWSL competitions across her four seasons with North Carolina.

From North Carolina colleges to the coaching sta s

Former East Carolina nose guard Terrell Williams is now the defensive coordinator for the Patriots. His second coaching job was as defensive line coach for NC A&T from 1999 to 2001.

New England defensive assistant Milton Patterson went to Fayetteville State and served as defensive coordinator there for two seasons.

Patriots’ assistant o ensive line coach Robert Kugler was an o ensive quality control coach at App State in 2020 and spent the 2022 and 2023 seaons as assistant O-line coach with the Panthers.

New England’s assistant special teams coach Tom Quinn coached linebackers at Davidson in 1991.

Former Shaw quarterback Quinshon Odom is on Seattle’s sta as o ensive assistant and quality control for the o ensive line.

Seahawks’ receivers coach Frisman Jackson had the same position on the NC State sta in 2013 and 2014 and returned to the state to hold the same position with the Panthers from 2020 to 2021.

Seattle defensive line coach Justin Hinds was Western Carolina’s defensive coordinator in 2021.

From Panthers to the Super Bowl

Josh Bynes was a veteran linebacker signed by the Panthers in training camp 2021. He didn’t survive nal cuts. Now he’s the defensive assistant/ linebackers coach with the Seahawks.

The Seahawks’ pass game coordinator Jake Peetz spent two seasons with the Panthers, coaching running backs in 2019 and quarterbacks in 2020.

Seattle’s VP of Player Personnel, Trent Kirchner, spent eight seasons in Carolina as a pro scout and was with the team when they played in Super Bowl XXXVIII.

The Patriots VP of Player Personnel also has Panthers experience. Ryan Cowden began as a scouting assistant for Carolina in 2000 and stayed in the team’s scouting department through the 2015 season. He spent seven years as an area scout, ve as a national scout, two as a senior college scout and two as assistant director of college scouting.

Two former Panthers o ensive coordinators are on the New England coaching sta . Ben McAdoo held the job in 2022 — head coach Matt Rhule’s last season. He’s now a senior defensive assistant for the Patriots.

Thomas Brown held the job under Frank Reich in 2023. It was his rst time as coordinator, and Reich famously refused to let him call plays early in the season, choosing to do it himself. The team got o to an 0-6 start before Reich turned over the reins to him.

Seahawks’ assistant special teams coach Devin Fitzsimmons began his coaching career at Shaw in 2005. He was a special teams assistant for the Panthers in 2023.

also seen freshman Derek Dixon and transfer Jarin Stevenson develop over the recent winning streak.

“Brother will ght against brother, neighbor against neighbor, city against city, kingdom against kingdom.” Isaiah 19:2

Wilson and the Boozer twins were actually AAU teammates on one of the more dominant high-school summer teams in recent memory. “We were in the Peach Jam together, and we really just ran through the eld,” Wilson said. “It’ll be fun to play against those guys.

It should be a really good game.”

That would put it alongside dozens of other games in the long history of the rivalry.

“One of the reasons I came here was to play that game,” Wilson said. “It’s the biggest stage in college basketball. (Teammates told me) it’ll be a crazed environment, like the biggest game of your life. I just think it’s going to be a lot of fun.”

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

James 1:2-3

AJ MAST / AP PHOTO

The NC Courage said farewell to mid elder Denise O’Sullivan (10), of Ireland, who returned to Europe to play for Liverpool FC.

PHOTO

CUMBERLAND

Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Elbert Anderson, Jr., 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 29th day of April, 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 29th day of January, 2026. Amanda Carrasquillo Pemberley – Executor 2280 Center Court North, Apt. 5 Grand Island, NY 14072 Of the Estate of Elbert Anderson, Jr., Deceased

Administrator’s Notice to Creditors

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Anthony Nathaniel Avrette, 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 April 24, 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 12th day of January, 2026. Jonathan David Avrette, Administrator 1082 Keith Hills Road Lillington, NC 27546 Of the Estate of Anthony Nathaniel Avrette

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF Michael David Barbour FILE NO. 26E000087-250 THE UNDERSIGNED having qualied as Administrator for the estate of Michael David Barbour, Deceased, in the O ce of the Clerk of Superior Court of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the said Decedent to present the same to the undersigned on or before May 4, 2026, said date being at least three months from the date of the rst publication or posting of this Notice as indicated below, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment. This Notice is given pursuant to the provisions of G.S. 28A-14-1. This the 29th day of January 2026. Name and Address of Administrator Ellen Jaye Barbour, Administrator 612 Country Club Dr. Fayetteville, NC 28301 North State Journal January 29, February 5, 12, 19, 2026

NOTICE

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 Wadell Brown, deceased late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 29th day of April, 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 recovery. All persons indebted to make estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned this the 26th, day of January 2026. Paula Brown 1234 Hunters Trail Hope Mills, North Carolina 28348 Administrator of the estate of Wadell Brown. Notice to Creditors

Revonder McMillan, having quali ed as Administrator of the estate of Annie Bullock, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby noti es all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to Revonder McMillan on or before the 5th day of May, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to Revonder McMillan. This 5th day of February, 2026 Revonder McMillan: Administrator/Executor 833 Varsity Dr Fayetteville, NC. 28301 Of the estate Annie L Bullock, Deceased NOTICE

In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File # 26E000013-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned,having quali ed as Executor Of the Estate of Joseph Thomas Burke Jr. Deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby Noti es all persons, rms,and corporations having Claims against said Estate to present their claims To the undersigned on or before the 15 day of April 2026( which date is 3 months after the day of the First 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 the 7th day of January 2026 Executor: Jody Lamone Akers 3530 Treymore Dr Crouse , NC 28033 Of the Estate of Joseph Thomas Burke Jr.,Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Dorothy Jackson Burns a/k/a Dorothy J. Burns a/k/a Dorothy A. Burns Cumberland County Estate File No. 25E001847-250

persons, rms and corporations having claims

Dorothy Jackson

a/k/a Dorothy J. Burns a/k/a Dorothy A. Burns, Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to David Hyatt Thompson, II, Executor of the Estate of Dorothy Jackson Burns a/k/a Dorothy J. Burns a/k/a Dorothy A. Burns, at 203 Fox Den Lane, Goldsboro, NC 27534, on or before the 24th day of April, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Dorothy Jackson Burns a/k/a Dorothy J. Burns a/k/a Dorothy A. Burns are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 22nd day of January, 2026. David Hyatt Thompson, II, Executor of the Estate of Dorothy Jackson Burns a/k/a Dorothy J. Burns a/k/a Dorothy A. Burns Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Dorothy Jackson Burns a/k/a Dorothy J. Burns a/k/a

Dorothy A. Burns Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF RUTH IRENE CHRISTIE

CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 25E000985-250

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Ruth Irene Christie, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Davis W. Puryear, Administrator, at 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 16th day of April, 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. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above. This the 9th day of January, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Public Administrator of the Estate of Ruth Irene Christie Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: January 15, January 22, January 29 and February 5, 2026

Estate Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as administrators/ executors of the Estate of Geraldine Ivey Crumpler, 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 5th day of May, 2026, (which is 3 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 5th day of February, 2026

Administrator/ Executor Ann Crumpler Tew 425 Karen Street Fayetteville NC 28312 Administrator/Executor Jimmy Linwood Crumpler, Jr 6765 Faircloth Bridge Rd Stedman NC 28391 Of the Estate of Geraldine Ivey Crumpler, Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF THOMAS PATRICK FEENEY

CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 23E000718-250

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Thomas Patrick Feeney deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Davis W. Puryear, Administrator, at 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 6th day of May, 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. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above. This the 30th day of January, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Patrick Feeney Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: February 5, February 12 and February 19 and February 26, 2026

Administrator’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the estate of Fredrick Green, 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 22nd day of April, 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 16th day of January, 2026. Sharon Davis 1800 Williamsburg Road, 1b Durham, NC 27707

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Willa Marie McMillan, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before April 22, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms, and corporations indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment. This the 15th day of January, 2026. Charlene Hepburn, Executor Estate of Willa Marie McMillan c/o Charlene Hepburn 6218 Dunbane Court Fayetteville, NC 28311

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF NANCY GREER

CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 25E001724-250 All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Nancy Greer, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Davis W. Puryear, Administrator, at 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 23rd day of April, 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. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above. This the 15th day of January, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of Nancy Greer

Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm

Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: January 22, January 29, February 5 and February 12, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF GEORGE THOMAS HILL, JR.

CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E000121-250

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against George Thomas Hill, Jr., deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Timothy Hill, Administrator, at 6607 Winthrop Dr., Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 30th day of April, 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. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above. This the 23rd day of January, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of George Thomas Hill, Jr.

Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: January 29, February 5, February 12 and February 19, 2026

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

ESTATE FILE 25E001374-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHONG SUN HOLMES Administrator’s NOTICE The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the estate of Chong Sun Holmes, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of April, 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 22nd day of January, 2026. William Holmes 1925 Caviness St., Fayetteville, NC 28314 Administrator of the estate of Chong Sun Homes deceased January 22nd, January 29th, February 5th, and February 12th , 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND

COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E000049-250

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Joyce Shipman Howard, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Joyce Shipman Howard to present them to the undersigned on or before the 29 day of April, 2026 (this date being 3 months from the rst publication date of this notice) or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 21 day of January, 2026. Reuben Carnell Jones Jr. 4759 Woodline Drive Fayetteville, NC 28314 Executor of the Estate of Joyce Shipman Howard January 29, February 5,12, 19 2026

NOTICE

In The General Court of the Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #: 26E000095-250.

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE

The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Lillie F. McDu e McKoy, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the April 29, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of the notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of the recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. The 22nd day of January, 2026.

Sonyas Renee Willis - Administrator 1113 Penselwood Drive Raleigh, NC 27604

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Dorothy Mae McNeill, Deceased Cumberland County, North Carolina Probate Court Case No. 26E000052-250

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has been appointed as the personal representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, along with proper supporting documentation, to the undersigned at 1713 Royal Gorge Rd. Fayetteville, NC 28304, within 90 days after the date of rst publication of this notice, April 29th 2026 or such claims will be forever barred. Date of rst publication: January 29th 2026 - April 29th 2026

Administrator for the Estate: Tonya L. McNeill 1713 Royal Gorge Rd Fayetteville, NC 28304 Phone: (910) 835-8256

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 26E000034-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Joyce Shirley Metacarpa AKA Joyce Williamson Metacarpa, 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 April 15, 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 15th day of January, 2026. Nicole A. Corley, Executor of the Estate of Joyce Shirley Metacarpa AKA Joyce Williamson Metacarpa 2517 Raeford Road Fayetteville, NC 28305 (910) 483 – 4990

NOTICE

Estate File# 26e000155–250

“Notice is hereby given that Hanna Brittany Valen Hallbauer has been appointed as the Executor of the Estate of Gloria Deck Mullinax, deceased, late of Cumberland County Court. The decedent, Gloria Deck Mullinax, died on November 26, 2024. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present their claims, with proper vouchers, to the undersigned on or before the 5th day of May, 2026 or such claims will be forever barred. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated: This 5th day of February, 2026 Hanna Brittany Valen Hallbauer Executor 615 Tobacco Farm Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 Of the Estate of Gloria Deck Mullinax, Deceased.

Notice to Creditors

Estate of Margaret A. Owens

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

All persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of Margaret A. Owens, also known as Margaret T. Owens and Margaret Tucker, deceased, are hereby noti ed that the undersigned has quali ed as Executor of the Estate in the Clerk of Superior Court of Cumberland County, North Carolina. Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes, all claims against the Estate must be presented, duly veri ed, to the Clerk of Superior Court of Cumberland County, North Carolina, on or before three (3) months from the date of rst publication of this notice, which date is April 22, 2026, or said claims will be forever barred. This the 22nd day of January,2026. Mail to Clerk of Court Superior Court 117 Dick St. Fayetteville NC 28301

NOTICE

Estate File#25E001639-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the estate of Angela Marie Saxon 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 29th day April of, 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

28570, on or before April 22, 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 22nd day of January, 2026. Melissa Renee Badgett Executor of the Estate of Anthony Wayne Smith, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 01/22/2026, 01/29/2026, 02/05/2026 and 02/12/2026

NOTICE

In The General Court Of Justice, Superior Court Division before the clerk, estate le number 26E 000122–250. STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE

The undersigned having been quali ed as executor of the Estate of PATTIE TATUM PUGH, DECEASED, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 5th day of May, 2026 (Which date is three months after the date 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 January, 2026. Administrator of the Estate of PATTIE TATUM PUGH. JANE GRAHAM LYON, Executor 3078 KAMERIN STREET RANDLEMAN NC 27317

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Lenora Criss Vaughn, 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 15th day of April, 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 7th day of January, 2026. Shumekia Vaughn, Administrator Of the Estate of Lenora Criss Vaughn, Deceased 3212 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Sarah Ivy Vigoletti a/k/a Sara Ivy Vigoletti a/k/a Sarah I. Vigoletti a/k/a Sarah H. Vigoletti a/k/a Sara H. Vigoletti Cumberland County

Publish: February 5, 2026 February 12, 2026 February 19, 2026 February 26, 2026 NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, RICHARD L BENJAMIN, having quali ed as the Administrator of the Estate of ARTHUR B BENJAMIN, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said RICHARD L BENJAMIN, at the address set out below, on or before APRIL 19, 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 9th day of January.

RICHARD L BENJAMIN

Administrator OF ESTATE OF ARTHUR B BENJAMIN 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, EDWARD THOMAS CRONIN, having quali ed as the Executor of the Estate of ROSEMARY JANE QUINN CRONIN, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said EDWARD THOMAS CRONIN, at the address set out below, on or before APRIL 19, 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 9th day of January.

EDWARD THOMAS CRONIN Executor OF ESTATE OF ROSEMARY JANE QUINN CRONIN

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, Courtney Nicole Langley, having quali ed on the 29th day of January 2026, as Administrator of the Estate of Russell James Cook (26E000121-640), 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 11th day of May, 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 5th day of February 2026. Courtney Nicole Langley

Administrator ESTATE OF RUSSELL JAMES COOK David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411 Publish: February 5, 2026 February 12, 2026 February 19, 2026 February 26, 2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Michael Bolles Davis, Jr., having quali ed on the 29th day of December 2025, as Executor of the Estate of Charles Pattison Bolles Davis (25E002696-640), 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 20th day of April, 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 15th day of January 2026. Michael Bolles Davis, Jr.

Executor ESTATE OF CHARLES PATTISON BOLLES DAVIS

David Anderson

Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411

Publish: January 15, 2026 January 22, 2026 January 29, 2026 February 5, 2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Johnathan Blake Hartley, having quali ed on the 12th day of January 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Sharon B. Hartley (26E000030-640), 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 20th day of April, 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 15th day of January 2026.

Johnathan Blake Hartley Executor ESTATE OF SHARON B. HARTLEY David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411

Publish: January 15, 2026 January 22, 2026 January 29, 2026 February 5, 2026

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW

HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, SHARON CROSS PORTER, having quali ed as the Executor of the Estate of JEFFREY WILLIAM PORTER, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said SHARON CROSS PORTER, at the address set out below, on or before APRIL 19, 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 9th day of January. SHARON CROSS PORTER Executor OF ESTATE OF JEFFREY WILLIAM PORTER c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

ORANGE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Probate #25E000754-670

All persons, rm and corporations having claims against Frederick Otten Behrends , late of Orange County, North Carolina are hereby noti ed to present them to James Maurer, 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 15th day of April, 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 abovenamed Executor. Kendall H. Page 210 N Columbia Street Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Bar # 14261 Notice to Run: 01/15/2026, 01/22/2026, 01/29/2026 & 02/05/2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Probate #26E000002-670

All persons, rm and corporations having claims against Carolyn J. Davenport , late of Orange County, North Carolina are hereby noti ed to present them to Traci

All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the abovenamed Executor. Kendall H. Page 210 N Columbia Street Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Bar # 14261 Notice to Run: 01/22/2026, 01/29/2026, 02/05/2026 & 02/12/2026

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 April 20, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their

IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 01/15/26 01/22/26 01/29/26 02/05/26

WAKE

Notice to Creditors

Having quali ed as Administrator-CTA of the Estate of Tula W. Garner, late of Wake County, North Carolina (25E004878-910), 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 25th day of April, 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 22nd day of January 2026.

Linda Funke Johnson Administrator-CTA Estate of Tula W. Garner

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

(For publication: 1/22, 1/29, 2/5, 2/12/2026)

Notice to Creditors

Having quali ed as Co-Executors of the Estate of BRENDA TERRY WARD, late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E000145-910), 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 8th day of May 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 5th day of February 2026.

Matthew Waldon Ward, Co-Executor

Michael Terry Ward, Co-Executor

Estate of Brenda Terry Ward c/o Lisa M. Schreiner

Attorney at Law

P.O. Box 446

114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

(For publication: 02/05, 02/12, 02/19, 02/26/2026)

25SP001810-330

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

NORTH CAROLINA, FORSYTH COUNTY

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Hector Maure and Delsi Maure, Husband and Wife to Allan B. Polunsky, Trustee(s), which was dated March 23, 2022 and recorded on March 23, 2022 in Book 3683 at Page 2909, Forsyth 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

to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING ALL OF LOT 59, OLIVE GROVE SUBDIVISION, AS SHOWN ON THAT PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 207, PAGS 257266, AND ON THAT PLAT OF CORRECTION SHOWN ON THAT PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 208, PAGES 298-307, DURHAM COUNTY REGISTRY.

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

Said property is commonly known as 1508 Underbrush Dr, Durham, NC 27703.

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

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 February 12, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Forsyth County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 275 of Vernon Farms, Phase 3, Section 1, as shown on the plat recorded in Plat Book 73, Page 154, in the O ce of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina.

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

Said property is commonly known as 3536 Congress Square, Kernersville, NC 27284.

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

a/k/a Derwin Lamar Montgomery Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: The Court determine the Deed of Trust recorded on July 16, 2021, in Book RE 3625 at Page 3198 in the Forsyth County Registry was drafted and recorded in a manner su cient to give a reasonable title searcher notice of the interest of the Plainti ’s lien on the property located at 2021 New Walkertown Rd, Winston Salem, North Carolina 27101. The Court declare the Deed of Trust recorded on July 16, 2021, in Book RE 3625 at Page 3198 in the Forsyth County Registry is a valid First Lien on the Property as drawn;

OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FORSYTH COUNTY 25SP001643-330 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DOLORES U. WALKER DATED JULY 21, 2010 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2957 AT PAGE 2143 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED OCTOBER 10, 2024 IN BOOK 3830, PAGE 1666 IN THE FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE 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 Forsyth County courthouse at 11:00AM on February 12, 2026, 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 Dolores U. Walker, dated July 21, 2010 to secure the original principal amount of $229,033.00, and recorded in Book 2957 at Page 2143 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: 540 Buck Run Dr, Kernersville, NC 27284 Tax Parcel ID: 6866-33-5417.000

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 Holly J. Johnson.

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 Hector Maure and spouse, Delsi Maure.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor

That the Plainti ’s lien on the Property be foreclosed by judicial sale pursuant to the provisions of N.C.G.S. § 1-339.1, et seq., by the Plainti ’s Counsel or by a Commissioner especially appointed by the Court to serve without bond, with proceeds of the sale applied as follows: To the cost of this action; To the compensation allowed by the Court for a person holding the sale pursuant to the N.C.G.S. § 1-339.11; To the amount due to the Plainti under the Note and Deed of Trust, including reasonable fees and costs provided therein; and The surplus, if any, to be paid to the O ce of the Clerk of Superior Court of Forsyth County pending a determination of those persons entitled thereto.

That the Property located at 2021 New Walkertown Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27101

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

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

shall be sold at a public sale to the highest bidder.

That Jeremy B. Wilkins is hereby appointed as Commissioner to conduct the sale pursuant to N.C.G.S. §1-339.11.

In the alternative, that the Court declares Defendant Derwin L Montgomery holds the Property described herein subject to a constructive trust and equitable lien to the bene t of the Plainti , consistent in all regards with the terms and conditions of the Deed of Trust.

That the Court’s Order, shall be duly recorded in the Forsyth County Register of Deeds and indexed according to those parties named in said Deed of Trust and named herein for the purpose of establishing record notice of this proceeding in the chain of title to the Property; and For such other and further relief as the Court

Present Record Owners: Dolores U. Walker The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Dolores U. Walker. 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 16th day of

Page 3956 in Forsyth 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 Forsyth 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 Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on February 11, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in High Point in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 39 in Phase 2 as shown on a plat for Rich Fork Heights Subdivision recorded in Plat Book 75, Page 149, Forsyth County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4045 Transition Street, High Point, North Carolina. ***Property address and Parcel ID are provided for informational purposes only. Property Address: 4045 Transition Street, High Point, NC 27265 Parcel ID: 6882-87-3602.000

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

Trustee(s), dated March 31, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 2799, at Page 1043 in Iredell 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 Iredell 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 Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on February 12, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Statesville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot No. Twenty-Three (23) of the “PINE RIDGE ESTATES” Subdivision, as the same is platted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 25, Pages 136 and 137, Iredell County Registry. The above-described property is conveyed subject to (a) the Restrictive Covenants recorded in Deed Book 960, Page 1914; (b) the Easement to West Iredell Recreation, Inc., recorded in Book Book 630, Page 321; (c) the Easements to Duke Power Co. recorded in Deed Book 129, Page 356 and Deed Book 377, Pages 203 and 217; (d) the Easement to the City Of Statesville recorded in Deed Book 222, Page 155; the Easement of Crescent Electric Membership Corp., recorded in Deed Book 878, Page 105, Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 204 Conifer Drive, Statesville, North Carolina. DEED REFERENCE: Book 0998, Page 0992

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

Iredell County Registry PARCEL ID:4704844062 ADDRESS: 204 Conifer Drive, Statesville NC 28625 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

IREDELL

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

25SP000671-500

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Sean Glenn Grice (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Sean Glenn Grice) to Jennifer Grant, Trustee(s), dated May 31, 2012, and recorded in Book No. 4127, at Page 699 in Johnston 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 Johnston 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

25SP000651-500

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Hussain Abdullah Alradhi (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Hussain Abdullah Alradhi) to Heather Lovier, Trustee(s), dated August 11, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 6526, at Page 186 in Johnston 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 Johnston 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 Smith eld, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00

courthouse door in Smith eld, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on February 17, 2026 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 that 0 81 acre tract as shown on a map entitled “Final Plat Peggy T Underwood-Perrino,”prepared by Alsey J Gilbert, PLS, dated 03/14/2000, and recorded in Plat Book 55, Page 440, Johnston County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 830 Blue Pond Road, Clayton, North Carolina. Together with a non-exclusive use of the right-of-way easement as shown on said recorded plat. 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

AM on February 17, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Four Oaks in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 13 of the plat entitled “Subdivision Map for Austin-Parker Village” found at Book of Maps 92, Page 403, Johnston County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 62 Culver Avenue, Four Oaks, North Carolina.

Property Address: 62 Culver Avenue, Four Oaks, NC 27524 Parcel ID No. 08I11013Z

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 customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on February 10, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Tax Id Number(s): R04216-018-001-000

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 New Hanover 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 Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or

Land Situated in the City of Wilmington in the County of New Hanover in the State of NC Being all of Lot 762, Section 12, Kings Grant Subdivision, as shown on map of same recorded in Map Book 14 at Page 11 of the New Hanover County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4505 Middlesex Road, Wilmington, North Carolina.

The property address and tax parcel identi cation number listed are provided solely for informational purposes. Commonly known as: 4505 Middlesex Rd, Wilmington, NC 28405

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

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslaw rm.com Firm Case No: 27370 - 139610

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 New Hanover County, North Carolina, in Book 6765, Page 1988, 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 New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on February 10, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): R05414-001-038-000 ADDRESS: 905 MEARES ST WILMINGTON, NC 28401 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): UNKNOWN HEIRS OF LIBBY MCELWEE JOHNSON THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 4997, PAGE 155, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 21 AS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED ON THAT CERTAIN PLAT ENTITLED, “JERVAY PLACE - PHASE 3A” AS RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 48, PAGE 263, NEW HANOVER COUNTY REGISTRY. SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING EXECPTIONS: (1) THAT CERTAIN PLAT OF SUBDIVISION RECORDED AT PLAT BOOK 42 PAGE 326 IN THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY; (2) COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS OF RECORD (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THAT CERTAIN “MASTER DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS, RESTRICTIONS, EASEMENTS AND RIGHTS FOR ROBERT S. JERVAY PLACE” RECORDED IN BOOK 3499 AT PAGE 742 IN THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY). ALSO KNOWN AS: 905 MEARES ST, WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28401 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 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

be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on February 11, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at an iron stake in the northeastern right of way line of US Highway 258 and NC Highway 24, said beginning point lying north 75 degrees east 50 feet from a point in the center of said highway, said center point being located, when measured down the centerline of US Highway 258 and NC Highway 24 in a northwesterly direction 73.7 feet from the point where the said centerline of US Highway 258 and NC Highway 24 intersects the centerline of State Road No. 1258 (Carole Drive) running thence from said beginning point and with the said northeasterly right of way line of US Highway 258 and NC Highway 24 north 15 degrees west 70 feet; thence leaving said right of way line and running thence north 75 degrees east 273 feet to an iron stake; thence south 30 degrees 30 minutes west 99.7 feet to an iron stake; thence south 75 degrees west 196.4 feet to an iron stake in the aforementioned highway right of way line, the point of beginning, and being all the property described in two deeds to Hal B. Macon, Sr. and wife, Ethel B. Macon, dated December 8, 1954, and November 27, 1957, and recorded in Book 252, Page 292, and Book 271, Page 295, Onslow

County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3612 Richlands Highway, Jacksonville, 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 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,

IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO

REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS

INTENDED AS

ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112

undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location

designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on February 11, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Sneads Ferry in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of that Tract 3A, containing 1.23 acres as shown on a Plat entitled “Exempt Survey for Charles L. Yates and Sandra L. Yates prepared by Gairy Canady Land Surveying, dated February 18, 2015 and recorded in Map Book 69 Page 198, Cabinet N, Onslow County. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 228 Gill Net Lane, Sneads Ferry, North Carolina. TOGETHER WITH AND SUBJECT to the existing 30’ ingress, egress, access easement shown on the aforesaid plat. TOGETHER WITH AND SUBJECT to the Proposed 30’ ingress & egress easement shown on Map Book 32, Page 226. SUBJECT to any and all Restrictions and Easements of record.

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,

This conveyance is SUBJECT TO restrictive covenants recorded in Book 1248, Page 317, and the Road Maintenance Agreements recorded in Book 1305, Page 1543 and in Book 1691, Page 506, Randolph County Registry.

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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000235-750 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Phillip E. Butcher and Blanche K. Butcher (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Blanche K. Butcher) to CB Services Corp., Trustee(s), dated December 22, 2003, and recorded in Book No. 1848, at Page 0572 in Randolph 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 Randolph 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 Asheboro, Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on February 11, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Ramseur in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot No. 16 of Map 2, Section 2, Lake Ridge Farm Subdivision, as shown by plat recorded in Plat Book 31, Page 16, Randolph County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4146 Lake Ridge Court, Ramseur, North Carolina.

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25SP000253-750 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF RANDOLPH IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY LISA D. DEHART DATED SEPTEMBER 27, 2005 RECORDED IN BOOK NO. 1940, AT PAGE 1483 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE OF SALE

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 therein contained 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 Randolph County courthouse at 1:00 PM on February 10, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Lisa D. Dehart, dated September 27, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $84,000.00, and recorded in Book No. 1940, at Page 1483 of the Randolph 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: 222 Stratford Road, Archdale, NC 27263 Tax Parcel ID:

following described property situated in Union County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 33 of Chatsworth Subdivision, Map 1, as same is shown on map thereof recorded in Plat Cabinet I at Files 705-706 of the Union County Public Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 1500 Hawkstone Dr, Waxhaw, NC 28173.

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

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

7718294914

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Lisa D. Dehart.

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

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 Edward Camp and Raquel Smith.

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. 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

Eugene Delosh, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $50,000.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., (“MERS”) as bene ciary, as nominee for Mission Loans, LLC, Mortgagee, dated January 25th, 2024 and recorded on February 1st, 2024 in Book 019530, Page 01745, Wake 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 Wake 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 or other usual place of sale in Wake County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on February 17th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the City of Fuquay Varina, Middle Creek Township, Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Lot 375, Phase 7, Southern Oaks S/D, Wake County, North Carolina Being the same property as conveyed from Royal Oaks Building Group, LLC to Eugene Delosh as set forth in Deed Book 013671 Page 00461 dated 08/19/2009, recorded 08/20/2009, WAKE County. NORTH CAROLINA. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 628 Lawson Cypress Lane, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 Tax ID: 0369787 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 §105-

at Page 01982 in the Wake County,

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 by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”.

228.30, 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 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

North Carolina Public Registry to include the legal description as follows: Being all of Lot 10, Braxton Pointe, a Cluster Subdivision, as shown on Plat entitled “Final Plat Braxton Pointe” prepared by StewartProctor Engineering and Surveying, sealed on April 12, 2013, and recorded in Book of Maps 2013, pages 497-498, Wake County Registry.

The Court enter an Order that such reformation shall relate back to the original recording date of the Deed of Trust on February 5, 2021, Book 018328 at Page 01982 in the Wake County Registry.

The Court declare the Deed of Trust recorded on February 5, 2021, in Book 018328 at Page 01982 in the Wake County Registry is a valid First Lien on the Property as drawn;

the trustee is unable to convey title to this

for any

remedy of the purchaser is

the

of

undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is Eugene Delosh. 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 of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be e ective on a date

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.: 24-27922-FC01

Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the e ective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of

In the alternative, that the Court declares Defendant Deney Joseph and Sherman Joseph holds the Property described herein subject to a constructive trust and equitable lien to the bene t of the Plainti , consistent in all regards with the terms and conditions of the Deed of Trust.

That the Court enter an Order from the Court Declaring that title to the Subject Property be quieted in the name of the current record owners thereof, subject to Plainti ’s Deed of Trust recorded in Book 018328 at Page 01982 in the Wake County Registry.

That the Court’s Order, shall be duly recorded in the Wake County Register of Deeds and indexed

WAKE UNION

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

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 25SP001869-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY LEON OWENS DATED MAY 22, 2019 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 17456 AT PAGE 1536 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

OF SALE

and by virtue of the

of

of the

and because of

and,

of the

and

in the above-referenced

in

and

the agreements contained

of the

to

debt, the undersigned

19-107728

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 25sp001810-910

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DARRICK HUNTER AND AMALIA HUNTER DATED FEBRUARY 22, 2001 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8822 AT PAGE 2539 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE OF SALE

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

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 18SP002354-910

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MAURICE

LORANZO LEE AND TRACY LEE DATED OCTOBER 13, 2004 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 11058 AT PAGE 1787 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE OF SALE 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

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on February 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 53, Cli ord Grove Subdivision, Phase 1, per plat and survey thereof recorded in Book of Maps 2018, Pages 162 through 165, inclusive, Wake County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same.

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

Said property is commonly known as 156 Whitetail Deer Lane, Garner, NC 27529.

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

for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the

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 Chelita Stewart. An Order for possession of the property may

County courthouse at 11:00AM on February 17, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Leon Owens, dated May 22, 2019 to secure the original principal amount of $336,000.00, and recorded in Book 17456 at Page 1536 of the Wake 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: 1305 N King Charles Rd, Raleigh, NC 27610 Tax Parcel ID: 0022501 Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Leon Owens The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Leon Owens. 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

expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on February 19, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Darrick Hunter and Amalia Hunter, dated February 22, 2001 to secure the original principal amount of $164,250.00, and recorded in Book 8822 at Page 2539 of the Wake 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: 10117 Ligon Mill Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587 Tax Parcel ID: 020368 Present Record Owners: Darrick J. Hunter and Amalia Hunter

of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on February 18, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Maurice Loranzo Lee and Tracy Lee, dated October 13, 2004 to secure the original principal amount of $172,000.00, and recorded in Book 11058 at Page 1787 of the Wake 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: 113 Saint Johns St, Knightdale, NC 27545 Tax Parcel ID: 0291255 Present Record Owners:

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

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Darrick J. Hunter and Amalia Hunter. 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

Maurice Loranzo Lee The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Maurice Loranzo Lee. 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 renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the e ective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is January 9, 2026. Jason K. Purser N.C. State Bar No. #28031 Aaron Gavin N.C. State Bar No. #59503 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee Jpurser@logs.com Agavin@logs.com LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cli Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By: 13-048285

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 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

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

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP001503-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Eric Martinez (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Eric Martinez) to Michele He ner, Trustee(s), dated September 21, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 019439, at Page 00056 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 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 February 9, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wendell in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the Town of Wendell, Mark’s Creek Township, Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: All of Lot 5 in Hollybrook Subdivision, The Meadows, Phase 1B, as shown on the plats recorded in Book of Maps 2022, Pages 1923-1929, Wake County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 644 Jasmine Street, Wendell, North Carolina. Property Address: 644 Jasmine Street, Wendell, NC 27591 PIN/PARCEL NO.: 0498673

location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on February 16, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Garner in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 109, Cli ord Grove Subdivision, Phase 2A, per plat and survey thereof recorded in Book of Maps 2019, Pages 36 through 39, inclusive, Wake County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 255 Axis Deer Lane, Garner, 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 costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

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 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

sudoku

SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK

Mr. Plow

North Carolina’s limited number of plow trucks were pushed to the max as a winter storm blanketed the area with more snow than many have seen in years.

the BRIEF this week

Signs of forced entry found at Arizona home of “Today” show host Guthrie’s mother Tucson, Ariz.

Investigators have found signs of forced entry at the Arizona home of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother. That’s according to a person familiar with the investigation who spoke Tuesday to The Associated Press. Meanwhile, the host asked for prayers to help bring back the 84-year- old, whom authorities believe was taken against her will. The sheri said Nancy Guthrie must be found soon because she could die without her medication.

Investigators also found evidence showing there was a nighttime kidnapping. Several of Guthrie’s personal items, including her cellphone, wallet and her car, were still at the home.

NASA delays astronauts’ lunar trip after hydrogen leaks mar fueling test

Cape Canaveral, Fla.

NASA’s long-awaited moonshot with astronauts is o until at least March because of leaking hydrogen fuel. The space agency announced the news Tuesday following a critical fueling test of its giant moon rocket in Florida. Hydrogen seeped from the base of the rocket during Monday’s dress rehearsal, which went into overtime Tuesday because of all the problems. O cials say the delay will allow the launch team to conduct another practice countdown before committing four astronauts to humanity’s rst moonshot in more than half a century.

$2.00

Brothers carry on family tradition of serving others

Giving back to the community through faith and friendship

By Bob Wachs For Chatham News & Record

WHAT DO ROADSIDE trash, popsicles and basketball have in common?

They’re all part of some of what Siler City brothers Ronnie and Billy Siler Jr. do to serve their hometown and community.

The two, both in their early 70s and born 18 months apart, say in addition to being brothers they’re also best friends — “always have been,” Billy said — and that makes what they do special to them.

For starters, they recently received a plaque from the state of North Carolina recognizing 25 years of “distinguished service” in the state’s “Adopt a Highway” trash and litter removal program. Today, that program has more than 120,000 participants overseeing 10,000 miles of state roads, collecting millions of pounds of trash annually.

Stories bring Bynum together at Front Porch series

Mill Town Yarns series fuses tradition and connection inside the historic general store

By Melinda Burris Chatham News & Record

BYNUM — The nonpro t Bynum Front Porch, operating at the historic Bynum Gener-

“We do four miles,” Ronnie said, “two miles on both sides of the road” — U.S. 64 (East 11th Street in town) from the bridge on the east side of Siler City over 421 to the bridge over North Second Avenue near the highway patrol station. “We do it four times a year; some of the timing depends on the weather,” Billy said. That stretch of road is dedicated to the memory of their parents — Billy Sr. and Marie Siler. It’s the third di erent sign that has been up through the years. The rst went up in 1998 when Ronnie, who was on

thing, so I realized that to market the idea of this, I had to include music and other things.”

The Carolinas overtook Florida and Texas as top destinations for Americans on the move

By Mike Schneider

Associated Press

The

ORLANDO, Fla. — Move over Florida and Texas. The United States has new hot spots for growth, and they both have Carolina in their name.

North Carolina last year attracted more new residents, 84,000 people, from other parts of the country than any other state, a title held by Texas in 2024 and Florida in the two years before that. South

Carolina had the highest overall growth rate last year at 1.5%, a distinction among states held by Florida in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau gures released this past week. Domestic migration, or people moving within the U.S., slowed in Texas. The 67,300 domestic migrants heading to the second most populous state year over year barely squeaked by South Carolina, which had the third highest number of domestic migrants at 66,600. The appeal of Florida, the nation’s third most populous state, dimmed. It dropped to No. 8 for state-to-state migration, as

At rst, Bland admits she underestimated the challenge.

“I thought, this ought to be pretty easy, but then I realized, storytelling is not something that people say, they just don’t know what it is,” Bland said. “They think it’s that person who came to their elementary school and told the story about the white-mouthed frog or some-

al Store, began hosting storytelling as a regular event in late 2015 under the leadership of Cindy Raxter, herself a storyteller. Eight years later, she approached Ellen Bland, a former Bynum resident and theater professional who estimates she has directed about 100 community theater productions in Chatham County over four decades, to take over as curator of the storytelling program.

She expanded the programming last year, announcing a full season in advance. The newly christened Mill Town Yarns monthly series runs from September to April, with a regular music series taking over during the summer months. The name was suggested by volunteer Susie Worley.

“It ts,” Bland said, “because this is a former mill town, and the Bynum Mill was actually a yarn mill.”

But the name doesn’t limit the

“North Carolina is attracting younger folks because we have so many nice areas in North Carolina.”

Michael Cline, state demographer

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Weekly deadline is Monday at noon

Trump administration cuts number of sites for testing upcoming

2030 census, focusing on South

A practice test was reduced to two Southern locations despite undercounting concerns

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

THE TRUMP administration is eliminating four out of the six locations that had been slated for a practice test to try out new methods for the 2030 census, raising concerns that the U.S. Census Bureau might not learn enough about communities that have been traditionally di cult to count.

The test, which started Monday, will be conducted only in Huntsville, Alabama, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, according to a notice submitted by the Commerce Department that will be formally published on Tuesday. The Commerce Department oversees the Census Bureau.

Four other sites — Colorado Springs, Colorado, tribal lands in Arizona, western North Carolina and western Texas — originally were included when the Census Bureau announced the locations in 2024.

The bureau didn’t respond to an emailed inquiry on Monday about the reasons for the reduced number of sites. In a statement on its website, it said it “remains committed to conducting the most accurate count in history for the 2030 Census and looks forward to the continued partnership with local communities.”

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subject matter. Bland is quick to point out that the material performers share is rarely about mills.

“It’s di erent every time,” she said.

The stories and presentations span a wide range of subjects nearly everyone can relate to, from modern takes on folktales to stories rooted in rural farm life.

Bland acknowledged that building an audience for storytelling has taken patience and intention. She has alternated between booking local storytellers who perform for free — though donations are encouraged — and established professionals who require ticketed events because they work through agents and contracts. Some programs are storytelling only, while others blend storytelling and music to broaden appeal.

In November, a show featuring six storytellers from the North Carolina Storytelling Guild drew a standing-room-only crowd.

“I nally drew a full house for something that was only storytelling, so we’ve had to try to build it, and then it has been pretty robust,” Bland said.

Despite featuring multiple performers with di erent styles, Bland emphasizes that each participant is part of a cohesive whole.

“They’re there to perform their parts,” she said, “but they’re also there to be part of a whole show, and the quality of the whole show matters as much as their individual performances.”

Audience engagement is central to her approach. Performers work within strict time limits to keep the program moving at what Bland calls “a brisk clip.”

“It’s not reasonable to expect an audience member, even the older audiences, to have the kind of attention span they used to have,” she said. Bland believes storytelling o ers something increasingly rare — sustained human connection.

“It’s a respite from the burden of constantly being vigilant with our attention,” she said. “We get a relief from that to just drop all that and just be connected with the storyteller and have this one-on-one

Mark Mather, an associate vice president at the Population Reference Bureau, a nonpartisan research group, said limiting the test to just two metro areas in the South would be “a step backward.”

“The Census Bureau would be essentially ying blind into communities that need testing most — tribal lands, rural areas with limited connectivity and places with historically low response rates,” Mather said. “You can’t x what you don’t test.”

The test is supposed to give the statistical agency the chance to learn how to better tally populations that were undercounted in the 2020 census and improve methods that will be used in 2030. It also allows it to test its messaging and its ability to process data as it’s being gathered.

Among the new methods being tested for 2030 is the use of U.S. Postal Service workers to

Two young children hold signs through the car window that make reference to the 2020 U.S. Census as they wait in the car with their family at an outreach event in Dallas in June.

conduct tasks previously done by census workers. The original six test sites had been picked for a variety of reasons, including a desire to include rural areas where some residents don’t receive mail or have little or no internet service. Others, including tribal land, fast-growing locations with new construction, and dorms, care facilities and military barracks had been picked because their residents are traditionally hard to count.

Ahead of the last census in 2020, the only start-to- nish test of the head count was held in Providence, Rhode Island, in 2018. Plans for other tests were canceled because of a lack of funding from Congress. The once-a-decade head count determines how many congressional seats and Electoral College votes each state gets. It also guides the distribution of $2.8 trillion in annual federal spending.

relationship that is rare.”

Programs take place inside the historic Bynum General Store, which Bland describes as “very, very small, intimate, tight and rustic.”

“There’s nothing shabby about it,” she said. “It’s not a bar where people are making noise and clinking glasses and still only partially focused on what’s happening.”

Audience members are asked to turn o their phones. Because space is limited, people sit closely together, often beside strangers, reinforcing a sense of shared experience.

A successful storyteller, Bland said, must establish a near-instant connection to hold an audience’s attention and draw listeners into the narrative.

When asked why preserving storytelling matters, Bland pointed to generational change.

“If we don’t start getting some young people continuing this tradition, it’s going to fade out,” she said. “That’s our primary goal is passing the baton, and the same is true for storytelling, particularly now that everybody’s brain is being rewired … even older people feeling isolated.”

Steven Tate, a member of the North Carolina Storytelling Guild who has performed at Bynum Front Porch and venues across the state, said storytelling reshapes how people view everyday life.

“You begin to look for things that happen or things you learn about that are story-worthy,” Tate said. “It might happen in the grocery store. It might be a memory of when

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

Feb. 7

Michael Reno Harrell and Josh Goforth

7-8:30 p.m.

An evening of storytelling and singing by two popular performers presented as part of the Milltown Yarns series.

Bynum Front Porch 950 Bynum Road Bynum

Feb. 12

Bynum Bite Night at BFP

6-8 p.m.

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

Bynum Front Porch 950 Bynum Road Bynum

Feb. 19 -26

Virtual Film Screening: “From Sea to Shining Sea”

you were a youngster playing in your grandma’s attic.”

The key, he said, is to “choose this thing that moves you, that stimulates your curiosity.”

“If it causes this reaction in you, you can use it to engage and spark a similar reaction from your audience,” Tate said.

He describes storytelling as a shared visual experience.

“When I tell a good story, I go into my heart and see a movie,” Tate said. “I tell you what’s happening in the movie so you can see it too. So we see it together and we go along, and we go on this trip.”

Engaging the senses — taste, sound, smell and emotion — keeps listeners immersed.

“I don’t say things that distract you and get you o the subject because I don’t want to take you out of the story,” he said.

Even stories told many times remain dynamic.

“I end up never telling the same story in exactly the same way,” Tate said. “The audience gives energy back, and that changes how the story unfolds.”

Fellow guild member Willa Brigham agreed that energy drives the experience.

“A storyteller needs to have enough energy to take your audience on the journey with you, rather than just standing on stage telling a story,” Brigham said. “Bring them in.” She often meets audience members before performances to establish rapport.

“I’m not this stando sh individual they cannot feel connected to,” she said. “I’m just somebody on stage.”

The Chatham Community Library will present this lm virtually all day on Feb. 19 as part of its America 250 celebrations. The 2025 lm tells the story of Katharine Lee Bates, the woman who penned the poem upon which the song “America the Beautiful” is based. The link to log in to the movie will be available on Vimeo PRO beginning Feb. 19. A password is required to view; contact social. library@chathamlibraries. org to request one.

Feb. 21

The History Between the Lines Book Club

9:30 a.m.

Delve into Thomas Healy’s 2021 book, “Soul City: Race, Equality, and the Lost Dream of an American Utopia,” in honor of Black History Month. Participation is free. Chatham County Historical Museum 9 Hillsboro St. Pittsboro

PHOTO COURTESY JOE PEDIT

N.C. Storytelling Guild member Willa Brigham performs at a Mill Town Yarns series event at BFP in October 2024.

TONY GUTIERREZ / AP PHOTO

Groundhog Club handler A.J. Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather-prognosticating groundhog, during the 137th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on Monday.

Punxsutawney

Tens of thousands gathered at Gobbler’s Knob for the famous forecast

By Mark Scolforo and Tassanee Vejpongsa

The Associated Press

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — Punxsutawney Phil is said to be predicting six more weeks of wintry weather after he saw his shadow Monday. His annual prediction was translated by his handlers at Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania.

The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club says that when Phil is deemed to have not seen his shadow, that means there will be an early spring. When he does see it, it’s six more weeks of winter.

Phil tends to predict a longer winter far more often than an early spring.

It’s already been a long, cold winter across much of the United States, and on Monday, Punxsutawney Phil’s handlers were poised to announce whether the weather-predicting groundhog says there’s more of the same to come.

When Phil is said to have seen his shadow upon emergence from a tree stump in rural Pennsylvania, that’s considered a forecast for six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, an early spring is said to be on the way.

Tens of thousands of people were on hand at Gobbler’s

“It just breaks up the doldrums of winter. It’s like Halloween and New Year’s Eve all wrapped up into one holiday.”

Lisa Gibson

Knob for the annual ritual that goes back more than a century, with ties to ancient farming traditions in Europe. Punxsutawney’s festivities have grown considerably since the 1993 movie “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray.

Lisa Gibson was at her 10th Groundhog Day, wearing a lighted hat that resembled the tree stump from which Phil emerges shortly after daybreak.

“Oh man, it just breaks up the doldrums of winter,” said Gibson, accompanied by her husband — dressed up as Elvis Presley — and teenage daughter. “It’s like Halloween and New Year’s Eve all wrapped up into one holiday.”

Gibson, a resident of Pittsburgh, was rooting for Phil to not see his shadow and therefore predict an early start to spring.

Rick Siger, Pennsylvania’s secretary of community and economic development, said the outdoor thermometer in his vehicle read 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius) on his way to Gobbler’s Knob.

“I think it’s just fun — folks

having a good time,” said Siger, attending his fourth straight Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney. “It brings people together at a challenging time. It is a unifying force that showcases the best of Pennsylvania, the best of Punxsutawney, this area.”

Last year’s announcement was six more weeks of winter, by far Phil’s more common assessment and not much of a surprise during the rst week of February. His top-hatted handlers in the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club insist Phil’s “groundhogese” of winks, purrs, chatters and nods are being interpreted when they relate the meteorological marmot’s muses about the days ahead.

AccuWeather’s chief longrange weather expert, meteorologist Paul Pastelok, said early Monday some clouds moved into Punxsutawney overnight, bringing urries he called “micro akes.”

Pastelok said the coming week will remain cold, with below-average temperatures in the eastern United States.

Phil isn’t the only animal being consulted for long-term weather forecasts Monday. There are formal and informal Groundhog Day events in many places in the U.S., Canada and beyond.

Groundhog Day falls on Feb. 2, the midpoint between the shortest, darkest day of the year on the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It’s a time of year that also gures in the Celtic calendar and the Christian holiday of Candlemas.

Church News

OAKLEY BAPTIST CHURCH

As Oakley Baptist Church (2300 Siler CityGlendon Road, Siler City) seeks to begin its next chapter, we are enjoying hearing a word from the Lord from various old and new friends. Our service begins at 10:30 a.m., but we also have Sunday School classes for every member of the family at 9:30 a.m. We would be blessed if you joined us for any and all of these speakers in the coming weeks.

Feb. 8 brings us Chance Walters (chancewalters.org). Chance grew up at Oakley Baptist Church and started Chance Walters Ministries, through which he evangelizes all over the world.

The service on Feb. 15 will feature a message from Jason Jones, son of the Rev. Walter Jones, an experienced lay speaker from an area church.

On Feb. 22, we’ll hear from Stephanie Moody Sha er, manager of Chaplaincy and Faith Relations for Baptist Retirement Homes (thrivemorenc.org). This is a faith-based, not-for-pro t organization committed to providing quality care and a meaningful way of life for older adults through senior living communities across North Carolina and is linked to the Southern Baptist Convention.

And nally, Spencer Andrews will return on March 1 to speak. Andrews is the former youth pastor at Oakley and is currently ministering at Grace Hill Church in Pittsboro (gracehillchatham.com), a church he helped plant.

We look forward to meeting you at any of these services and in the future, and invite you to pray with us as we seek a new pastor. To learn more, go to oakleybaptist.org or email us at oakleybaptistchurch@gmail.com.

Electric

Electric awards two Cooperative All-Stars Sports Camp Scholarships annually to local students in Chatham, Harnett, Lee, or Moore counties. A young man will be selected to attend the Carolina Basketball School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a young woman will be selected to attend the Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Camp at N.C. State University in Raleigh.

To be eligible to apply, the student must be in the sixth or seventh grade during the upcoming school year, have permission from a parent or guardian to attend the overnight camp and must provide their own transportation if selected to attend. Scan the QR code or visit CEMCPower.com for more information or to apply. e deadline for applications to both camps is March 31.

Brown, White, and all-colored brothers and sisters, beware of listening to that other voice. We all must learn from our mistakes and keep reaching for the mark in Christ Jesus. We must be humble and admit when we’re wrong, and God will forgive us. Also, we must forgive one another, for all eternity. When God says, “Where are you? Will you try to hide?” just look at the punishment on Adam, Eve, the serpent, and everyone that would be born of a man and a woman. Take a look at the evil serpents today, that can’t tell the difference between a man and a woman. A serpent doctor couldn’t answer if a man could get pregnant. You that support or vote for these serpents, you have been taken over by Satan. We don’t need to blame anyone for our sins. We are born with a free will, just like Adam and Eve. Satan used the woman to bring down the human race. God used the woman to bring the Redeemer, Jesus Christ, into the world, who will save all who are willing. God sent His Son, Jesus, to pay our sin debt.

BARRY REEGER / AP PHOTO

THE CONVERSATION

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

On small kindnesses

Wise elders say su ering is not comparative. We are all going through something.

MY KIDS WERE gung-ho for my sledding adventure until we got to the top of the snowy hill, and then their instinct for self-preservation kicked in.

I decided that I would show them how it’s done. Pride goeth before the fall. I went down feet rst, mind you, unlike the headlong days of my youth. But the plastic sled ran over a rock, chucking me into the air. Once I rolled to a stop, I felt a stabbing pain in my Sitz eisch. The rock had ripped a hole through the sled and the seat of my pants, and I may have taught my children a few four-letter words.

I have never thought about my coccyx before, but now it’s constantly on my mind. Even after treatment with a bag of frozen peas and three Ibuprofen, I have to sit with my tailbone between the cushions to relieve pressure on it. I hobble to the bathroom like an old man.

It is also Groundhog Day, and I understand that Punxsutawney Phil

COLUMN | BOB WACHS

saw his shadow. Apparently, we will have six more weeks of winter, which is yet another pain in the you-knowwhere.

Of course, plenty of other people are dealing with far greater pains with grace under duress. Not only are people protesting in the streets of Minneapolis, but they sing hymns in four-part harmony in sub-zero temperatures. Wise elders say su ering is not comparative. We are all going through something, which makes the advice “weep with those who weep” always appropriate (Romans 12:14). Recognition of the common human predicament can result in seeing each other with empathy. We can also look for kindness, which truly makes a country great.

From my bedroom window, I can see a fuzzy pink mitten that hangs on a bare tree branch. It belongs to a small child, likely lost while sledding. Rather than leave this article of clothing in the

snow, a passerby has displayed it for its owner to nd. The tree has become a makeshift lost and found. I’m reminded of the poem by Danusha Laméris titled “Small Kindnesses,” which describes “the way, when you walk down a crowded aisle, people pull in their legs to let you by.” The poet names such “brief moments of exchange” as “the true dwelling of the holy.”

At the entrance to the wooden trail near the bottom of that now infamous sledding hill, you can always nd a halfdozen or more walking sticks propped up against a tree. It’s like a lending library; take one, leave one. The point is that we help each other get along.

Let’s all be tender with each other. Pass me the frozen peas.

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.

Furry little rodent vs. high-tech gadgets

I would like to suggest a more accurate forecasting system than the groundhog.

THROUGHOUT MY young life, there have been many things I wanted to be and do, both professionally and personally.

It’s been interesting how some of them turned out happening while others were far from the mark.

For instance, on the professional level, as a youngster when I realized I would never pitch in Yankee Stadium or even be on the grounds crew or sweep the stands or clean the toilets, I decided I wanted to be the next great sports writer. I did write some sports stories as a youngster, most notably Pittsboro High School football and basketball game recaps for the Chatham Record in the 1960s when the late Mr. Willie Morgan was the editor.

In the early 1970s, after I had unked out of Carolina for the umpteenth time and the late Alan Resch had hired me to replace Mr. Willie, I covered Northwood games. When the late Jack Shaner was coaching football there, he called me “Grantland Rice” (look it up if you don’t know). I, in turn, called him Knute Rockne (again, look it up if you don’t know who he was). While in that period of my life, I saw what I think is the best high school football game I ever saw — Northwood-Jordan Matthews in 1971. Northwood came back from a 13–7 fourth-quarter de cit to win 20–13. All the stands were packed, and fans were standing around the eld ve- and six-deep.

As things turned out, I never made it to my dream job upon graduating from

high school — a job with the Durham Morning Herald to cover UNC football, sit in the Kenan Stadium press box on Saturday afternoons, eat fried chicken box lunches and get paid for it all. Forty- ve years in vocational ministry was nowhere on my radar at the time.

I’ve often wondered about that turn of events, not that I’m unhappy with my life’s work. Quite the opposite. But as Ol’ Man Winter cranks up toward high gear, I wonder about some other professions, namely Weather Geek, especially as folks pay attention to the groundhog this time of year.

You know the story. When Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania or whomever sticks his furry little nose out of the ground on Groundhog Day, if he sees his shadow we’re in for six more weeks of winter, and folks around here are saying they’ve enjoyed their free one-week trial run of Alaska and could it please end. If he doesn’t see his shadow, well, then better days are coming. The issue with all that is some folks put more stock in the little guy than in the weather forecasters with all their high-tech gadgets. That has to drive them bonkers.

No doubt, it’s especially painful when circumstances such as the snows of the last two weekends don’t materialize as had been forecast for so many days. Weather forecasting has one thing in common with baseball in that you can be wrong more times than you’re right and still have job security. Try as they might, the folks on channels 5 and 11

can punch all the right buttons and eventually say it didn’t happen like they said it would. And in baseball, if you have a .300 batting average, you’re a good candidate for the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. That, of course, also means you miss getting a hit seven times out of 10 at-bats. Imagine that kind of percentage for a surgeon or attorney. Doesn’t bode well for public con dence.

In an e ort to do my part and be a good citizen, I would like to suggest a more accurate forecasting system than the groundhog. I call it “Bob’s Weather String,” and it works like this.

I have a piece of string tied to a tree limb right outside my study window. That way I can forecast the day’s weather without having to go outside; instead, I just sneak a peek at the string.

If it’s hanging sideways, that means we’re going to have high winds. If it’s wet, expect rain. If it’s hanging all frayed, that means dry conditions. If it’s all white, we’re having snow. If there is smoke coming from it, it’s hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk. If it’s gone, watch out for tornadoes or hurricanes. I hope this brief explanation will be a help to those considering meteorology as a career and to the rest of us who just want to know tomorrow’s weather.

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

Permission given …

I – do – not – like – being – cold!

(Do you?)

WHAT’S WITH THIS permission given business? Permission given to do what?

Stick with me, OK?

Have you looked around our country lately? Of course you have. Not pretty, not pretty at all. In the midst of our national plagues of anger and sadness, are there safe harbors for sore hearts? Maybe an ocean cruise? A one-way ticket to the Bahamas? Spending two weeks, daily, at a feel-good spa? Camping out in the woods?

Whoops. My bank account just called my blu on most of these options. And the woods thing? I – do – not – like –being – cold! (Do you?) So what the hell to do? I don’t drink or smoke and have been rmly advised by my MD to reduce my chocolate intake. (Hair pulling, in process, over that last one.)

What’s left? What’s a ordable?

Ah, I’ll share with you my, up till now, secret peccadillos. Peccadillos for heart respite. Boy, do you rate.

Ready?

Beginning with the rst heart-support stop of my morning, Brownville Maine’s Food Pantry For Deer. Yep, you read that correctly. Some good-hearted folks in the (brrr) state of Maine built eight large wooden troughs on their family’s acreage. They were tired of watching deer starve during their frigid winters. Every morning, and I do mean every morning, no matter what the weather, these folks have a nifty little vehicle for food delivery to the troughs. And there’s also a load of cut-up apples and nuts

COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

dumped on top of the deer food. I just love (did I say love?) watching the deer come running, crackling over the snow, from various parts of the woods and dig in, big time. (Approximately 250 deer daily.) Two video cameras are streaming online for those whose hearts are in need of nurture, like mine. Deer-city! shorturl. at/NdZ4K and shorturl.at/dQ9kO

My next heart support visitation is a bit embarrassing. Over our increasingly digitalized years, I’ve purchased quite a few of my favorite movie videos, having viewed some of these faves many times. When my heart is in need of much greater nurture than The New York Times can provide, I know exactly where to go. My good-feeling movie endings (just the endings, by the way) are revisited again and again. (Can you see why I’m embarrassed?) “You’ve Got Mail,” “Independence Day,” “Hairspray,” “Billy Elliott,” “Tender Mercies” and that beat just goes rolling on and on. A spoonful of the “You’ve Got Mail” denouement and I’m a lovely and relaxed puddle. Oh, no, I completely forgot the recently released Clydesdale 2026 Super Bowl Budweiser commercial. Talk about being lifted up, way, way up … shorturl.at/IhYs3

I’ve certainly not erased my pain about our country, but I’m setting it aside, for the moment, to take care of me. A “me” who needs periodic nurturance so I can return, with wider emotional margins, to our perilous present.

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

12 Question quiz: What ‘fascist’ ‘xenophobe’ ‘tyrant’ said this?

We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked.

1. “I’m really good at killing people. Didn’t know that was going to be a strong suit of mine.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. President Barack Obama, 2012

2. “But, let me tell you, we can build a fence 40 stories high — unless you change the dynamic in Mexico and — and you will not like this, and — punish American employers who knowingly violate the law when, in fact, they hire illegals. Unless you do those two things, all the rest is window dressing.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.), 2006

3. “Today, I will issue a national security memorandum directing every federal department and agency to do even more to stop the ow of narcotics — including fentanyl — into our country. It will increase intelligence collection on tra ckers’ evolving tactics to smuggle narcotics into our country. And it will help our law enforcement personnel seize more deadly drugs before they reach our communities.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. President Joe Biden, 2024

4. “The United States and the world faced a choice. (The dictator) declared he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats and threatened to go door to door to in ict punishment. In the past, we have seen him hang civilians in the streets and kill over a thousand people in a single day. It was not in our national interest to let that (massacre) happen. I refused to let that happen.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026, about Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro

b. President Barack Obama, 2011, about Libya’s Muammar Gadda

5. “We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked and circumventing the line of people who are waiting patiently, diligently and lawfully to become immigrants in this country.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), 2005

6. “Real reform means stronger border security ... putting more boots on the southern border than at any time in our history and reducing illegal crossings to their lowest levels in 40 years.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026

b. President Barack Obama, 2013

7. “Illegal immigration is wrong, plain and simple. ... People who enter the United States without our permission are

illegal aliens and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... Until the American people are convinced that we will stop future ows of illegal immigration, we will make no progress on dealing with the millions of illegal immigrants who are here now. ... When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combatting illegal immigration. If you don’t think it’s illegal, you’re not going to say it. I think it is illegal and wrong.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009

8. “Because we do need to address the issue of immigration and the challenge we have of undocumented people in our country. We certainly don’t want any more coming in.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), 2008

9. “All Americans ... are rightly disturbed by the large numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. ... We are a nation of immigrants. But we are also a nation of laws.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. President Bill Clinton, 1995

10. “I think we can enforce our borders. I think we should enforce our borders.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2018

b. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), 1994

11. “If making it easy to be an illegal alien isn’t enough, how about o ering a reward for being an illegal immigrant? No sane country would do that. Right?

... If you break our laws by entering this country without permission and give birth to a child, we reward that child with U.S. citizenship.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), 1993

12. “A biometric-based employment veri cation system with tough enforcement and auditing is necessary to signi cantly diminish the job magnet that attracts illegal aliens to the United States.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009 Hint: If it’s not too late, consider betting on “b.”

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. To nd out more about Larry Elder, or become an “Elderado,” visit www.LarryElder.com. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

Price controls won’t work any better for Republicans than it does Democrats

DEMONIZING GREEDY BANKERS

and landlords is the last refuge of the poorly polling politician.

And, as a ordability remains a leading issue among voters, the Trump administration has regularly used rhetoric and ideas that mirror those of progressive Democrats like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Take the president’s recent idea for capping credit card interest rates at 10%.

Or rather, the idea that’s already proposed in a bill sponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). “They’ve really abused the public,” the president said of credit card companies. “I’m not going to let it happen.”

This probably feels good to hear. But if you nd an APR on a new credit card o er “predatory,” de nitely do not sign up for it. You don’t owe the bank anything, and it doesn’t owe you.

An interest rate, though, re ects risk. It’s the entry price for obtaining credit. If you have a good credit score, you get lower rates and vice versa.

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

Capping the rate won’t eliminate credit risk factors, though it will likely shrink available money for people who need it most: lower-income and young workers, or anyone else trying to build up their credit. Lots of entrepreneurs and small-business owners also rely on credit cards to tide them over for a season or help with up-front capital.

And those who are denied cards will still need funds. They’ll inevitably seek out other means of borrowing, probably at even higher rates. Maybe they’ll go to payday loans and cash checking places. Maybe they’ll take second mortgages. Maybe they’ll go to the black market.

There are those who argue that Americans already borrow far too much and that limiting access to credit would be good for them. Rest assured, these nannies almost surely own their homes and cars — purchases that become even more prohibitive for people unable to improve their credit scores.

Trump likes to explicitly threaten or jawbone companies into doing his bidding. Bank of America, for example, is reportedly considering o ering a credit card with interest capped at 10% to placate the administration.

Well, there’s no federal cap on what APRs banks can o er on credit cards. If providers want to undercut competition, nothing is stopping them. Banks are businesses, after all, not charities.

But if banks lose out charging riskier customers lower interest rates to get on the good side of the administration, they’ll simply raise fees elsewhere, pull back on rewards and nd other creative ways to make their reliable consumers pay.

Price xing never alleviates cost — it merely displaces it.

Take Mamdani as he “cracks down,” as one travel magazine referred to it, on “junk fees” in city hotels.

“Junk” is just a description of a cost that consumers and politicians have arbitrarily decided shouldn’t be paid. But they will be. Hotels will almost inevitably raise prices elsewhere or decrease services to make up for it.

Economic magical thinking never dies, however, because it’s tethered to envy and anger rather than rational thinking.

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

And there is no more convenient villain than a faceless pro t-mongering landlord.

Take another price control policy championed by Mamdani: rent control, a practice that’s been failing to lower housing costs since Roman times, at least.

A slew of studies and empirical evidence nds that rent control doesn’t work. The vast majority of economists, both on the right and left, believe it’s a bad idea. Still, most polls nd that rent “stabilization” is supported by around 80% of New Yorkers.

Every generation, it seems, convinces itself it possesses the best technocrats and formula to properly control economic activity to make it fairer and decent. Mamdani is just another in a long line of politicians who play the role.

But Trump? He should know better.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books — the most recent, “How To Kill a Republic,” available now. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

obituaries

Catherine O’Hara, comic actor of ‘Schitt’s Creek,’ ‘Home Alone’ fame, dead at 71

She was the iconic suburban mom for millions of millennials

By Andrew Dalton and Jocelyn Noveck

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Catherine O’Hara, a gifted Canadian-born comic actor and “SCTV” alum who starred as Macaulay Culkin’s harried mother in two “Home Alone” movies and won an Emmy as the dramatically ditzy wealthy matriarch Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek,” died Friday. She was 71.

O’Hara died at her home in Los Angeles “following a brief illness,” according to a statement from her representatives at Creative Artists Agency. Further details were not immediately available.

O’Hara’s career was launched with the Second City comedy group in Toronto in the 1970s. It was there that she rst worked with Eugene Levy, who would become a lifelong collaborator — and her “Schitt’s Creek” costar. The two would be among the original cast of the sketch show “SCTV,” short for “Second City Television.” The series, which began on Canadian TV in the 1970s and aired on NBC in the U.S., spawned a legendary group of esoteric comedians that O’Hara would work with often, including Martin Short, John Candy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis and Joe Flaherty.

O’Hara would win her rst Emmy for her writing on the show. Her second, for best actress in a comedy series, came four decades later, for “Schitt’s Creek,” a career-capping triumph and the perfect personi cation of her comic talents. The small CBC series created by Levy and his son, Dan, about a wealthy family forced to live in a tiny town would dominate the Emmys in its sixth and nal season. It brought O’Hara, always a beloved gure, a new generation of fans and put her at the center of cultural attention.

She told The Associated Press that she pictured Moira, a former soap opera star, as someone who had married rich and wanted to “remind everyone that (she was) special, too.” With an exaggerated Mid-Atlantic accent and obscure vocabulary, Moira spoke unlike anyone else, using words like “frippet,” “pettifogging” and “unasinous,” to show her desire to be di erent, O’Hara said. To perfect Moira’s voice, O’Hara would pore through old vocabulary books, “Moira-izing” the dialogue even further than what was already written.

O’Hara also won a Golden Globe and two SAG Awards for the role. At rst, Hollywood didn’t entirely know what to do with O’Hara and her scattershot style. She played oddball supporting characters in Martin Scorsese’s 1985 “After Hours” and Tim Burton’s 1988 “Beetlejuice” — a role

Catherine O’Hara, a cast member in the Apple+ series “The Studio,” poses for a portrait last March in Los Angeles.

she would reprise in the 2024 sequel.

She played it mostly straight as a horri ed mother who accidentally abandoned her child in the two “Home Alone” movies. The lms were among the biggest box o ce earners of the early 1990s and their Christmas setting made them TV perennials. They allowed her moments of unironic warmth that she didn’t get often.

Her co-star Culkin was among those paying her tribute Friday.

“Mama, I thought we had time,” Culkin said on Instagram alongside an image from “Home Alone” and a recent recreation of the same pose. “I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you.”

Meryl Streep, who worked with O’Hara in “Heartburn,” said in a statement that she “brought love and light to our world, through whipsmart compassion for the collection of eccentrics she portrayed.”

Roles in big Hollywood lms didn’t follow “Home Alone,” but O’Hara would nd her groove with the crew of improv pros brought together by Christopher Guest for a series of mockumentaries that began with 1996’s “Waiting for Gu man” and continued with 2000’s “Best in Show,” 2003’s “A Mighty Wind” and 2006’s “For Your Consideration.”

“Best in Show” was the biggest hit and best-remembered lm of the series. She and Levy play married couple Gerry and Cookie Fleck, who take their Norwich terrier to a dog show and constantly run into Cookie’s former lovers along the way.

“I am devastated,” Guest said in a statement to the AP. “We have lost one of the comic giants of our age.”

Born and raised in Toronto, O’Hara was the sixth of seven children in a Catholic family of Irish descent. She graduated from Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Institute, an alternative high school. She joined Second City in her early 20s, as an understudy to Gilda Radner before Radner left for “Saturday Night Live.” (O’Hara would brie y be hired for “SNL” but quit before appearing on air.)

Nearly 50 years later, hernal roles would be as Seth Rogen’s reluctant executive mentor and freelance xer on “The Studio” and a dramatic turn as therapist to Pedro Pascal and other dystopia survivors on HBO’s “The Last of Us.” Both earned her Emmy nominations. She would get 10 in her career.

“Oh, genius to be near you,” Pascal said on Instagram. “Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world.”

Earlier this month, Rogen shared a photo on Instagram of him and O’Hara shooting the second season of “The Studio.”

O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, sons Matthew and Luke, and siblings Michael O’Hara, Mary Margaret O’Hara, Maureen Jolley, Marcus O‘Hara, Tom O’Hara and Patricia Wallice.

Barbara Coward Phillips

July 27, 1937 – Jan. 30, 2026

Barbara Coward Phillips, 88, of Siler City, was surrounded by her loved ones when she went home to be with the Lord on Friday Jan 30, 2026.

Barbara was born July 27, 1937, in Liberty NC to her late parents John and Ometer Ward Coward. She worked at Kellwood Hosiery for many years before

IN MEMORY

nding her passion in working with children at Chatham Child Development Center as a Teacher Assistant and retired after 41 years. Beyond her work, Barbara’s life was centered on her faith, her family and her dear friends. She was a devoted and active member of First Wesleyan Church for over 60 years, where she found great joy in fellowship and service. Barbara had a vibrant spirit and was lovingly called “The Queen” because she loved to be doted on and complimented. She never turned down a hug and would seek you out if she didn’t get one. She loved to tease friends and even strangers because she knew it would bring a smile to their face. It also brought her joy to cook her specialty dishes or no bake cookies for her friends and family. Other than her family and friends, her 2 favorite people were Elvis and John Cena. Her love for gira es is evident if you have ever visited her.

We offer an on-site crematory with many options of Celebration of Life services, Traditional, and Green Burials. Call us to set an appointment to come by and learn more.

In addition to her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Bill Phillips, her son Keith Phillips, her brothers Jimmy Coward, Fid Coward, Bill Coward, Charles Coward and her sisters Lee Pet York, Betty Beard, Louise Overman, Mildred Breedlove, and Marie Cox.

Left to cherish Barbara’s memories are her daughters, Deanna Jones of High Point, Sheila Carlberg (Daniel) of Holly Springs, Jennifer Phillips of Siler City; Daughter-in-Law Patty Phillips of Asheboro; grandchildren Leandra Parker (Jammi), Andrew Phillips (Corinne), Stephanie Phillips, Zoe Carlberg, Isaiah Roberson and great-grandchildren Landon, Jordan, Jaxon, Leanna, Becca and Hannah; several nieces and nephews and her many special friends who became family.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday Feb 7th at 1pm at First Wesleyan Church Siler City o ciated by Pastor Don Southern and Pastor Dennis Boone.

FRANCES HICKS ELLIS

JAN. 27, 2026

Frances Hicks Ellis went Home to be with Jesus on, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Durham, North Carolina to Alfred and Hazel Hicks. She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Judy Carol Carter; grandson, Joseph Lynn Perry, Jr.; and ve brothers.

Frances was a Christian who loved her Lord and enjoyed sharing her testimony when you visited her. When her health was good, she was an active member in Tyson’s Creek Baptist Church and and the W.M.U., as well as the Bereavement Committee.

She enjoyed taking food to anyone in need. She was a great cook, a hard worker, and always had a beautiful garden. When a neighbor, or a friend passed away, she was usually the rst one to visit or deliver food. She was also a caregiver and was always there to serve and help anyone who needed her. She was a great mother, nannie, friend, and neighbor to us all, and always enjoyed someone’s company.

She is survived by her husband Dink, who she shared 63 years of marriage with. She is also survived by her children, her daughter Diane Ellis and her son, Gary Ellis (Angela); her grandson, who she adored, Heath Ellis (Judy); Godson, Casey Duckworth (Jamie) and special friends, Lynn Glasser and Debbie Wilkie. She also had many nieces and nephews that loved her and called her “Nannie”.

MARTHA ANN CORLEY MASHBURN

APRIL 23, 1953 – FEB. 1, 2026

Martha Ann Corley Mashburn, 72, of Cameron, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at First Health Hospice House in Pinehurst. Born April 23, 1953, in Saluda County, South Carolina, Martha was the daughter of the late Henry Byrnes Corley and Lessie Shealy Corley. She was also preceded in death by her cherished mama, Sarah “Lelia” Corley, and her beloved husband, Charles “Junior” Mashburn. Martha leaves to cherish her memory her brother, James “Bucky” Corley (Beverly) of Sanford; sister, Jeanette Sellars of Carthage; niece, Sherri Sellars; and nephews, Travis Corley (Megan) and Joey Sellars (Danielle), whom she loved as her own. She is also survived by her stepson, Joel Mashburn; six grandchildren, their mother, Karen Marsh; and ve greatgrandchildren. A Holy Ghost- lled woman of faith, Martha dearly loved her church family at Calvary United Pentecostal Church. She was a faithful member who treasured worship, fellowship, and her time with the “Classic Seniors” until her health no longer permitted attendance. Her devotion to God was evident in her life and testimony. The family extends sincere gratitude to the First Health Hospice House sta , Dr. Michael, Dr. Walker, and the FirstHealth OSU nurses, especially Miranda Weeks for their compassionate care.

LAURA MAE HARWARD KELLY MAY 7, 1935 – JAN. 30, 2026

Laura Mae Harward Kelly, age 90, of Carthage, NC, passed away Friday, January 30, 2026, at Peak Resources-Pinelake. She was born in Anson County on May 7, 1935, to the late Amos Harward and Sallie Caudle Harward. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Lee Ervin Denny, brothers Elder Calvin Harward, Daniel Harward and sisters Martha Harrington, Gracie Harrington and Alice Rosser. Laura retired from Moen, Inc. after 20 plus years of service. Before starting to work at Moen she cared for many, many children in her home. She enjoyed her garden and owers before her health declined. She enjoyed her visits from her family members. She also enjoyed her oatmeal cookies, Reese’s mini peanut butter cups and her cup of co ee. She is survived by her daughters Juanita Arnold (Eddie), Audrey Farrar (Edward); grandchildren Amanda Turner (Jason), Lindsey Clarke (Sam), Mitchell Arnold, Brandy Farrell (Ryan), great-grandchildren Jessee Strange (Hanah), Emily Turner, Brianna Turner, Rachel Farrell, Hunter Farrell, Logan Fields; sister Ruby Hendrick and numerous nieces and nephews. Her daughters would like to thank the sta of Peak Resources-Pinelake in Carthage for all the love and compassion they showed to their Mama.

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

Chuck Negron, voice of Three Dog Night’s ‘Joy to

the World,’ dead at 83

The founding member powered hits for the top rock act of late ’60s and early ’70s

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Chuck Negron, a founding member of Three Dog Night whose lead vocals powered a string of hits including “Joy to the World,” “One” and “An Old Fashioned Love Song” for one of the top rock acts of the late 1960s and early ‘70s, died Monday. He was 83. He died of complications from heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at his home in the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles, according to his publicist Zach Farnum. Negron also sang lead on “Easy To Be Hard” and “The Show Must Go On.” The band’s other hits include ”Black and White,” “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” ”Never Been to Spain” and “Shambala.”

In December 1972, the band hosted and performed on the inaugural edition of Dick Clark’s “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.”

By 1975, album sales had declined and the band had its last Billboard Hot 100 hit with “Til the World Ends.” Internal strife fractured the group and it fell apart the next year.

In 1981, the group reunited, but Negron was dismissed in late 1985 because of recurring drug issues.

In 1967, Negron joined Danny Hutton and Cory Wells to form Three Dog Night, a vocal trio with roots in R&B,

rock ‘n’ roll, and urban doo wop. They found success two years later with their rst million-selling single “One,” written by Harry Nilsson. Negron engaged in heavy drug use during the band’s quick ascension to the top of the charts. He spent his fortune on drugs and even ended up on Los Angeles’ Skid Row for a time.

After numerous stints in rehab, he became sober in 1991 and went on to have a successful solo career, releasing seven albums between 1995 and 2017. His 1999 book, “Three Dog Nightmare,” detailed his ups and downs.

After decades of estrangement between him and Hutton, the two men reconciled last year. Hutton and Michael Allsup are the lone surviving members.

Born Charles Negron II on June 8, 1942, he grew up in the Bronx singing in doo wop groups from an early age. His parents divorced when he was 2. He was recruited by California State University to play basketball, which brought him to Los Angeles, where he began working in the music industry.

In his later years, Negron toured through chronic COPD for three decades. The COVID-19 pandemic sidelined him permanently. Negron is survived by wife Ami Albea Negron and ve children, including Berry Oakley Jr., the son of Allman Brothers Band bassist Berry Oakley, who was killed in a 1972 motorcycle accident. Negron was for a time married to Julia Negron, the younger Oakley’s mother, and helped raise infant Berry Jr.

Chuck Negron, former lead singer of Three Dog Night, sings to a crowd during a Christmas Eve party in 1997 at the Union Rescue Mission in Los

sta at the Randolph County Correction Center in Asheboro, secured one in memory of their grandfather, Herman Siler.

“I got it as a surprise for our father,” he said. “One day when I came home from work, I said to my father, ‘Let’s go for a ride.’ So we headed west toward Asheboro. When we got to the patrol station, we turned around and headed back the other way so the sign would be on Daddy’s side, and he said to me, ‘Why are you turning around?’ I said, ‘Daddy, look at that sign.’ He said, ‘What sign?’ and then he saw it, and I wouldn’t take anything for his reaction. He started crying, and when we got home, he called his brothers in Washington, D.C., and told them and one of them said, ‘I’m coming down this weekend to see it’ and he did.”

When Billy Sr. died in 2005, the brothers had the sign changed to one in memory of their father. The current one reads, “In Loving Memory of Billy and Marie Siler,” erected after Marie’s death.

While memories are a big part of their service to the community, it’s not the only thing driving the pair; the present is also a big deal for them. To that end, they’re the driving force behind the open gym for basketball play at Ernest Ramsey Gym on Wednesdays and Sundays from 6 to 9 p.m.

“We had been renting it,” Billy Jr. said, “to start with for people over 40 but there weren’t all that many that age playing. So the town board approved having it open for younger folks, so now they sponsor it

“We try to represent the right direction and be conscious of right and wrong.”

Ronnie Siler

and we don’t have to pay rent.”

So while there’s free play and pick-up games, there are still some rules.

“No cussing allowed,” Ronnie said, “and no rough play. We try to represent the right direction and be conscious of right and wrong.”

Billy echoed that attitude, noting, “If someone gets rough with us, we try not to get back at them. But we tell them if you want to get rough, don’t cry when you get it back. They’re surprised that even though we’re in our 70s that we can do that.”

Their goal with play at the gym is more than 3-pointers, layups, dunks and defense. In a nod to their mother and father, Billy said, “We’re trying to help kids and young men learn respect.”

Ronnie said, “We know we had direction and discipline from our parents. A lot of kids today don’t have it; that’s one reason prisons are overcrowded.”

And while the Siler brothers have a keen interest in young folks, they also have a heart for older people. For the past 13 years, they’ve been coming every Sunday to Siler City Center, a care facility for the aged and people in need, to distribute popsicles to the 150 peo -

ple who live in the building. For residents needing help eating the cold treat, the brothers often feed them.

In a note to the brothers, Genesis Director of Social Ser-

vices Lisa Miller called those visits “a gift” for the residents.

“They have felt this is their mission, and along with the popsicles, they interact with the residents and

spread their own joy,” she wrote.

Here again the brothers remember the example their parents set before them years ago.

“Mama and Daddy were coming there in the 1970s,” they said.

“We go now for the human interaction as well as the popsicles. Many of them,” Billy said, “just want a human touch.”

Ronnie notes that while they go to all ve halls and all residents are appreciative, “the residents in the memory care hall seem to be the most appreciative. It may be that the popsicles jog a childhood memory. Their faces just light up.”

The brothers said it’s their intention and desire to continue the activities.

“We did get it from our parents,” they said. “It’s all we’ve ever known.

“Daddy worked at Kellwood as well as serving churches — some with black and white members — as a pastor and district and state leader. Some of the churches he served — seven as a pastor and 18 as a church planter — were a long way from here. We’d leave home early in the morning and sometimes get there before the members.”

So while they have a lengthy past, Ronnie and Billy know the direction they want to continue traveling.

“We know we’re far from perfect,” they said almost at the same time, “but what we’re doing isn’t about us. It’s about God and the community. God’s been good to us.

“Daddy used to tell us years ago it’s God rst, others second and we’re third.

“That’s what we try to do.”

SILERS from page A1

BOB WACHS FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Ronnie Siler, left, poses with his brother Billy Jr..

JOHN HAYES / AP PHOTO

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IN SEARCH OF SOMEONE

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000007-180

The undersigned EILEEN S. COWEL, having quali ed on the 7TH Day of JANUARY, 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of ALLAN S. COWEL, 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 29TH Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 29TH DAY OF JANUARY 2026. EILEEN S. COWEL, ADMINISTRATOR 4108 WALLINGFORD PLACE DURHAM, NC 27707 Run dates: J29,F5,12,19p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000051-180 The undersigned DANNY M. WATSON, having quali ed on the 22ND Day of JANUARY 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of JEFFREY FLOYD HAWK, 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 29TH Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 29TH DAY OF JANUARY 2026. DANNY M. WATSON, ADMINISTRATOR 436 GLENDALE AVE. THOMASVILLE, NC 27360 Run dates: J29,F5,12,19p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 22ND DAY OF JANUARY 2026. MAURICE A. WICKER, ADMINISTRATOR 369 RC OVERMAN ROAD SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: J22,29,F5,12p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#25E000693-180

The undersigned RICKY DAYE, aka RICHARD L. DAYE, having quali ed on the 30TH Day of DECEMBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of MARY H. MERTENS, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify

rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit

on or before the 15th Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 15th DAY OF JANUARY 2026. RICKY DAYE aka RICHARD L. DAYE, EXECUTOR 5328 CHIMNEY SWIFT DRIVE WAKE FOREST, NC 27587 Run dates: J15,22,29,F5,p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

26E000060-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned, Linda Sue Eubanks, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Susan D. Eubanks, 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 May 6, 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 5th day of February 2026.

Linda Sue Eubanks Administrator Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post O ce Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of HELEN FAYE FITTS a/k/a FAYE PHILLIPS FITTS, of Chatham County, NC, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Executor at the Law O ce of Richard L Cox, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before April 27th 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of heir recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 22nd day of January 2026. William Robert Fitts, III, Executor HELEN FAYE FITTS a/k/a FAYE PHILLIPS FITTS, Estate Richard L. Cox, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600

NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM

The undersigned, Autumn Shuke Norris, having quali ed as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Joyce Carter Shuke, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the Estate to present such claims to the undersigned in care of the undersigned’s Attorney at their address on or before April 24, 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 above named Administrator CTA. This the 22nd day of January, 2026. Autumn Shuke Norris, Administrator CTA Estate of Joyce Carter Shuke Daniel Jenkins, Esq. Carolina Estate Planning 380 Knollwood St. Suite 500 Winston Salem, NC 27103 January 22, 29, Feburary 5 and 12, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Dorothy Mae Foxx Shamburger aka Dorothy Shamburger Clemmons, deceased of Chatham County, North Carolina, are hereby noti ed to present them to Robert A. Shamburger, Administrator of the Estate of Dorothy Mae Foxx Shamburger aka Dorothy Shamburger Clemmons, Estate File Number 26E000045-180, on or before May 4, 2026, in care of the undersigned attorney at her address, or this notice will be pleaded in a bar of recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to Dorothy Mae Foxx Shamburger aka Dorothy Shamburger Clemmons, please make immediate payment to the Estate of Dorothy Mae Foxx Shamburger aka Dorothy Shamburger Clemmons. This is the 29th day of January, 2026. Pamela E. Whitaker Attorney at Law 4145 Randolph Church Road Liberty, NC 27298 (336) 622-3553 telephone (336) 622-3240 facsimile pwhitakerlaw@gmail.com

PUBLICATION DATES: January 29, 2026, February 5, 12, 19, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against Christopher J Luscri, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before (April 30, 2026), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This January 29, 2026. Donna-Jean Keim 402 Ramsey Hill Dr Cary, North Carolina 27519

NOTICE

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against Carol Triplett Robbins a/k/a Carol T. Robbins, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before April 15th, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 15th day of January 2026. Antony Derek Roberson, Executor Estate of Carol Triplett Robbins c/o Roberson Law Firm 1829 E. Franklin St., Ste. 800C Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Run Dates: 1/15, 22, 29, 2/5

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF ANNETTE ANN MORDUS All persons, rms, and corporations having claims against Annette Ann Mordus, now deceased, are noti ed to exhibit them to Sandrah Pederson, Executor of the decedent’s estate, on or before the 5th day of May, 2026, at Post O ce Box 2290, Burlington, North Carolina 27216, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Executor. Sandrah Pederson Executor of the Estate of Annette Ann Mordus (25E000646-180) Nathan R. Adams Pittman & Steele, PLLC Post O ce Box 2290 Burlington, NC 27216 336-270-4440 The Chatham News & Record February 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2026

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Chatham County Board of Commissioners will hold a Special Session on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. The public hearing will be held in the courtroom of the Historic Courthouse in Pittsboro, North Carolina at 9 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro NC 27312. Additional information is available at the Chatham County Planning Department o ce. Speakers are requested to sign up at the meeting prior to the hearing. You may also sign up on the county website prior to the meeting at www.chathamcountync.gov by selecting the heading County Government, then Commissioner Meetings, then Public Comment. The public hearing may be continued to another date at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive input, both written and oral, on the issues listed below: Legislative Request: A

§160D-107. Substantial changes may be made following the public hearing due to verbal or written comments received or based on the Board’s discussions. Notice to people with special needs: If you have audio or visual impairment, unique accessibility requirements or need language assistance, please call the number listed below prior to the hearing and assistance may be provided. If you have any questions or comments concerning these issues, please call the Chatham County Planning Department at 919-542-8204 or Ms. Jenifer Johnson, Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners, at 919-542-8200, or write to P.O. Box 54, Pittsboro N.C. 27312. Please run in your paper: January 29th and February 5th, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

25E000680-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, Walter D. Jones, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of John T. Jones, 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 April 15, 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 15th day of January 2026.

Walter D. Jones

Administrator

Marie H. Hopper

Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post O ce Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

26E000025-180 NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned, Barbara Moore, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of James McGrath, 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 April 20, 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 22nd day of January 2026.

Barbara Moore Executor

Marie H. Hopper

Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post O ce Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312

Notice to Creditors

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against Susan Trivitt Dotson, deceased, of Chatham County, NC, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before May 8, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 5th day of February, 2026. William Claude Cornette III, Executor, c/o Bagwell Holt Smith P.A., 111 Cloister Court, STE 200, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

NOTICE TO CREDITORS:

26E000050-180 The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Gilbert Thomas Berg late of CHATHAM County, NC, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at the address below on or before the 30th day of April, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 29th day of January, 2026. Margaret B. Mullinix, Administrator of the Estate of Gilbert Thomas Berg, c/o The Law O ce of Anne Page Watson, PLLC, 3400 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 205, Durham, NC 27705.

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF THE ESTATE OF CAROL ELAINE HARTMAN HALL All persons, rms, and corporations having claims against Carol Elaine Hartman Hall, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to William Leslie Hall, Executor, at 300 Kildaire Woods Drive, Apt 129, Cary, NC 27511, on or before May 4th, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the deceased are asked to make immediate payment. This the 29th day of January, 2026.

Notice to Creditors

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Antje W. Bruschke aka Ann Bruschke, late of Chatham County, North Carolina (26E000052-180), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 4th day of May, 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 is the 29th day of January 2026. Michael A. Bruschke Administrator Estate of Antje W. Bruschke 344 Chestnut Way Chapel Hill, NC 27516 (For publication: on January 29, February 5, February 12, February 19, 2026)

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000022-180 The undersigned JEREMY KNOTT AND TRACEY JONES, having quali ed on the 9TH Day of JANUARY 2026 as CO-ADMINISTRATORS of the Estate of CAROLYN ANNE KNOTT aka ANNE PRINCE KNOTT, 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 15th Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 15th DAY OF JANUARY 2026. JEREMY KNOTT, CO-ADMINISTRATOR 430 JOHNSON FARM ROAD NEW HILL, NC 27562 MAIL TO: TRACY JONES, CO-ADMINSTRATOR 791 KODIR WOMBLE DRIVE NEW HILL, NC 27562 Run dates: J15,22,29,F5,p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000002-180 The undersigned BARBARA GILMORE, having quali ed on the 2ND Day of JANUARY 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of DAVID CLARK GILMORE, 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 22ND Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 22ND DAY OF JANUARY 2026.

BARBARA GILMORE, ADMINISTRATOR 217 QUINTER DRIVE CARY, NC 27519 Run dates: J22,29,F5,12p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor, the Estate of Robert E. Allen, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said Decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before April 30, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment. This the 16 day of January, 2026. Vicky LeGrys, Executor 111 Pokeberry Lane, Pittsboro NC 27312

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000027-180

The undersigned STACIA DARK, having quali ed on the 12TH Day of JANUARY, 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of GEORGE DARK, 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 29TH Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 29TH DAY OF JANUARY 2026. STACIA DARK, ADMINISTRATOR 621 WOMBLE STREET SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: J29,F5,12,19p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#25E000683-180

The undersigned ANGELA CAMILLE CLINE, having quali ed on the 22ND Day of DECEMBER 2025 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of BLANCHE

ELIZABETH CLINE, 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 22ND Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 22ND DAY OF JANUARY 2026. ANGELA CAMILLE CLINE, ADMINISTRATOR 1268 WILSON ROAD GOLDSTON, NC 27252

MAIL AFFIDAVIT TO: LEWIS FADELY, PLLC 119 N FIR AVE. SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: J22,29,F5,12p

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. EMMETT W. CALDWELL and spouse, if any, and all possible heirs and assignees of EMMETT W. CALDWELL and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder, et al, 08CVD000616180, the undersigned Commissioner will on the 18th day of February, 2026, 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: Beginning at an iron pipe which is located at the intersection of Jones Ferry and River Ave., running thence with the North side of that road 370 feet to an iron stake, the intersecting with the Coggin Lot 1528 running thence with the lot line of that lot towards River Road 290 feet more or less to an iron pipe the intersecting with lot 1539 running thence with that lot’s line approximately 120 feet to a stake on River Road., running thence with that road Northeast side approximately 34 feet to the beginning. Subject to restrictive covenants and easements of record. Parcel Identi cation Number: 0073058

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 9th day of January, 2026.

Mark D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill, Commissioner P.O. Box 25 Trenton, NC 28585 Publication dates: February 5, 2026 February 12, 2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of William Larry Cockman late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 16th day of April, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 6th day of January, 2026.

Kimberly Rose Cockman, Executor Of the Estate of William Larry Cockman 1034 Stage Coach 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 Sue Loy late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 16th day of April, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 8th day of January, 2026.

Robyn Thomas Walker, Executor Of the Estate of Sue Loy 69 Fox Chapel Lane Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

25E000671-180 ALL persons having claims against June A. Keefe, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before May 05 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 5th day of February, 2026. KEVIN KEEFE, Co-Executor JOSEPH KEEFE, Co-Executor C/O Howard Stallings Law Firm PO Box 12347 Raleigh, NC 27605 F5, 12, 19 and 26

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator of the Estate of Seth Andrew Laws late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 16th day of April, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 8th day of January, 2026. Kelli Denise Laws, Administrator Of the Estate of Seth Andrew Laws 2621 Arthur Teague 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 TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 25E000017-180 ALL persons having claims against Robert James Gabor, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Apr 22 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 22nd day of January, 2026. Robert Gabor, Jr., Executor C/O Alisa Hu man, PLLC 701 E. Chatham Street, Ste. 209 Cary, NC 27511 J22,

NOTICE

Court Greensboro, North Carolina 27406 J29, 5, 12 and 19

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000655-180 The undersigned JAMES B. LEACH, having quali ed on the 23RD Day of DECEMBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BARBARA JEAN PERRY, 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 29TH Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 29TH DAY OF JANUARY 2026. JAMES B. LEACH, EXECUTOR 123 PAINTED TURTLE LANE CARY, NC 27519 Run dates: J29,F5,12,19p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25 E 00695-180

The undersigned LYNN S. CRAYCROFT, having quali ed on the 30TH Day of DECEMBER 2025 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ARLINE J. SENKPIEL, 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 15th Day OF APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 15th DAY OF JANUARY 2026. Run dates: J15,22,29,F5,p

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE No. 24SP000053-180

Gladys C. Burnette, Petitioner, vs. Lillian Cabrera, Dorothy Chapman, Thomas Suitt, Sr., William Gattis, Wilma Gattis Brittain, Howard Lee Clark, Jr. Shondrea Thornton, Wanda Clark Fearrington, Norman V. Clark, George Randy Brown, Julius Allen Clark, Johnette Y. Smith Jones Julina Waden, John Dorsey Caldwell, Jr. Linda Clark, Robert Lee Clark, Jr. Andrea Nicky Clark, Sandi Abbo, Rossa V. Clarke-White, Wanda K. Williams, Zipporah W. Clark Baldwin, Macon David Clark, Jr., Amy M. Clark, Wallace Earl Perry, Lillie Perry Atwater, Clyde Douglas Perry, Hampton M. Perry as Guardian for Delaine Perry Norwood, Susan Gayle Perry, LeAnn Golden, Michael J. Sulick as Trustee of the Sulick Family Rev. Trust, Joy Young, Thomas Perry, Phyllis Cameron, Gloria Perry, Julia Perry, Rhonda Perry, and all unknown

more U.S. residents preferred to move elsewhere, including Alabama.

Sabrina Morley and Steven Devereaux sold their Tampa-area house last year, moved out of Florida and landed outside Valencia, Spain. Growing up in the 1990s, they both enjoyed Florida’s diversity and being able to run around freely outdoors. But in recent years, as they planned to have children, they had grown wary of the state’s costs, regular threats of mass shootings at schools, the quality of education and political divisiveness. They are expecting a daughter in the spring.

“I had a pretty good childhood, but I don’t think we’d be able to give our child the same quality of life because of the cost of living, food quality, and guns have become more prevalent,” Devereaux said. “We think where we are now, it’s the best decision we could make to give any future children the best quality of life.”

Younger folks and nice areas

North Carolina state demographer Michael Cline credited the state’s growth to high-paying jobs in banking and tech, the topographical diversity and having smaller big-cities than Florida and Texas.

“North Carolina is attracting younger folks because we have so many nice areas in North Carolina — the mountains and beaches and lakes in between — that we’re bene ting from younger people who decided they can work from anywhere and would rather be in a nice area,” Cline said. “One of the things about North Carolina, our cities are not huge, and that may be attractive to folks, too.”

Last year’s changes among the states were signi cant because population growth brings more taxpayers, economic dynamism and demand for goods and services. It also signals potential changes in the nation’s political landscape after the next census in 2030, with certain states gaining or losing clout in Congress and the Electoral College.

In the next few years, domestic migration is going to play a larger role in states’ growth or population decline. That is because the Trump

24SP001151-180 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

NORTH CAROLINA, CHATHAM COUNTY

administration’s immigration crackdown has contributed to a signicant reduction in migration from abroad, which had been the prime driver of growth in most states for the rst half of this decade.

Without immigration growth, the U.S. population will start shrinking in ve years as deaths outpace births, according to the Congressional Budget O ce.

Pandemic boom peters out

Despite the comparative yearover-year slowdown in domestic migration, Texas’ overall growth of 391,000 people and Florida’s overall growth of 196,000 people were still the two highest in the U.S. last year.

In Florida, it was driven by international migration, and in Texas by international migration as well as births outpacing deaths. Both states boomed during the early part of the decade, when pandemic-era lockdowns and remote work encouraged residents from other states to move to Florida and Texas, where coronavirus restrictions were more lax.

“The sharp domestic migrations they observed during the pandemic have now petered out, especially for Florida, at the same time that immigration is being diminished,” said Brookings demographer William Frey.

Demographers in Florida and Texas said they were not entirely sold on the accuracy of the Census Bureau’s migration numbers, which are the hardest variables to pin down because they uctuate the most year to year, although they did not question the rigor of the bureau’s work. The

Children walk through a sports eld in Independence Park under the skyline of Charlotte last March.

NOTICE OF PRIMARY ELECTION

CHATHAM COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

The statewide primary election will be held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

Voters will be asked to show photo ID when they vote. All voters will be allowed to vote with or without ID. Voters who lack ID can get one for free from their county board of elections. Find out more at ncsbe.gov/voter-id.

Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. The following precincts will be open

bureau uses data from the IRS and its American Community Survey to calculate migration, although the ACS data lags by a year and requires statisticians to project the data forward.

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida uses a method di erent from the Census Bureau’s to calculate growth — electrical customer data, said research demographer Richard Doty.

There are no de nitive explanations for why domestic migration to Florida went from almost 319,000 people in 2022 to 22,500 people in 2025. Doty said some factors might include the state no longer being the bargain it once was, a series of hurricanes and return-to-o ce employer mandates.

“The cost of housing, in particular, is driving young people and retirees to other states,” he said. “Also, insurance is higher in Florida than most other states.”

When asked about the decline, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press secretary, Molly Best, noted in an email that Florida had a signi cant in ux of new residents during the pandemic. It remains a top-ranked placed to live, she said.

The Texas economy has been growing, but that is not the only thing that in uences the in ow of potential migrants. Conditions outside the state also do, Texas state demographer Lloyd Potter said in an email.

“If jobs are plentiful, living is affordable, and the overall quality of life is good, they will be less likely to move for an opportunity outside that community,” Potter said.

EXCEPT AND LESS All of Parcel A, containing 0.227 acre according to a plat entitled “Survey for Kevin L. Corns - Ollie Burnette Heirs”, prepared by Van R Finch, PLS dated March 11, 2010, and recorded in Plat Slide 2010-127, Chatham County Registry, reference to which plat is hereby made for a more particular description.

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

Said property is commonly known as 428 Jeremiah Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27517-9619.

A Certi ed Check ONLY (no personal checks) of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale.

Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

Said property to be o ered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being o ered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Kevin L. Corns, a single person.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Kevin L. Corns, Franklin D. Corns and Eleanor Corns to Jerone C. Herring, Trustee(s), which was dated March 30, 2001 and recorded on March 30, 2001 in Book 860 at Page 1014 and rerecorded/modi ed/ corrected on June 3, 2010 in Book 1514, Page 1239 and rerecorded/modi ed/corrected on August 5, 2025 in Book 2480, Page 584, Chatham County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on February 12, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Chatham County, North Carolina, to wit: Lying and being in Williams Township, Chatham County, North Carolina, and being all of Lot #1, containing 40,271 square feet, more or less, as shown on a plat entitled “recombination Survey for Tomi G Constant & Patricia B Learned and Minor Subdivision of a Portion of the hero Stone Bunker Lands”, dated April 22, 1999, prepared by Absolute Land Surveying and Mapping, P.C. and recorded in Plat Slide 99-236, Chatham County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more accurate description; and All of Parcel B, containing 0.261 acre, according to a plat entitled “Survey for Kevin L. Corns - Ollie Burnette Heirs”, prepared by Van R Finch, PLS dated March 11, 2010, and recorded in Plat Slide 2010-127, Chatham County Registry, reference to which plat is hereby made for a more particular description.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 24SP001080-180 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed by FRANCES M. ALDRIDGE AND T. VICTOR ALDRIDGE, SR., dated June 6, 2003 in the amount of $77,000.00 and recorded in Book 01027, Page 0436 and further modi ed by Agreement recorded on January 25, 2017 in Book 1903, Page 599 of the Chatham County Public Registry by ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the 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 Chatham County, North Carolina, in Book 2417, Page 993, 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 Chatham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on February 12, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Chatham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 0013972 ADDRESS: 20 FAIRWAY DR SILER CITY, NC 27344 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): UNKOWN HEIRS OF FRANCES M. ALDRIDGE AND T. VICTOR ALDRIDGE, SR. THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF CHATHAM, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 01027, PAGE 0436, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 47 CONTAINING 0.719 ACRES

IN PLAT

SLIDE 96-13, CHATHAM COUNTY REGISTRY, TO WHICH PLAT REFERENCE IS HEREBY MADE FOR

GREATER CERTAINTY OF DESCRIPTION. (1) THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIVE AND PROTECTIVE COVENANTS OF PINE FOREST, INCORPORATED SUBDIVISION RECORDED IN BOOK 290, PAGE 203, CHATHAM COUNTY REGISTRY. PARCEL ID NUMBER: 0013972 ALSO KNOWN AS: 20 FAIRWAY DR, SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 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 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

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 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.: 24-24851-FC01

CAROLINAS

MARY CONLON / AP PHOTO

CHATHAM SPORTS

Seaforth rains 3s in varsity

double-header against DSA

McDonald’s All American nominee Katie Leonard hit eight 3-pointers Friday

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

Boys: Seaforth 75, Durham School of the Arts 28

Seaforth seniors Declan Lindquist and Campbell Meador combined for 38 points in the rst half to help the Hawks down Durham School of the Arts 75-28 Friday in Pittsboro.

Lindquist nished with

a team-high 23 points, and Meador contributed 16 points, which all came in the rst half. Both hit four 3s apiece before halftime, leading to a commanding 51-19 lead at the break.

“The o ense just worked perfectly,” Lindquist said. “It works as a unit, so everybody’s working together and taking excellent shots.”

Said Meador, “I felt like both of us got really good shots. They were open and in rhythm.”

Defensively, Seaforth came away with 10 steals and held the Bulldogs to single digits in three quarters.

The heat stayed on with the reserves entering the game late in the third quarter. Junior Justin Torres came in and shot 3 for 3 from the eld for eight points. In total, 10 Hawks made a shot in the game as the team nished the night with a 55% shooting clip.

Seaforth earned its third win in a row, moving to 12-5 overall and 7-1 in Big 7 4A/5A conference play. The Hawks sit rst in the conference with J.F Webb (5-1), Orange (5-2) and South Granville (5-2) close behind. Seaforth, pursuing its rst conference title since 2023, will play all three to close the season.

Consistency: Fowler balances life changes, high-level play

Cam Fowler and his mom, Kelly, have been displaced since December

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO — Since the turn of the new year, Northwood boys’ basketball senior Cam Fowler has been arguably playing the best basketball of his high school career.

In the Chargers’ last ve games as of Sunday, Fowler has scored at least 20 points in four contests, including a career-high 31 points against Garner on Jan. 17.

It’s a consistency that has matured in his identity as a basketball player over the past two seasons. Fowler is a 20-point-per-game scorer for the second straight year while showing up as a leader — cheering on his teammates from the bench and holding them accountable — on one of coach Matt Brown’s most player-driven teams in his time at Northwood.

For the average spectator, it’s as if a life-changing tragedy that struck the day after Christmas never happened.

“I’ve had parents come up to me and they’re like, ‘You never would know that y’all went through what y’all went through’ because he just gets

See FOWLER, page B4

“The biggest thing with us is our superpower is our ability to play as a unit,” Seaforth coach John Berry said. “If we play as a unit — a pack of piranhas — move the ball, don’t care who scores, just make the best play for the team, then we’re very tough to deal with, especially if we’re making shots.”

Girls: Seaforth 61, Durham School of the Arts 38

Seaforth senior Katie Leonard knocked down eight 3s to lead the Hawks in a 61-38 rout over Durham School of the Arts on Friday.

8

Combined

Leonard nished the night with a team-highs of 26 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, three steals and two blocks. She knocked down six 3s and scored 20 points in the rst half, securing her fourth straight game with that scoring mark. Leonard previously made eight threes against J.F Webb on Jan. 8.

“Just trying to nd the open person and make good looks,” Leonard said. “My teammates were able to nd me a lot, and I’m like, ‘This is a good shot.’

The last month saw multiple season highs from local recruits

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

CHATHAM COUNTY’S

own have shared the spotlight in the college basketball world lately.

Former Seaforth basketball star Gabby White had a career night in Virginia’s triple-overtime win over Wake Forest on Jan. 29. The freshman recorded a career-high 22 points on a team-high nine made eld goals, and she grabbed 12 rebounds to secure her rst collegiate double-double. White followed that with 15 points in a 76-64 loss to Virginia Tech Sunday, bringing her season scoring average to 7.4. On the men’s side of the ACC, Jarin Stevenson, another former Seaforth Hawk, saved the day in UNC’s win over a ranked Virginia team on Jan. 24. Stevenson scored all his season-high 17 points in the second half, helping the Tar Heels overcome a double-digit de cit. His dunk with under 12 minutes left to play gave UNC its rst lead since the game’s rst two minutes, and his 3 followed by a 3-point play in the last ve minutes helped the Tar Heels get the last say. After a seven-point

22

Points for

outing against Georgia Tech Saturday, Stevenson is averaging seven points and 2.7 rebounds per game. Here are the recent highlights from other local athletes in college.

BASKETBALL

Kenan Parrish (Northwood, Harvard)

Parrish played his best game of the season in Harvard’s 67- 65 win over Yale on Saturday. In a season-high 15 minutes played, the 7-foot forward scored a season-high 10 points as he shot 3 for 6 from the eld and knocked down two 3s.

Max Frazier (Northwood, Central Connecticut State) Frazier is starting to nd his groove despite his team’s overall inconsistency. The former Charger was nearly perfect from the eld in a win over Wagner on Jan. 29, shooting 7

page

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Seaforth’s Duncan Parker secures the ball in a win over Durham School of the Arts on Jan. 30.

3-pointers for Declan Lindquist and Campbell Meador

Gabby White in a win over Wake Forest last week

Campbell Blackburn

Woods Charter, boys’ basketball

Woods Charter sophomore Campbell Blackburn earns athlete of the week honors for the week of Jan. 26.

Blackburn stepped up huge in the absence of Levi Haygood last week, pouring in a career-high 20 points in a 38-20 win over Raleigh Charter on Jan. 29 and 19 points in a loss to Durham Academy the following night.

As of Sunday, Blackburn has logged seven games with at least 10 points. Earlier this season, Blackburn hit a buzzer beater to defeat Phoenix Academy 69-68.

Local high school softball schedules

The rst games will be played Feb. 25

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

LOCAL SOFTBALL schedules for the 2026 season have been nalized and released. Here are the schedules for each local team.

* denotes conference game

Chatham Charter

Class/conference: 1A, Central Tar Heel Feb. 23 — at Chatham Central (scrimmage, 6 p.m.); Feb. 27 — at Southern Wake* (5 p.m.); March 3 — at Central Carolina* (5 p.m.); March 5 — at Providence Grove (6 p.m.); March 6 — vs. Ascend Leadership* (4:30 p.m.); March 10 — vs. River Mill* (4:30 p.m.); March 12 — vs. Providence Grove (5 p.m.); March 13 — vs. Clover Garden* (4:30 p.m.); March 17 — vs. Southern Wake* (5 p.m.); March 18 — at Northwood (6 p.m.); March 20 — vs. Central Carolina* (5 p.m.); March 23 — at Cornerstone Charter (5 p.m.); March 24 — at Ascend Leadership* (4:30 p.m.); March 26 — at River Mill* (at Bill Cooke Park, 3:30 p.m.); April 6 — at Clover Garden* (4:30 p.m.); April 9 — vs. Cornerstone Charter (5 p.m.); April 10 — at Southern Wake* (5 p.m.); April 14 — at Central Carolina* (5 p.m.); April 16 — vs. Northwood (5 p.m.); April 17 — vs. Ascend Leadership* (5 p.m.); April 21 — vs. River Mill* (5 p.m.); April 23 — vs. Clover Garden* (5 p. m.)

Chatham Central

Class/conference: 1A, Greater Triad 1A/2A Feb. 25 — at Southeast Alamance (6 p.m.); March 3 — vs. Overhills (6 p.m.); March 4 — vs. Lee County (6 p.m.); March 6 — vs. Falls Lake (6 p.m.); March 10 — at Providence Grove (6 p.m.); March 11 — vs. Ascend Leadership (6 p.m.); March 13 — vs. South Davidson* (6 p.m.); March 17 — at North Stokes* (6 p.m.); March 19 — vs. Providence Grove (6 p.m.); March 20 — at South Stokes* (double header, 5 p.m.); March 24 — at South Davidson* (6 p.m.); March 25 — at Apex Friendship (6 p.m.); March 27 — vs. North Stokes* (6 p.m.); April 8 — at Jordan-Matthews (6 p.m.); April 9 — vs. Jordan-Matthews (6 p.m.); April 10 — vs. Central Carolina (6 p.m.); April 14 — vs. South Stokes* (6 p.m.); April 15 — vs. Southeast Alamance

(6 p.m.); April 17 — at South Davidson* (6 p.m.); April 21 — vs. North Stokes* (6 p.m.); April 22 — at Wheatmore (6 p.m.); April 23 — vs. Western Harnett (6 p.m.)

Northwood

Class/conference: 3A, Four Rivers 3A/4A Feb. 26 — vs. Southern Lee (6 p.m.); March 2 — at Chapel Hill (6 p.m.); March 6 — vs. Carrboro (6 p.m.); March 10 — vs. Eastern Randolph* (6 p.m.); March 12 — at Southern Lee (6 p.m.); March 13 — at Eastern Randolph* (6 p.m.); March 17 — vs. Jordan-Matthews*; March 18 — vs. Chatham Charter (6 p.m.); March 20 — at Jordan-Matthews* (6 p.m.); March 24 — at North Moore* (6 p.m.); March 25 — vs. Cedar Ridge (6 p.m.); March 27 — vs. North Moore* (6 p.m.); April 7 — at Seaforth (6 p.m.); April 8 — vs. Seaforth (6 p.m.); April 9 — at Cedar Ridge (6 p.m.); April 14 — at Southwestern Randolph* (6 p.m.); April 16 — at Chatham Charter (5 p.m.); April 17 — vs. Southwestern Randolph* (6 p.m.); April 20 — at Southeast Alamance (6 p.m.); April 21 — Uwharrie Charter* (6 p.m.)

Jordan-Matthews

Class/conference: 4A, Four Rivers 3A/4A Feb. 23 — at Southeast Alamance (scrimmage); March 3 — at Carrboro (4 p.m.); March 4 — vs. Providence Grove (6 p.m.); March 6 — vs. Wheatmore (6 p.m.); March 10 — vs. North Moore* (6 p.m.); March 12 — at Wheatmore (6 p.m.); March 13 — at North Moore*

(6 p.m.); March 17 — at Northwood* (6 p.m.); March 20 — vs. Northwood* (6 p.m.); March 24 — vs. Southwestern Randolph* (6 p.m.); March 25 — vs. Central Carolina (6 p.m.); March 27 — at Southwestern Randolph* (6 p.m.); April 8 — vs. Chatham Central (6 p.m.); April 9 — at Chatham Central (6 p.m.); April 14 — at Uwharrie Charter* (6 p.m.); April 15 — vs. South Davidson (6 p.m.); April 17 — vs. Uwharrie Charter* (6 p.m.); April 21 — vs. Eastern Randolph* (6 p.m.); April 22 — at Providence Grove (6 p.m.); April 24 — at Eastern Randolph* (6 p.m.)

Seaforth

Class/conference: 5A, Big Seven 4A/5A Feb. 21 — at Fuquay-Varina (scrimmage, 9 a.m.); Feb. 25 — vs. Western Alamance (6 p.m.); March 4 — vs. Middle Creek (6 p.m.); March 10 — at Carrboro* (4 p.m.); March 13 — at Cedar Ridge* (6 p.m.); March 16 — at Chapel Hill (6 p.m.); March 17 — at Durham School of the Arts* (5 p.m.); March 18 — vs. Panther Creek (6 p.m.); March 24 — vs. Webb* (6 p.m.); March 26 — at South Granville* (6 p.m.); April 7 — vs. Northwood (6 p.m.); April 8 — at Northwood (6 p .m.); April 10 — vs. Carrboro* (6 p.m.); April 14 — vs. Cedar Ridge* (6 p.m.); April 15 — at Apex (6 p.m.); April 17 — vs. Durham School of the Arts* (6 p.m.); April 22 — at Apex Friendship (4:30 p.m.); April 23 — at Orange* (6 p.m.); April 24 — at Webb* (6 p.m.); April 28 — vs. South Granville* (6 p.m.); April 30 — vs. Orange* (6 p.m.)

PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Seaforth’s Emma Stong throws out a runner in a 2025 matchup against Chatham Central.

Local swimmers set to compete in state championship meet

The state title meet begins Thursday

By Asheebo Rojas Chatham News & Record

AFTER A WEEK of widespread rescheduling in North Carolina High School Athletic Association sports, the NCHSAA swimming and diving championships begins Thursday at Triangle Aquatic Center in Cary.

The swimming and diving regionals were canceled due to the recent winter storms. Because of that, quali cation to the state tournament is di erent this season.

Only individuals and relay teams that quali ed for this year’s regionals are considered for advancement to the state meet. Quali ers include the top 12 individual swimmers from the East and the top 12 individual swimmers from the West. The top eight relay teams from the East and the top eight relay teams from the West will qualify for the meet. The next fastest regional times, regardless of region, will also qualify for states until the eld reaches a maximum of 32 individual swimmers and 24 really teams. There could be an additional heat added if there are more than 32 automatic qualifying times from the regional entries or if there’s a tie for 32nd place.

Here are the local quali ers for the NCHSAA swimming and diving state championship (school, event)

1A/2A/3A Boys: Jesse Es-

State championships for Woods Charter’s Daisy Collins

kelund (Chatham Central, 50 free and 100 free); Drew White (Woods Charter, 200 free and 500 free); Derek White (Woods Charter, 50 free and 100 free); Elijah Su (Northwood, 500 free and 100 breaststroke); Tumanio Sissoko (Northwood, 100 back); Northwood (200 medley relay and 400 free relay)

1A/2A/3A Girls: Daisy Collins (Woods Charter, 200 free and 500 free); Ella Delgross (Woods Charter, 200 IM and 100 breaststroke)

5A Boys: Colton Roberts (Seaforth, 200 free and 500 free); Stuart Vaughn (Seaforth, 200 free and 500 free); Charles Mitler (Seaforth, 200 IM and 100 back); Aden George (Seaforth, 50 free and 100 free); Jason Krasovich (Seaforth, 100 free); Quinn Hepburn (Seaforth, 100 free and 100 breaststroke); Isaac Lindgren (Seaforth, 100 breaststroke); Seaforth (200 medley relay); Seaforth (200 free relay); Seaforth (400 free relay)

5A Girls: Sydney Haire (Seaforth, 200 free and 100 back); Natalie Hinde (Seaforth, 200 free and 500 free); Sydney Burleigh (Seaforth, 200 IM and 100 y); Alexandra Smith (Seaforth, 200 IM); Eva Wahieb (Seaforth, 50 free); Olivia Tewes (Seaforth, 1-meter dive); Sophie Jacobs (Seaforth, 100 y and 100 back);

Northwood’s Elijah Su will compete for state championships in two events. He was the Four Rivers Conference Male Swimmer of the Year.

Gillian Eriksen (Seaforth, 100 free and 100 breaststroke); Juliette Haire (100 back); Seaforth (200 medley relay); Seaforth (200 free relay); Seaforth (400 free relay)

COLLEGE from page B1

for 8 from the eld for 17 points.

With a 14-point performance against LIU on Saturday, Frazier, who’s averaging 11.9 points per night, has scored in double digits in six of his last seven games.

Colby Burleson (Northwood, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts)

In a 102-99 win over Worcester State on Saturday, Burleson logged his best game of January with 11 points. He shot 4 for 6 from the eld, including three triples. Burleson has recorded at least 10 points twice this season.

Olivia Porter (Marquette, Northwood)

Porter had a career night against Creighton on Jan. 8. In 32 minutes, Porter scored a career-high 23 points on 50% shooting. She shot 4 for 4 from 3-point land.

McKenna Snively (Christopher Newport,

Northwood/North Raleigh Christian Academy)

Snively has been productive o the bench of late, scoring in double digits in three of her last four outings. She matched her season high of 15 points in a close loss to Salisbury on Jan. 17, and she most recently recorded 12 points in a win over Southern Virginia on Jan. 28.

TRACK AND FIELD

Will Cuicchi (Seaforth, Charlotte)

Cuicchi moved up in the Charlotte record books after nishing second in the men’s 1,000 at the Hokie Invitational on Jan. 24. His time of 2 minutes, 27.24 seconds is eighth all time.

FENCING

Kaitlyn Zanga (Seaforth, UNC)

Zanga nished 17th in the Junior Women’s Epee at the Junior Olympics early in January.

COURTESY NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL BOOSTERS, FRIENDS & ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

CHRIS SEWARD / AP PHOTO

UNC forward Jarin Stevenson, front, is pressured by Syracuse defenders in an early February game.

Hurricanes score 3 times in nal 2 minutes, stun Mammoth in 5-4 win

Carolina became the third team in history to have the historic rally

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — In many ways, last Thursday’s game wasn’t one Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will want to play on a loop at a family gathering.

His wipeout in the neutral zone early in the second period allowed Utah winger Kailer Yamamoto to score his rst of two goals and tie the game after Carolina dominated the opening 20 minutes.

Then with just 13 minutes left in the game, Yamamoto pestered the Hurricanes defenseman into a turnover and a goal by Michael Carcone to give the visiting Mammoth what seemed like a nail-in-the-co n twogoal lead.

But Gostisbehere — returning to the lineup after missing the last ve games — and the Hurricanes not only fought back, but they also pulled o one of the best rallies in NHL history.

Andrei Svechnikov, Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal scored three times in 89 seconds, with Staal’s goal coming with just under 30 seconds remaining, to turn a multigoal de cit into a 5-4 Hurricanes win at Lenovo Center.

“Just forget,” Gostisbehere said of moving past his miscues, “or score right after so you forget about it.”

It was just the third time in league history that a team trailing by two goals with under two minutes remaining ended up winning in regulation.

The rally started with Gostisbehere and Svechnikov.

With Carolina on a four-minute power play due to a high sticking penalty by Barrett

SEAFORTH from page B1

I tried not to force anything.”

Seaforth hit 13 3s as a team, notching its second straight game with at least 10 made triples. Junior Annika Johansson made two from beyond the arc on the way to a 10-point night.

The Hawks held the Bulldogs to single digits in each of the rst three quarters. Junior Faith Yon was the bright spot in DSA’s tough o ensive night, leading all scorers with 29 points, including 23 in the second half.

Seaforth cruised to its fourth straight win, improving to 13-3 overall and 7-1 in Big Seven 4A/5A conference play. The conference title is still up for grabs with the Hawks and South Granville tied for rst and Orange

FOWLER from page B1

out there and plays ball,” Fowler’s mother, Kelly, said. “That’s all he’s ever done.”

Around 6 a.m. on Dec. 26, a garbage truck pulled the power lines at Fowler’s Pittsboro home on Thompson Street, causing the fallen transformer to ignite, explode and set re to the house. Although the Fowlers didn’t lose everything in the ames, the home became unlivable, leaving Fowler, his mom and their pets displaced.

“We were very lucky and blessed to get out what we got out, which is ourselves,” Kelly Fowler said.

If it weren’t for his mom, who would sometimes be out of the home with her ancé, waking him up when the re started, Fowler wouldn’t have known what was happening. When the transformer exploded while Fowler and his mom were outside, he screamed for help.

“It sounded like a bomb,” he said.

Said Kelly Fowler, “The remen said that they could see it

“We were just kind of riding the wave. But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked.”

Jordan Staal, Hurricanes captain

Hayton and Brandon Bussi (21 saves) on the bench for an extra attacker, Gostisbehere shot wide, but the puck hit the end boards and popped right to Svechnikov. He banged it into the vacant net for his second goal of the night and 20th of the season — matching last season’s total.

Gostisbehere, who had scored his seventh goal of the year on the power play to tie the game in the second period, got his second of the night 22 seconds after Svechnikov’s goal.

With Bussi again on the bench for a sixth skater, Jackson Blake zipped a diagonal pass to Gostisbehere at the right point for a one-timer that hit the cross bar and went in to tie the game.

“It is always about your next shift, good or bad,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “You score a goal, you don’t sit there patting yourself on the back. You’ve got to go do something about it. The same thing if you give up a goal. Ghost has been around. I don’t think he gets too ustered.”

Then the Hurricanes seized the momentum to get the winner.

Defenseman Jalen Chat eld took a shot from the outside edge of the right circle. Jordan Martinook tipped the shot, and the puck went to Staal at the left post, where he knocked it in for his 12th goal of the year.

“We were just kind of riding the wave,” Staal said. “But ob -

right behind them with one conference loss (6-1) as of Sunday. Seaforth will play both South Granville and Orange to close out the regular season.

For the second straight year, Seaforth will pursue a conference title and a deep playo run with a McDonald’s All American nominee. Leonard was one of 17 North Carolina girls nominated for the prestigious high school all-star event on Jan. 29.

Last year, Seaforth’s Gabby White earned the same honor before continuing her career at Virginia.

“I didn’t know I’d been up for consideration, but when I found out last night, I was really excited,” Leonard said. “I’m really grateful for all of my teammates and coaches who’ve helped me get here.”

from the circle when they got the rst call of the transformer being on re.” In the rst few days of navigating their next steps, the Fowlers were in “shock.”

The two had lived in that home for two and a half years after spending the previous seven to eight years in an apartment. When Cam was a boy, the two lived with Kelly’s mother and her brother Lukie Fowler until Kelly nished cosmetology school.

“I loved it,” Kelly Fowler said. “It was small. It was nice. I mean, it was perfect for me and him.”

After the re, Cam went to live with his grandmother and his uncle in Pittsboro while Kelly decided to stay with her ancé in Siler City.

“I think all the emotions ran high for me the rst week because I’ve only lived with (Cam),” Kelly Fowler said. “The rst couple of weeks is kind of hard because I was just like, ‘I don’t have anywhere to go.’ It’s like your safe spot or your safe space. I talk to (Cam) a lot because we’re apart now, and I

viously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked. To get those three goals that quickly and in that short period of time to win the game was really cool.”

Gostisbehere and Svechnikov each nished with three points.

“You saw him tonight,” Staal said of Svechnikov. “He was not only scoring goals, but he was physical, he was hard, he was skating well. And he’s got his strength back and his speed. … He’s the player that we all know he can be. And this year he’s

been solid all throughout.”

And despite struggling much of the night on the power play, Carolina managed to score two key goals on ve opportunities.

“It’s sticking with it,” Gostisbehere said. “The entries weren’t beautiful, but at the end of the day, when you get two goals on power play, you know it’s going to help you win.”

And it did the Hurricanes extended their point streak to six games and further tightened their grip on the Metropolitan

Division lead on Whalers Night.

“It’s always nice to score goals, especially game winners,” Staal said. “It’s making memories, and I love the game, I love being a part of of nights like this, and you want more of them. You’re chasing them, and you’re chasing those memories.

“And to do it alongside these guys in this room, the friends, and battle with each other is what I live for. It’s what I do this job for, and tonight was one of the good memories.”

“He just gets out there and plays ball.”

Kelly

Fowler

think that’s the hardest part for me because he’s graduating, and this is the last few months that I’m going to have with him.”

The sudden change has brought an early taste of independence for Fowler, and he unknowingly prepared for it. Just before the re, Fowler applied to a job at Domino’s to start making his own money, which has in turn taken some pressure o his mom during their displacement.

“Before he got a job, it was just, ‘Can I have $20?’” Kelly Fowler said. “‘Can you cash app me $20? Can you cash app me this? Can you cash app me that?’ And that was literally every day.”

For the past few weeks, Fowler has balanced evening and closing shifts with high ex-

pectations in basketball and school. It’s been “a lot” on him, but handling multiple responsibilities isn’t something he hasn’t seen before.

“When I was younger, (Kelly) had to go to school to get her cosmetology or hairstylist — what she wanted to be — so she (wasn’t) around me a lot,” he said. “But as I got older, she worked her butt o every single day — worked multiple jobs, paid the bills, made sure I can eat, made sure I got basketball shoes to hoop in, football shoes to play football in, gear, just anything. Taking me to AAU games, stu like that. Seeing her put all that work ethic in, it just rubbed o on me.”

Fowler’s willingness to put more on his plate earned him a nomination for the Jersey Mike’s Naismith Courage Award by his coach Brown. On Jan. 28, Fowler’s story was selected as one of the 10 nalists from hundreds of entries across the country. The two overall winners, chosen for being a “shining example of perseverance” and “demonstrat-

Seaforth’s Declan Lindquist (1) looks for an opening against Durham School of the Arts on Jan.30.

ing that true success is de ned not only by achievement on the court, but by the determination, resilience, and heart to keep going when life is at its hardest,” will earn their respective basketball programs $2,000 and an additional $5,000 for themselves.

“Cam is doing things I could never imagine doing as an 18-year-old, and he is doing them with courage and sel essness” Brown said. “Never once has he complained or felt sorry for himself.” Despite the pressure Northwood puts on itself in its chase of a championship and Fowler’s own pursuit of opportunities to play in college, basketball is where Fowler has found quiet in the storm.

After things were nally settled the day of the re, Fowler went to Northwood with his best friend and hooped for hours. The court is his therapy, and it stays the same no matter what changes around him.

“Basketball always calmed me down,” Fowler said. “So, that’s the rst thing I went to.”

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Hurricanes center Jordan Staal celebrates his game-winning goal against the Mammoth with forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) during Carolina’s 5-4 win last Thursday in Raleigh.

SIDELINE REPORT

PGA

Rose sets scoring record, goes wire to wire at Torrey Pines

San Diego Justin Rose is the rst wire-to-wire winner at Torrey Pines in 71 years. Rose nished with a 70 to break the tournament scoring record set by Tiger Woods in 1999. He nished at 23-under 265. Rose started with a six-shot lead and never let anyone get any closer. Tommy Bolt in 1955 was the last player to win this tournament from start to nish without ties. Rose now moves to No. 4 in the world at age 45.

NBA NBA suspends 76ers’ George 25 games for violating anti-drug policy

Philadelphia Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers was suspended 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. The league did not disclose the substance involved. George released a statement saying he took something that was “improper.” He apologized to the team and its fans, saying he takes “full responsibility for my actions.” This is George’s rst violation. The suspension will cost him approximately $11.7 million of his salary.

BOXING

Miller’s hairpiece knocked upward by punch, then thrown into crowd

New York Jarrell Miller was hit with such a good punch it knocked his hair o . Heavyweight Kingsley Ibeh landed a punch in the second round that knocked Miller’s head backward, and his hairpiece popped upward from the front, revealing a large bald spot that covered most of his head. Miller nished the round with the hairpiece, then ripped it o in his corner between rounds and tossed it into the crowd at Madison Square Garden. Miller won by split decision, then rubbed the top of his head while doing a celebratory dance.

NBA Flagg breaks NBA teen record with 49 points in Mavs’ loss to Hornets

Dallas As Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg set the NBA record for points by a teenager with 49 in a loss to Charlotte, he broke the franchise rookie scoring record he shared with Mark Aguirre. Flagg turned 19 in December. Kon Knueppel, Flagg’s roommate as Blue Devils freshmen, had a career-high 34 points, hitting the two winning free throws with 4.1 seconds left after being fouled by Flagg. Cli Robinson set the previous NBA teen record of 45 points at age 19 in 1980.

LeBron’s All-Star streak at 22 years

Duren, Powell, Johnson, Murray, Holmgren, Avdija are rst-time All-Stars

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

LEBRON JAMES IS an All-Star again, extending his record streak of selections.

James was a pick for the 22nd consecutive year, one of 14 players who were announced Sunday as reserves for the Feb. 15 midseason showcase that’ll take place at the Los Angeles Clippers’ arena in Inglewood, California.

James is the All-Star record holder in a number of categories. Among them: his still-active streak of consecutive selections, along with 20 All-Star appearances and 434 points in those contests.

The Los Angeles Lakers star was not chosen as a starter this season in the process that includes voting from fans, media and other players. NBA coaches choose the reserves and, if necessary, Commissioner Adam

Silver will select any additional players necessary for the AllStar rosters should someone need to be replaced because of injury.

James did not play in last season’s All-Star event because of injury.

The reserves from the Eastern Conference: Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell, New York’s Karl-Anthony Towns, Indiana’s Pascal Siakam, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes, Detroit’s Jalen Duren, Miami’s Norman Powell and Atlanta’s Jalen Johnson., a former Duke Blue Devil And from the Western Conference, along with James: Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards, Denver’s Jamal Murray, Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren, Houston’s Kevin Durant, Phoenix’s Devin Booker and Portland’s Deni Avdija.

Duren, Powell, Johnson, Murray, Holmgren and Avdija were rst-time selections.

This season’s All-Star Game has a tournament format — U.S. vs. The World, with three teams of at least eight players going head to head in 12-min-

ute games. Each team is guaranteed two games in the round-robin event, with the best two meeting again in a championship game.

Starters previously announced

The players chosen last month as starters: Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, Boston’s Jaylen Brown, Detroit’s Cade Cunningham, Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey, New York’s Jalen Brunson, Golden State’s Stephen Curry, the Lakers’ Luka Doncic, Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Denver’s Nikola Jokic and San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama. Antetokounmpo will miss a few weeks with a calf injury, so it would seem unlikely that he plays. Silver would pick a replacement for Antetokounmpo if he pulls out. Brown, Cunningham, Maxey, Brunson and Curry would gure to be part of the two U.S. teams. Doncic, Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic and Wembanyama

would play for the World team. The “starter” designation is a bit of a misnomer, since there will be at least 15 players who start for the three teams. By NBA rule, 10 players are chosen as o cial starters and the 14 others will be listed as reserves.

Coaches

Detroit’s J.B. Bickersta will coach one of the All-Star teams. Either San Antonio’s Mitch Johnson or Denver’s David Adelman will coach another — that will be decided by results of games on Sunday — and the NBA has not revealed how the coach of the third team will be decided.

Bickersta earned his nod because the Pistons lead the Eastern Conference. Johnson or Adelman will go by having the best record in the Western Conference among eligible coaches; Oklahoma City’s Mark Daigneault coaches the team with the West’s best record, but he cannot coach the AllStar Game this year because he coached at the event last season.

Alcaraz becomes youngest man to complete career

Grand

The 22-year-old denied Novak Djokovic a 25th Grand Slam title

By John Pye The Associated Press

MELBOURNE, Australia — Carlos Alcaraz had Novak Djokovic across the net from him and Rafael Nadal watching from above in Rod Laver Arena. His inspiration, and his idol. Alcaraz had visions of this as a kid — not entirely long ago, in the scheme of things — so there was no better time to show them what he’d learned from watching the two all-time greats, or borrowed from their aura. He had a comeback, fourset win over Djokovic and walked away from the Australian Open nal Sunday as the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam — that’s winning all four of the tennis majors. At 22 and 272 days of age, he’s considerably younger than Nadal (24) and Djokovic (29) were when they achieved that milestone, lowering a mark that Don Budge set in 1938 when he was a couple of days shy of his 23rd birthday. No sooner had he completed the career Slam — adding his rst victory in Australia to his two each at Wimbledon, Roland Garros and the U.S. Open — than the question was posed about a run at the calendar

Slam; is calendar Slam next?

Grand Slam. That’s all four major titles in one season, something no man has achieved since Rod Laver in 1969.

“Those are big words, to be honest,” said Alcaraz, the twotime defending champion at Roland Garros. “You know, I just want it to be one at a time. Right now next one is French Open. I have great memories in that tournament. I feel really special every time that I go there.

“I don’t want to put myself in a really pressure position to have to do it, but you know, it’s going to be great. Right now I will try to be ready ... to play a good tournament in the next Grand Slam.”

A set down after Djokovic’s opening salvo, Alcaraz channeled the legends and changed up his game to upset the rhythm. It worked. He’s now the only man to capture seven major titles before his 23rd birthday.

Carlos Alcaraz of Spain reacts after winning the men’s singles nal against Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open.

Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have dominated the majors since Djokovic won the last of his 24 Grand Slam titles at the 2023 U.S. Open, with one or the other winning the last nine.

Sinner was aiming for a third consecutive title in Australia, but lost in ve sets to 10-time Australian champion Djokovic in the semi nals.

There were many who questioned the decision when Alcaraz and long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero parted ways after the young Spaniard won the last U.S. Open, and who doubted his chances of being ready to win a rst title in Australia.

Samuel Lopez stepped up to head the team, and Alcaraz admitted the pre-season had been “a roller coaster for me emotionally.”

“A lot of people were having doubts about my level in this tournament,” he said. “Every year that I came here to Aus-

tralia I was thinking about getting the trophy (but) couldn’t go further than quarter nals.”

In 2026, he said he arrived at Melbourne Park “hungry for more, ambitious for getting the trophy, and being strong mentally enough, not hearing anything or any words” from critics.

“And then just playing good tennis in this tournament means a lot, means the world to me,” he said, “and it is a dream come true for me.”

With his latest bid for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title stymied, Djokovic could at least joke about the 16-year age gap between himself and Alcaraz.

“Well, rst time I played him, he was, what, 11 or 12 years old?” he said, smiling. “No, he was, I think, 18 or 19. You could already see that he’s destined for great things.

“He has improved physically, mentally, game-wise. I mean, he’s constantly looking to innovate himself and his game, which is exactly the kind of mentality that needs to be nurtured for a champion.”

Asked about the potential for Alcaraz to be ranked among the greats of the sport, Djokovic said the career Grand Slam is “a testament to his already stellar career.”

“Of course, already a legendary tennis player that made already a huge mark in the history books of tennis,” he added.

“Everything is possible in his case, no question about it.”

DAR YASIN / AP PHOTO

BRANDON DILL / AP PHOTO

Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) shoots between Memphis Grizzlies defenders earlier this month.

In ‘A Poet,’ Colombian farce of literary failure, stubborn belief

The Spanish-language lm is now in theaters with English subtitles

By Jake Coyle The Associated Press

IN SIMÓN MESA Soto’s “A Poet,” Oscar Restrepo (Ubeimar Rios) is a failed Colombian writer who keeps a photo of the author José Asunción Silva above his mantle. Silva died at age 30, and even Oscar would admit his own career would be a lot better if he had died young, too.

Mid-aged in Medellín, Oscar is unemployed, divorced and living with his mother (Margarita Soto). His case isn’t one of misunderstood genius, either. Oscar is prone to self-made disaster. A more successful friend, Efrain (Guillermo Cardona), calls him “a walking problem.”

“You’re a poem,” Efrain tells him. “A pretty sad one.”

But in the pantheon of sad-sack protagonists, Oscar is a triumph. Rios, a nonprofessional actor who squints behind thick glasses and whose arms hang stubbornly low from his hunched shoulders, creates in Oscar a gure of farcical perfection: a tortured artist, equal parts comedy and tragedy.

is a guy who, on a rare visit to his teenage daughter (Alisson Correa), asks if he can borrow $10. At the same time, Oscar is a stout believer in the grandest ideals of art. Give him a drink, or a microphone, and he’ll soon be rhapsodizing about the power of “poesía.” For someone one step from the gutter, he’s comically high minded.

But it’s been decades since he was published. He declares: “I’m a poet.” His sister corrects: “You’re unemployed.” Yet Oscar manages to land a job teaching at a local high school. The students mostly laugh at him, but Oscar believes one, a soft-spoken young woman named Yurlady (Rebeca Andrade), shows tremendous potential.

Yurlady, herself, doesn’t have any real literary ambitions. But Oscar, resolving to mentor her, helps her apply to Poetry Viva, a workshop for young writers run by Efrain, a smooth talker acclaimed for his social issues writing. He’s the central foil to Oscar — a pompous but savvy achiever who urges Yurlady not to submit her simple from-the-heart poems but something about racism or poverty that will win over liberal-minded European judges.

“You’re a poem. A pretty sad one.”

Guillermo Cardona as Efrain

yond poetry. “A Poet” premiered at last year’s Cannes Film Festival, winning an award in the Un Certain Regard section. Soto rst broke out in Cannes with a prize-winning short in 2014. In the intervening years, as a Colombian lmmaker, he’s surely encountered some stereotypical expectations.

But while “A Poet” might remind you of some other lms — one would be Cord Je erson’s “American Fiction” — it is, like Oscar, steadfastly its own thing. Filmed on grainy 16mm, it’s even rough and dirty around the edges, as if the movie is wearing its protagonist’s clothes.

There’s little that’s lyrical or beautiful about Oscar’s life. This

But if Soto’s lm is loose and gritty, its satire is remarkably precise. This is a farce of creative life where the only pure artistic intention is a joke. Success belongs to hypocrites like Efrain. Yurlady’s working class family sees only a chance for money. But Oscar, for all his foolishness, is at least uncompromising. He’s wrong about almost everything, except what really counts. MOVIE REVIEW

In this, Soto’s lm is an ironic allegory about art worlds be-

Ubeimar Rios plays failed writer Oscar Restrepo in “A Poet.”

this week in history

Mary, Queen of Scots, beheaded, The Beatles hit U.S., Baltimore in ames

FEB. 5

1917: Congress passed the Immigration Act of 1917 over President Woodrow Wilson’s veto, sharply restricting Asian immigration and requiring literacy tests for immigrants.

1918: During World War I, more than 200 people were killed when the Cunard liner SS Tuscania, carrying American troops to Europe, was torpedoed by a German U-boat o the coast of Ireland.

1971: Apollo 14 astronauts Alan Shepard and Edgar Mitchell stepped onto the moon in the rst of two lunar excursions.

FEB. 6

1778: During the American Revolutionary War, the United States won o cial recognition and military support from France with the signing of the Treaty of Alliance in Paris.

1862: During the Civil War, Fort Henry in Tennessee fell to Union forces.

1921: “The Kid,” Charlie Chaplin’s rst feature-length lm, was released across the United States.

1952: Britain’s King George

Springsteen sings out against Trump in ‘Streets of Minneapolis’

“The Boss” has been an outspoken voice against the president since his rst term

By Mark Kennedy

The Associated Press

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN is dedicating his new song to the people of Minneapolis, criticizing President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration enforcement operations in the city.

The lyrics of “Streets of Minneapolis,” released Wednesday, describe how “a city a ame fought re and ice ‘neath an occupier’s boots,” which Springsteen calls “King Trump’s private army.”

Springsteen in a statement said he wrote and recorded the song over the weekend and released it in response to a second deadly shooting by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.

“It’s dedicated to the people of Minneapolis, our innocent immigrant neighbors and in memory of Alex Pretti and Renee Good,” he wrote, naming the two victims.

Abigail Jackson, a White House spokesperson, respond-

ed: “The Trump Administration is focused on encouraging state and local Democrats to work with federal law enforcement ofcers on removing dangerous criminal illegal aliens from their communities — not random songs with irrelevant opinions and inaccurate information.”

Springsteen’s slow-burning song builds from just acoustic guitar and voice to a fuller band tune, including a harmonica solo, and ends with chants of “ICE Out!”

“Oh, our Minneapolis, I hear your voice,” The Boss sings. “Singing through the bloody mist/We’ll take our stand for this land/And the stranger in our midst.”

The title echoes Springsteen’s “Streets of Philadelphia,” which served as a title song for the Tom Hanks-led 1993 lm “Philadelphia.” His song comes on the heels of English singer-songwriter Billy Bragg’s own “City of Heroes,” which the protest singer wrote Sunday and released the next day. Bragg said in a statement that the song was inspired by Pretti’s killing and centers “the bravery of the people of Minneapolis.” Springsteen has long been

American inventor Thomas Alva Edison, best known for inventions such as the phonograph, was born Feb. 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio.

VI died at age 56. He was succeeded by his eldest daughter, 25-year-old Queen Elizabeth II.

FEB. 7

1964: The Beatles were met by thousands of screaming fans at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport as they arrived to begin their rst American tour.

1904: The Great Baltimore Fire began; one of the worst city res in American history, it destroyed more than 1,500 buildings in central Baltimore.

1943: The U.S. government announced that wartime rationing of shoes made of leather would soon take e ect, limiting the number of pairs a person could buy each year.

FEB. 8

1587: Mary, Queen of Scots, was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle in England after being implicated in a plot against her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I.

1693: A charter was granted for the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg in the Virginia Colony.

1910: The Boy Scouts of America was incorporated by William D. Boyce, inspired by the British Boy Scout movement.

FEB. 9

1825: The House of Representatives elected John Quincy Adams president after no candidate won a majority of electoral votes.

1943: The World War II Battle of Guadalcanal in the southwest Paci c ended with an Allied victory over Japanese forces.

1950: In a speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, Republican Sen. Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin charged that the State Department

was riddled with communists.

1964: The Beatles made their rst live American television appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” broadcast from New York on CBS.

FEB. 10

1763: The Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Seven Years’ War and transferring most of France’s Canadian territory to Great Britain.

1936: Nazi Germany’s Reichstag passed a law granting the Gestapo secret police sweeping authority, exempt from judicial review.

1962: On the Glienicke Bridge, the Soviet Union traded captured U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers for Soviet spy Rudolf Abel.

FEB. 11

1847: American inventor Thomas Alva Edison was born in Milan, Ohio.

1937: A six-week sit-down strike against General Motors ended after the company agreed to recognize and bargain with the United Auto Workers.

1975: Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of Britain’s opposition Conservative Party, setting the stage for her rise to prime minister in 1979.

Bruce Springsteen appears at the AFI Fest

Nowhere” in Los Angeles in October 2025.

“Oh, our Minneapolis, I hear your voice/ singing through the bloody mist/We’ll take our stand for this land/And the stranger in our midst.” Bruce Springsteen

critical of the president, who in turn has called the rock icon “overrated.” They last publicly clashed last year, when Springsteen on tour in England told his audience that America “is

currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration.” Trump responded by calling Springsteen a “dried out prune of a rocker.” In related news, Minneapolis’

First Avenue venue will host on Friday the bene t “A Concert of Solidarity & Resistance to Defend Minnesota,” featuring Tom Morello, Rise Against, Al Di Meola and Ike Reilly. All proceeds will go to the families of Good and Pretti.

“We are coming to Minneapolis where the people have heroically stood up against ICE, stood up against Trump, stood up against this terrible rising tide of state terror,” Morello said in a statement.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

premiere of “Springsteen: Deliver Me from

AP PHOTO

famous birthdays this week

Tom Brokaw hits 86, John Grisham turns 71, Tina Louise (“Gilligan’s Island”) turns 92

The Associated Press

THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.

FEB. 5

Tony-winning playwright John Guare is 88. Football Hall of Famer Roger Staubach is 84. Film director Michael Mann is 83. Racing Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip is 79. Actor Barbara Hershey is 78. Actor-comedian Tim Meadows is 65.

FEB. 6

Actor Mike Farrell is 87. Former NBC News anchorman Tom Brokaw is 86. Singer Fabian is 83. Filmmaker Jim Sheridan is 77. Tennis Hall of Famer Manuel Orantes is 77. Actor Kathy Najimy is 69. Actor-director Robert Townsend is 69. Rock singer Axl Rose (Guns N’ Roses) is 64.

FEB. 7

Author Gay Talese is 94. Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) is 74. Actor James Spader is 66. Country singer Garth Brooks is 64. Actor-comedian Eddie Izzard is 64. Actor-comedian Chris Rock is 61. Actor Ashton Kutcher is 48.

FEB. 8

Composer-conductor John Williams is 94. Broadcast journalist Ted Koppel is 86. Actor Nick Nolte is 85. Comedian Robert Klein is 84. Actor-rock musician Creed Bratton is 83. Actor Mary Steenburgen is 73. Author John Grisham is 71.

FEB. 9

Artist Gerhard Richter is 94. Nobel Prize-winning author J.M. Coetzee is 86. Singer-songwriter Carole King is 84. Actor Joe Pesci is 83. Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz is 83. Author Alice Walker is 82. Actor Mia Farrow is 81.

FEB. 10

FEB. 11

Actor Tina Louise (“Gilligan’s Island”) is 92. Musician Sergio Mendes is 85. Actor Philip Anglim (“The Thorn Birds”) is 74. Singer Sheryl Crow is 64. Actor Jennifer Aniston is 57.

Opera singer Leontyne Price is 99. Actor Robert Wagner is 96. Olympic swimming gold medalist Mark Spitz is 76. Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman is 71. Basketball Hall of Fame coach John Calipari is 67. Filmmaker Alexander Payne is 65. TV host-political commentator George Stephanopoulos is 65. Actor Laura Dern is 59.

JOEL C. RYAN / INVISION / AP PHOTO Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses turns 64 on Friday.

ADAM HUNGER / AP PHOTO

Chris Rock turns 61 on Saturday.

JOHN LOCHER / AP PHOTO Singer-songwriter Carole King turns 84 on Monday.

the stream

“Splitsville,” a

‘Splitsville,’

on Thursday.

‘Puppy Bowl,’ Keke Palmer,

J. Cole, Nick Jonas drops new solo album

A television adaptation the 80s dark comedy “The Burbs” lands on Peacock

The Associated Press

THE GOOFY AND wry relationship comedy “Splitsville” landing on Hulu and fresh albums by J. Cole and Nick Jonas 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: Keke Palmer starring in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Tom Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock, gamers getting fast and bloody samurai action with Nioh 3 and Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” returning for Season 4.

MOVIES TO STREAM

One of last year’s funniest original movies, the goofy and wry relationship comedy “Splitsville,” is streaming on Hulu starting Thursday. Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin, the duo behind “The Climb,” bring the audience along on a metaphorical (and literal) roller coaster of a comedy about open relationships, divorce and human mistakes, in which they star opposite Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona. In his review, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle wrote that, “though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s,” adding “the performer here who would have been most at home in that bygone comedy heyday is Johnson.”

Also coming to Hulu on Thursday is James L. Brooks’ “Ella McCay,” a starry political dramedy with Emma Mackey playing an ambitious and idealistic lieutenant governor who has to take over for her boss. The lm was a major op with audiences and critics during its theatrical run. The AP’s Jocelyn Noveck, in her review, called it “ba ingly disjointed, uneven, unfunny and illogical,” adding that Mackey is the only reason to watch the lm. Filmmaker Rory Kennedy

(“Downfall: The Case Against Boeing”) tells the story of Judit Polgár, the Hungarian girl who dreamed of conquering men’s chess and defeat champion Garry Kasparov, in “Queen of Chess.” The documentary just premiered at the Sundance Film Festival but will already be available to stream on Net ix on Thursday.

MUSIC TO STREAM

Nick Jonas, the youngest of the Jonas Brothers trio and fresh o a successful stadium

run with his siblings, will release his rst solo album in just under ve years on Friday titled “Sunday Best.” The rst taste arrived in the form of lead single “Gut Punch.” It is smooth adult pop — as is his bread and butter — easy listening for those in need of a love song. Also on tap: the innovative rapper and producer J. Cole returns with his seventh studio album, “The Fall-O .” Some fans theorize it may be his nal record — and with good reason. The music video for “Disc 2 Track 2,” released in January,

begins with a note from Cole describing that he knew “in my heart I would one day get to the nish line.” That track recalls Nas’ 2001 hit “Rewind,” which may o er a tease as to what the album may sound like: a love letter to hip-hop, and the career it has given Cole.

SERIES TO STREAM

It may be cold outside, but there’s a heatwave on Bravo as the reality series “Summer House” returns for a 10th season. The show features Manhattanites sharing a shore house in the Hamptons, although recent seasons have also followed the gang when they’re back in New York during the week. It’s streaming now on Peacock. Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” is back for Season 4 beginning Thursday. Based on novels by Michael Connelly, the series follows talented Los Angeles attorney Mickey Haller (played by Manuel García-Rulfo) as he takes on high-pro le defendants. This season Haller is the one who needs a strong defense when he’s falsely accused of murder.

“Puppy Bowl,” the annual TV event promoting animal adoption, airs its 22nd iter-

“Though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s.”

Jake Coyle, AP Film Writer

ation on Sunday. “Puppy Bowl XXII” will simulcast across Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV, HBO Max and discovery+. Another call-to-action special, the “Great American Rescue Bowl” also takes place Sunday. This one highlight both adoptable dogs and cats and will be available on Great American Pure Flix, Great American Family, and GFAM+. Palmer stars in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock. All eight episodes drop Sunday. Palmer and Jack Whitehall play a couple who move to suburbia with their new baby to live a nice, quiet life. The neighborhood seems less idyllic once the wife becomes xated on one of her neighbors, whom she connects with a decades-long missing person case.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Koei Tecmo’s Nioh series has built a cult audience among gamers who like their samurai action fast and bloody. Nioh 3, from Tokyo-based developer Team Ninja, adds some twists. Tokugawa Takechiyo is about to be appointed shogun when his jealous brother unleashes a horde of yōkai — ghouls, demons and other supernatural creatures drawn from Japanese folklore. Takechiyo can ght back with brute-force samurai skills, or switch to more acrobatic ninja tactics, all in a vast open world that promises more freedom than previous installments. Take up arms Friday on PlayStation 5 or PC.

NEON VIA AP

comedy starring Michael Angelo Covino, Kyle Marvin, Adria Arjona and Dakota Johnson, lands on Hulu

RICHARD VOGEL / AP PHOTO

Manuel Garcia-Rulfo returns as Los Angeles attorney Mickey Haller in Season 4 of “The Lincoln Lawyer.”

20TH CENTURY STUDIOS VIA AP

Emma Mackey portrays a determined lieutenant governor in James Brooks’ drama “Ella McCay.”

Duplin Journal

the

BRIEF

this week

Voter registration deadline on Friday

Duplin County Voters must register by 5 p.m. Friday to vote in the March 3 primary election. Feb. 6 is also the deadline for registered voters to change their party a liation. Eligible individuals may still register and vote during the early voting period, Feb. 12-28, at any early voting site.

Application deadline for Pitch It Duplin! on Sunday

Duplin County

The application deadline to compete in Pitch It Duplin is Sunday. Aspiring entrepreneurs are invited to pitch their business ideas for a chance to win: $3,000 for rst place, $2,000 for second and $1,000 for third. The local business pitch competition is hosted by the JSCC Small Business Center in partnership with Marine Federal Credit Union and the Kenansville Area Chamber of Commerce. For details, call 910-659-6008.

Volunteers, donations welcomed for Prison Ministry Crusade

Beulaville

Emerge Ministries of Beulaville is welcoming volunteers and donations of composition notebooks, word search books, stamps and envelopes as it prepares for its rst quarterly Prison Ministry Crusade of the year, happening March 6-8. Registration is open for volunteers until Feb. 20. Supplies donations can be dropped o at Emerge Ministries at 990 Old Chinquapin Road in Beulaville.

GriefShare support group o ered

Kenansville

Duplin County Senior Services hosts GriefShare, a grief support group, on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 2-3 p.m. Facilitated by Dr. Ray Kennedy. For more information, call 910 -296 -2140.

Whiteout brings snowmen, sleds, smiles to Duplin

Last weekend, Duplin County wrapped in white with nine to 12 inches of snow and memories to match after Winter Storm Gianna passed. Children and adults gathered at Dorothy Wightman Library with their sleds to enjoy the snow. Turn to A6 for more photos.

Winter weather snarls Duplin roads

Several drivers were stranded due to conditions

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

THE HISTORIC snowfall in Duplin County over the weekend left many drivers learning a hard lesson about attempting to drive in hazardous conditions despite repeated warnings to stay o the roads, according to Brian Matthis, Duplin County Public Safety deputy director.

“There have been a lot of ve -

hicles run o into ditches where they can’t see where the road is,” Matthis said Monday afternoon in an interview with Duplin Journal.

While slippery roads left many drivers stranded, there have been no reports of serious injuries.

“As far as motor vehicle collisions with injuries, I don’t know of any,” Matthis said.

Fortunately, the area experienced snow rather than an ice storm. As a result, there were

Johnson receives lifetime achievement award

Bob Johnson (center), CEO and owner of House of Raeford Farms, holds his 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award alongside his wife, Luanne Johnson, and Greg Morgan, NPFDA chairman of the board.

The NPFDA honored the poultry executive’s decades of leadership and impact on the protein industry

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

ROSE HILL — Robert C.

“Bob” Johnson, chief executive o cer and owner of House of Raeford Farms, was honored with the National Protein and Food

New hangar expected by June

Interest income and grants will support renovations, the fuel farm and apron upgrades

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Construction on Duplin County Airport’s new hangar has come a long way over the holidays.

Distributors Association’s 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award during the organization’s annual meeting in Atlanta on Jan. 28.

“I was honored to receive the same award given to my father 19 years ago,” said Johnson. “It was also incredibly special to have my wife Luanne, children, grandchildren, other family members, and so many co-workers present with me during the ceremony.” For more than ve decades,

Among the discussed options were hydraulic doors, new roof, and deskinning (replacing old metal with new metal). Much of the budget has already been committed to dehumidication systems that will solve long-standing moisture problems in the buildings. The board discussed what di erent options would have the most lasting bene ts for the airport and which could justify increasing rental rates.

“All the big metal is up on the new hangar, and the walls are starting to go up,” Airport Director Joshua Raynor told the Duplin County Airport Board at last Tuesday’s meeting. The board then discussed the project’s budget and how to best spend the $400,000 set aside to rehabilitate existing structures. Both hangars to be renovated are more than 35 years old. Hangar 1 was built in 1974; Hangar 2 was built in 1990.

Board member Dexter Edwards suggested that a nicer hydraulic door on the new hangar would help test the waters of who is willing to pay more for a luxury hangar. Still, the board decided to make no decision on the doors until price quotes could be o ered. Instead, it approved $290,000 to Daniels and Daniels, moving $170,000 from $2.00

See

COURTESY KENANSVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT

MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL Lake Leamon Road, just east of Wallace, had been plowed, leaving it in better condition than many secondary roads in Duplin County on Sunday afternoon.

COURTESY HOUSE OF RAEFORD

Joshua Raynor

Ena Sellers

Michael Jaenicke

Patsy Teachey

Advertising Representative

Loretta Carey

O ce Manager

CONTACT US

O ce Phone: 910 463-1240

To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042

We stand corrected

To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@ nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

reserves. The new hangar is projected to be done by early June. Rental rates on the new hangar have yet to be determined. Board member Gage King recommended consulting a realtor from Raleigh who is looking to market hangar space.

The board made $311,000 in interest after investing the $5 million hangar project funds. The board discussed the rules on how to spend the interest funds and discovered that the same limitations apply to interest income as to the funds from which they were earned. However, a request could be made to the legislators who awarded it if the board wanted to submit a plan for the use of funds outside the scope of the original approved project.

Payment for the completed taxiway project is set to be covered by grant funding, but it is still waiting on the state to move funds from one grant to another to pay out the project.

The fuel farm project is moving forward with plans to start in mid-March. Part of the apron will be closed during construction. A fuel truck will be used away from the fuel farm for safety during working hours, and self-serve gas will remain open during non-working hours.

The apron design project discovered that no stone was under the concrete when it was built in 1995. Stone is necessary to keep the ground safe around the fuel farm in case of leakage. A 9-inch soil-and-concrete mix will be installed to x it.

The board discussed a temporary “dust storm” that will lower visibility while this soil cement is being laid. The apron design is going to seek state funding for concrete instead of asphalt. The state prefers asphalt, but the unique geographical problems and needs of the location make cement a better option. In the location, asphalt sinks in the summer. Plans with estimates for the apron project are expect-

THURSDAY FEB. 5

FRIDAY FEB. 6

The $750 award is available for business or business-related degree programs

Duplin Journal sta

THE NORTH CAROLINA

Cooperative Extension Administrative Professionals Association (NCCEAPA) is offering a $750 scholarship for the 2026 academic year. Applications for the award

RAEFORD from page A1

fostering connection, collaboration and long-term business relationships that strengthen the protein industry has been a goal of the NPFDA. The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to persons whose leadership have in uenced and strengthened the processing, distribution or marketing segments of the protein industry. For Johnson, the honor continues a family legacy rooted in the values instilled by his father and grandfather. For the NPFDA, it re ects his decades-long leadership, commitment to community-focused initiatives and multigenerational impact on the protein industry. Johnson’s career mirrors the evolution of House of Raeford Farms itself, which began as a family farm in 1955 before becoming House of Raeford

SATURDAY FEB. 7

SUNDAY FEB. 8

are being accepted through March 20.

Open to those working toward an associate or bachelor’s degree or a diploma program that leads to a college degree in business or related elds, the scholarship supports students who will be enrolled in college classes during the 2026-27 school year. For additional information, students may contact the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service,

Farms. Starting on the processing line of his family’s turkey operation, Johnson gained an understanding of the business from the ground up. Over time, that hands-on experience shaped his approach. Following in the footsteps of both his father and grandfather, Johnson helped carry forward the family legacy.

“As a child, I can remember being around my dad, grandfather, and uncle as they slowly grew our business from a few turkey farms to a hatchery, feed mill, and processing facility. Those early experiences shaped my belief that hard work and family values would always guide our company,” wrote Johnson in a public letter as the company celebrated 70 years.

Today as CEO and owner of House of Raeford Farms, he leads one of the nation’s top

Duplin County Center at 910 -296 -2143 or visit the center at 165C Agriculture Drive in Kenansville. Application packets are available through the nancial aid o ce at local community colleges. The award honors the contributions of Edith Herter and Frances O’Neal, who co-founded NCCEAPA in 1973 and helped shape the organization’s mission to support professional growth in cooperative extension services.

10 chicken producers and a top revenue-generating company in North Carolina. Under Johnson’s leadership, House of Raeford’s impact expanded beyond production numbers and market share. In 2010, the company established FLOCK, a nonprofit organization focused on hunger relief, youth development, and advancing mental health and addiction recovery initiatives in communities where the company operates.

“The real credit for the success of House of Raeford goes to those who came before me and planted the seeds, like my father and grandfather,” ,” said Johnson. “And the many associates that nurtured those seeds over 70 years through hard work and dedication. It takes a committed team to achieve great results, and I am proud to work alongside such outstanding people.”

ed to be ready for discussion at the next board meeting.

The remaining earthwork needed for the airport maintenance building was approved. Work to haul dirt and make a pad will start when the weather is dry. Afterward, the airport will open for bids to complete the airport maintenance rehab project; $200,000 in grant funding has already been approved toward the project.

The board discussed their budget. Fuel sales were lower than expected in January, but everything else was on track

with the budget. There were 391 operations in January: low but not unusual. A new white Ford Explorer from Enterprise will now be the airport’s new crew car. Contracts were signed to lease it for three years. The airport also acquired a new, six-passenger electric golf cart. Both vehicles should be available for viewing at the next board meeting. New hires were discussed. Raynor shared that Brandon Gibson was hired full time and Mark Anderson was hired part time. Both new hires are from

Beulaville. The board asked for all airport employees to come to meet the board and share dinner with them at the next board meeting. The board had some discussion about members up for reelection this year. Four positions will be up for reelection on June 30. Raynor said the members would have to decide by April if they want to go for reelection in order to be presented to the county commissioners and placed on the ballot in time. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County:

Feb.

7

Annual sheepshearing

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors can watch sheepshearing demonstrations, learn about wool grading and ber arts and enjoy hands-on activities for all ages. Free admission.

141 Old Fountain Road, Richlands

Duplin County Historical Society meeting

Noon

The Duplin County Historical Society meeting will be at Wesley Chapel UMC Fellowship Hall. Members and the public are invited to discuss the status of the organization and its future. Please note that the Duplin County Historical Society will not meet at the Rose Hill Restaurant. Annual membership fees are due and can be paid at the meeting.

1127 North N.C. 11-903 Highway, Kenansville

Feb. 10

Duplin County 2026 Soup-er Bowl

5:30–7:30 p.m.

The Duplin County Cooperative Extension will host the 2026 Soup-er Bowl cooking workshop. Participants will learn how to prepare healthy soups while exploring nutrition, food safety and culinary techniques. Teams will cook, taste and vote to crown the winning soup. Cost is $20.

N.C. Cooperative Extension – Duplin County Center, Kenansville

Feb. 13

Night to Shine Prom

5 p.m.

The Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine, a special needs prom, comes to Duplin County. The event will be held at Charity Mission, o ering an unforgettable evening of celebration for honored guests and their families.

1333 W. Charity Road, Rose Hill

Got a local event? Let us know and we’ll share it with the community here. Email our newsroom at community@duplinjournal. com. Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.

HANGAR from page A1

REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

The new hangar at the Duplin County Airport is projected to be completed by early June.

Mural artist will begin work in Wallace later this year

Local o cials are exploring locations and designs for a mural

by artist Max Dowdle

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

MAX DOWDLE IS a man on a mission or, more accurately, an artist on a mission. His goal is to paint a mural in each of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Plans are for the town of Wallace to become a recipient of his artwork later this year.

In an interview with Duplin Journal, Dowdle said the idea came up thanks to a discussion he had with a man he considers a mentor, Larry Wheeler, the director emeritus of the North Carolina Museum of Art.

“(Wheeler’s) retired now, but he wanted to keep his hands in various art projects around the state,” Dowdle said. “We started talking about something that would be statewide and could engage every county.”

The moment the idea of murals in every county came up, about 31⁄2 years ago, Dowdle went right to work. He reached out to the N.C. Association of County Commissioners, N.C. Main Street and the N.C. Museum of Art.

“It’s been a great experience so far,” he said. “I’ve just loved every minute of it.” So far, Dowdle has complet-

CURFEW from page A1

no reports of trees down across the county, Matthis said.

Although the emergency management o ce does not receive speci c calls for frozen pipes, Matthis said he had heard anecdotal reports of residents without water af-

“It’s always places that people are trying hard to rejuvenate and make better. I just love that I’m able to be a part of that all across the state.”

Max Dowdle

ed 12 murals across the state, including one in Clinton. That mural caught the attention of Wallace Town Clerk Jackie Nicholson when she read about it in a newsletter.

“I thought, ‘We need that here,’” Nicholson told Duplin Journal. “I found his contact information and sent an email, so here we are.”

One challenge has been selecting the best wall to house the new mural. It was hoped a wall across from the Wallace Depot could be used, but the property owner declined. A building not far from the old Jim Russ Chevrolet building along Main Street is now being considered. As that decision is being made, there is also exploration into what the mural art will contain. The town sent a survey to residents for feedback.

“I have collated those responses,” Nicholson said, adding she is going to send the results to Dowdle.

Next, she wants to bring Dowdle to town for an oppor-

ter temperatures plunged into the single digits overnight Monday. Tow truck drivers and plumbers are expected to be busy in the aftermath of the storm. Several banks and stores in the county closed Monday, though most grocery stores remained open. Walmart in

tunity for community input.

“I can’t decide if we want to have a meeting or the kind of thing we did when he got the grant for the park, an in-and- out event when you could come whatever time you want and leave your comments,” Nicholson said. “I guess it will depend on what his preference would be.”

Dowdle said he has been very pleased with reactions to the murals he has completed and what they mean to a community.

“It’s like a facelift,” he said. “It immediately injects energy into a place, as well. It’s always places that people are trying hard to rejuvenate and make better. I just love that I’m able to be a part of that all across the state.”

Dowdle projects he will have 20 murals completed by the end of this year, and Wallace is on that list. He said he would like to line up Wallace for the fall or late summer if the wall and design are ready.

It’s obvious Dowdle’s art is impressing people in the communities where he has completed murals.

“Even months later, I will get emails or calls from people saying how much they appreciate a piece that I put up, so it’s been fantastic,” he said.

The Town of Wallace was the recipient of a $2,500 grant from the Carolina Strawberry Festival board in September for the mural project.

Wallace opened at noon after closing in the morning, and the U.S. Post O ce in Wallace remained open.

Duplin County Schools implemented an asynchronous remote learning day on Tuesday and Wednesday to ensure safety for students and sta .

DUPLIN COUNTY CLERK OF COURT

Integrity • Dedication • Christian • 23+ Years Experience • Compassionate • Conservative ELECTION DAY March 3rd EARLY VOTING: FEBRUARY 12TH – 28TH

DCOM helps thousands of Duplin families with food, rent, utilities

Crisis Center and Feed Our Hungry Children programs provide critical support for households and students

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

WALLACE — Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries (DCOM) continues to provide emergency assistance to Duplin County residents facing financial and food insecurity, offering help with basic needs such as rent, utilities, gasoline and access to food resources.

Founded to give area churches a centralized way to respond to emergencies, DCOM serves residents across the county through a network of partner food pantries and social service referrals.

Tomme Maier, executive director of Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries, re ected on the powerful way the community has come together.

“It has been an amazing experience to watch churches, businesses, civic groups, schools, agencies and individuals come together to not only address food insecurity in our community but to encourage each other in service to our neighbors including our children,” said Maier, adding that the needs in Duplin are significant.

Data from the 2024 Economic Snapshot of the Duplin County Community Foundation notes that 44% of Duplin County residents are considered low-income and 19.8% are food insecure.

Maier highlighted the painful realities many families face as they try to rebuild their lives amid hardship.

“I hate to think about a child going to bed hungry or sleeping in cars and tents in frigid weather, families torn apart by violence and those trying to restart their lives and hitting hardships while doing it,” Maier told Duplin Journal.

Despite these challenges, she emphasized the strength and compassion of the community when needs are met through collective action.

“I witness greatness in our community at large when needs are recognized, resources are identified, and efforts come together to put action to faith and faith into action,” Maier said.

“The services provided cannot solve the great issues of poverty and hunger in Duplin County, but they may make a di erence for individual neighbors and families,” said DCOM Board Vice Chair Phil Gladden.

“I witness greatness in our Community at large when needs are recognized, resources are identi ed, and e orts come together to put action to faith and faith into action.”

Tomme Maier

According to DCOM’s data shared with Duplin Journal, DCOM served 8,911 households and 29,068 individuals across Duplin County through its core programs last year. The DCOM Crisis Center assisted 1,375 households and a total of 3,782 people, providing more than $56,000 in emergency assistance for rent, utilities and gasoline, helping the households during difficult times. Five partner pantries served 7,276 households, supporting 25,026 people.

According to Gladden, children remain a key focus of the ministry’s work with Duplin County’s child poverty rate at 31%. Through its Feed Our Hungry Children and Backpack Ministry, DCOM distributed 8,052 weekend backpacks and 750 summer backpacks to students in five Duplin County schools during the 2024–25 school year.

DCOM also operates Blessings in Store, a thrift shop on West Main Street in Wallace. The store generated more than $128,000 in sales, with proceeds supporting the ministry’s Crisis Center services.

Maier expressed deep gratitude for the volunteers who serve through the Crisis Center, food pantries, Feed Our Hungry Children Backpack Ministry and Blessings In Store, noting that their dedication makes a meaningful difference every day.

She encouraged the broader community to join in the local missions — feeding the hungry, keeping families safely housed, helping children thrive in school and supporting local agencies like Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries.

“God has blessed many of us, and we are reminded to serve where we can and when we can with what we can,” Residents interested in supporting Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries can contact Maier at 910-285-6000 or visit duplinchristian.org.

DCOM BY THE NUMBERS (2024-25)

7,276 households served by food pantries

$56,130 in crisis assistance

8,802 backpacks distributed

• $128,183 generated by Blessings in Store

Duplin County Community Foundation

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

| DAVID HARSANYI

Price controls won’t work any better for Republicans than it does Democrats

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

DEMONIZING GREEDY BANKERS and landlords is the last refuge of the poorly polling politician.

And, as a ordability remains a leading issue among voters, the Trump administration has regularly used rhetoric and ideas that mirror those of progressive Democrats like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Take the president’s recent idea for capping credit card interest rates at 10%. Or rather, the idea that’s already proposed in a bill sponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). “They’ve really abused the public,” the president said of credit card companies. “I’m not going to let it happen.”

This probably feels good to hear. But if you nd an APR on a new credit card o er “predatory,” de nitely do not sign up for it. You don’t owe the bank anything, and it doesn’t owe you.

An interest rate, though, re ects risk. It’s the entry price for obtaining credit. If you have a good credit score, you get lower rates and vice versa.

Capping the rate won’t eliminate credit risk factors, though it will likely shrink available money for people who need it most: lower-income and young workers, or anyone else trying to build up their credit. Lots of entrepreneurs and small-business owners also rely on credit cards to tide them over for a season or help with up-front capital.

And those who are denied cards will still need funds. They’ll inevitably seek out other means of borrowing, probably at even higher rates. Maybe they’ll go to payday loans and cash checking places. Maybe they’ll take second mortgages. Maybe they’ll go to the black market.

There are those who argue that Americans already borrow far too much and that limiting access to credit would be good for them. Rest assured, these nannies almost surely own their homes and cars — purchases that become even more prohibitive for people unable to improve their credit scores.

Trump likes to explicitly threaten or jawbone companies into doing his bidding. Bank of America, for example, is reportedly considering o ering a credit card with interest capped at 10% to placate the administration.

Well, there’s no federal cap on what APRs banks can o er on credit cards. If providers want to undercut competition, nothing is stopping them. Banks are businesses, after all, not charities.

But if banks lose out charging riskier customers lower interest rates to get on the good side of the administration, they’ll simply raise fees elsewhere, pull back on rewards and nd other creative ways to make their reliable consumers pay.

Price xing never alleviates cost — it merely displaces it.

Take Mamdani as he “cracks down,” as one

12 Question quiz: What ‘fascist’ ‘xenophobe’ ‘tyrant’ said this?

We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked.

1. “I’m really good at killing people. Didn’t know that was going to be a strong suit of mine.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. President Barack Obama, 2012

2. “But, let me tell you, we can build a fence 40 stories high — unless you change the dynamic in Mexico and — and you will not like this, and — punish American employers who knowingly violate the law when, in fact, they hire illegals. Unless you do those two things, all the rest is window dressing.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.), 2006

3. “Today, I will issue a national security memorandum directing every federal department and agency to do even more to stop the ow of narcotics — including fentanyl — into our country. It will increase intelligence collection on tra ckers’ evolving tactics to smuggle narcotics into our country. And it will help our law enforcement personnel seize more deadly drugs before they reach our communities.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. President Joe Biden, 2024

a. President Donald Trump, 2026, about Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro

b. President Barack Obama, 2011, about Libya’s Muammar Gadda

5. “We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked and circumventing the line of people who are waiting patiently, diligently and lawfully to become immigrants in this country.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), 2005

6. “Real reform means stronger border security ... putting more boots on the southern border than at any time in our history and reducing illegal crossings to their lowest levels in 40 years.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026

b. President Barack Obama, 2013

travel magazine referred to it, on “junk fees” in city hotels.

“Junk” is just a description of a cost that consumers and politicians have arbitrarily decided shouldn’t be paid. But they will be. Hotels will almost inevitably raise prices elsewhere or decrease services to make up for it.

Economic magical thinking never dies, however, because it’s tethered to envy and anger rather than rational thinking. Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

And there is no more convenient villain than a faceless pro t-mongering landlord.

Take another price control policy championed by Mamdani: rent control, a practice that’s been failing to lower housing costs since Roman times, at least.

A slew of studies and empirical evidence nds that rent control doesn’t work. The vast majority of economists, both on the right and left, believe it’s a bad idea. Still, most polls nd that rent “stabilization” is supported by around 80% of New Yorkers.

Every generation, it seems, convinces itself it possesses the best technocrats and formula to properly control economic activity to make it fairer and decent. Mamdani is just another in a long line of politicians who play the role.

But Trump? He should know better.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books — the most recent, “How To Kill a Republic,” available now. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

8. “Because we do need to address the issue of immigration and the challenge we have of undocumented people in our country. We certainly don’t want any more coming in.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), 2008

9. “All Americans ... are rightly disturbed by the large numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. ... We are a nation of immigrants. But we are also a nation of laws.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. President Bill Clinton, 1995

10. “I think we can enforce our borders. I think we should enforce our borders.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2018

b. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), 1994

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. To nd out more about Larry Elder, or become an “Elderado,” visit www.LarryElder.com. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

4. “The United States and the world faced a choice. (The dictator) declared he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats and threatened to go door to door to in ict punishment. In the past, we have seen him hang civilians in the streets and kill over a thousand people in a single day. It was not in our national interest to let that (massacre) happen. I refused to let that happen.”

7. “Illegal immigration is wrong, plain and simple. ... People who enter the United States without our permission are illegal aliens and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... Until the American people are convinced that we will stop future ows of illegal immigration, we will make no progress on dealing with the millions of illegal immigrants who are here now. ... When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combatting illegal immigration. If you don’t think it’s illegal, you’re not going to say it. I think it is illegal and wrong.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009

11. “If making it easy to be an illegal alien isn’t enough, how about o ering a reward for being an illegal immigrant? No sane country would do that. Right? ... If you break our laws by entering this country without permission and give birth to a child, we reward that child with U.S. citizenship.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), 1993

12. “A biometric-based employment veri cation system with tough enforcement and auditing is necessary to signi cantly diminish the job magnet that attracts illegal aliens to the United States.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009 Hint: If it’s not too late, consider betting on “b.”

COLUMN

Students shine in Carolina Strawberry Festival Art Contest

The rst- and second-place artwork will appear on the festival T-shirt

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

LAST WEEK, THE Caroli-

na Strawberry Festival Committee announced the winners of the 2026 art contest which drew strong participation from Duplin County high school students, prompting organizers to recognize three winners this year.

First place went to Presley Brown, a freshman at Wallace-Rose Hill High School. Presley’s colorful design will be featured on the back of the ocial 2026 festival T-shirt.

“Drawing is my favorite way to express myself and make sense of the world around me,” said Presley. “I take pride in my community and feel inspired by the people and places that have shaped who I am.”

Second place was awarded to Yandel Martinez Mendieta, a senior at James Kenan High School. “I love expressing myself through art,” said Yandel. In a special twist this year, Yandel’s artwork will appear on the front pocket of the festival T-shirt rather than the traditional logo.

The artwork that will be featured on the back of the o cial 2026 Carolina Strawberry Festival T-shirt was created by Presley Brown, a freshman at Wallace-Rose Hill High School, who earned rst place with her vibrant and colorful design.

Third place went to Emely Guzman, a sophomore at James Kenan High School, who said she enjoys using art to connect with her community and spend time with family and friends. Festival organizers praised

all participants and said they were proud to celebrate the talent of Duplin County’s young artists. Winning artwork will be displayed during the 2026 Carolina Strawberry Festival on May 1-2 in downtown Wallace.

Trojan Teach Forward gives students a rsthand look at teaching careers

The conference aims to strengthen eastern North Carolina teacher pipeline

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

MOUNT OLIVE — Last week, the University of Mount Olive welcomed nearly 200 middle and high school students from Duplin, Onslow, Edgecombe, Wayne and Lenoir counties for its inaugural Trojan Teach Forward Conference.

Organized by UMO’s School of Education, the conference highlighted the university’s “growyour-own” strategy for cultivating future educators in a region where many districts struggle to ll classroom positions.

“In eastern North Carolina especially, many school districts face persistent teacher shortages,” said Amanda Bullard-Maxwell, dean of the School of Education.

Students engaged in workshops, met with current teachers and education majors, and explored a variety of teaching pathways, from elementary classrooms to specialized licensure areas, while gaining an au-

thentic understanding of both the challenges and rewards of the eld.

“The challenges are not sugar-coated,” Bullard-Maxwell said. “But we emphasize that the rewards far outweigh them.”

According to Bullard-Maxwell, the goal is to help students see themselves as future educators and leave with clarity and con dence about pursuing teaching.

“Teaching is both a professional and moral commitment to serve children,” said Felicia Brown, superintendent of human resources with Duplin County Schools. “It is one of the most meaningful jobs there is.” Assistant Dean Kelly Alves emphasized that exposure to real-world practices and a welcoming campus environment can spark interest in education while allowing students to consider multiple career possibilities.

Bullard-Maxwell and Alves hope Trojan Teach Forward will become an annual event, strengthening the region’s future workforce while encouraging young people to consider teaching as a viable career.

PHOTOS COURTESY CAROLINA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

Felicia Brown, superintendent of human resources with Duplin County Schools, underscored the deeper purpose of the teaching profession.

Above, the second-place winner of the Carolina Strawberry Festival art contest is Yandel Martinez Mendieta, a senior at James Kenan High School. Her design will appear on the front pocket of the festival T-shirt. Right, third place in the Carolina Strawberry Festival art contest went to Emely Guzman, a sophomore at James Kenan High School, whose design also stood out among many talented entries.

PHOTOS COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT OLIVE

Attendees of the Trojan Teach Forward Conference had the opportunity to tour the University of Mount Olive campus.

Duplin sees rare snowfall as winter storm moves

When Winter Storm Gianna dropped up to a foot of snow, Duplin County answered with sleds, snowmen and happy paws.

COURTESY ALYSSA CARTER

COURTESY JERI DENISE

COURTESY KAREN SCALF

COURTESY ADDISON COOMBS

COURTESY STACY GRAY

COURTESY KIM CAVENAUGH JONES

COURTESY BRENDA SCRONCE

COURTESY SARAH LANIER

COURTESY ELIZABETH ANNE

COURTESY BRANDY SCRONCE GRADY

DUPLIN SPORTS

Tight-knit JK covers weaknesses with toughness, senior leadership

Complementary play has the Tigers on a seven-game winning streak

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — Successful basketball teams play together, even with a superstar. And while James Kenan might not yet have its brightest-burning light, the Tigers are playing complementary basketball. Compliments abound as head coach Taylor Jones prepares his second Tigers team that can make a run in the postseason. They sit 14-2 and will play Goldsboro for rst place in the Swine Valley Conference. That

game was postponed because of heavy snow across the state and will either be played Thursday or four days later.

The Tigers put their all-hands- ondeck teamwork on display last Friday throughout their 74-48 win over Midway in Dunn.

Kentrell Morrisey, who is projecting like the next 1,000-point scorer at JK, pumped in 19 points and had seven rebounds.

Court leader Zamarion Smith pushed in 16 points and had six assists and four steals.

Lane ashing CJ Hill added 11 markers and four boards.

Jeremiah Hall added nine points, four rebounds and three assists, and sixth man Eli Avent hit a pair of 3-pointers at key moments.

“Most of our kids play sel ess, and when one guy is having a down night or is out to pick it up,” said head coach Taylor Jones. “They play for each other, and that’s the kind of thing you can’t make up. It happens or it doesn’t.”

Undersized JK plays a lot like an undersized 3-point-shooting Jones during his heydays at North Duplin.

“We chase down rebounds and don’t turn the ball over because we’re not shooting a high percentage,” Jones said. “They listen. They adjust. We make small adjustments at halftime, but more importantly, our kids reset and make things happen by changing their mindset.

“And I get asked all the time what

Matthew Wells shined in prime time as WRH rebounded from three consecutive road losses

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — Matthew Wells is making Mount Olive University look good.

A few days after signing to play basketball for the Trojans, the Wallace-Rose Hill senior played the best three games of his life — scoring, rebounding, handing out assists, diving for loose balls and coming up big when other Bulldogs were unable to produce.

Wells scored 33 against Trask and 26 against Goldsboro in games in which his e orts were signi cant

BOYS’ BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

Ball, Halls put Panthers in position to challenge in ECC

and Dominic

Hall

and Aaron

added support as ED won for the third time in four games

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Sometimes you can almost feel a record is about to fall.

Six days after tying his career high, Zachary Ball set his senior bar higher by scoring 27 points and grabbing eight rebounds as East Duplin beat Southwest Onslow 55-49 for its third win in four games. The win ended an eight-game losing streak to the Stallions, whose recent spurt gives them 21-16 lead in the all-time series.

Hall hit on 11 of 18 shots from the eld (61%) and 5 of 8 from beyond the 3-point line. He

scored a career-high 27 points during a 55-49 win over Southwest Onslow to break ED’s eight-game skid against

Bulldogs out of tailspin

in keeping the Bulldogs from withering, as both were losses. He then came back to re in 18 and nab nine boards last Thursday as WRH snapped its three-game skid by knocking o Princeton 76-65.

Wells has averaged 22 in his last three outings to pump his scoring average to 14.2. He’s hitting 54% from the eld while getting 7.7 boards and 3.1 steals.

In other words, he’s playing a complete game, and when one aspect of his play isn’t up to par, it hasn’t stopped other contributions.

“In the games where he scored 26 and 33, he had only three 3s,” said Bulldogs head coach Dustin Squibb. “That’s some of the toughest, hard-nosed scoring I’ve seen.

Transfer center Chase Bland added 15 markers and six re -

bounds while being was an intimidating defender.

“He was a force blocking or altering several more,” Squibb said. Bland gave WRH a lead it would never relinquish with 53 seconds left in the third quarter. It came during a 14-3 run and included two hoops by McCrimmon and a driving score by Carr. Up 47-44 entering the fourth, WRH used outside shooting to run away as McCrimmon hit a pair of trifectas and Jamari Carr and Bland also knocked one down while Wells made back-to-back layups.

Wells scored ve points after Princeton trimmed the lead to 70 - 61. Darrius McCrimmon scored 16,

Zachary

hits ve treys,

Hall

Hall

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Point guard Jeremiah Hall has 4-to-1 assist-turnover ratio (80 assists, 20 turnovers) and is averaging a JK-high ve assists per game.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

WRH’s Matthew Wells has averaged more than 22 points in his past three games and is the top rebounder on the Bulldogs.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Zachary Ball

the Stallions.

ATHLETE

OF THE WEEK

BY BILL CARONE

Jae’lyn Ingram

North Duplin, boys’ basketball

The North Duplin forward is averaging 18 points and eight rebounds but has scored more than 20 in his last eight games. He’s gone over that mark nine times this season.

His season high was 33 in an early 76-58 loss to East Columbus and helped ND avenge it by scoring 26 points and grabbing 13 boards for a 57-54 win Jan. 23.

Ingram had 28 markers in last week’s win over Union and 25 against East Bladen in another revenge win for the Rebels.

ND (10-8, 6-3) is a game out of rst place in the Carolina Conference. After starting 3-7, the Rebels have since won seven of eight.

The one setback was a 50-49 overtime heartbreaker to West Columbus, in which Ingram netted 24 points and had eight rebounds.

Since the turn of the calendar year, he’s been lights out for the Rebels and has jumped to ninth statewide in 2A in scoring.

Cave returns with a vengeance to lead Panthers past Stallions

The two-time Ms. Basketball back on the court after an ankle injury

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — East Duplin is a competitive team without Kinsey Cave.

With her, the Panthers are a contender.

All of that was proven the last two weeks after the junior do-it-all basketball player was on the sidelines.

The two-time Ms. Basketball in Duplin County tossed in a career-high 23 points last Friday during a 61-41 drubbing of longtime rival and ECC foe Southwest Onslow.

But that’s not all. She had ve rebounds, ve assists and six steals. It was the fth time she hit for 20 points or more this season. Her previous high last season was 17.

While still not 100% healthy, Cave is averaging 15 points, 7 boards, three assists and three steals.

And East Duplin (15-4, 5-1) has ourished with its running-the- oor style of play despite lacking height and inside rebounding as it has almost always had in the past.

The Panthers next big game is Friday when they travel to unbeaten Clinton (18-0, 6-0).

ED fell to the Dark Horses 52-47 in Clinton on Jan. 20 without the services of Cave.

Freshman Bennett Holley scored 14 and had nine rebounds during the victory over the Stallions. Zoe Cavanaugh had eight and six rebounds, and Andraia Scarbough added four points and 11 boards.

Lorena Rodriguez and Zakoya Farrior combined for 11 as ED used spurts of 17-7 and 26-8 in the middle two quarters for a comfortable win.

Cave scored 19 in her initial return to lead ED to a 48-20 win over Southwest Onslow early last week. Rodrigues added nine, and eight other Panthers had at least a basket.

ED will face ECC opponents Trask, Clinton, Pender and South Lenoir to end its regular season. The league’s postseason tournament is played a week before the rst round of the playo s, set for Feb. 24. The NCHSAA’s format features three games in the rst week and the fourth and region nals contests being played the rst week of March.

Francis rules paint, Smith perimeter in ’Dawgs win

Marion Francis score 15 points in the paint and grabbed 11 rebounds, and Savannah Smith added 15 markers on 3-of-5 shooting from beyond the 3-point line to send Wallace-Rose Hill past Princeton 65-29.

All-state volleyball players Angelina Cavallaro and Jansley Page combined for 13, and QuoRyiona Vines had six.

WRH (12-8, 5-3) has four games remaining, including three against opponents the Bulldogs have beaten previously this season (Midway,

Spring Creek, Rosewood) and a season nale confrontation with JK on Feb. 13. The Bulldogs are six wins from topping the best mark in school history during the last quarter-century.

Francis got WRH started against Princeton with a pair of scores in the lane.

Page banged down a 3 and Smith a step-in jumper as the Bulldogs went up 11-5.

Treys by Smith and Zikiya Philyaw kept WRH in the second quarter continuing the roll. The advantage went to 30 -15 by halftime as Smith zipped her third trey and then scored on a rebound. Vines added a layup in between her scores.

WRH scored o turnovers a lot in the second half, though the Bulldogs had great ball movement o ensively.

The win was a relief after a 59-22 loss to Goldsboro earlier in the week. Vines’ ve markers was the most by a WRH player, and that pretty much told the story of the one-sided a air.

Evers, Eagles get revenge on Rebels

Abby Rose may have been the best player on oor, but East Bladen showed a team e ort to beat North Duplin 44-38 in a matchup between Carolina Conference teams battling for a league ag.

Rose scored 25 points, but the Eagles had ve players with at least ve points. ND’s Abigeal Norris netted ve, and Maggie Brown and Rachel Herring scored four markers apiece. No other Rebels scored. Rose completed her double-double with 12 rebounds. ND beat EB 57-47 earlier this season. Eagles head coach Patty Evers won the 650th game of her career. She led the Eagles to the 1A nals last season.

Both schools now have two league losses and trail East Columbus (12-4, 7-1) in the standings.

Norris had a double-double of her own during a 64-33 win over Union earlier in the week, scoring 15 and hauling down 14 rebounds. Her stepsister Brown joined her with 10 makers and 10 boards.

Lilly Fulghum added 15 and Herring nine.

ND (14-5, 7-2) faces bottom-feeders Hobbton (08, 0-8) and West Columbus (1-14, 1-8) before playing Lakewood, the most dangerous 12-7 team in the state, to nish its regular season slate.

The biggest challenges left for rst-place East Columbus (12-4, 7-1) are against the Leopards and the Eagles.

An EB win over EC on Feb. 12 could create a three -way tie for the title with ND thrown into the mix via three wins over schools it has already beaten this season.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

What does Kinsey Cave do after returning from an ankle injury: Score a career-high 23 point in a win over Southwest Onslow.

Young JK reserves stepping up as building blocks to future

Coach Aaron Smith is nurturing the development of the Tigers’ bench

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — With the stars

— Y’Anna Rivers, Gabi Outlaw and Aleyah Wilson — now established players, James Kenan head coach Aaron Smith is shaping up contributing players and underclassmen for future roles and development.

Rivers scored 17, Outlaw 10 and Wilson seven last week when the Tigers knocked o Rosewood, but other players made signi cant input in a 57-16 win.

Senior LaBria McGown pitched in with six markers and seven rebounds. Sophomore Kendia Smith tossed in 12 and freshman Kendonya Morrisey eight.

The trend continued during a 61-48 conquest of Midway later in the week as Rivers hit for 17, Wilson 13, Outlaw and McGowan six apiece, and Morrisey seven and Smith six.

Wilson and Morrisey powered JK to a 17-9 rst-quarter lead, and Rivers and Smith laid down the wood for an eruption that sent it to 36-17 by halftime.

It was a walk in the park from that point forward for JK, which improved to 14-2 overall and 8-1 in ECC play. They are awaiting a key ECC confrontation with Goldsboro (16-2, 8-0). No other league school is within an arm’s length of the top spot as even third-place Wallace-Rose Hill (12-8, 5-3) and fourth-place Midway (6-11, 5-4) are clearly on the outside looking inward as teams scramble to nish less than a handful of games. Rivers scored by going

,

coast to coast, and then after a steal Smith ripped a pair of 3-pointer to start a 13-2 blitz in the second quarter.

Junior guard Zaniya Brown canned a trey and JK got a lot of turnovers o its full-court press.

With JK up 19 to start the third, Wilson threw down for a pair of hoops and McGowan had a steal and layup for a 6-0 burst. The Tigers’ defense forced a 10-second count when the Raiders were inbounding the ball and Brown, McGowan and Wilson forged JK to a 49-17 lead. Midway scored the rst 15 points of the fourth quarter to

make the game closer than it was in Dunn. Rivers leads JK in points (17.1), shooting (50%) and has 26 of JK’s 36 blocks, showing her prowess as a defender. Wilson (13.1, 7.1 rebounds) and Outlaw (11.1, team-high 21 treys) have been steady, while Smith (4.6 points per game) Morrisey (3.5) and McGowan (3.3) are rising players. Outlaw and McGowan are the only seniors on the JK roster. But second-year coach Smith feels the Tigers are ready to go deep in the postseason this winter with sharp-shooting Outlaw still around.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA

NBA suspends 76ers’ George 25 games for violating anti-drug policy

Philadelphia Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers was suspended 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. The league did not disclose the substance involved. George released a statement saying he took something that was “improper.” He apologized to the team and its fans, saying he takes “full responsibility for my actions.” This is George’s rst violation. The suspension will cost him approximately $11.7 million of his salary.

BOXING

Miller’s hairpiece knocked upward by punch, then thrown into crowd

New York

Jarrell Miller was hit with such a good punch it knocked his hair o . Heavyweight Kingsley Ibeh landed a punch in the second round that knocked Miller’s head backward, and his hairpiece popped upward from the front, revealing a large bald spot that covered most of his head. Miller nished the round with the hairpiece, then ripped it o in his corner between rounds and tossed it into the crowd at Madison Square Garden. Miller won by split decision, then rubbed the top of his head while doing a celebratory dance.

ROUNDUP from page B1

scored 19 against Pender on Jan. 23. Ball certainly got support as Aaron Hall pitched in 11 and Dominic Hall had eight and 12 rebounds. Point guard DJ Davis chipped in seven markers and six boards.

It was the fourth win for ED (7-9, 4-2) on Jerry Hunter Court, though the Panthers’ loss to South Lenoir (12-6, 6-0) earlier in the week may be too much for ED to overcome the Blue Devils in the ECC standings. They need help from another league school.

Ball was one rebound short of a double-double in the South Lenior game, scoring 10 points and hauling down nine rebounds.

Center Dominic Hall had 15 points and 13 boards, and Hall chipped in with 11 markers. ED connected on 5 of 14 from the free-throw line, while the Blue Devils were 14 of 25.

The two schools will play again Feb. 12.

The Panthers host Clinton on Friday for their lone game this week. ED beat the Dark Horses 67-65 on Jan. 20 in Beulaville.

Rebels defense strongholds it way past Eagles

Defense might be all but vanished from professional basketball, but it reigns supreme at North Duplin.

That’s what Rebels coach Je Byrd said lifted his team to a 62-54 win over East Bladen for ND’s fourth straight win and six in its last eight games.

Jae’lyn Ingram scored 25 points and had nine rebounds, and Noah Price (11 points, ve boards) and Carell Phillips (nine markers, 11 boards) paced the Rebels, who went on a 19-3 run in the second quarter to go in front 30-16 at halftime.

“We played good team defense and really more of a group defense since we don’t have a standout defender,” Byrd said. “A big thing about our win over Union was hitting 7 of 8 free throws down the stretch to seal it.”

ND (10-8, 6-2) will face

Hobbton (5-11, 3-5), West Columbus (8-11, 6-3) and Lakewood (6-13, 2-7) in its nal three Carolina Conference matchups.

“Those are three super-tough games,” Byrd said. East Columbus (8-8, 6-2) started the week atop the standings, though it will have to face the bottom three teams in the standings before traveling to East Bladen (5-13, 5-3) in Lake Waccamaw on Feb. 12.

Earlier in the week, Ingram hammered in 28 and Noah Bennett 10, while Noah Price and Phillips combined for 13 in a 64-46 win over Union.

Crusaders fall to two top-two teams in 2A

If you must lose, make it against a winning program.

Harrells Christian Academy su ered its rst back-to -back losses this season in defeats to No. 1 Green eld School and No. 2 Fayetteville Academy, each of which have a Division 1 recruit.

Justin Caldwell, a 6-foot-9 Georgetown signee, and Kobe Edwards, the No. 5 recruit in the state, were thorns in the side of the Crusaders.

Caldwell scored 14 points and had seven assists and seven rebounds as Green eld (22 - 4) got its fth win against ve teams in 2A and are the odds-on favorite to win that NCISAA classi cation.

Camereon Moore added 13, and Braxton DuBose and Donavan Dickens had 11 apiece. It was the 700th career win for Knights coach Rob Salter. Antonio McKoy, a Western Carolina signee, had 21, Dashaun McKoy 12 and J’Kaeshi Brunson eight for HCA (22-6).

Caldwell scored 27 points and had 12 rebounds in the triumph over the Crusaders.

Four other players hit for double gures as Fayetteville Academy (21-5) took a 73-66 decision by shooting 55% from the eld and having a 6-1 edge in 3-pointers. Antonio McKoy and his cousin Dashaun had 21 and 12 points, respectively.

910-833-9430

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Sophomore Kendonya Morrisey is one of several young JK players who are playing their way into playing time for the Tigers.

Hurricanes score 3 times in nal 2 minutes, stun Mammoth in 5-4 win

Carolina became the third team in history to have the historic rally

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — In many ways, last Thursday’s game wasn’t one Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will want to play on a loop at a family gathering.

His wipeout in the neutral zone early in the second period allowed Utah winger Kailer Yamamoto to score his rst of two goals and tie the game after Carolina dominated the opening 20 minutes.

Then with just 13 minutes left in the game, Yamamoto pestered the Hurricanes defenseman into a turnover and a goal by Michael Carcone to give the visiting Mammoth what seemed like a nail-in-the-co n two -goal lead.

But Gostisbehere — returning to the lineup after missing the last ve games — and the Hurricanes not only fought back, but they also pulled o one of the best rallies in NHL history.

Andrei Svechnikov, Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal scored three times in 89 seconds, with Staal’s goal coming with just under 30 seconds remaining, to turn a multigoal de cit into a 5-4 Hurricanes win at Lenovo Center.

“Just forget,” Gostisbehere said of moving past his miscues, “or score right after so you forget about it.”

It was just the third time in league history that a team trail-

ing by two goals with under two minutes remaining ended up winning in regulation.

The rally started with Gostisbehere and Svechnikov.

With Carolina on a four-minute power play due to a high sticking penalty by Barrett Hayton and Brandon Bussi (21 saves) on the bench for an extra attacker, Gostisbehere shot wide, but the puck hit the end boards and popped right to Svechnikov. He banged it into the vacant net for his second goal of the night and 20th of the season — matching last season’s total.

Gostisbehere, who had scored his seventh goal of the year on the power play to tie the game in the second period, got his second of the night 22 seconds after Svechnikov’s goal.

With Bussi again on the bench for a sixth skater, Jackson Blake zipped a diagonal pass to Gostisbehere at the right point for a one-timer that hit the cross bar and went in to tie the game.

“It is always about your next shift, good or bad,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “You score a goal, you don’t sit there patting yourself on the back. You’ve got to go do something about it. The same thing if you give up a goal. Ghost has been around. I don’t think he gets too ustered.”

Then the Hurricanes seized the momentum to get the winner.

Defenseman Jalen Chateld took a shot from the outside edge of the right circle. Jordan Martinook tipped the shot, and the puck went to Staal at the left post, where he knocked

it in for his 12th goal of the year.

“We were just kind of riding the wave,” Staal said. “But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked. To get those three goals that quickly and in that short period of time to win the game was really cool.”

Gostisbehere and Svechnikov each nished with three points.

“You saw him tonight,” Staal said of Svechnikov. “He was not only scoring goals, but he was physical, he was hard, he was skating well. And he’s got his strength back and his speed. … He’s the player that we all know he can be. And this year he’s been solid all throughout.”

And despite struggling much of the night on the power play, Carolina managed to score two key goals on ve opportunities.

“It’s sticking with it,” Gostisbehere said. “The entries weren’t beautiful, but at the end of the day, when you get two goals on power play, you know it’s going to help you win.”

And it did the Hurricanes extended their point streak to six games and further tightened their grip on the Metropolitan Division lead on Whalers Night.

“It’s always nice to score goals, especially game winners,” Staal said. “It’s making memories, and I love the game, I love being a part of of nights like this, and you want more of them. You’re chasing them, and you’re chasing those memories.

“And to do it alongside these guys in this room, the friends, and battle with each other is what I live for. It’s what I do this job for, and tonight was one of the good memories.”

WELLS from page B1

Jawon Carr nine and freshman

Kayden Keith eight.

Wells sent an early notice he was in the house against Princeton with a 3-pointer.

Bland’s jam ended the quarter with WRH in front 10-9.

Jawon Carr and McCrimmon hit consecutive 3s to start the second quarter

Bland set up Wells for a bas -

ket to end a six-point run that put WRH up 22-13. But Princeton went on a 7-2 run to trim the margin to 24 -20. The Johnston County Bulldogs led 30-29 at halftime.

Bonus free throws

Jawon Carr is second in scoring with 14.2 points per game. He’s followed by McCrimmon (9.2), Keith (7.5),

The statewide primary election will be held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

Voters will be asked to show photo ID when they vote. All voters will be allowed to vote with or without ID. If a voter does not have ID, they will vote on a provisional ballot. Registered voters who lack ID can get one for free from their county board of elections. Find out more at ncsbe.gov/voter-id.

Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.

Early voting will be held at the following location from Thursday, February 12, 2026, to Saturday, February 28, 2026: Ed Emory Auditorium, 165 Agriculture Dr., Kenansville, NC 28349 Thursday, February 12 8:00 AM-7:30 PM Friday, February 13 8:00 AM-7:30 PM

February

JK head coach Taylor Jones is having one of the best seasons in his 20-plus-year career record-wise and personally with his team connected together.

I say at halftime, and the truth is nothing that is signi cant. They need me to show them how much I believe in them. Then they nd ways to make things happen.”

Tigers take over in second half

Down 12-7, Avent and Smith swished 3-pointers to trim Midway’s lead to 18-13. An Avent bomb to open the second quarter and a monster drive by Morrisey gave JK its rst lead at 19-18.

Hurricanes center Jordan Staal celebrates his gamewinning goal against the Mammoth with forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) during Carolina’s 5-4 win last Thursday in Raleigh.

Midway played well, and despite another bomb by Smith, rebound basket by Hill, and steal and layup by Morrisey, led 27-26 at halftime.

The home team scored the rst four points of the third quarter before JK could string together an 11-2 push behind an inside hoop and tip-in by Morrisey, a Smith layup, a Hill steal that led to a Morrisey hoop and a conventional 3-point play by Smith. From that point forward, anytime Midway (9-13, 4-5) made a push, the Tigers had an answer. Hall canned a pair of free throws at the 2:05 mark of the third and a basket to end the stanza with two seconds left on the clock.

NOTICES

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

FILE#26E000002-300

Bland (7.4) and Aspen Brown (6.2 and second in rebounding).

WRH is four wins shy of matching the 2022 team (17-6) and ve from it best mark since 2016 (18-8).

The Bulldogs (12-3, 5-3) will look for revenge Feb. 13 when they host archrival JK, which won the rst game of the series in Warsaw earlier this season.

WRH is 8-1 on Steve Robinson Court.

The undersigned, IRIS JEAN BLANTON, having quali ed on the 5TH DAY of JANUARY, 2026, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ALVIN JOE BASS, 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 15TH Day of APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 15TH Day of JANUARY 2026. IRIS JEAN BLANTON, EXECUTOR 118 CLAY HILL FARM DRIVE ROSE HILL, NC 28458

Run dates:J15,22,29,F5p

Morrisey opened the fourth by working the baseline and JK got him the ball. He added a steal on the next play and scored. Smith zipped in a 3-pointer as part of the 8-0 streak. Hall had a steal and layup on consecutive plays, and a minute later, the senior and classmate Hill had back-to -back layups. It got ugly for Midway and extremely delightful for JK.

The Tigers travel to Princeton and Wallace-Rose Hill to end the regular season. The Swine Valley postseason tournament is played a week before the rst round of the NCHSAA playo s, set for Feb. 24. The state format features three games in the rst week with the fourth round and region nals being played the rst week of March.

Hoops notebook

Smith leads JK in scoring at 15.7. Morrisey is right behind at 14.1 and followed by Hill (11.4), Avent (8.4), Hall (6.6) and David Zeleya (4.5). Morrisey is the top rebounder at 7.0, but the other ve players above all average better than 4.2 boards. Hall has a 4-to-1 turnover ratio (80 assists, 20 turnovers), which Jones calls “incredible.”

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

FILE#25E001473-300

The undersigned, DANIEL R. BLIZZARD, having quali ed on the 3RD DAY of DECEMBER, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of CONNIE BLIZZARD TYNDALL, 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 22ND Day of APRIL 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 22ND Day of JANUARY 2026.

DANIEL R. BLIZZARD, ADMINISTRATOR 439 N BLIZZARDTOWN RD. BEULAVILLE, NC 28518

Run dates:J22,29,F5,12p

The voter registration deadline for this election is 5 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026. Eligible individuals who are not registered by that deadline may register and vote at any early voting site during the early voting period. New registrants will be required to provide documentation of their residence. Absentee meetings

Absentee ballots will be mailed to voters who have requested them beginning Monday, January 12, 2026. A voter can ll out an absentee ballot request at votebymail.ncsbe. gov, or by lling out a request form provided by the county board of elections o ce. The request must be received through the website or by the Duplin County Board of Elections by 5 p.m. February 17, 2026. In the general election, voters will select candidates for U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, N.C. General Assembly, state and local judges, district attorney, and county o ces.

now be located at the American Legion building in Wallace at 529 E. Southerland Street, Wallace, NC 28466.

NOTICE TO THE VOTERS OF THE LOCKLIN PRECINCT

Due to the decision made by the Duplin County Board of Elections and accepted by the State Board of Elections on 05/06/2025, the Locklin precinct polling place will now be located at the American Legion building in Wallace at 529 E. Southerland Street, Wallace, NC 28466.

Questions? Call the Duplin County Board of Elections O ce at (910) 296-2170 or send an email to dcboe@duplincountync.com

Ann Henderson, Chairman Duplin County Board of Elections

TIGERS from page B1

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

obituaries

Henry Joseph Turner

Dec. 14, 1956 – Jan. 29, 2026

Henry Joseph Turner, 69, known to all as Joey, passed from his earthly life on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at his home, being cared for by his loving family.

Joey was born December 14, 1956, in Middleboro, KY, the son of Guy Joseph Turner and Martha Delina Simpson Turner. In addition to his parents, Joey was preceded in death by his sons, Roman Turner and Matthew Turner; sister, Joan “Bimmie” Woodcock; and brother, Vance “Tim” Turner.

Joey is survived by his devoted wife of ten years, Julie Turner; sons, Isaac Turner (Sarah), Ricky Turner, Sam Aman (Susan), Justin Aman (Rebeka), and Stephen Aman; daughter, Tonia Watkins (David); 16 grandchildren; sister, Barbara Littleton; many nieces, nephews and friends. Not to be forgotten are Joey’s beloved Beagle constant companions, Sadie, Junior and Quincey.

Joey was a man of many interests and enjoyments – shing, boating and traveling about mostly in North Carolina. Joey loved family gatherings, and he was usually the one grilling a delectable pig enjoyed by all. He was a Panthers football fan, rooting for them whether they won or lost a game. Joey enjoyed watching wrestling and kept up with the world news on TV on a daily basis. Most of all, Joey loved his family. Joey’s presence in our lives will truly be missed. Following Joey’s expressed wishes, there will be no services held just as he requested.

Larry Colvin

May 13, 1960 – Jan. 24, 2026

Larry Colvin, 65, of Atkinson, NC, passed away January 24, 2026, at Poplar Grove Nursing Home in Burgaw, NC. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Friday, January 30, 2026, at Hawes Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Atkinson, NC. Public viewing will be from noon to 12:50 p.m. (one hour prior to the service). Interment following the service at Hawes Chapel Church/ Ashford Cemetery.

Cindy (Rogers) Newkirk

July 24, 1967 – Jan. 27, 2026

Cindy Rogers Newkirk, 58, of Harrells, North Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center. She was born on July 24, 1967, in Pender County, the daughter of the late Jimmy Rogers and the late Linda Batson Rivenbark. Cindy was also preceded in death by her loving husband, Desi Arnold Newkirk, and her sister, Tammy Maynor.

Surviving to cherish her memory is her daughters Krystal Gurganious and Samatha Gurganious (Josh Biggs) all of Harrells; grandchildren Christian, Braylyn, Jada, Antonio and Gabriel; great grandchild Layloni; sisters Jan Richardson and husband Brian of Burgaw and Sandra Heath of Richlands; brother Jay Willoughby and wife Sharon of Penderlea; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that love Cindy dearly. Cindy was a devoted wife and caring mother, grandmother and sister who loved her family dearly. She adored her grandchildren and spoiled them whenever she got the chance. Cindy was a dedicated wife who loved and cared for her husband, Desi, while he battled cancer. Being an avid outdoors person, Cindy enjoyed playing softball in high school and gardening. She took great pride in making sure her yard was close to perfection. Cindy loved all animals, but her favorite was horses. She enjoyed watching the Kentucky Derby and football games on TV. With a big heart, Cindy would give the shirt o her back to anyone in need. Cindy will surely be missed, but treasured memories will remain in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a later date.

Joseph Alphause Morris III

Aug. 30, 1961 – Jan. 23, 2026

Warsaw- Mr. Joseph Alphause Morris III, age 64, put his hand in the Master’s hand on Monday, January 23, 2026, at ECU Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, North Carolina. The arrangements are incomplete at this time. Please keep the family in your prayers during their time of sorrow.

Ella Mae Starling

Jan. 26, 2026

Ella Mae Starling, 94, passed away Monday, January 26, 2026, at The Gardens of Rose Hill. Miss Starling was born in Cumberland County, NC, to the late Maurlus Gainey Starling and Jannie Elizabeth Ward Starling.

Miss Starling spent a career teaching in Cumberland County, and she was also a member of the Rose Hill Baptist Church.

Miss Starling is survived by sister, Sarah Parker of Georgia; nephews, Ralph Starling of Denver, NC, Steve Starling of Franklinton, NC, and Wayne Parker of FL; and nieces Sandra Ross of GA and Jennifer Dinnsen of Charlotte, NC. No services are scheduled at this time.

Myles Holloway

Aug. 8, 1955 – Jan. 23, 2026

Goldsboro- Mr. Myles Holloway, 70, completed his earthly journey and transitioned from labor to reward, Friday, January 23, 2026, at home surrounded by his loving family. The Celebration of Life will be on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 1 p.m. at J.B. Rhodes Jr. Memorial Chapel, 1701 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534. There will be a viewing from noon to 12:50 p.m. He will be laid to rest at Wayne Memorial Park, 2925 US Hwy 117 S., Dudley, NC 28333. Please remember his family in prayer during their time of bereavement.

Mary Franklin “Frankie” Dempsey Peterson

Nov. 9, 1937 – Jan. 26, 2026

Mary Franklin “Frankie” Dempsey Peterson left this earthly life at the age of 88 to join her Lord on Monday, January 26, 2026. She passed away peacefully in her home in Harrells, NC, during the night, all tucked in and ready to reunite with her loved ones. Frankie was born on 11-091937, the rstborn child of Seba and Mary Lillie Dempsey, in Wallace, NC. She was raised in a loving and tight-knit family, and was devoted to her parents and sisters. She met and shortly thereafter married Erwin “Scott” Peterson of Harrells, NC. She was predeceased by her parents Seba and Mary Lillie Dempsey of Wallace, NC; husband Scott Peterson of Harrells, NC; sister Shelby D. Moore and brother-inlaw David Moore of Wilmington, NC; sister-in-law and brother-inlaw Rachel P. Nichols and Ray Nichols of Harrells, NC; sisterin-law and brother-in-law Emily P. Knowles and Charles Knowles of Wallace, NC; niece Denise P. Nichols and her half-sister Betty Rae Monroe of White Oak, NC. She is survived by her youngest sister, Linda D. Chamblee, and brother-in-law, Barry Chamblee, of Wendell, NC. Although Frankie and Scott had no children of their own, they considered all of the nieces and nephews as “Ours”. Trent Rogers (Melissa); Scott Rogers (Lisa); Bryan Moore (Sheila); Todd Moore (Tracey); Nikkie M. Johnson (Stan); Kathy Walker (Rusty); Frank Nichols; Glenn Knowles (Beth). She was as devoted to her many great nephews and nieces as she was their parents, providing them all with loving and happy memories and stories to tell for years. They

Reginald Lawrence Phillips

Oct. 11, 1983 – Jan. 28, 2026

Goldsboro- It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of Mr. Reginald Lawrence Phillips, age 42, who departed this life on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The arrangements are incomplete and will be announced at a later date. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers during their time of bereavement.

are all blessed and proud to have Aunt Frankie in uence their lives. Frankie was raised in the Dupin County – Wallace community. She was the oldest of three girls and was very close to her sisters, Shelby and Linda. She attended school in Wallace and graduated from Wallace High School. It was in her high school years that she formed and maintained lifelong and close relationships with her classmates. Her class reunion always brought her so much joy. Shortly after graduation, she met Scott Peterson, and they were married on February 10,1957. There were married for 45 years at the time of his death. In the rst years of their marriage, they lived in Wallace and later built a home in Harrells. She worked at J.P. Stevens and held several positions, eventually becoming the Administrative Secretary. The friendships found at work were genuine and lasted far beyond retirement. She helped close out the last months of J.P. Stevens and was one of the last employees to lock the doors, but she never forgot a soul there. Upon retirement, she was to happily and wholeheartedly devote her time to her beautiful yard, vegetable garden and raising Koi in her front yard pond. She had a bountiful garden for many years that she was always willing to share with her family and neighbors, and the Koi became her retirement stayat-home job. To say she loved being outside in her yard is an understatement. That is where her heart and soul thrived. Frankie was devoted to all of her family, friends and community. She was a feisty woman with a quick and generous smile. To know her was to understand you had hugs and kisses coming your way each time you met. She was genuinely interested in everyone she met and never forgot a name. She would sing for you if asked; she had a beautiful voice and was glad to share it in a song. And her trademark other than her big smile… she always used her hands to interpret the conversation just in case it wasn’t lively enough. She is going to be greatly missed, but the family rejoices knowing she is with her Lord and Savior, reunited with the ones that have gone before her. Services will be held at Padgett Funeral Home on Friday, January 30, at 2:30 p.m. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service. Graveside services will be conducted afterward at Harrells Cemetery. The Rev. Bryan Moore (nephew) will be o ciating.

Ronald Eugene Edwards

Feb. 26, 1964 – Jan. 27, 2026

Goldsboro- Mr. Ronald Eugene Edwards, age 61, peacefully transitioned from this life on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at his residence. The arrangements are incomplete at this time. The Sta of J. B. Rhodes & Cremations Care Inc. extend our deepest condolences to the family. Please keep the family lifted in your prayers.

More scenes from Duplin’s snow day

From bitter winds to snow urries, icy conditions lingered as Duplin emerged from Winter Storm Gianna, which brought up to a foot of snow last weekend. While the countywide curfew was lifted Monday, local o cials urged residents to stay o the roads due to lingering black ice and hazardous conditions.

accolades Harrells Christian Academy announces

Principal’s List, Honor Roll

Head of School List (All A’s) — 2nd nine week grading period

3rd grade: Ellis Anders, William Blackwell, Wyatt Coombs, Ezra Davis, Avery Flockhart, Asher Hall, Carter Harrell, Hogan Jernigan, Robert Oates, Janson Parker, Emerson Patram, Ellie Quinn, Charleigh Reeves, Anna Keith Rivenbark, Hollan Sholar, Shelby Sinnott, Hailey Smith, Kyle Talley, Callan Warren, Cole Weeks, Cate White

4th grade: Jake Arnette, Tucker Brantley, Aubrey Bryant, Ellie Colville, Bennett Dail, Aiden Davis, Macy Evans, James Grady Herring, Holden Hood, Emmie Kelly, Laura Blake King, Nate Lee, Isaiah Marquez, Betsy Martin, Bevan Matthews, Saylor McGuirt, Ezra Miller, Hadley Moore, Carver Naylor, Riley Osborne, Rhett Parker, Ryan Parker, Lilly Parrish, Weston Price, Mary Grace Sasser, Evie Simmons, Colton Squibb, Murray Miles Strickland

5th grade: Gunner Arce, Adalynn Bowen, Bella Cavenaugh, Abigail Dagerhardt, Wyatt Dagerhardt, Dalton Davis, Allie Parrish Johnson, Cade Lanier, Taylin Lyon, Owen Norris, Evan Owens, Jake Parker, Harbor Sholar, Annie Marie Starling, Will Starling, Herring Williams

6th grade: Gisella Barbour, Claire Barnhill, Ben Barrier, Isla Blanton, Grace Brantley, Cate Carlton, Falyn Carroll, Sinia Colville, John-Ward Farrior, Walker Hairr, Kate Hall, Paxton Henderson, Jake Hilton, Johnson Ivey, Pearson Johnson, Kenner Lane, Harper Jane Ludlum, Livie Martin, Charleigh Anna Naylor, Scarlett Phillips, Cates Sutton, Piper Thompson, Wake Wells

7th grade: Jackson Beasley, Paul Chronis, Finn Ezzell, Brooklyn Frederick, Kaleb Funes, Brody Hilton, Hadley Grace Lassiter, Landon Norris, Carter Sasser, Annell Grace Starling, Taylor Stranz, Gigi Tew, Mary Thomas Williams

8th grade: Ivey Brown, Emily Campbell, Ayden Chadwick, Hayes Clifton, Riley Coates, Ellison Gideon, Braylen Gomez, Sarah-John Jackson, Ruby Liggitt, Emmie Marlowe, Savannah Matthews, Amory Kate Merritt, Alex Morkos, Marshall Rumbold, Davis Smith, Henry Stevens, Savannah Kate Stevens, Allie Tanner

9th grade: Fisher Blanton, Gavin Campbell, JC Carr, Avery Hall, Kenzie Tate Jackson, Caroline Owens, Breelyn Peed, Nash Register, Lilly Kate Rogers, Parker Thompson, Brenlee Thornton, Zoie Underwood, Anna Williams, Elizabeth Woolverton

10th grade: Oakley Brice, Caven Chambers, Harry Chronis, Talon Coates, Ben Darden, Riley Maddox Falatovich, Brantley Frederick, Scarlett Graham, Addison Haney, Eve Bradlee Hardison, Patrick Hardison, Xinyi Huang, Caleb Kirven, Miller Ludlum, Lainey Malpass, Josiah Marquez, Sam Martin, Magdalene Parker, Davis Rogers, Luke Weeks, Izzy Zukowski

11th grade: Elizabeth Edwards, Windsor Farrior, Hutchens Glenn, Rebecca Jackson, Demetrius Jones, Piper Nelson, Trey Owens, Will

Owens, Noah Tanner, Matthew Wilson

12th grade: Trey Bryan, Collin Cole, Riley Dixon, Gracen Edwards, Brayden Frederick, RayAnna Ginn, Peyton Gomez, Gracie Johnson, Jenna Lee, Kenzie Malpass, Jr Marquez, Carlos Munguia-Leon, Niyuh Pegues, Lily Powell, Mary Willow Rumbold, Jesse Smith

Honor Roll (All A’s and B’s) – 2nd nine week grading period

3rd grade: Knox Bass, Wyatt Byrd, Dakota Chestnutt, Bella DeLeone, Reni Mac English, Worth Graham, Grayson Hall, Turner Howard, Colt Johnson, Julian Johnson, Wyatt Merritt, Brooklyn Murray, Vanna Claire Rackley, Grayson Raynor, Dallas Squibb, Claire Reid Strickland, Bryce Thornton

4th grade: Dany Aguirre, Layla Anders, Khaliyah Bartlett, Ellie Carlton, King Cason, Dixon-Lee Edwards, Emily Hall, Lawson Hall, Emrick Henderson, Ella Jo Justice, Kaison Tatum, Peyton Thompson

5th grade: Emma Bailey, Crawford Bass, Dustin Hardison, Liam Herring, Jack Liggitt, Nell Miller, Kinsley Parker, Kenzlie Rich, Thalia Robbins, Quinn Short, Brea Spencer, Harper Strickland, Axel Vilchis Bautista, Gabriel Wilson

6th grade: Millie Chambers, Jett Coombs, Vince King, Wade Lockamy, Jewels Miller, Anna James Rouse, Harleigh Sholar, Carter Strickland, Katherine Thomas, Kilee Wallace, Nate Wells

7th grade: Paisley Bass, Britton Blanchard, Conner Cain, Adele Edwards, Aubrey Edwards, Aaron Garcia, Leah Gonzalez Chavero, Rebecca Hall, Matilda Parker, Emory Landen Patram, Hayden Peters, Savannah Phillips, Will Rivenbark, McKenzie Robinson, Bryce Simmons, Anna Belle Smith, Andrew Thornton

8th grade: Gabriel Bowker, AC Brown, Holt Campbell, Kendall Haney, Kiyan Hemmingway, Joseph Mejia, Garrison Page, Kassidy Peterson, Harrison Register, Blake Robinson, Sophia Shearer

9th grade: Kayleigh Bowen, Gage Campbell, GaryAnna DeVane, Ellis Dunn, Chance Evans, Rylee Glova, Jaden Hairr, Jackson Lassiter, Wyatt Price, Landon Pusey, Mollie Sasser, Landry Singletary, Morgan Sutton

10th grade: Bailey Bowles, Holden Cline, Bella Jernigan, Taylor King, Jonathan Smith, Trace Thompson, Kenton Willard

11th grade: Gracelyn Bowles, Gracie Brice, Walker Clifton, Wilson Clifton, Robert Coombs, Jeremiah Davis, Julianne DeVane, Ella Lynch, Ella McKeithan, Sam McKeithan, Amir Moore, Kamillah Sabillon

12th grade: Gracie Barnes, Kaeshi Brunson, Karlee Casteen, Josiah Crumpler, Lillian DeVane, Grayson Gatton, Colten Harrell, Noah Johnson, Josue Leon-Ferral, Dae Dae McKoy, Chamani Newton, Preston Russ, Hannah Smith, Drake Smith, Reid Strickland, Landon Toler, Alex Trejo, Kennedy Grace Vinson

COURTESY DUPLIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Stanly NewS Journal

The streets of Badin were deserted Saturday night as snow blanketed the area.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Signs of forced entry found at Arizona home of “Today” show host Guthrie’s mother

Tucson, Ariz. Investigators have found signs of forced entry at the Arizona home of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother. That’s according to a person familiar with the investigation who spoke Tuesday to The Associated Press. Meanwhile, the host asked for prayers to help bring back the 84-year- old, whom authorities believe was taken against her will. The sheri said Nancy Guthrie must be found soon because she could die without her medication. Investigators also found evidence showing there was a nighttime kidnapping. Several of Guthrie’s personal items, including her cellphone, wallet and her car, were still at the home.

NASA delays astronauts’ lunar trip after hydrogen leaks mar fueling test

Cape Canaveral, Fla.

NASA’s long-awaited moonshot with astronauts is o until at least March because of leaking hydrogen fuel. The space agency announced the news Tuesday following a critical fueling test of its giant moon rocket in Florida.

Albemarle selects artist for Courthouse Plaza mural project

Bobby MaGee Lopez will create the artwork

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Bobby MaGee Lopez of Denver, Colorado, has been selected to create the artwork for Albemarle’s Courthouse Plaza mural project, city o cials recently announced. Scheduled for completion by June 30, the mural will be

installed on the east side of the building at 119 W. Main St. adjacent to the entrance to Courthouse Plaza.

In September, Albemarle introduced a new grant-funded public art initiative seeking professional artists to design a large brick wall mural for Courthouse Plaza. Artists were invited to submit proposals through the city’s website during an application window

Stanly Chamber extends nomination deadline for annual awards

Entires can now be submitted until Feb. 11 at noon

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Anyone wishing to participate in the nomination process for the Stanly County Chamber of Commerce 2026 Annual Meeting and Awards still has time to do so. On Jan. 28, the chamber announced it had pushed back the nomination deadline from Jan. 29 to noon on Feb. 11.

Award nomination forms, along with $50 event tickets, are available at stanlychamber.org. The forms can be downloaded, completed and returned by email to info@stanlychamber.org.

“Recognizing excellence takes time, so we’ve extended our award nomination deadline to Wednesday, Feb. 11,” the organization said in a statement. “Help us celebrate the people who make our community thrive. The evening includes a delicious dinner, the transition of the Chamber’s

Courthouse Plaza’s upcoming art mural in downtown Albemarle will be completed by the end of June.

Stanly County Chamber of Commerce

BARRY REEGER / AP PHOTO

FRIDAY FEB. 6

SATURDAY FEB. 7

SUNDAY FEB. 8

Two young children hold signs through the car window that make reference to the 2020 U.S. Census as they wait in the car with their family at an outreach event in Dallas in June.

Trump administration cuts number of sites for testing upcoming 2030 census, focusing on South

A practice test was reduced to two Southern locations despite undercounting concerns

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

THE TRUMP administration is eliminating four out of the six locations that had been slated for a practice test to try out new methods for the 2030 census, raising concerns that the U.S. Census Bureau might not learn enough about communities that have been traditionally di cult to count.

The test, which started Monday, will be conducted only in Huntsville, Alabama, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, according to a notice submitted by the Commerce Department that will be formally published on Tuesday. The Commerce Department oversees the Census Bureau.

Four other sites — Colorado Springs, Colorado, tribal lands in Arizona, western North Carolina and western Texas — originally were included when the Census Bu-

reau announced the locations in 2024.

The bureau didn’t respond to an emailed inquiry on Monday about the reasons for the reduced number of sites. In a statement on its website, it said it “remains committed to conducting the most accurate count in history for the 2030 Census and looks forward to the continued partnership with local communities.”

Mark Mather, an associate vice president at the Population Reference Bureau, a nonpartisan research group, said limiting the test to just two metro areas in the South would be “a step backward.”

“The Census Bureau would be essentially ying blind into communities that need testing most — tribal lands, rural areas with limited connectivity and places with historically low response rates,” Mather said. “You can’t x what you don’t test.”

The test is supposed to give the statistical agency the chance to learn how to better tally populations that were undercounted in the 2020 census and improve methods that will be used in 2030. It also allows it to test its messaging

and its ability to process data as it’s being gathered.

Among the new methods being tested for 2030 is the use of U.S. Postal Service workers to conduct tasks previously done by census workers.

The original six test sites had been picked for a variety of reasons, including a desire to include rural areas where some residents don’t receive mail or have little or no internet service. Others, including tribal land, fast-growing locations with new construction, and dorms, care facilities and military barracks had been picked because their residents are traditionally hard to count.

Ahead of the last census in 2020, the only start-to- nish test of the head count was held in Providence, Rhode Island, in 2018. Plans for other tests were canceled because of a lack of funding from Congress.

The once-a-decade head count determines how many congressional seats and Electoral College votes each state gets. It also guides the distribution of $2.8 trillion in annual federal spending.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Stanly County.

Feb. 7

Faith Free Will Baptist Youth Group Third Annual Cornhole Tournament

$20 admission per person. Sign-ups from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Competition starts at 12:15 p.m. For details, contact Jamie Hudson at 704-783-7752. All proceeds bene t the church youth group.

Stanly County Fairgrounds American Legion Post 76 24302 S. Business 52 Albemarle

Now through Feb. 7

Stanly Arts Guild Members’ Show

This annual exhibition features the work of Stanly Arts Guild members working in a variety of media and genres. The show awards rst-, second- and third-place prizes, along with honorable mention ribbons given at the judge’s discretion. Admission to the exhibit is free. Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery 330 N. 2nd St. Albemarle

Feb. 14

The Rowan Big Band 7 p.m.

Presented by The Stanly County Concert Association. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for students.

Stanly County Agri-Civic Center 26032 Newt Road # B Albemarle

TONY GUTIERREZ / AP PHOTO

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

| DAVID HARSANYI

Price controls won’t work any better for Republicans than it does Democrats

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

DEMONIZING GREEDY BANKERS and landlords is the last refuge of the poorly polling politician.

And, as a ordability remains a leading issue among voters, the Trump administration has regularly used rhetoric and ideas that mirror those of progressive Democrats like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Take the president’s recent idea for capping credit card interest rates at 10%. Or rather, the idea that’s already proposed in a bill sponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). “They’ve really abused the public,” the president said of credit card companies. “I’m not going to let it happen.”

This probably feels good to hear. But if you nd an APR on a new credit card o er “predatory,” de nitely do not sign up for it. You don’t owe the bank anything, and it doesn’t owe you.

An interest rate, though, re ects risk. It’s the entry price for obtaining credit. If you have a good credit score, you get lower rates and vice versa.

Capping the rate won’t eliminate credit risk factors, though it will likely shrink available money for people who need it most: lower-income and young workers, or anyone else trying to build up their credit. Lots of entrepreneurs and small-business owners also rely on credit cards to tide them over for a season or help with up-front capital.

And those who are denied cards will still need funds. They’ll inevitably seek out other means of borrowing, probably at even higher rates. Maybe they’ll go to payday loans and cash checking places. Maybe they’ll take second mortgages. Maybe they’ll go to the black market.

There are those who argue that Americans already borrow far too much and that limiting access to credit would be good for them. Rest assured, these nannies almost surely own their homes and cars — purchases that become even more prohibitive for people unable to improve their credit scores.

Trump likes to explicitly threaten or jawbone companies into doing his bidding. Bank of America, for example, is reportedly considering o ering a credit card with interest capped at 10% to placate the administration.

Well, there’s no federal cap on what APRs banks can o er on credit cards. If providers want to undercut competition, nothing is stopping them. Banks are businesses, after all, not charities.

But if banks lose out charging riskier customers lower interest rates to get on the good side of the administration, they’ll simply raise fees elsewhere, pull back on rewards and nd other creative ways to make their reliable consumers pay.

Price xing never alleviates cost — it merely displaces it.

Take Mamdani as he “cracks down,” as one

12 Question quiz: What ‘fascist’ ‘xenophobe’ ‘tyrant’ said this?

We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked.

1. “I’m really good at killing people. Didn’t know that was going to be a strong suit of mine.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. President Barack Obama, 2012

2. “But, let me tell you, we can build a fence 40 stories high — unless you change the dynamic in Mexico and — and you will not like this, and — punish American employers who knowingly violate the law when, in fact, they hire illegals. Unless you do those two things, all the rest is window dressing.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.), 2006

3. “Today, I will issue a national security memorandum directing every federal department and agency to do even more to stop the ow of narcotics — including fentanyl — into our country. It will increase intelligence collection on tra ckers’ evolving tactics to smuggle narcotics into our country. And it will help our law enforcement personnel seize more deadly drugs before they reach our communities.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. President Joe Biden, 2024

a. President Donald Trump, 2026, about Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro

b. President Barack Obama, 2011, about Libya’s Muammar Gadda

5. “We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked and circumventing the line of people who are waiting patiently, diligently and lawfully to become immigrants in this country.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), 2005

6. “Real reform means stronger border security ... putting more boots on the southern border than at any time in our history and reducing illegal crossings to their lowest levels in 40 years.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026

b. President Barack Obama, 2013

travel magazine referred to it, on “junk fees” in city hotels.

“Junk” is just a description of a cost that consumers and politicians have arbitrarily decided shouldn’t be paid. But they will be. Hotels will almost inevitably raise prices elsewhere or decrease services to make up for it.

Economic magical thinking never dies, however, because it’s tethered to envy and anger rather than rational thinking. Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

And there is no more convenient villain than a faceless pro t-mongering landlord.

Take another price control policy championed by Mamdani: rent control, a practice that’s been failing to lower housing costs since Roman times, at least.

A slew of studies and empirical evidence nds that rent control doesn’t work. The vast majority of economists, both on the right and left, believe it’s a bad idea. Still, most polls nd that rent “stabilization” is supported by around 80% of New Yorkers.

Every generation, it seems, convinces itself it possesses the best technocrats and formula to properly control economic activity to make it fairer and decent. Mamdani is just another in a long line of politicians who play the role.

But Trump? He should know better.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books — the most recent, “How To Kill a Republic,” available now. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

8. “Because we do need to address the issue of immigration and the challenge we have of undocumented people in our country. We certainly don’t want any more coming in.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), 2008

9. “All Americans ... are rightly disturbed by the large numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. ... We are a nation of immigrants. But we are also a nation of laws.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. President Bill Clinton, 1995

10. “I think we can enforce our borders. I think we should enforce our borders.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2018

b. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), 1994

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. To nd out more about Larry Elder, or become an “Elderado,” visit www.LarryElder.com. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

4. “The United States and the world faced a choice. (The dictator) declared he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats and threatened to go door to door to in ict punishment. In the past, we have seen him hang civilians in the streets and kill over a thousand people in a single day. It was not in our national interest to let that (massacre) happen. I refused to let that happen.”

7. “Illegal immigration is wrong, plain and simple. ... People who enter the United States without our permission are illegal aliens and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... Until the American people are convinced that we will stop future ows of illegal immigration, we will make no progress on dealing with the millions of illegal immigrants who are here now. ... When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combatting illegal immigration. If you don’t think it’s illegal, you’re not going to say it. I think it is illegal and wrong.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009

11. “If making it easy to be an illegal alien isn’t enough, how about o ering a reward for being an illegal immigrant? No sane country would do that. Right? ... If you break our laws by entering this country without permission and give birth to a child, we reward that child with U.S. citizenship.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), 1993

12. “A biometric-based employment veri cation system with tough enforcement and auditing is necessary to signi cantly diminish the job magnet that attracts illegal aliens to the United States.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009 Hint: If it’s not too late, consider betting on “b.”

COLUMN

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Carolinas emerge as new population boom states; cost, lifestyle drive growth

The Carolinas overtook Florida and Texas as top destinations for Americans on the move

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. — Move over Florida and Texas. The United States has new hot spots for growth, and they both have Carolina in their name.

North Carolina last year attracted more new residents, 84,000 people, from other parts of the country than any other state, a title held by Texas in 2024 and Florida in the two years before that. South Carolina had the highest overall growth rate last year at 1.5%, a distinction among states held by Florida in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau gures released this past week.

Domestic migration, or people moving within the U.S., slowed in Texas. The 67,300 domestic migrants heading to the second most populous state year over year barely squeaked by South Carolina, which had the third highest number of domestic migrants at 66,600.

The appeal of Florida, the nation’s third most populous state, dimmed. It dropped to No. 8 for state-to-state migration, as more U.S. residents preferred to move elsewhere, including Alabama.

Sabrina Morley and Steven Devereaux sold their Tampa-area house last year, moved out of Florida and landed outside Valencia, Spain. Growing up in the 1990s, they both enjoyed Florida’s diversity and being able to run around freely outdoors. But in recent years, as they planned to have children, they had grown wary of the state’s costs, regular threats of mass shootings at schools, the quality of education and political divisiveness. They are expecting a daughter in the spring.

“I had a pretty good childhood, but I don’t think we’d be able to give our child the same quality of life because of the cost of living, food quality, and guns have become more prevalent,” Devereaux said.

“We think where we are now, it’s the best decision we could make to give any future children the best quality of life.”

AWARDS from

Leadership Board and an inspiring vision for Stanly County’s economic future. Don’t miss this milestone celebration of 90 years of business service in Stanly County.” The chamber’s annual meeting and awards ceremony is scheduled for March 5 at 5:30 p.m. in the Magnolia Room at Atrium Health Stanly. During the event, the Stanly Chamber will

announce its Ambassador of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Business of the Year and Citizen of the Year award winners. The organization will also introduce a new honor this year: Nonpro t Organization of the Year. “We are thrilled to announce an exciting new addition to our annual honors,” the Stanly Chamber said of the new category. “We know that our local nonpro ts are the heart of

“I had a pretty good childhood, but I don’t think we’d be able to give our child the same quality of life because of the cost of living, food quality and guns have become more prevalent.”

Steven Devereaux

to high-paying jobs in banking and tech, the topographical diversity and having smaller big-cities than Florida and Texas.

“North Carolina is attracting younger folks because we have so many nice areas in North Carolina — the mountains and beaches and lakes in between — that we’re bene ting from younger people who decided they can work from anywhere and would rather be in a nice area,” Cline said. “One of the things about North Carolina, our cities are not huge, and that may be attractive to folks, too.”

Last year’s changes among the states were signi cant because population growth brings more taxpayers, economic dynamism and demand for goods and services. It also signals potential changes in the nation’s political landscape after the next census in 2030, with certain states gaining or losing clout in Congress and the Electoral College.

In the next few years, domestic migration is going to play a larger role in states’ growth or population decline. That is because the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown has contributed to a signi cant reduction in migration from abroad, which had been the prime driver of growth in most states for the rst half of this decade.

Without immigration growth, the U.S. population will start shrinking in ve years as deaths outpace births, according to the Congressional Budget O ce.

Pandemic boom peters out

Younger folks and nice areas

North Carolina state demographer Michael Cline credited the state’s growth

Despite the comparative year-over-year slowdown in domestic migration, Texas’ overall growth of 391,000 people and Florida’s overall growth of 196,000 people were still the two highest in the U.S. last year.

In Florida, it was driven by international migration, and in Texas by international migration as well as

births outpacing deaths. Both states boomed during the early part of the decade, when pandemic-era lockdowns and remote work encouraged residents from other states to move to Florida and Texas, where coronavirus restrictions were more lax.

“The sharp domestic migrations they observed during the pandemic have now petered out, especially for Florida, at the same time that immigration is being diminished,” said Brookings demographer William Frey.

Demographers in Florida and Texas said they were not entirely sold on the accuracy of the Census Bureau’s migration numbers, which are the hardest variables to pin down because they uctuate the most year to year, although they did not question the rigor of the bureau’s work. The bureau uses data from the IRS and its American Community Survey to calculate migration, although the ACS data lags by a year and requires statisticians to project the data forward.

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida uses a method di erent from the Census Bureau’s to calculate growth — electrical customer data, said research demographer Richard Doty.

There are no de nitive explanations for why domestic migration to Florida went from almost 319,000 people in 2022 to 22,500 people in 2025. Doty said some factors might include the state no longer being the bargain it once was, a series of hurricanes and return-to-o ce employer mandates.

“The cost of housing, in particular, is driving young people and retirees to other states,” he said. “Also, insurance is higher in Florida than most other states.”

When asked about the decline, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press secretary, Molly Best, noted in an email that Florida had a signi cant in ux of new residents during the pandemic. It remains a top-ranked placed to live, she said.

The Texas economy has been growing, but that is not the only thing that in uences the in ow of potential migrants. Conditions outside the state also do, Texas state demographer Lloyd Potter said in an email.

“If jobs are plentiful, living is a ordable, and the overall quality of life is good, they will be less likely to move for an opportunity outside that community,” Potter said.

this county, and it is time we of-

cially recognized their mission-driven work with an award of their own. Be the rst to help us make history by nominating a deserving organization.”

The Nonpro t Organization of the Year category is open to chamber member nonpro ts — civic, religious or service-oriented — that were founded in Stanly County and ful ll their missions through local programming and by ad-

dressing community challenges. Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas are the presenting sponsors for the 2026 Annual Meeting and Awards; additional sponsors include Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company, Atrium Health and Uwharrie Bank. Based in Albemarle and established in 1936, the Stanly Chamber is an independent nonpro t organization focused on fostering local economic growth and supporting profes-

sional businesses through networking and advocacy.

The Stanly Chamber has several events scheduled throughout February, including ribbon cuttings for the upgraded Agri-Civic Center on Feb. 5 and Clefnote Music Group on Feb. 13. The chamber will also host a Women in Business networking event at The Art Place on Feb. 12 and a Business After Hours networking event at Emricci Pizzeria on Feb. 19.

MARY CONLON / AP PHOTO

Children walk through a sports eld in Independence Park under the skyline of Charlotte last March.

How Super Bowl halftime show evolved from pageantry to pop culture’s biggest stage

From marching bands to global spectacles drawing 130 million viewers

By Jonathan Landrum Jr.

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Once upon a time, the Super Bowl halftime show belonged to marching bands and pageantry. But these days, it belongs to global pop stars, cinematic production and moments that ripple beyond the stadium.

Over the years, the league’s brief intermission has transformed into one of entertainment’s biggest stages, hosting era-de ning performances from Prince in the rain to Rihanna’s record-setting return, Usher’s tightly choreographed showcase and Kendrick Lamar’s layered, visually driven storytelling.

What began as intermission

ller has evolved into a global spectacle, rivaling the NFL’s championship game itself for attention from more than 100 million viewers worldwide.

That evolution continues this year as Bad Bunny prepares to take the halftime stage, placing Latin culture and Spanish-language music at the center of America’s most-watched television event.

“The halftime performance has come a long way,” said Dan Marino, the Hall of Fame quarterback who played 17 seasons with the Miami Dolphins and competed in the 1985 Super Bowl. As an NFL analyst, Marino’s had a front-row seat to several halftime shows.

“Not a lot of people really watched it,” he continued. “But now, people love to watch the halftime show.”

That shift did not happen overnight. For decades, the halftime show re ected the NFL’s family-friendly image, built around marching bands, drill teams and patriotic spectacle. As the Super Bowl grew into an uno cial national holiday — and a global broadcast event — the league began rethinking the power of those 12 to 15 minutes, gradually turning the break into a cultural platform capable of launch-

MURAL from page A1

that ran from Sept. 5 to Oct. 17.

A total of 28 mural submissions were received.

From those, eight advanced for further consideration, with four ultimately selected as semi nalists and given a $500 stipend to re ne their concepts. Designs were scored anonymously by a seven-member Mural Subcommittee representing local government, the arts community, the building owner and the Historic Resource Commission.

At the Albemarle City Council meeting on Jan. 20, council members heard a presentation from Main Street Manager Katie Lynn of the city’s Economic Development Department, who summarized the selec-

ing careers, shaping narratives and, at times, sparking national conversation.

Last year, Lamar used the halftime stage as a narrative space, weaving choreography, costuming and staging to explore themes of identity, power and perception. The performance stayed within league parameters while still drawing broad interpretation and debate over its imagery and tone.

Lamar’s show became the most-watched halftime performance on record, drawing roughly 133.5 million viewers, surpassing Usher’s 2024 performance, which reached about 129.3 million. That number from Lamar’s set is about six million more than Fox’s broadcast of the Philadelphia Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

“I think the live element is pretty exciting for people because it’s a massive production and there’s so many moving pieces,” said actor Scarlett Johansson, who doesn’t consider herself a football enthusiast.

But she’s intrigued by the unpredictability of the halftime show

tion process and provided background on Lopez’s work.

“The committee noted that his interview was very engaging, and he was the most experienced artist of the four seminalists,” Lynn said. “We see that Bobby’s art is vibrant and features designs with nature. We’re excited to see what he will create for Albemarle.”

With extensive experience in public art, Lopez has completed large-scale mural projects in nine di erent states.

“Bobby’s mural is titled ‘The Avant Garden,’” Lynn said. “He says about the piece, ‘The mural is a magical visualization of the connective energy of natural processes, particles and waves of light ebb and ow through the piece, representing movement, pollination, air

like Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction,” Lady Gaga dropping from a stadium roof and Rihanna’s pregnancy reveal.

“You kind of watch with nervous excitement,” Johansson said. “You know at any moment something could maybe go wrong. That’s why it’s so fun to watch it because you’ve got all this anticipation. The production is so huge and so many people have come together to create this one moment. It’s kind of awesome.”

Kris Jenner agrees, calling the halftime show a “giant surprise.”

“The production level and how quickly they put it together as they’re breaking into commercial and come back with this fabulous, epic show,” said Jenner, the matriarch of “The Kardashians” reality television show. “Through all the years and technology, it gets better and better. It’s so exciting to watch and see what they come up with next and who is going to perform. It’s such a big deal.”

Usher said his appearance with the Black Eyed Peas during

“We’re excited

see what he will create for Albemarle.”

Main Street Manager Katie Lynn on Bobby MaGee Lopez

current, growth and energy.’”

Lynn added that Lopez conducted extensive research to ensure the mural re ects the region’s natural environment, researching 15 native insects and animals along with 20 native plant species during the process.

The proposed mural rendering includes imagery such as milkweed, a ruby-throated hummingbird, an eastern tiger swallowtail caterpillar, a

“The

Dan Marino

the 2011 Super Bowl taught him not to “take the moments for granted because you only get 13 of them.”

His show in 2024 was vastly di erent from the NFL’s rst Super Bowl halftime show in 1967, which featured marching bands from the University of Arizona and Grambling State University, a historically Black college, along with hundreds of ying pigeons, thousands of balloons and two soaring men wearing jetpacks. After the inaugural Super Bowl, the NFL kept bringing back other marching bands, drill teams, signed Chubby Checker

monarch butter y, a honeybee and lightning bugs.

In addition to creating the mural, Lopez will host a community engagement activity and an interactive workshop. He will also produce a coloring page based on the mural design for distribution to the public.

A live-feed camera will be used during the installation process to promote the work to media outlets.

“I’m really excited about the design, and truly grateful to everyone who was part of this process,” building owner Bert Baker said in a statement provided to Lynn.

The mural commission is valued at up to $35,000, which covers all project-related costs including travel, materials, surface preparation and insurance.

and Up with People, an organization that stage positive thinking through dance and song performances. However, none of those acts were considered huge draws.

But as the Super Bowl’s popularity soared and game day emerged as an uno cial holiday in the U.S., the NFL wanted the halftime show to grow in the same capacity. The league tapped New Kids on the Block and Gloria Estefan the rst two years of the ‘90s. Then it saw a huge breakthrough when Michael Jackson headlined the 1993 show at the Rose Bowl in Southern California, where the King of Pop notoriously moonwalked across the stage and performed hits including “Billie Jean,” “Black or White” and “Heal the World.”

Jackson’s stellar performance opened the door for other stars like the Rolling Stones, Diana Ross, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira who are eager to perform.

The NFL handles production costs and expenses for performers — who don’t get paid — but the exposure to hundreds of millions of people worldwide is considered priceless.

Some notable examples include U2’s remembrance of the 9/11 victims; Beyoncé’s unapologetic Blackness and political activism through her Black power anthem “Formation”; and the rst show to feature hip-hop artists led by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg in 2022.

Snoop praised NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Jay-Z for pushing the halftime show forward. The league worked with Roc Nation to help its Inspire Change initiative, created by the NFL after an agreement with a coalition of players who demonstrated during the national anthem to protest social and racial injustice in this country.

“Shout out to Jay-Z for changing the climate. Roger Goodell for giving him an opportunity,” Dogg said. “This is music. The music that dictates the world is what’s performing at halftime now. They’re starting to understand that it’s about what those players want to hear, what those fans want to hear, and what’s universally e ective.”

Snoop added: “It has no color on it now. Pop used to have a color on it. Now pop is popular. So, the most popular music is the music that we make. It makes sense to put those people on there that make that music.”

The mural was budgeted as part of the overall Courthouse Plaza project and is made possible through funding from an American Rescue Plan Act grant the city received.

City o cials expect the mural to have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. The project is part of Albemarle’s broader downtown streetscape master plan, which has already resulted in new signage, banners and outdoor furnishings.

Since its o cial opening in 2024, Courthouse Plaza has been redeveloped into a pedestrian-friendly gathering space featuring lighting, seating and designated areas for public art. The plaza has subsequently hosted festivals, art walks, seasonal celebrations and other community events.

RUSTY KENNEDY / AP PHOTO

Michael Jackson performs during the halftime show at the Super Bowl in 1993.

OBITUARIES

IN MEMORY

RAIMUNDO CAMPELO JR.

APRIL 23, 1943 – JAN. 25, 2026

Raimundo Campelo Jr., of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Stanly Manor Nursing Facility.

A formal service will be announced at a later date.

Roy Wesley Cook

Oct. 6, 1947 – Jan. 23, 2026

Roy Wesley Cook, 78, of Salisbury, passed away January 23, 2026, at the NC State Veterans Home.

Born October 6, 1947, in Stanly County, he was the son of the late Joe Claybern Cook and Johnsie Mae Talbert Cook. He was a 1965 graduate of Albemarle High School and a 1967 graduate of CPCC with an Associate Degree in Business. He served in the US Air Force 1967-1971, serving in Korea, Iowa and NC. After the Air Force he attended Elon College and graduated with a BA Degree in Accounting and Business in 1973 and earned an Associate’s Degree in Marketing from RCCC. In 1984 he earned an Insurance Degree from American College. In 1977 he joined NC Farm Bureau Insurance as a Sales Representative, a position he held until his retirement in 2010. He enjoyed gardening and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Palmer Cook.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, who he married May 29, 1966, Linda Davis Cook; son, John Wesley Cook of Salisbury; daughter, Meredith C. Carl of Salisbury; brothers, Robert Cook (Carolyn) of Cottonville, John G. Cook (Marie) of Kannapolis; sister, Patricia Fraley (Mike) of Albemarle; and grandchildren, Cora Cook, Wesley Claybern Cook, Nathaniel Carl (Jessica) and Chad Carl all of Salisbury and two Great-grandchildren, Callum Carl and Declan Carl. Th family will receive friends from 10:30AM until 11:30 AM on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Summersett Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 11:30AM at Summersett Memorial Chapel with Pastor Chad Hayes o ciating. Burial will be in the Salisbury National Cemetery. Military Honors will be presented by the Rowan County Veteran’s Honor Guard and the United States Air Force. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Cook family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome. com.

Jerry Thomas Smith

Mar. 7, 1943 – Jan. 31, 2026

Jerry Thomas Smith Sr. 82 of West Je erson (formerly from Albemarle) passed away January 31, 2026, at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and E e Smith of Albemarle, and one brother, Robert Smith of Southport. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, the former Frances Vanhoy. He is also survived by his daughter, Kimberly Smith Johnson (Mark) of West Je erson, his son, Jerry Smith, II (Danielle) of Badin. He has four grandchildren, Katelyn Smith Lo in (Justin) of Oak Island, Maggie Smith Rooks (Audie) of Coleville, California, Jerry “Tommy” Smith, III (Brooklyn) of Badin, Mark Johnson Jr. of West Je erson and Step granddaughter, Melissa Hanna (Chris) of Mans eld, Texas, and two step greatgrandchildren, Gwen Vogel and Randal Vogel of Mans eld, Texas. Also surviving are two siblings, Nelson Smith (Donna) of Charlotte, and Virginia Smith of Winston-Salem, and many nieces and nephews. Jerry requested to be cremated, and to have no visitation or memorial service. Jerry always had a special place in his heart for the Albemarle Senior High School, Class of 1962

William Robert “Bob” Storey Jr.

Dec. 15, 1948 – Jan. 30, 2026

William Robert (“Bob”) Storey Jr. passed away January 30, 2026.

He is Remembered and Cherished by his Family. We are all so happy he can now rest and join his loving wife, our loving mother, whom he has missed so greatly since she passed.

Born in 1948 to William Robert and Lois May Storey, Raised in Millville, NJ.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@ northstatejournal.com

He Married his High School Sweetheart Janis K. Rocco Storey, whom he Loved and Adored with every breath and beat of his heart. Bob will be remembered by many. He served his time in the Army during the Vietnam War. He Played, Coached, and Refereed Soccer, which was his passion. He worked in Grocery Store Management in Millville NJ, Moved to Stanly County, NC where he worked in Computer programing, nished his career and retired with Walmart in Albemarle, NC.

He is survived by his three children and spouses, Kelly Horton (and Gary Cook), William Robert (Bobby) Storey III (and Wife, Brandy), Michelle Verni (and Husband Domenic).

5 Grandchildren, Eric Storey Sr.(and Wife Kristina), Zachary Beachum (and Hailey), Gaetano Verni, Addison Storey, and Courtney Storey.

3 Great-grandchildren, Ella Storey, Eric Storey Jr, and Taylor Storey. Sister Kimberly Storey Pagliarli. Nephew Ryan (and Nicole) Aziminia, Niece Shayda (and Farhad) Ketab.

Born April 23, 1943, in Mineola, New York, Raimundo was the son of the late Raimundo and Eliza Campelo. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose life was centered around faith and family.

Raimundo is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Linda Campelo. Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Ray Campelo (Stella) of Albemarle; daughters, Denice Tomney (Andrew) of New York, Allison Campelo of New York, and Robin MacDonald (Kenneth) of New Jersey; his grandchildren, Bradley Tomney (Bridget), Adam Campelo (Alicia), Justin Tomney (Danielle), Billy Campelo, Tyler Tomney, Henry Campelo, Kaylee MacDonald, Austin Campelo, Emma MacDonald, and Cooper Campelo; great-grandchildren, Aiden, Myla, and Mackenzie; and his brother, Artie Bailey.

Raimundo was a loving and devoted father and a proud grandfather who delighted in time spent with his grandchildren. Known for his warm spirit, his motto in life was to always “smile and be happy.” A faithful Christian, he loved being involved in church and was a wonderful mentor to his family. He also enjoyed bowling and playing checkers, hobbies that brought him both joy and connection with others.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the sta of Stanly Manor Nursing Facility for their love, care, and compassion during Raimundo’s declining health. They also wish to thank his church families at St. Paul’s in New York, Morning Star in Charlotte, and First Lutheran Church in Albemarle for their continued support and prayers.

Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle is honored to serve the Campelo family.

STEPHEN ALAN DARBY

MAY 20, 1945 – JAN. 27, 2026

Stephen Alan Darby, 80, of Norwood, passed away Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Trinity Place in Albemarle.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Edwards Funeral Home in Norwood. Interment will follow at the National Cemetery in Salisbury on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 10 a.m. with military honors.

Stephen was born on May 20, 1945, in Mobile, Alabama. He spent most of his younger years and graduated from high school in Florida. He then joined the Army and served for two years. He then joined the Air National Guard and made many lifelong friends. He traveled with the Guard and served numerous overseas countries and all across the United States. White serving with the Air National Guard, Steve moved to Norwood, NC. He moved into the Boarding House owned by Mrs. Russell from 1972-1973. In 1979, Steve moved into his home on Allenton Street behind Bo and Betty Smith. Steve became an extended member of the family of Bo, Betty, Pam, and Patti Smith. That would be his home for the next 43 Years.

Steve was very proud of his years in service and was one of the most patriotic persons you would ever meet. He wore many t-shirts and caps with American Flags and Air Force logos to keep America strong in all his clothing. He looked forward to riding in the Veterans Parade every year. Steve was an excellent tennis player. He enjoyed playing on the courts in Norwood and Rock Creek Park. Steve liked showing young people how to play. He would volunteer to work with players playing at South Stanly. Steve was seen for years at Whispering Pines Barbeque. He worked there part-time and loved being around the crowd during his free time. Steve was known for attending yard sales and ea markets. He must have purchased one of everything made-from small model cars, art work, gadgets and every kind of jewelry.

As illness set in, Steve could no longer live alone and decided to move into Spring Arbor. He spent his last three years there. He loved the sta and his fellow mates who were living there and formed friendships; that’s what kept him going. Steve spent his nal stages at Trinity Place, where he had only been since January 5, 2026.

Those left to cherish his memory are his extended family: Pam and Mike Lambert of Albemarle; Patti and Larry Smith of Norwood; Betty Ruth Smith of Albemarle; McKenzie Huneycutt and children: Smith, Reece and Aubrey Huneycutt; and Carrie and Blake Bostic and children: Kate and Caroline Bostic.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Spring Arbor, Trinity Place, and Tillery Compassionate Care.

JOY DRAKE EUDY

MAY 15, 1939 – JAN. 28, 2026

Joy Gaynelle Drake Eudy, 86, of Midland, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Joy was born on May 15, 1939, in Cabarrus County to the late John Alexander Drake and the late Ella Knight Drake. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, David Edward Eudy; brothers Bob Drake and Curtis Drake of Midland and sister Alice Ruth McDaniel of Mt. Pleasant.

Joy loved playing the piano. She was a church pianist for many years and played the piano for a gospel group, “The Inheritors”. Most of all, Joy was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

The graveside service in celebration of Joy’s life will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Cemetery of Midland, o ciated by Rev. Leon Hawks and Rev. Lewis Whittington.

Survivors include son, Je Eudy and wife, Tena, of Midland; son, Mike Eudy and wife, Kim, of Midland; son, Mark Eudy and wife, Crystall of Blu ton, SC; grandchildren, Brian, Angie, Sheena, Brant, David, Adam, Noah, Lydia and Levi; great-grandchildren, Bethany, Elly, Brody, Asher, Knox and Luke. Also, many nieces and nephews.

The Eudy family would like to sincerely thank Evonna and Raven of Carolina Caring Hospice for their care and support.

In lieu of owers, memorial donations may be made to Carolina Caring Hospice or your local hospice.

GENEVA “GAY” CANADAY GREENE

DEC. 4, 1950 – JAN. 28, 2026

Geneva “Gay” Canaday Greene, 75, of Norwood, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Atrium Health Cabarrus.

No formal services will be held.

Born December 4, 1950, in Mecklenburg County, Gay was the daughter of the late Joe and Geneva Canaday. She was a devoted wife and loving caregiver, faithfully sharing 55 years of marriage with her husband, Jimmy Greene, who survives her. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who cherished her presence in their lives and a special sister-inlaw, Trudy Shaver.

Gay will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul who never met a stranger and always greeted others with a warm smile. She enjoyed computer games and Sudoku, nding joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her Christian faith was central to who she was, and she loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with her whole heart.

JANE LOWRY KIMREY

JAN. 18, 1936 – JAN. 31, 2026

Jane Lowry Kimrey, 90 of Norwood, died Saturday Morning, January 31, 2026, at the home of her son.

Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Norwood. Rev. Todd McSwain will o ciate, and interment will follow in Stanly Gardens of Memory. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Jane was born January 18, 1936, in Anson County to the late George William and Janie Virginia Tucker Lowry. She was a 1954 graduate of Deep Creek High School in Anson County and was a member of Norwood First Baptist Church. She was owner and operator of Jane’s Beauty Salon in the Cottonville Community for more than thirty years and also retired as custodian at South Stanly High School.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Ray Hugh Kimrey, and three brothers, Bill, John and Bob Lowry.

She is survived by one son Tony Kimrey and wife Debbie of Norwood and two daughters, Betty Kimrey of Albemarle and Della Kimrey Robbins and husband Gil of Belhaven. Four grandchildren, Lauren Andrew (Bo), Ryan Kimrey, John Robbins Jr. and Cecelia Swindell (Damian). Four great-grandchildren, Jordan Rae Andrew, Anduin Robbins, Alaric Robbins and Melody Mae Swindell. One sister, Ann Bundy of Bennettsville, SC Memorials may be made to Tillery Compassionate Care, 960 N 1st Street, Albemarle, NC 28001.

STANLY SPORTS

North Stanly girls continue winning streak

The Comets are 6-0 in Yadkin

Valley Conference play

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

MISENHEIMER — With seven wins in a row and an undefeated Yadkin Valley Conference record, the North Stanly girls’ basketball team has been dominant in 2026 as the regular season begins to wind down.

On Friday night, the Comets (15-3, 6-0 YVC) came away from Misenheimer with a 48-28 road win over the Gray Stone Knights (2-13, 0-6 YVC).

North Stanly jumped to an early 19-5 lead before going up by 28 at halftime. The Knights showed some signs of life in the second half — outscoring the Comets by one point in the third quarter and seven points in the fourth — but the damage was done.

Senior Lexie Brown led North Stanly with 12 points as senior Shy’Mani Baskins, junior Resse Coble and sophomore Sammie Lowder each added seven points.

North Stanly has already far surpassed its 13-13 (5-6 conference) record from last season and is on pace to possibly hit the 20-win mark, an accomplishment the Comets pulled o in three of their past four campaigns.

Over in Misenheimer, Gray Stone has largely emulated its two-win 2024-25 season at the bottom of the conference standings.

The Comets will travel to Monroe to challenge second-place YVC competitor

Union Academy on Wednesday, while the Knights will try to snap an eight-game losing streak as they host Albemarle on Friday.

Monroe 67, West Stanly 40

Now .500 in Rocky River Conference play, the West Stanly Colts (9-10, 4-4 RRC) lost 67-40 in a road test against the Monroe Redhawks (15-2, 7-1 RRC) on Friday night, dropping to fourth place in the RRC standings.

The Colts’ opponent won’t

get any easier on Wednesday as they head to Marshville to face Forest Hills, which remains the only RRC team with a perfect 7-0 record in conference play.

Albemarle 53, Union Academy 42

Playing on their home court, the Albemarle Bulldogs (9-10, 3-3 YVC) defeated the Union Academy Cardinals (8-11, 4-2 YVC) by 11 points on Friday night to snap a two-game skid. Albemarle is fourth in the YVC standings with a chance

Consecutive wins for the North Stanly girls’ basketball team

to achieve a winning record this season both overall and in league play; the Bulldogs hosted North Rowan on Tuesday and will now travel to Norwood on Thursday for a matchup with South Stanly.

Falcons notch sixth straight USA South win

Pfei er is now 6-2 in USA South play

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

MISENHEIMER — After opening USA South Athletic Conference play with back-toback losses, the Pfei er men’s basketball team is now undefeated since Jan. 9.

The Falcons (10-8, 6-2 USA South) have won six consecutive games — all against conference opponents — and have surged into the thick of the USA South race following a 0-2 start in league play.

Led by ninth-year coach Pete Schoch, Pfei er is positioning itself for another postseason run after sweeping the regular-season and conference tournament championships a year ago in an 18-8 (12-2 conf.) campaign.

Pfei er’s recent stretch has vaulted the Falcons into a tie for second place with N.C. Wesleyan (14-5, 6-2 USA South), both trailing rst-place Southern Virginia (11-7, 7-1 USA South) in the conference standings.

The Falcons’ momentum continued Friday night with a 98-79 home win over N.C. Wesleyan at Merner Gym, giving Pfei er victories this season over both teams currently

ahead of them in the league race.

“We’ve typically been able to get better as the season goes on,” Schoch said after the game. “I think that this group is no exception and it’s starting to play better.”

Pfei er built a 46-37 halftime lead and continued to apply pressure after the break, outscoring the Battling Bishops by 10 in the second half to secure a 19-point win. The 98 points marked Pfei er’s highest scoring output of the 2025 -26 season.

Former North Stanly standout Doug Smith led the way with 17 points and ve rebounds. The senior forward

from Badin currently ranks rst in the conference in rebounding (9.4 per game) and blocked shots (3.2), second in eld-goal percentage (.644) and third in scoring (16.9).

Sophomore guard Drake Stewart added 17 points and four rebounds o the bench, while senior forward Justin Gaten chipped in 11 points and four rebounds. Junior guard Sunni Wrice also scored 11 points, with junior guard Jaylan Bowen and senior guard Sean Sucarichi adding nine and eight points, respectively.

N.C. Wesleyan was paced by Markquan Gilbert’s game-high 25 points on 11-of-17 shooting,

South Stanly 55, Gray Stone 51

South Stanly claimed its rst conference win of the season Jan. 23 as the Rowdy Rebel Bulls (510, 1-4 YVC) snuck past Gray Stone for a four-point win in Norwood. Junior Kanija Colson led the Bulls with 22 points as senior Briley Page also reached double digits with 11 points. Hoping to move up from fth in the YVC standings, the Bulls have home games with Albemarle (Thursday) and Union Academy (Friday) lined up this week.

while Nasir Johnson contributed 23 points. Gilbert helped keep the Bishops within striking distance early in the second half, scoring 11 points in the opening eight minutes, but N.C. Wesleyan never closed the gap to fewer than six points.

Pfei er answered with a decisive 16-6 run and eventually built a 25-point cushion.

“If that group is good, life is a heck of a lot easier for us,” said Schoch, who credited his reserves for creating separation. “They were beyond good tonight — they were terri c. That’s kind of how the game got to where it was.”

Pfei er will travel to Raleigh on Wednesday night to face William Peace before heading to Buena Vista, Virginia, for a Saturday afternoon matchup against Southern Virginia.

Pfei er’s Drake Stewart dunks on N.C. Wesleyan’s Deejayy Cox during a home matchup in Misenheimer on Jan. 30.

COURTESY NFHS NETWORK

North Stanly’s Lexie Brown attempts a free throw during the Comets’ win at Gray Stone on Friday night.

NBA

James’ All-Star streak at 22 years

LeBron James is an All-Star, his 22nd consecutive selection. The NBA announced the reserves for the game on Feb. 15 in Inglewood, California. The reserves from the Eastern Conference are Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell, New York’s Karl-Anthony Towns, Indiana’s Pascal Siakam, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes, Detroit’s Jalen Duren, Miami’s Norman Powell and Atlanta’s Jalen Johnson, a former Duke player. From the Western Conference, the other reserves are Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards, Denver’s Jamal Murray, Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren, Houston’s Kevin Durant, Phoenix’s Devin Booker and Portland’s Deni Avdija.

PGA

Rose sets scoring record, goes wire to wire at Torrey Pines

San Diego Justin Rose is the rst wire-to-wire winner at Torrey Pines in 71 years. Rose nished with a 70 to break the tournament scoring record set by Tiger Woods in 1999. He nished at 23-under 265. Rose started with a six-shot lead and never let anyone get any closer. Tommy Bolt in 1955 was the last player to win this tournament from start to nish without ties. Rose now moves to No. 4 in the world at age 45.

NBA

NBA suspends 76ers’ George 25 games for violating anti-drug policy

Philadelphia Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers was suspended 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. The league did not disclose the substance involved. George released a statement saying he took something that was “improper.” He apologized to the team and its fans, saying he takes “full responsibility for my actions.” This is George’s rst violation. The suspension will cost him approximately $11.7 million of his salary.

BOXING

Miller’s hairpiece knocked upward by punch, then thrown into crowd

New York

Jarrell Miller was hit with such a good punch it knocked his hair o . Heavyweight Kingsley Ibeh landed a punch in the second round that knocked Miller’s head backward, and his hairpiece popped upward from the front, revealing a large bald spot that covered most of his head. Miller nished the round with the hairpiece, then ripped it o in his corner between rounds and tossed it into the crowd at Madison Square Garden. Miller won by split decision, then rubbed the top of his head while doing a celebratory dance.

NBA

Flagg breaks NBA teen record with 49 points in Mavs’ loss to Hornets

Dallas As Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg set the NBA record for points by a teenager with 49 in a loss to Charlotte, he broke the franchise rookie scoring record he shared with Mark Aguirre. Flagg turned 19 in December. Kon Knueppel, Flagg’s roommate as Blue Devils freshmen, had a careerhigh 34 points, hitting the two winning free throws with 4.1 seconds left after being fouled by Flagg. Cli Robinson set the previous NBA teen record of 45 points at age 19 in 1980.

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Hurricanes center Jordan Staal celebrates his gamewinning goal against the Mammoth with forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) during Carolina’s 5-4 win last Thursday in Raleigh.

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — In many ways, last Thursday’s game wasn’t one Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will want to play on a loop at a family gathering.

His wipeout in the neutral zone early in the second period allowed Utah winger Kailer Yamamoto to score his rst of two goals and tie the game after Carolina dominated the opening 20 minutes.

Then with just 13 minutes left in the game, Yamamoto pestered the Hurricanes defenseman into a turnover and a goal by Michael Carcone to give the visiting Mammoth what seemed like a nail-in-theco n two-goal lead.

But Gostisbehere — returning to the lineup after missing the last ve games — and the Hurricanes not only fought back, but they also pulled o one of the best rallies in NHL history.

Andrei Svechnikov, Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal scored three times in 89 seconds, with Staal’s goal coming with just under 30 seconds remaining, to turn a multigoal de cit into a 5-4 Hurricanes win at Lenovo Center.

“Just forget,” Gostisbehere said of moving past his miscues, “or score right after so you forget about it.”

It was just the third time in league history that a team trailing by two goals with under two minutes remaining ended up winning in regulation.

The rally started with Gostisbehere and Svechnikov.

With Carolina on a

four-minute power play due to a high sticking penalty by Barrett Hayton and Brandon Bussi (21 saves) on the bench for an extra attacker, Gostisbehere shot wide, but the puck hit the end boards and popped right to Svechnikov. He banged it into the vacant net for his second goal of the night and 20th of the season — matching last season’s total.

Gostisbehere, who had scored his seventh goal of the year on the power play to tie the game in the second period, got his second of the night 22 seconds after Svechnikov’s goal.

With Bussi again on the bench for a sixth skater, Jackson Blake zipped a diagonal pass to Gostisbehere at the right point for a one-timer that hit the cross bar and went in to tie the game.

“It is always about your next shift, good or bad,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said. “You score a goal, you don’t sit there patting yourself on the back. You’ve got to go do something about it. The same thing if you give up a goal. Ghost has been around. I don’t think he gets too ustered.”

Then the Hurricanes seized the momentum to get the winner.

Defenseman Jalen Chateld took a shot from the outside edge of the right circle. Jordan Martinook tipped the shot, and the puck went to Staal at the left post, where he knocked it in for his 12th goal of the year.

“We were just kind of riding the wave,” Staal said. “But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked. To get those three goals that quickly and in that short period of time to win the game was really cool.”

Gostisbehere and Svech-

“We were just kind of riding the wave. But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked.” Jordan Staal, Hurricanes captain

nikov each nished with three points.

“You saw him tonight,” Staal said of Svechnikov. “He was not only scoring goals, but he was physical, he was hard, he was skating well. And he’s got his strength back and his speed. … He’s the player that we all know he can be. And this year he’s been solid all throughout.”

And despite struggling much of the night on the power play, Carolina managed to score two key goals on ve opportunities.

“It’s sticking with it,” Gostisbehere said. “The entries weren’t beautiful, but at the end of the day, when you get two goals on power play, you know it’s going to help you win.”

And it did the Hurricanes extended their point streak to six games and further tightened their grip on the Metropolitan Division lead on Whalers Night.

“It’s always nice to score goals, especially game winners,” Staal said. “It’s making memories, and I love the game, I love being a part of of nights like this, and you want more of them. You’re chasing them, and you’re chasing those memories.

“And to do it alongside these guys in this room, the friends, and battle with each other is what I live for. It’s what I do this job for, and tonight was one of the good memories.”

SOUTH STANLY BOYS’ BASKETBALL

7-11, 1-4 in Yadkin Valley

2A/3A

Last week’s scores:

• No games

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 5 vs. Albemarle

• Feb. 6 vs. Union Academy

• Feb. 9 at North Stanly

SOUTH STANLY GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

5-10, 1-4 in Yadkin Valley

2A/3A

Last week’s scores:

• No games

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 5 vs. Albemarle

• Feb. 6 vs. Union Academy

• Feb. 9 at North Stanly

WEST STANLY BOYS’ BASKETBALL

7-12, 2-6 in Rocky River 4A/5A

Last week’s scores:

• Lost 70-32 at Monroe

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 4 at Forest Hills

• Feb. 5 vs. Piedmont

• Feb. 6 at Anson

WEST STANLY GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

9-10, 4-4 in Rocky River 4A/5A

Last week’s scores:

• Lost 67-40 at Monroe

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 4 at Forest Hills

• Feb. 5 vs. Piedmont

• Feb. 6 at Anson

NORTH STANLY BOYS’ BASKETBALL

19-1, 6-0 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores:

• Won 62-26 at Gray Stone Day

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 4 at Union Academy

• Feb. 6 at North Rowan

• Feb. 9 vs. South Stanly

NORTH STANLY GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

15-3, 6-0 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores:

• Won 48-28 at Gray Stone Day

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 4 at Union Academy

• Feb. 6 at North Rowan

• Feb. 9 vs. South Stanly

ALBEMARLE BOYS’ BASKETBALL 7-11, 4-2 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores:

• Won 45-36 vs. Union Academy

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 5 at South Stanly

• Feb. 6 at Gray Stone Day

• Feb. 9 vs. North Rowan

ALBEMARLE

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

9-10, 3-3 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores:

• Won 53-42 vs. Union Academy

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 5 at South Stanly

• Feb. 6 at Gray Stone Day

• Feb. 9 vs. North Rowan

GRAY STONE DAY

BOYS’ BASKETBALL 1-19, 0-6 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores:

• Lost 62-26 vs. North Stanly

This week’s schedule:

• Feb. 4 vs. Montgomery

• Feb. 6 vs. Albemarle

• Feb. 9 at Union Academy

GRAY STONE DAY

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL 2-13, 0-6 in Yadkin Valley

Last week’s scores:

• Lost 48-28 vs. North Stanly

This week’s schedule: Feb. 6 vs. Albemarle Feb. 9 at Union Academy

Carolina became the third team in history to have the historic rally

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

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To

‘Splitsville,’

‘Puppy Bowl,’ Keke Palmer, J. Cole, Nick Jonas drops new solo album

A television adaptation the 80s dark comedy “The Burbs” lands on Peacock

The Associated Press

THE GOOFY AND wry relationship comedy “Splitsville” landing on Hulu and fresh albums by J. Cole and Nick Jonas 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: Keke Palmer starring in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Tom Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock, gamers getting fast and bloody samurai action with Nioh 3 and Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” returning for Season 4. MOVIES TO STREAM

One of last year’s funniest original movies, the goofy and wry relationship comedy “Splitsville,” is streaming on Hulu starting Thursday. Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin, the duo behind “The Climb,” bring the audience along on a metaphorical (and literal) roller coaster of a comedy about open relationships, divorce and human mistakes, in which they star opposite Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona. In his review, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle wrote that, “though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s,” adding “the performer here who would have been most

NOTICES

MUSIC TO STREAM

at home in that bygone comedy heyday is Johnson.”

Also coming to Hulu on Thursday is James L. Brooks’ “Ella McCay,” a starry political dramedy with Emma Mackey playing an ambitious and idealistic lieutenant governor who has to take over for her boss. The lm was a major op with audiences and critics during its theatrical run. The AP’s Jocelyn Noveck, in her review, called it “ba ingly disjointed, uneven, unfunny and illogical,” adding that Mackey is the only reason to watch the lm.

Filmmaker Rory Kennedy

(“Downfall: The Case Against Boeing”) tells the story of Judit Polgár, the Hungarian girl who dreamed of conquering men’s chess and defeat champion Garry Kasparov, in “Queen of Chess.” The documentary just premiered at the Sundance Film Festival but will already be available to stream on Net ix on Thursday.

Nick Jonas, the youngest of the Jonas Brothers trio and fresh o a successful stadium run with his siblings, will release his rst solo album in just under ve years on Friday titled “Sunday Best.” The rst taste arrived in the form of lead single “Gut Punch.” It is smooth adult pop — as is his bread and butter — easy listening for those in need of a love song.

Also on tap: the innovative rapper and producer J. Cole returns with his seventh studio album, “The Fall-O .” Some fans theorize it may be his nal record — and with good reason. The music video for “Disc 2 Track 2,” released in January, begins with a note from Cole describing that he knew “in my heart I would one day get to the nish line.” That track recalls Nas’ 2001 hit “Rewind,” which may o er a tease as to what the album may sound like: a love

letter to hip-hop, and the career it has given Cole.

SERIES TO STREAM

It may be cold outside, but there’s a heatwave on Bravo as the reality series “Summer House” returns for a 10th season. The show features Manhattanites sharing a shore house in the Hamptons, although recent seasons have also followed the gang when they’re back in New York during the week. It’s streaming now on Peacock.

Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” is back for Season 4 beginning Thursday. Based on novels by Michael Connelly, the series follows talented Los Angeles attorney Mickey Haller (played by Manuel García-Rulfo) as he takes on high-pro le defendants. This season Haller is the one who needs a strong defense when he’s falsely accused of murder. “Puppy Bowl,” the annual TV event promoting animal adoption, airs its 22nd iteration on Sunday. “Puppy Bowl XXII” will simulcast across Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV, HBO Max and discovery+. Another call-to-action special, the “Great American Rescue Bowl” also takes place Sunday. This one highlight both adoptable dogs and cats and will be available on Great American Pure Flix, Great American Family, and GFAM+. Palmer stars in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock. All eight episodes drop Sunday. Palmer and Jack Whitehall play a couple who move to suburbia with their new baby to live

“Though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s.”

Jake Coyle, AP Film Writer

a nice, quiet life. The neighborhood seems less idyllic once the wife becomes xated on one of her neighbors, whom she connects with a decades-long missing person case.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Koei Tecmo’s Nioh series has built a cult audience among gamers who like their samurai action fast and bloody. Nioh 3, from Tokyo-based developer Team Ninja, adds some twists. Tokugawa Takechiyo is about to be appointed shogun when his jealous brother unleashes a horde of yōkai — ghouls, demons and other supernatural creatures drawn from Japanese folklore. Takechiyo can ght back with brute-force samurai skills, or switch to more acrobatic ninja tactics, all in a vast open world that promises more freedom than previous installments. Take up arms Friday on PlayStation 5 or PC.

NEON VIA AP

“Splitsville,” a comedy starring Michael Angelo Covino, Kyle Marvin, Adria Arjona and Dakota Johnson, lands on Hulu on Thursday.

20TH CENTURY STUDIOS VIA AP

Emma Mackey portrays a determined lieutenant governor in James Brooks’ drama “Ella McCay.”

Solution to last week’s puzzle

Solution to this week’s puzzles

Mr. Plow

North Carolina’s limited number of plow trucks were pushed to the max as a winter storm blanketed the area with more snow than many have seen in years. Here, work is being done on U.S. 64 West in Ramseur after the weekend storm.

WHAT’S

HAPPENING

Signs of forced entry found at Arizona home of “Today” show host Guthrie’s mother Tucson, Ariz.

Investigators have found signs of forced entry at the Arizona home of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother, according to a person familiar with the investigation who spoke to The Associated Press. Meanwhile, the host asked for prayers to help bring back the 84-year- old, whom authorities believe was taken against her will. The sheri said Nancy Guthrie must be found soon because she could die without her medication. Investigators also found evidence showing there was a nighttime kidnapping. Several of Guthrie’s personal items, including her cellphone, wallet and her car, were still at the home.

NASA delays astronauts’ lunar trip after hydrogen leaks mar fueling test

Cape Canaveral, Fla.

NASA’s long-awaited moonshot with astronauts is o until at least March because of leaking hydrogen fuel. The space agency announced the news Tuesday following a critical fueling test of its giant moon rocket in Florida. Hydrogen seeped from the base of the rocket during Monday’s dress rehearsal, which went into overtime Tuesday because of all the problems. O cials say the delay will allow the launch team to conduct another practice countdown before committing four astronauts to humanity’s rst moonshot in more than half a century.

$2.00

State funding to be used for adoption promotion

Forsyth County received around $115,000 in funding from the state DHHS

By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald

WINSTON-SALEM — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners was scheduled to meet in person Jan. 29 for its regular business meeting, but due to poor road conditions caused by the inclement weather that had occurred over the prior weekend, the board met virtually instead.

The board approved an amendment to the FY 2025-26 budget ordinance in order to appropriate around $115,000 in adoption promotion program incentive funds from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

“The purpose of the funding is to enhance and expand adoption programs and is based on the number of nalized adoptions for the scal year,” said County Manager Shontell Robinson.

According to Robinson, the program will utilize things such as billboards, signage, radio ads, social media and more in its promotion e orts.

“Typically, it’s an all-out recruitment campaign,” Robinson said.

The funds are restricted to be used solely to promote adoptions in Forsyth County

“There is absolutely a shortage of foster homes,” said Deputy County Manager Denise Price. “They are always more needed, and we are actively recruiting. The same goes for adoptive families. So if there is anyone listening who has an interest, I encourage you to

“Children need loving families, and we need more of them.”

Denise Price, deputycounty manager

please call social services. Children need loving families, and we need more of them.”

The board also approved three contractual items with the rst being a three-year, approximately $110,000 contract with Noverant for comprehensive learning management software and solutions related to a county-wide training platform.

The second item was for an amendment to the agreement with Perkinson Law Firm for lobbying services at the North

Carolina General Assembly in order to reimburse them around $1,000 in lobbying and principal registration fees and the nal item was a $110,000 agreement with Corelogic Solutions for a three-year contract for the use of valuation tools and services.

The board also held a public hearing for text amendments to the uni ed development ordinance (UDO) to better re ect proper references for the county’s new comprehensive plan.

“The city and the county both adopted the Forward 2045 comprehensive plan within the last year,” said Planning and Development Director Chris Murphy. “This plan replaced the previous comprehensive plan, Legacy 2030, which itself was an update to the original comprehensive plan referenced in the UDO.”

According to Murphy, the adoption of the text amendment is necessary to update the references, and the changes will ensure that the comprehensive plan and development regulations use consistent terminology.

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners will next meet Feb. 12.

Carolinas emerge as new population boom states; a ordability, lifestyle drive growth

The Carolinas overtook Florida and Texas as top destinations for Americans on the move

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. — Move over Florida and Texas. The United States has new hot spots for growth, and they both have Carolina in their name. North Carolina last year attracted more new residents, 84,000 people, from other parts of the country than any other state, a title held by Texas in 2024 and Florida in the two years before that. South Carolina had the highest overall

growth rate last year at 1.5%, a distinction among states held by Florida in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau gures released this past week.

Domestic migration, or people moving within the U.S., slowed in Texas. The 67,300 domestic migrants heading to the second most populous state year over year barely squeaked by South Carolina, which had the third highest number of domestic migrants at 66,600. The appeal of Florida, the nation’s third most populous state, dimmed. It dropped to No. 8 for state-to-state migration, as more U.S. residents preferred to move elsewhere, including Alabama.

Sabrina Morley and Steven

Devereaux sold their Tampa-area house last year, moved out of Florida and landed outside Valencia, Spain. Growing up in the 1990s, they both enjoyed Florida’s diversity and being able to run around freely outdoors. But in recent years, as they planned to have children, they had grown wary of the state’s costs, regular threats of mass shootings at schools, the quality of education and political divisiveness. They are expecting a daughter in the spring.

“I had a pretty good childhood, but I don’t think we’d be able to give our child the same quality of life because of the cost of living, food quality, and guns have become more prevalent,” Devereaux said. “We

think where we are now, it’s the best decision we could make to give any future children the best quality of life.”

Younger folks and nice areas

North Carolina state demographer Michael Cline credited the state’s growth to high-paying jobs in banking and tech, the topographical diversity and having smaller big-cities than Florida and Texas.

“North Carolina is attracting younger folks because we have so many nice areas in North Carolina — the mountains and beaches and lakes in between

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MONDAY FEB. 9

Trump administration cuts number of sites for testing upcoming 2030 census, focusing on South

A practice test was reduced to two Southern locations despite undercounting concerns

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

THE TRUMP administration is eliminating four out of the six locations that had been slated for a practice test to try out new methods for the 2030 census, raising concerns that the U.S. Census Bureau might not learn enough about communities that have been traditionally difcult to count.

The test, which started Monday, will be conducted only in Huntsville, Alabama, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, ac-

cording to a notice submitted by the Commerce Department that will be formally published on Tuesday. The Commerce Department oversees the Census Bureau.

Four other sites — Colorado Springs, Colorado, tribal lands in Arizona, western North Carolina and western Texas — originally were included when the Census Bureau announced the locations in 2024.

The bureau didn’t respond to an emailed inquiry on Monday about the reasons for the reduced number of sites. In a statement on its website, it said it “remains committed to conducting the most accurate count in history for the 2030 Census and looks forward to the continued partner-

ship with local communities.”

Mark Mather, an associate vice president at the Population Reference Bureau, a nonpartisan research group, said limiting the test to just two metro areas in the South would be “a step backward.”

“The Census Bureau would be essentially ying blind into communities that need testing most — tribal lands, rural areas with limited connectivity and places with historically low response rates,” Mather said. “You can’t x what you don’t test.”

The test is supposed to give the statistical agency the chance to learn how to better tally populations that were undercounted in the 2020 census and improve methods that will be used in 2030. It also allows it to test its

messaging and its ability to process data as it’s being gathered.

Among the new methods being tested for 2030 is the use of U.S. Postal Service workers to conduct tasks previously done by census workers.

The original six test sites had been picked for a variety of reasons, including a desire to include rural areas where some residents don’t receive mail or have little or no internet service. Others, including tribal land, fast-growing locations with new construction, and dorms, care facilities and military barracks had been picked because their residents are traditionally hard to count.

Ahead of the last census in 2020, the only start-to- nish test of the head count was held in Providence, Rhode Island, in 2018. Plans for other tests were canceled because of a lack of funding from Congress. The once-a-decade head count determines how many congressional seats and Electoral College votes each state gets. It also guides the distribution of $2.8 trillion in annual federal spending.

Two young children hold signs through the car window that make reference to the 2020 U.S. Census as they wait in the car with their family at an outreach event in Dallas in June.

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Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

— that we’re bene ting from younger people who decided they can work from anywhere and would rather be in a nice area,” Cline said. “One of the things about North Carolina, our cities are not huge, and that may be attractive to folks, too.”

Last year’s changes among the states were signi cant because population growth brings more taxpayers, economic dynamism and demand for goods and services. It also signals potential changes in the nation’s political landscape after the next census in 2030, with certain states gaining or losing clout in Congress and the Electoral College. In the next few years, domestic migration is going to play a larger role in states’ growth or population decline. That is because the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown has contributed to a signi cant reduction in migration from abroad, which had been the prime driver of growth in most states for the rst half of this decade.

Without immigration growth, the U.S. population will start shrinking in ve years as deaths outpace births, according to the Congressional Budget O ce.

Pandemic boom peters out

Despite the comparative year-over-year slowdown in domestic migration, Tex-

as’ overall growth of 391,000 people and Florida’s overall growth of 196,000 people were still the two highest in the U.S. last year.

In Florida, it was driven by international migration, and in Texas by international migration as well as births outpacing deaths. Both states boomed during the early part of the decade, when pandemic-era lockdowns and remote work encouraged residents from other states to move to Florida and Texas, where coronavirus restrictions were more lax.

“The sharp domestic migrations they observed during the pandemic have now petered

out, especially for Florida, at the same time that immigration is being diminished,” said Brookings demographer William Frey. Demographers in Florida and Texas said they were not entirely sold on the accuracy of the Census Bureau’s migration numbers, which are the hardest variables to pin down because they uctuate the most year to year, although they did not question the rigor of the bureau’s work. The bureau uses data from the IRS and its American Community Survey to calculate migration, although the ACS data lags by a year and requires statisticians to project the data forward.

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida uses a method di erent from the Census Bureau’s to calculate growth — electrical customer data, said research demographer Richard Doty.

There are no de nitive explanations for why domestic migration to Florida went from almost 319,000 people in 2022 to 22,500 people in 2025. Doty said some factors might include the state no longer being the bargain it once was, a series of hurricanes and return-to-o ce employer mandates.

“The cost of housing, in particular, is driving young people and retirees to other states,” he said. “Also, insurance is higher in Florida than most other states.”

When asked about the decline, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press secretary, Molly Best, noted in an email that Florida had a signi cant in ux of new residents during the pandemic. It remains a top-ranked placed to live, she said.

The Texas economy has been growing, but that is not the only thing that in uences the in ow of potential migrants. Conditions outside the state also do, Texas state demographer Lloyd Potter said in an email.

“If jobs are plentiful, living is a ordable, and the overall quality of life is good, they will be less likely to move for an opportunity outside that community,” Potter said.

MARY CONLON / AP PHOTO

Children walk through a sports eld in Independence Park under the skyline of Charlotte last March.

CAROLINAS from page A1

TONY GUTIERREZ / AP PHOTO

THE CONVERSATION

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

| DAVID HARSANYI

Price controls won’t work any better for Republicans than it does Democrats

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

DEMONIZING GREEDY BANKERS and landlords is the last refuge of the poorly polling politician.

And, as a ordability remains a leading issue among voters, the Trump administration has regularly used rhetoric and ideas that mirror those of progressive Democrats like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Take the president’s recent idea for capping credit card interest rates at 10%. Or rather, the idea that’s already proposed in a bill sponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). “They’ve really abused the public,” the president said of credit card companies. “I’m not going to let it happen.”

This probably feels good to hear. But if you nd an APR on a new credit card o er “predatory,” de nitely do not sign up for it. You don’t owe the bank anything, and it doesn’t owe you. An interest rate, though, re ects risk. It’s the entry price for obtaining credit. If you have a good credit score, you get lower rates and vice versa.

Capping the rate won’t eliminate credit risk factors, though it will likely shrink available money for people who need it most: lower-income and young workers, or anyone else trying to build up their credit. Lots of entrepreneurs and small-business owners also rely on credit cards to tide them over for a season or help with up-front capital.

COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

And those who are denied cards will still need funds. They’ll inevitably seek out other means of borrowing, probably at even higher rates. Maybe they’ll go to payday loans and cash checking places. Maybe they’ll take second mortgages. Maybe they’ll go to the black market.

There are those who argue that Americans already borrow far too much and that limiting access to credit would be good for them. Rest assured, these nannies almost surely own their homes and cars — purchases that become even more prohibitive for people unable to improve their credit scores.

Trump likes to explicitly threaten or jawbone companies into doing his bidding. Bank of America, for example, is reportedly considering o ering a credit card with interest capped at 10% to placate the administration.

Well, there’s no federal cap on what APRs banks can o er on credit cards. If providers want to undercut competition, nothing is stopping them. Banks are businesses, after all, not charities.

But if banks lose out charging riskier customers lower interest rates to get on the good side of the administration, they’ll simply raise fees elsewhere, pull back on rewards and nd other creative ways to make their reliable consumers pay.

Price xing never alleviates cost — it merely displaces it.

Take Mamdani as he “cracks down,” as one

12 Question quiz: What ‘fascist’ ‘xenophobe’ ‘tyrant’ said this?

We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked.

1. “I’m really good at killing people. Didn’t know that was going to be a strong suit of mine.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. President Barack Obama, 2012

2. “But, let me tell you, we can build a fence 40 stories high — unless you change the dynamic in Mexico and — and you will not like this, and — punish American employers who knowingly violate the law when, in fact, they hire illegals. Unless you do those two things, all the rest is window dressing.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.), 2006

3. “Today, I will issue a national security memorandum directing every federal department and agency to do even more to stop the ow of narcotics — including fentanyl — into our country. It will increase intelligence collection on tra ckers’ evolving tactics to smuggle narcotics into our country. And it will help our law enforcement personnel seize more deadly drugs before they reach our communities.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. President Joe Biden, 2024

4. “The United States and the world faced a choice. (The dictator) declared he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats and threatened to go door to door to in ict punishment. In the past, we have seen him hang civilians in the streets and kill over a thousand people in a single day. It was not in our national interest to let that (massacre) happen. I refused to let that happen.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026, about Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro

b. President Barack Obama, 2011, about Libya’s Muammar Gadda

5. “We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked and circumventing the line of people who are waiting patiently, diligently and lawfully to become immigrants in this country.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), 2005

6. “Real reform means stronger border security ... putting more boots on the southern border than at any time in our history and reducing illegal crossings to their lowest levels in 40 years.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026

b. President Barack Obama, 2013

7. “Illegal immigration is wrong, plain and simple. ... People who enter the United States without our permission are illegal aliens and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... Until the American people are convinced that we will stop future ows of illegal immigration, we will make no progress on dealing with the millions of illegal immigrants who are here now. ... When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combatting illegal immigration. If you don’t think it’s illegal, you’re not going to say it. I think it is illegal and wrong.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009

travel magazine referred to it, on “junk fees” in city hotels.

“Junk” is just a description of a cost that consumers and politicians have arbitrarily decided shouldn’t be paid. But they will be. Hotels will almost inevitably raise prices elsewhere or decrease services to make up for it.

Economic magical thinking never dies, however, because it’s tethered to envy and anger rather than rational thinking. Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

And there is no more convenient villain than a faceless pro t-mongering landlord.

Take another price control policy championed by Mamdani: rent control, a practice that’s been failing to lower housing costs since Roman times, at least.

A slew of studies and empirical evidence nds that rent control doesn’t work. The vast majority of economists, both on the right and left, believe it’s a bad idea. Still, most polls nd that rent “stabilization” is supported by around 80% of New Yorkers.

Every generation, it seems, convinces itself it possesses the best technocrats and formula to properly control economic activity to make it fairer and decent. Mamdani is just another in a long line of politicians who play the role.

But Trump? He should know better.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books — the most recent, “How To Kill a Republic,” available now. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

8. “Because we do need to address the issue of immigration and the challenge we have of undocumented people in our country. We certainly don’t want any more coming in.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), 2008

9. “All Americans ... are rightly disturbed by the large numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. ... We are a nation of immigrants. But we are also a nation of laws.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. President Bill Clinton, 1995

10. “I think we can enforce our borders. I think we should enforce our borders.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2018

b. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), 1994

11. “If making it easy to be an illegal alien isn’t enough, how about o ering a reward for being an illegal immigrant? No sane country would do that. Right? ... If you break our laws by entering this country without permission and give birth to a child, we reward that child with U.S. citizenship.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), 1993

12. “A biometric-based employment veri cation system with tough enforcement and auditing is necessary to signi cantly diminish the job magnet that attracts illegal aliens to the United States.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009 Hint: If it’s not too late, consider betting on “b.” Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. To nd out more about Larry Elder, or become an “Elderado,” visit www.LarryElder.com. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN

Some companies tie AI to layo s, but reality more complicated

Firings may be attributed to AI to show how “tech-savvy” companies are

By Matt O’Brien

The Associated Press

THE ONE THING N. Lee Plumb knows for sure about being laid o from Amazon last week is that it wasn’t a failure to get on board with the company’s arti cial intelligence plans.

Plumb, his team’s head of “AI enablement,” says he was so proli c in his use of Amazon’s new AI coding tool that the company agged him as one of its top users.

Many assumed Amazon’s 16,000 corporate layo s announced last week re ected CEO Andy Jassy’s push to “reduce our total corporate workforce as we get e ciency gains from using AI extensively across the company.”

But like other companies that have tied workforce changes to AI — including Expedia, Pinterest and Dow last week — it can be hard for economists, or individual employees like Plumb, to know if AI is the real reason behind the layo s or if it’s the message a company wants to tell Wall Street.

“AI has to drive a return on investment,” said Plumb, who worked at Amazon for eight years. “When you reduce head count, you’ve demonstrated efciency, you attract more capital, the share price goes up.”

“So you could potentially have just been bloated in the rst place, reduce head count, attribute it to AI, and now you’ve got a value story,” he said.

Amazon said in an emailed statement that AI was “not the reason behind the vast majority of these reductions.”

“These changes are about continuing to strengthen our culture and teams by reducing layers, increasing ownership, and helping reduce bureaucracy to drive speed and ownership,” it said.

Plumb is atypical for an Amazon worker in that he’s also running what he describes as a “long shot” bid for Congress in Texas, on a platform focused on stopping the tech industry’s reliance on work visas to “replace American workers with cheaper foreign labor.”

But whatever it was that cost Plumb his job, his skepticism about AI-driven job replacement is one shared by many economists.

“We just don’t know,” said Karan Girotra, a professor of management at Cornell University’s business school. “Not

“When

you reduce head count, you’ve demonstrated e ciency, you attract more capital, the share price goes up.”

N. Lee Plumb, former Amazon employee

because AI isn’t great, but because it requires a lot of adjustment and most of the gains accrue to individual employees rather than to the organization. People save time and they get their work done earlier.”

If an employer works faster because of AI, Girotra said it takes time to adjust a company’s management structure in a way that would enable a smaller workforce. He’s not convinced that’s happening at Amazon, which he said is still scaling back from a glut of hiring during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A report by Goldman Sachs said AI’s overall impact on the labor market remains limited, though some e ects might be felt in “speci c occupations like marketing, graphic design, customer service, and especially tech.” Those are elds involving tasks that correlate with the strengths of the current crop of generative AI chatbots that can write emails and marketing pitches, produce synthetic images, answer questions and help write code.

But the bank’s economic research division said in its most recent monthly AI adoption tracker that, since December,

“very few employees were a ected by corporate layo s attributed to AI,” though the report was published Jan. 16, before Amazon, Dow and Pinterest announced their layo s. San Francisco-based Pinterest was the most explicit in asserting that AI drove it to cut up to 15% of its workforce. The social media company said it was “making organizational changes to further deliver on our AI-forward strategy, which includes hiring AI-pro cient talent. As a result, we’ve made the di cult decision to say goodbye to some of our team members.”

Pinterest echoed that message in a regulatory disclosure that said the company was “reallocating resources to AI-focused roles and teams that drive AI adoption and execution.”

Expedia has voiced a similar message but the 162 tech workers the travel website cut from its Seattle headquarters last week included several AI-specific roles, such as machine-learning scientists.

Dow’s regulatory disclosures tied its 4,500 layo s to a new plan “utilizing AI and automation” to increase productivity and improve shareholder returns.

Amazon’s 16,000 corporate job cuts were part of a broader reduction of employees at the ecommerce giant. At the same time as those cuts, all believed to be o ce jobs, Amazon said it would cut about 5,000 retail workers, according to notices it sent to state workforce agencies in California, Maryland and Washington, resulting from its decision to close almost all of its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores.

That’s on top of a round of 14,000 job cuts in October, bringing the total to well over 30,000 since Jassy rst signaled a push for AI-driven organizational changes. Like many companies, in technology and otherwise, but particularly those that make and sell AI tools and services, Amazon has been pushing its workforce to nd more e ciencies with AI.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said last week that 2026 will be when “AI starts to dramatically change the way that we work.”

“We’re investing in AI-native tooling so individuals at Meta can get more done, we’re elevating individual contributors, and attening teams,” he said on an earnings call. “We’re starting to see projects that used to require big teams now be accomplished by a single very talented person.”

So far, Meta’s layo s this year have focused on cutting jobs from its virtual reality and metaverse divisions. Also driving job impacts is the industry shifting resources to AI development, which requires huge spending on computer chips, energy-hungry data centers and talent.

Jassy told Amazon employees last June to be “curious about AI, educate yourself, attend workshops and take trainings, use and experiment with AI whenever you can, participate in your team’s brainstorms to gure out how to invent for our customers more quickly and expansively, and how to get more done with scrappier teams.”

Plumb was fully on board with that and said he demon-

Japan retrieves rare earth-rich mud from seabed to lower reliance on China

A ship collected sediment from nearly 20,000 feet underwater

By Mari Yamaguchi

The Associated Press

TOKYO — Japan said Monday it has successfully drilled and retrieved deep-sea sediment containing rare earth minerals from the seabed near a remote island, as the country seeks to reduce its reliance on China.

The deep-sea drilling vessel Chikyu successfully gathered the sediment at a depth of nearly 19,700 feet near the island of Minamitorishima, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said in a statement on X. The test retrieval of the rare earths from that depth is a world rst, she added.

“It is a rst step toward industrialization of domestically produced rare earth in Japan,” Takaichi said. “We will make effort toward achieving resilient supply chains for rare earths and other critical minerals to avoid overdependence on a particular country.” China controls most of the global production of heavy rare earths, which are used for making powerful, heat-resistant magnets in industries such as defense and electric vehicles.

Japan has faced growing tensions with China since Takaichi’s comment in November about a possible Japanese involvement in case of Chinese military action against Taiwan, the self-governing island that Beijing claims as its own. China recently suspended ex-

“It is a rst step toward industrialization of domestically produced rare earth in

Japan.”

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi

ports to Japan of dual-use goods with potential military use, raising concern in Japan that rare earths may be included. While 17 elements are classied as rare earth, the U.S. government has identi ed 50 minerals overall that are labeled critical minerals, which also include a number of other minerals that are seen as essential to the economic and military strength of the nation. Japanese researchers discovered deposits rich with critical minerals including rare earths around Minamitorishima in the 2010s.

Under the Strategic Innovation Promotion Program, Japan has been working on research,

strated his pro ciency in using Amazon’s AI coding tool, Kiro, to “solve massive problems” in the company’s compensation system.

“If you weren’t using them, your manager would get a report and they would talk to you about using it,” he said. “There were only ve people in the entire company that were a higher user of Kiro than I was, or had achieved more milestones.”

Now he’s shifting gears to his candidacy among a eld of Republicans in the Houston area looking to unseat U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw in the March primary.

Cornell’s Girotra said it’s possible that increasing AI productivity is leading companies to cut middle management, but he said the reality is that those making layo decisions “just need to cut costs and make it happen. That’s it. I don’t think they care what the reason for that is.”

Not all companies are signaling AI as a reason for cuts. Home Depot con rmed on Thursday that it was eliminating 800 roles tied to its corporate headquarters in Atlanta, though most of the a ected employees worked remotely.

Home Depot’s spokesman George Lane said that Home Depot’s cuts were not driven by AI or automation but “truly about speed, agility” and serving the needs of its customers and front-line workers.

And exercise equipment maker Peloton con rmed on Friday that it is reducing its workforce by 11% as part of a broader cost-cutting move to pare down operating expenses.

development and feasibility studies of rare earths deposits around the island.

“The successful retrieval of the sediment containing rare earth elements is a meaningful achievement from the perspectives of economic security and comprehensive ocean development,” Japan’s Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki said Monday.

He said that moving toward industrialization of rare earths mud mining will require demonstrating the full process from mining through separation and re ning, as well as verifying its economic viability, based on the results of the ongoing tests.

Details, including the amount of rare earth contained, still need to be analyzed, ocials said.

The Chikyu, which means Earth, departed last month for Minamitorishima, about 1,950 kilometers (1,210 miles) southeast of Tokyo, and arrived at the mining site on Jan. 17. The rst batch of rare earth sediment was retrieved on Feb. 1, according to Japan’s Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, which is conducting the survey.

Japan’s Self Defense Forces last year said Chinese naval vessels had been spotted near Minamitorishima.

MARK LENNIHAN / AP PHOTO

The Amazon logo is displayed at a news conference in New York in 2011.

SIP / JAPAN AGENCY FOR MARINE-EARTH SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY VIA AP

A mining device is inserted into subsea sediment o Minamitorishima south of Tokyo on Friday.

Forsyth SPORTS

NASCAR’s Bi e wasn’t ying his plane before crash that killed him, 6 others last month

The NTSB released its report on the incident

By Josh Funk

The Associated Press

RETIRED NASCAR DRIV-

ER Greg Bi e was not ying his own jet when it crashed last month, killing him and six others, according to a report from investigators.

The preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board also concluded that while an experienced pilot was at the controls, the person sitting in the right seat wasn’t quali ed to be the copilot. Bife and the retired airline pilot at the controls, Dennis Dutton, and his son Jack, who were all licensed pilots, noticed problems with gauges malfunctioning on the Cessna C550 before it crashed while trying to return to the Statesville Regional Airport.

The plane erupted into a large re when it hit the ground about a third of a mile from the airport’s runway.

The NTSB made clear that Jack Dutton was sitting in the copilot seat. Neither Jack Dutton nor Bi e had the right endorsement on their pilot’s licenses to serve as a copilot on that plane, and the younger Dutton had only about 175 hours of ying experience. Aviation safety consultant Je Guzzetti, who used to investigate crashes for both the NTSB and Federal Aviation Administration, said he believes the lack of an experienced copilot may have been a key factor in the crash.

“This airplane requires two trained pilots, and if things go wrong and you don’t have a

“This airplane requires two trained pilots, and if things go wrong and you don’t have a trained pilot, then bad things can happen.”

Je Guzzetti, aviation safety consultant

trained pilot, then bad things can happen,” Guzzetti said. “The airplane might have been able to be landed safely if there were two quali ed pilots up front.”

The report said that a thrust reverser indicator light wasn’t working before takeo , but after the plane got into the air, the pilot’s altimeter and some other instruments weren’t working on the left side of the cockpit. After that the report said the pilot temporarily transferred control over to the copilot while he tried to troubleshoot the problems.

The cause of the problems with the plane isn’t clear at this stage in the investigation, partly because the cockpit voice recorder cut out at times and NTSB experts have only just begun to dig into what caused the crash. Over the radio, Jack Dutton announced, “we’re having some problems here” and the cockpit recorder captured part of the conversation between the three pilots about the issues with the plane.

John Cox, who is the CEO of Safety Operating Systems, said he thinks the instrument problems on the plane might have been a bigger factor in the crash than the inexperience of the copilot.

Hurricanes score 3 times in nal 2 minutes, stun Mammoth in 5-4 win

Carolina became the third team in history to have the historic rally

By Cory Lavalette Twin City Herald

RALEIGH — In many ways, last Thursday’s game wasn’t one Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will want to play on a loop at a family gathering.

His wipeout in the neutral zone early in the second period allowed Utah winger Kailer Yamamoto to score his rst of two goals and tie the game after Carolina dominated the opening 20 minutes.

Then with just 13 minutes left in the game, Yamamoto pestered the Hurricanes defenseman into a turnover and a goal by Michael Carcone to give the visiting Mammoth what seemed like a nail-in-the-co n two -goal lead.

But Gostisbehere — returning to the lineup after missing the last ve games — and the Hurricanes not only fought back, but they also pulled o one of the best rallies in NHL history.

Andrei Svechnikov, Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal scored three times in 89 seconds, with Staal’s goal coming with just under 30 seconds remaining, to turn a multigoal de cit into a 5-4 Hurricanes win at Lenovo Center.

“Just forget,” Gostisbehere said of moving past his miscues, “or score right after so you forget about it.”

It was just the third time in

“In the clouds with failing ight instruments is a serious situation,” Cox said.

But the report indicates that the pilots were able to resolve the problems with the gauges before they tried to land back at the airport. The NTSB said that after a few minutes of discussion where Bi e was suggesting possibilities about what was going wrong, the pilot indicated that he had found the problem but didn’t say what it was. At that point, the audio in the cockpit recorder returned to normal, and there was no further discussion of instrument problems before the crash.

It’s not clear why the plane came in so low and slow that it clipped two poles of landing lights before it crashed. Investigators discovered the throttle in the full forward position when they examined the wreckage. Guzzetti said that suggests the pilot may have realized the plane was too low and tried to pull up and maybe even go around.

Bi e’s wife, Cristina, and children Ryder, 5, and Emma, 14, were killed in the crash along with his friend, Craig Wadsworth.

The jet had departed Statesville Regional Airport about 10 minutes before it crashed while trying to return and land. Every indication is that the plane needed to land quickly because of the problems, so it wouldn’t have been a good option to y to Charlotte.

The plane’s speed and altitude uctuated signi cantly during the brief ight. At one point, the plane quickly soared from 1,800 feet up to 4,000 feet before descending again. Just before the crash, it was only a couple of hundred feet o the ground.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Kamauri Manuel

West Forsyth, boys’ basketball

Kamauri Manuel is a junior for the West Forsyth boys’ basketball team. Manuel has been impressive with his scoring and impressive dunks over the season so far. He was named MVP of the Frank Spencer Holiday Tournament at the end of last month He currently ranks in the top ve in North Carolina Division 8A in assists and steals, and he is West Forsyth’s leading scorer.

league history that a team trailing by two goals with under two minutes remaining ended up winning in regulation.

The rally started with Gostisbehere and Svechnikov.

With Carolina on a four-minute power play due to a high sticking penalty by Barrett Hayton and Brandon Bussi (21 saves) on the bench for an extra attacker, Gostisbehere shot wide, but the puck hit the end boards and popped right to Svechnikov. He banged it into the vacant net for his second goal of the night and 20th of the season — matching last season’s total.

Gostisbehere, who had scored his seventh goal of the year on the power play to tie the game in the second period, got his second of the night 22 seconds after Svechnikov’s goal.

With Bussi again on the bench for a sixth skater, Jackson Blake zipped a diagonal pass to Gostisbehere at the right point for a one-timer that hit the cross bar and went in to tie the game.

“It is always about your next shift, good or bad,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said.

“You score a goal, you don’t sit there patting yourself on the back. You’ve got to go do something about it. The same thing if you give up a goal. Ghost has been around. I don’t think he gets too ustered.”

Then the Hurricanes seized the momentum to get the winner.

Defenseman Jalen Chat eld took a shot from the outside edge of the right circle. Jordan Martinook tipped the shot, and

“We were just kind of riding the wave. But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked.”

Jordan

Staal, Hurricanes captain

the puck went to Staal at the left post, where he knocked it in for his 12th goal of the year.

“We were just kind of riding the wave,” Staal said. “But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked. To get those three goals that quickly

and in that short period of time to win the game was really cool.”

Gostisbehere and Svechnikov each nished with three points.

“You saw him tonight,” Staal said of Svechnikov. “He was not only scoring goals, but he was physical, he was hard, he was skating well. And he’s got his strength back and his speed. … He’s the player that we all know he can be. And this year he’s been solid all throughout.” And despite struggling much of the night on the power play, Carolina managed to score two key goals on ve opportunities.

“It’s sticking with it,” Gostisbehere said. “The entries weren’t beautiful, but at the end of the day, when you get two goals on

power play, you know it’s going to help you win.” And it did the Hurricanes extended their point streak to six games and further tightened their grip on the Metropolitan Division lead on Whalers Night.

“It’s always nice to score goals, especially game winners,” Staal said. “It’s making memories, and I love the game, I love being a part of of nights like this, and you want more of them. You’re chasing them, and you’re chasing those memories.

“And to do it alongside these guys in this room, the friends, and battle with each other is what I live for. It’s what I do this job for, and tonight was one of the good memories.”

COURTESY UNOTHEONLY1_ KAMAURI MANUEL / INSTAGRAM

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Hurricanes center Jordan Staal celebrates his game-winning goal against the Mammoth with forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) during Carolina’s 5-4 win last Thursday in Raleigh.

SIDELINE REPORT

PGA

Rose sets scoring record, goes wire to wire at Torrey Pines

San Diego Justin Rose is the rst wire-to-wire winner at Torrey Pines in 71 years. Rose nished with a 70 to break the tournament scoring record set by Tiger Woods in 1999. He nished at 23-under 265. Rose started with a six-shot lead and never let anyone get any closer. Tommy Bolt in 1955 was the last player to win this tournament from start to nish without ties. Rose now moves to No. 4 in the world at age 45.

NBA NBA suspends 76ers’ George 25 games for violating anti-drug policy

Philadelphia Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers was suspended 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. The league did not disclose the substance involved. George released a statement saying he took something that was “improper.” He apologized to the team and its fans, saying he takes “full responsibility for my actions.” This is George’s rst violation. The suspension will cost him approximately $11.7 million of his salary.

BOXING

Miller’s hairpiece knocked upward by punch, then thrown into crowd

New York Jarrell Miller was hit with such a good punch it knocked his hair o . Heavyweight Kingsley Ibeh landed a punch in the second round that knocked Miller’s head backward, and his hairpiece popped upward from the front, revealing a large bald spot that covered most of his head. Miller nished the round with the hairpiece, then ripped it o in his corner between rounds and tossed it into the crowd at Madison Square Garden. Miller won by split decision, then rubbed the top of his head while doing a celebratory dance.

NBA

Flagg breaks NBA teen record with 49 points in Mavs’ loss to Hornets

Dallas As Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg set the NBA record for points by a teenager with 49 in a loss to Charlotte, he broke the franchise rookie scoring record he shared with Mark Aguirre. Flagg turned 19 in December. Kon Knueppel, Flagg’s roommate as Blue Devils freshmen, had a career-high 34 points, hitting the two winning free throws with 4.1 seconds left after being fouled by Flagg. Cli Robinson set the previous NBA teen record of 45 points at age 19 in 1980.

LeBron’s All-Star streak at 22 years

Duren, Powell, Johnson, Murray, Holmgren, Avdija are rst-time All-Stars

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

LEBRON JAMES IS an All-Star again, extending his record streak of selections.

James was a pick for the 22nd consecutive year, one of 14 players who were announced Sunday as reserves for the Feb. 15 midseason showcase that’ll take place at the Los Angeles Clippers’ arena in Inglewood, California.

James is the All-Star record holder in a number of categories. Among them: his still-active streak of consecutive selections, along with 20 All-Star appearances and 434 points in those contests.

The Los Angeles Lakers star was not chosen as a starter this season in the process that includes voting from fans, media and other players. NBA coaches choose the reserves and, if necessary, Commission-

er Adam Silver will select any additional players necessary for the All-Star rosters should someone need to be replaced because of injury.

James did not play in last season’s All-Star event because of injury.

The reserves from the Eastern Conference: Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell, New York’s Karl-Anthony Towns, Indiana’s Pascal Siakam, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes, Detroit’s Jalen Duren, Miami’s Norman Powell and Atlanta’s Jalen Johnson., a former Duke Blue Devil

And from the Western Conference, along with James: Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards, Denver’s Jamal Murray, Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren, Houston’s Kevin Durant, Phoenix’s Devin Booker and Portland’s Deni Avdija.

Duren, Powell, Johnson, Murray, Holmgren and Avdija were rst-time selections.

This season’s All-Star Game has a tournament format — U.S. vs. The World, with three teams of at least eight players going head to head in 12-min-

ute games. Each team is guaranteed two games in the round-robin event, with the best two meeting again in a championship game.

Starters previously announced

The players chosen last month as starters: Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, Boston’s Jaylen Brown, Detroit’s Cade Cunningham, Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey, New York’s Jalen Brunson, Golden State’s Stephen Curry, the Lakers’ Luka Doncic, Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Denver’s Nikola Jokic and San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama. Antetokounmpo will miss a few weeks with a calf injury, so it would seem unlikely that he plays. Silver would pick a replacement for Antetokounmpo if he pulls out. Brown, Cunningham, Maxey, Brunson and Curry would gure to be part of the two U.S. teams. Doncic, Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic and Wembanyama

would play for the World team. The “starter” designation is a bit of a misnomer, since there will be at least 15 players who start for the three teams. By NBA rule, 10 players are chosen as o cial starters and the 14 others will be listed as reserves.

Coaches

Detroit’s J.B. Bickersta will coach one of the All-Star teams. Either San Antonio’s Mitch Johnson or Denver’s David Adelman will coach another — that will be decided by results of games on Sunday — and the NBA has not revealed how the coach of the third team will be decided.

Bickersta earned his nod because the Pistons lead the Eastern Conference. Johnson or Adelman will go by having the best record in the Western Conference among eligible coaches; Oklahoma City’s Mark Daigneault coaches the team with the West’s best record, but he cannot coach the AllStar Game this year because he coached at the event last season.

Alcaraz becomes youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam; is calendar Slam next?

The 22-year-old denied Novak Djokovic a 25th Grand Slam title

By John Pye The Associated Press

MELBOURNE, Australia

— Carlos Alcaraz had Novak Djokovic across the net from him and Rafael Nadal watching from above in Rod Laver Arena. His inspiration, and his idol. Alcaraz had visions of this as a kid — not entirely long ago, in the scheme of things — so there was no better time to show them what he’d learned from watching the two all-time greats, or borrowed from their aura. He had a comeback, four-set win over Djokovic and walked away from the Australian Open nal Sunday as the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam — that’s winning all four of the tennis majors. At 22 and 272 days of age, he’s considerably younger than Nadal (24) and Djokovic (29) were when they achieved that milestone, lowering a mark that Don Budge set in 1938 when he was a couple of days shy of his 23rd birthday. No sooner had he completed the career Slam — adding his rst victory in Australia to his two each at Wimbledon, Roland Garros and the U.S. Open — than the question was posed about a run at the calendar Grand Slam. That’s all four ma-

jor titles in one season, something no man has achieved since Rod Laver in 1969.

“Those are big words, to be honest,” said Alcaraz, the two -time defending champion at Roland Garros. “You know, I just want it to be one at a time. Right now next one is French Open. I have great memories in that tournament. I feel really special every time that I go there.

“I don’t want to put myself in a really pressure position to have to do it, but you know, it’s going to be great. Right now I will try to be ready ... to play a good tournament in the next Grand Slam.”

A set down after Djokovic’s opening salvo, Alcaraz channeled the legends and changed up his game to upset the rhythm. It worked. He’s now the only man to capture seven major titles before his 23rd birthday.

Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner

Carlos Alcaraz of Spain reacts after winning the men’s singles nal against Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open.

have dominated the majors since Djokovic won the last of his 24 Grand Slam titles at the 2023 U.S. Open, with one or the other winning the last nine. Sinner was aiming for a third consecutive title in Australia, but lost in ve sets to 10-time Australian champion Djokovic in the semi nals. There were many who questioned the decision when Alcaraz and longtime coach Juan Carlos Ferrero parted ways after the young Spaniard won the last U.S. Open, and who doubted his chances of being ready to win a rst title in Australia.

Samuel Lopez stepped up to head the team, and Alcaraz admitted the preseason had been “a roller coaster for me emotionally.”

“A lot of people were having doubts about my level in this tournament,” he said. “Every year that I came here to Australia I was thinking about get-

ting the trophy (but) couldn’t go further than quarter nals.” In 2026, he said he arrived at Melbourne Park “hungry for more, ambitious for getting the trophy, and being strong mentally enough, not hearing anything or any words” from critics.

“And then just playing good tennis in this tournament means a lot, means the world to me,” he said, “and it is a dream come true for me.”

With his latest bid for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title stymied, Djokovic could at least joke about the 16-year age gap between himself and Alcaraz.

“Well, rst time I played him, he was, what, 11 or 12 years old?” he said, smiling. “No, he was, I think, 18 or 19. You could already see that he’s destined for great things.

“He has improved physically, mentally, game-wise. I mean, he’s constantly looking to innovate himself and his game, which is exactly the kind of mentality that needs to be nurtured for a champion.”

Asked about the potential for Alcaraz to be ranked among the greats of the sport, Djokovic said the career Grand Slam is “a testament to his already stellar career.”

“Of course, already a legendary tennis player that made already a huge mark in the history books of tennis,” he added. “Everything is possible in his case, no question about it.”

DAR YASIN / AP PHOTO

BRANDON DILL / AP PHOTO

Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) shoots between Memphis Grizzlies defenders earlier this month.

the stream

“Splitsville,”

‘Splitsville,’

on Thursday.

‘Puppy Bowl,’ Keke Palmer, J. Cole, Nick Jonas drops new solo album

A television adaptation the 80s dark comedy “The Burbs” lands on Peacock

The Associated Press

THE GOOFY AND wry relationship comedy “Splitsville” landing on Hulu and fresh albums by J. Cole and Nick Jonas 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: Keke Palmer starring in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Tom Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock, gamers getting fast and bloody samurai action with Nioh 3 and Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” returning for Season 4.

MOVIES TO STREAM

One of last year’s funniest original movies, the goofy and wry relationship comedy “Splitsville,” is streaming on Hulu starting Thursday. Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin, the duo behind “The Climb,” bring the audience along on a metaphorical (and literal) roller coaster of a comedy about open relationships, divorce and human mistakes, in which they star opposite Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona. In his review, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle wrote that, “though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s,” adding “the performer here who would have been most at home in that bygone comedy heyday is Johnson.”

Also coming to Hulu on Thursday is James L. Brooks’ “Ella McCay,” a starry political dramedy with Emma Mackey playing an ambitious and idealistic lieutenant governor who has to take over for her boss. The lm was a major op with audiences and critics during its theatrical run. The AP’s Jocelyn Noveck, in her review, called it “ba ingly disjointed, uneven, unfunny and illogical,” adding that Mackey is the only reason to watch the lm. Filmmaker Rory Kennedy

(“Downfall: The Case Against Boeing”) tells the story of Judit Polgár, the Hungarian girl who dreamed of conquering men’s chess and defeat champion Garry Kasparov, in “Queen of Chess.” The documentary just premiered at the Sundance Film Festival but will already be available to stream on Net ix on Thursday.

MUSIC TO STREAM

Nick Jonas, the youngest of the Jonas Brothers trio and fresh o a successful stadium

run with his siblings, will release his rst solo album in just under ve years on Friday titled “Sunday Best.” The rst taste arrived in the form of lead single “Gut Punch.” It is smooth adult pop — as is his bread and butter — easy listening for those in need of a love song. Also on tap: the innovative rapper and producer J. Cole returns with his seventh studio album, “The Fall-O .” Some fans theorize it may be his nal record — and with good reason. The music video for “Disc 2 Track 2,” released in January,

begins with a note from Cole describing that he knew “in my heart I would one day get to the nish line.” That track recalls Nas’ 2001 hit “Rewind,” which may o er a tease as to what the album may sound like: a love letter to hip-hop, and the career it has given Cole.

SERIES TO STREAM

It may be cold outside, but there’s a heatwave on Bravo as the reality series “Summer House” returns for a 10th season. The show features Manhattanites sharing a shore house in the Hamptons, although recent seasons have also followed the gang when they’re back in New York during the week. It’s streaming now on Peacock.

Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” is back for Season 4 beginning Thursday. Based on novels by Michael Connelly, the series follows talented Los Angeles attorney Mickey Haller (played by Manuel García-Rulfo) as he takes on high-pro le defendants. This season Haller is the one who needs a strong defense when he’s falsely accused of murder. “Puppy Bowl,” the annual TV event promoting animal adoption, airs its 22nd iter-

“Though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s.”

Jake Coyle, AP Film Writer

ation on Sunday. “Puppy Bowl XXII” will simulcast across Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV, HBO Max and discovery+. Another call-to-action special, the “Great American Rescue Bowl” also takes place Sunday. This one highlight both adoptable dogs and cats and will be available on Great American Pure Flix, Great American Family, and GFAM+.

Palmer stars in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock. All eight episodes drop Sunday. Palmer and Jack Whitehall play a couple who move to suburbia with their new baby to live a nice, quiet life. The neighborhood seems less idyllic once the wife becomes xated on one of her neighbors, whom she connects with a decades-long missing person case.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Koei Tecmo’s Nioh series has built a cult audience among gamers who like their samurai action fast and bloody. Nioh 3, from Tokyo-based developer Team Ninja, adds some twists. Tokugawa Takechiyo is about to be appointed shogun when his jealous brother unleashes a horde of yōkai — ghouls, demons and other supernatural creatures drawn from Japanese folklore. Takechiyo can ght back with brute-force samurai skills, or switch to more acrobatic ninja tactics, all in a vast open world that promises more freedom than previous installments. Take up arms Friday on PlayStation 5 or PC.

NEON VIA AP

a comedy starring Michael Angelo Covino, Kyle Marvin, Adria Arjona and Dakota Johnson, lands on Hulu

RICHARD VOGEL / AP PHOTO

Manuel Garcia-Rulfo returns as Los Angeles attorney Mickey Haller in Season 4 of “The Lincoln Lawyer.”

20TH CENTURY STUDIOS VIA AP

Emma Mackey portrays a determined lieutenant governor in James Brooks’ drama “Ella McCay.”

STATE & NATION

How Super Bowl halftime show evolved from pageantry to pop culture’s biggest stage

From marching bands to global spectacles drawing

130 million viewers

By Jonathan Landrum Jr.

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Once upon a time, the Super Bowl halftime show belonged to marching bands and pageantry. But these days, it belongs to global pop stars, cinematic production and moments that ripple beyond the stadium.

Over the years, the league’s brief intermission has transformed into one of entertainment’s biggest stages, hosting era-de ning performances from Prince in the rain to Rihanna’s record-setting return, Usher’s tightly choreographed showcase and Kendrick Lamar’s layered, visually driven storytelling.

What began as intermission ller has evolved into a global spectacle, rivaling the NFL’s championship game itself for attention from more than 100 million viewers worldwide.

That evolution continues this year as Bad Bunny prepares to take the halftime stage, placing Latin culture and Spanish-language music at the center of America’s most-watched television event.

“The halftime performance has come a long way,” said Dan Marino, the Hall of Fame quarterback who played 17 seasons with the Miami Dolphins and competed in the 1985 Super Bowl. As an NFL analyst, Marino’s had a front-row

RUSTY KENNEDY / AP PHOTO

Michael Jackson performs during the halftime show at the Super Bowl in 1993.

seat to several halftime shows.

“Not a lot of people really watched it,” he continued. “But now, people love to watch the halftime show.”

That shift did not happen overnight. For decades, the halftime show re ected the NFL’s family-friendly image, built around marching bands, drill teams and patriotic spectacle. As the Super Bowl grew into an uno cial national holiday — and a global broadcast event — the league began rethinking the power of those 12 to 15 minutes, gradually turning the break into a cultural platform capable of launching careers, shaping narratives and, at times, sparking national conversation.

Last year, Lamar used the halftime stage as a narrative space, weaving choreography, costuming and staging to explore themes of identity, power and perception. The performance stayed within league parameters

while still drawing broad interpretation and debate over its imagery and tone.

Lamar’s show became the most-watched halftime performance on record, drawing roughly 133.5 million viewers, surpassing Usher’s 2024 performance, which reached about 129.3 million. That number from Lamar’s set is about six million more than Fox’s broadcast of the Philadelphia Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

“I think the live element is pretty exciting for people because it’s a massive production and there’s so many moving pieces,” said actor Scarlett Johansson, who doesn’t consider herself a football enthusiast. But she’s intrigued by the unpredictability of the halftime show like Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction,” Lady Gaga dropping from a stadium roof and Rihanna’s pregnancy reveal.

“You kind of watch with nervous excitement,” Johansson said. “You know at any moment something could maybe go wrong. That’s why it’s so fun to watch it because you’ve got all this anticipation. The production is so huge and so many people have come together to create this one moment. It’s kind of awesome.”

Kris Jenner agrees, calling the halftime show a “giant surprise.”

“The production level and how quickly they put it together as they’re breaking into commercial and come back with this fabulous, epic show,” said Jenner, the matriarch of “The Kardashians” reality television show. “Through all the years and technology, it gets better and better. It’s so exciting to watch and see what they come up with next and who is going to perform. It’s such a big deal.”

Usher said his appearance with the Black Eyed Peas during the 2011 Super Bowl taught him not to “take the moments for granted because you only get 13 of them.”

His show in 2024 was vastly di erent from the NFL’s rst Super Bowl halftime show in 1967, which featured marching bands from the University of Arizona and Grambling State University, a historically Black college, along with hundreds of ying pigeons, thousands of balloons and two soaring men wearing jetpacks.

After the inaugural Super Bowl, the NFL kept bringing back other marching bands, drill teams, signed Chubby Checker and Up with People, an organization that stage positive thinking through dance and song performances. However, none of those acts were considered huge draws.

But as the Super Bowl’s popularity soared and game day emerged as an uno cial holiday in the U.S., the NFL wanted the halftime show to grow in the same capacity. The league tapped New Kids on the Block and Gloria

Punxsutawney Phil said to have seen shadow, forecasting 6 more weeks of wintry weather

Tens of thousands gathered at Gobbler’s Knob for the famous forecast

By Mark Scolforo and Tassanee Vejpongsa The Associated Press

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — Punxsutawney Phil is said to be predicting six more weeks of wintry weather after he saw his shadow Monday.

His annual prediction was translated by his handlers at Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania.

The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club says that when Phil is deemed to have not seen his shadow, that means there will be an early spring. When he does see it, it’s six more weeks of winter.

Phil tends to predict a longer winter far more often than an early spring.

It’s already been a long, cold winter across much of the United States, and on Monday, Punxsutawney Phil’s handlers were poised to announce whether the weather-predicting groundhog says there’s more of the same to come.

When Phil is said to have seen his shadow upon emergence from a tree stump in rural Pennsylvania, that’s considered a forecast for six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, an early spring is said to be on the way.

Tens of thousands of people were on hand at Gobbler’s Knob for the annual ritual that goes back more than a century, with ties to ancient farming traditions in Europe. Punxsutawney’s festivities have grown considerably since the 1993 movie “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray. Lisa Gibson was at her 10th Groundhog Day, wearing a lighted hat that resembled the tree stump from which Phil

emerges shortly after daybreak.

“Oh man, it just breaks up the doldrums of winter,” said Gibson, accompanied by her husband — dressed up as Elvis Presley — and teenage daughter. “It’s like Halloween and New Year’s Eve all wrapped up into one holiday.”

Gibson, a resident of Pittsburgh, was rooting for Phil to not see his shadow and therefore predict an early start to spring.

Rick Siger, Pennsylvania’s secretary of community and economic development, said the outdoor thermometer in his vehicle read 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius) on his way to Gobbler’s Knob.

“I think it’s just fun — folks having a good time,” said Siger, attending his fourth straight Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney. “It brings people together at a challenging time. It is a unifying force that showcases the best of Pennsylvania, the best of Punxsutawney, this area.”

Last year’s announcement was six more weeks of winter, by far Phil’s more common assessment and not much of a surprise during the rst week of February. His top-hatted handlers in the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club insist Phil’s “groundhogese” of winks, purrs, chatters and nods are being interpreted when they relate the meteorological marmot’s muses about the days ahead.

AccuWeather’s chief longrange weather expert, meteorologist Paul Pastelok, said early Monday some clouds moved into Punxsutawney overnight, bringing urries he called “micro akes.”

Pastelok said the coming week will remain cold, with below-average temperatures in the eastern United States.

Phil isn’t the only animal being consulted for long-term weather forecasts Monday. There are formal and informal Groundhog Day events in many places

Estefan the rst two years of the ‘90s. Then it saw a huge breakthrough when Michael Jackson headlined the 1993 show at the Rose Bowl in Southern California, where the King of Pop notoriously moonwalked across the stage and performed hits including “Billie Jean,” “Black or White” and “Heal the World.”

Jackson’s stellar performance opened the door for other stars like the Rolling Stones, Diana Ross, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira who are eager to perform.

The NFL handles production costs and expenses for performers — who don’t get paid — but the exposure to hundreds of millions of people worldwide is considered priceless.

Some notable examples include U2’s remembrance of the 9/11 victims; Beyoncé’s unapologetic Blackness and political activism through her Black power anthem “Formation”; and the rst show to feature hip-hop artists led by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg in 2022.

Snoop praised NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Jay-Z for pushing the halftime show forward. The league worked with Roc Nation to help its Inspire Change initiative, created by the NFL after an agreement with a coalition of players who demonstrated during the national anthem to protest social and racial injustice in this country.

“Shout out to Jay-Z for changing the climate. Roger Goodell for giving him an opportunity,” Dogg said. “This is music. The music that dictates the world is what’s performing at halftime now. They’re starting to understand that it’s about what those players want to hear, what those fans want to hear, and what’s universally e ective.”

Snoop added: “It has no color on it now. Pop used to have a color on it. Now pop is popular. So, the most popular music is the music that we make. It makes sense to put those people on there that make that music.”

Groundhog Club handler

A.J. Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather-prognosticating groundhog, during the 137th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on Monday.

in the U.S., Canada and beyond. Groundhog Day falls on Feb. 2, the midpoint between the shortest, darkest day of the year on the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It’s a time of year that also gures in the Celtic calendar and the Christian holiday of Candlemas.

BARRY REEGER / AP PHOTO

Randolph record

Mr. Plow

North Carolina’s limited number of plow trucks were pushed to the max as a winter storm blanketed the area with more snow than many have seen in years. Here, work is being done on U.S. 64 West in Ramseur after the weekend storm.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Signs of forced entry found at Arizona home of “Today” show host Guthrie’s mother

Tucson, Ariz. Investigators have found signs of forced entry at the Arizona home of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother. That’s according to a person familiar with the investigation who spoke Tuesday to The Associated Press. Meanwhile, the host asked for prayers to help bring back the 84-year- old, whom authorities believe was taken against her will. The sheri said Nancy Guthrie must be found soon because she could die without her medication. Investigators also found evidence showing there was a nighttime kidnapping. Several of Guthrie’s personal items, including her cellphone, wallet and her car, were still at the home.

NASA delays astronauts’ lunar trip after hydrogen leaks mar fueling test

Cape Canaveral, Fla.

NASA’s long-awaited moonshot with astronauts is o until at least March because of leaking hydrogen fuel. The space agency announced the news Tuesday following a critical fueling test of its giant moon rocket in Florida. Hydrogen seeped from the base of the rocket during Monday’s dress rehearsal, which went into overtime Tuesday because of all the problems. O cials say the delay will allow the launch team to conduct another practice countdown before committing four astronauts to humanity’s rst moonshot in more than half a century.

Weather-related school closings limit RCSS options

The district has had more than a week without in-person instruction

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

CLASSES WERE cancelled

all of last week for the Randolph County School System because of weather-related conditions, meaning the system used its ve built-in “snow days” for the school year.

The built-in extra days in the school calendar don’t need to be made up, according to Amber Ward, the system’s public information o cer. After built-in days are exhausted, state statue allows for up to ve remote learning days that can be used.

Ward said any days with

schools closed this week — and at least Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday fell into that category — will count toward the use of the remote learning days.

RCSS cited inclement weather and hazardous road conditions for closing schools at the beginning of last week and then referred to hazardous road conditions for continuing to keep schools closed for the rest of the week and at the beginning of this week.

The school system provided an announcement pointing out that students should be prepared for any remote learning days this week because on Jan. 23 teachers sent home with students instructional materials in case remote learning days came into play.

Ward said RCSS hadn’t used any built-in days o pri-

Remote instructional days allowed per school year, according to state law

or to last week. In December, the school system had weather-related shortened days but not closings, so it hadn’t used any of the built-in days. One of those days involved an early dismissal, and two other days involved delayed openings.

Schools in RCSS were open for student instruction for 12 days in January, beginning Jan. 5 following the post-holiday break. Students were o Jan. 19 because of the Mar-

tin Luther King Jr. Day holiday and then the next two days because of teacher workdays (with the exception of Randolph Early College holding classes Jan. 20-21).

Kindergarten registration set

Registration for kindergarten in the RCSS will take place next month for the 2026-27 school year.

Sessions for registration will be held on a oating basis from 5-7 p.m. on March 10 at the 17 elementary schools in the school system. Families should go to the school in their attendance district, according to information from RCSS.

A child must be 5 years old prior to Sept. 1 in to be eligible for the next school year.

To register a child, a parent or guardian should present a driver’s license or photo ID, certi ed copy of the child’s birth certi cate, the child’s immunization record, a utility bill or lease agreement with current address, and, if applicable, custody papers.

Carolinas emerge as new population boom states; a ordability, lifestyle drive growth

The Carolinas overtook Florida and Texas as top destinations for Americans on the move

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. — Move over Florida and Texas. The United States has new hot spots for growth, and they both have Carolina in their name. North Carolina last year attracted more new residents, 84,000 people, from other parts of the country than any other state, a title held by Texas in 2024 and Florida in the two years before that. South Carolina had the highest overall growth rate last year at 1.5%, a distinction among states held by Florida in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau gures released this past week. Domestic migration, or people moving within the U.S., slowed in Texas. The 67,300

domestic migrants heading to the second most populous state year over year barely squeaked by South Carolina, which had the third highest number of domestic migrants at 66,600. The appeal of Florida, the nation’s third most populous state, dimmed. It dropped to No. 8

for state-to-state migration, as more U.S. residents preferred to move elsewhere, including Alabama. Sabrina Morley and Steven Devereaux sold their Tampa-area house last year, moved out of Florida and landed outside Valencia, Spain. Growing up in the

1990s, they both enjoyed Florida’s diversity and being able to run around freely outdoors. But in recent years, as they planned to have children, they had grown wary of the state’s costs, regular threats of mass shootings at schools, the quality of education and political divisiveness. They are expecting a daughter in the spring.

“I had a pretty good childhood, but I don’t think we’d be able to give our child the same quality of life because of the cost of living, food quality, and guns have become more prevalent,” Devereaux said. “We think where we are now, it’s the best decision we could make to give any future children the best quality of life.”

Younger folks and nice areas

North Carolina state demographer Michael Cline credited

MARY CONLON / AP PHOTO

Children walk through a sports eld in Independence Park under the skyline of Charlotte last March.

THURSDAY

2.5.26

19-year-old charged with stabbing death in Asheboro

The police found a woman dead in an apartment upon making a welfare check

Randolph Record sta

ASHEBORO — A teenager has been charged with rst-degree murder in the

CRIME LOG

Jan. 26

• Cody Alexander Key, 31, of Siler City, was arrested by the Randolph County Sheri ’s O ce for assault on a female.

Jan. 27

• Jose Gilberto Arellano, 31, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for disorderly conduct, intoxicated and disruptive and resisting a public o cer.

Jan. 28

• Johnathan Michael Canoy, 53, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for indecent liberties with a child.

• Caleb Ryan McLeod, 28, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of fentanyl and possession of drug paraphernalia.

CAROLINAS from page B1

the state’s growth to high-paying jobs in banking and tech, the topographical diversity and having smaller big-cities than Florida and Texas.

“North Carolina is attracting younger folks because we have so many nice areas in North Carolina — the mountains and beaches and lakes in between — that we’re bene ting from younger people who decided they can work from anywhere and would rather be in a nice area,” Cline said. “One of the things about North Carolina, our cities are not huge, and that may be attractive to folks, too.”

Last year’s changes among the states were signi cant because population growth brings more taxpayers, economic dynamism and demand for goods and services. It also signals potential changes in the nation’s political landscape after the next census in 2030, with certain states gaining or losing clout in Congress and the Electoral College.

In the next few years, domestic migration is going to play a larger role in states’ growth or population decline. That is because the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown has contributed to a signi cant reduction in migration from abroad, which had been the prime driver of growth in most states for the rst half of this decade.

Without immigration growth, the U.S. population will start shrinking in ve

death of a woman in Asheboro.

Nikkese Tyshawn Matthews, 19, of Baltimore is in custody following the death of Mary Smith.

Smith, 31, was found dead inside an apartment at 156 East Academy St. on Saturday night when Asheboro Police conducted a welfare check.

Police said she died from multiple stab wounds.

Matthews was located traveling on foot a few blocks from the apartment building, police said. Matthews was placed in Randolph County Jail with no bond.

The case remains under investigation.

Asheboro Fire Department and Randolph County Emergency Services also responded to the scene.

Randolph Guide

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

Feb. 5

Thrifty Thursday Senior Movie: “Casablanca” 1-3 p.m.

Jan. 29

• Austin Ayden Smith, 22, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault by strangulation, assault on a female and assault in icting serious injury with a minor present.

Jan. 30

• Max Ray Nunez, 33, of Asheboro, was arrested by Randleman PD for seconddegree trespass.

• Juan Moises Gonzalez Sanchez, 35, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault in icting serious bodily injury and assault on a female.

Jan. 31

• Stephen James Shoemaker, 40, of Greensboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for eeing or eluding arrest with a motor vehicle, driving while

years as deaths outpace births, according to the Congressional Budget O ce.

Pandemic boom peters out

Despite the comparative year-over-year slowdown in domestic migration, Texas’ overall growth of 391,000 people and Florida’s overall growth of 196,000 people were still the two highest in the U.S. last year.

In Florida, it was driven by international migration, and in Texas by international migration as well as births outpacing deaths. Both states boomed during the early part of the decade, when pandemic-era lockdowns and remote work encouraged residents from other states to move to Florida and Texas, where coronavirus restrictions were more lax.

“The sharp domestic migrations they observed during the pandemic have now petered out, especially for Florida, at the same time that immigration is being diminished,” said Brookings demographer William Frey.

Demographers in Florida and Texas said they were not entirely sold on the accuracy of the Census Bureau’s migration numbers, which are the hardest variables to pin down because they uctuate the most year to year, although they did not question the rigor of the bureau’s work. The bureau uses data from the IRS and its American Community Survey to calculate migration, although the ACS data lags by a

impaired, resisting a public o cer, misuse of 911 system, reckless driving, failure to heed light or siren, failure to maintain lane control and possession of open container in passenger area.

• Marcus Ryan Norton, 36, of Sophia, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of methamphetamine, possession of heroin, driving while license revoked and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Feb. 1

• Nikkese Tyshawn Matthews, 19, of Laurel, Maryland, was arrested by Asheboro PD for rst-degree murder.

• Sydney Armand Fox, 48, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for communicating threats.

Enjoy a timeless lm classic starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman and Paul Henreid on the big screen. $5 admission includes a small drink and popcorn. Those 50-plus are admitted free.

The Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

Feb. 6

Comedian Killer Beaz 7:30 p.m.

A popular, family-friendly comedy show that has been performed many times at the Grand Ole Opry. Tickets are $28.50 to $58.50.

Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

Feb. 7

The Embers 7-10 p.m.

year and requires statisticians to project the data forward.

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida uses a method di erent from the Census Bureau’s to calculate growth — electrical customer data, said research demographer Richard Doty.

There are no de nitive explanations for why domestic migration to Florida went from almost 319,000 people in 2022 to 22,500 people in 2025. Doty said some factors might include the state no longer being the bargain it once was, a series of hurricanes and return-to-o ce employer mandates.

“The cost of housing, in particular, is driving young people and retirees to other states,” he said. “Also, insurance is higher in Florida than most other states.”

When asked about the decline, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press secretary, Molly Best, noted in an email that Florida had a signi cant in ux of new residents during the pandemic. It remains a top-ranked placed to live, she said.

The Texas economy has been growing, but that is not the only thing that in uences the in ow of potential migrants. Conditions outside the state also do, Texas state demographer Lloyd Potter said in an email.

“If jobs are plentiful, living is a ordable, and the overall quality of life is good, they will be less likely to move for an opportunity outside that community,” Potter said.

A band that is all but synonymous with beach music, The Embers will perform live, and the dance oor will be open. Tickets range from $24-$54.

The Liberty Showcase Theater 101 S. Fayetteville St. Liberty

Feb. 11

Books and Banter (YA Club) 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Teens ages 13-16 meet each Thursday to talk about books and more. Every fourth Thursday, the group discusses the same book, which can be picked up in advance at the library.

Seagrove Public Library 530 Old Plank Road

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THE CONVERSATION

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

| DAVID HARSANYI

Price controls won’t work any better for Republicans than it does Democrats

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

DEMONIZING GREEDY BANKERS and landlords is the last refuge of the poorly polling politician.

And, as a ordability remains a leading issue among voters, the Trump administration has regularly used rhetoric and ideas that mirror those of progressive Democrats like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Take the president’s recent idea for capping credit card interest rates at 10%. Or rather, the idea that’s already proposed in a bill sponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). “They’ve really abused the public,” the president said of credit card companies. “I’m not going to let it happen.”

This probably feels good to hear. But if you nd an APR on a new credit card o er “predatory,” de nitely do not sign up for it. You don’t owe the bank anything, and it doesn’t owe you. An interest rate, though, re ects risk. It’s the entry price for obtaining credit. If you have a good credit score, you get lower rates and vice versa.

Capping the rate won’t eliminate credit risk factors, though it will likely shrink available money for people who need it most: lower-income and young workers, or anyone else trying to build up their credit. Lots of entrepreneurs and small-business owners also rely on credit cards to tide them over for a season or help with up-front capital.

And those who are denied cards will still need funds. They’ll inevitably seek out other means of borrowing, probably at even higher rates. Maybe they’ll go to payday loans and cash checking places. Maybe they’ll take second mortgages. Maybe they’ll go to the black market.

There are those who argue that Americans already borrow far too much and that limiting access to credit would be good for them. Rest assured, these nannies almost surely own their homes and cars — purchases that become even more prohibitive for people unable to improve their credit scores.

Trump likes to explicitly threaten or jawbone companies into doing his bidding. Bank of America, for example, is reportedly considering o ering a credit card with interest capped at 10% to placate the administration.

Well, there’s no federal cap on what APRs banks can o er on credit cards. If providers want to undercut competition, nothing is stopping them. Banks are businesses, after all, not charities.

But if banks lose out charging riskier customers lower interest rates to get on the good side of the administration, they’ll simply raise fees elsewhere, pull back on rewards and nd other creative ways to make their reliable consumers pay.

Price xing never alleviates cost — it merely displaces it.

Take Mamdani as he “cracks down,” as one

12 Question quiz: What ‘fascist’ ‘xenophobe’ ‘tyrant’ said this?

We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked.

1. “I’m really good at killing people. Didn’t know that was going to be a strong suit of mine.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. President Barack Obama, 2012

2. “But, let me tell you, we can build a fence 40 stories high — unless you change the dynamic in Mexico and — and you will not like this, and — punish American employers who knowingly violate the law when, in fact, they hire illegals. Unless you do those two things, all the rest is window dressing.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.), 2006

3. “Today, I will issue a national security memorandum directing every federal department and agency to do even more to stop the ow of narcotics — including fentanyl — into our country. It will increase intelligence collection on tra ckers’ evolving tactics to smuggle narcotics into our country. And it will help our law enforcement personnel seize more deadly drugs before they reach our communities.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. President Joe Biden, 2024

travel magazine referred to it, on “junk fees” in city hotels.

“Junk” is just a description of a cost that consumers and politicians have arbitrarily decided shouldn’t be paid. But they will be. Hotels will almost inevitably raise prices elsewhere or decrease services to make up for it.

Economic magical thinking never dies, however, because it’s tethered to envy and anger rather than rational thinking. Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

And there is no more convenient villain than a faceless pro t-mongering landlord.

Take another price control policy championed by Mamdani: rent control, a practice that’s been failing to lower housing costs since Roman times, at least.

A slew of studies and empirical evidence nds that rent control doesn’t work. The vast majority of economists, both on the right and left, believe it’s a bad idea. Still, most polls nd that rent “stabilization” is supported by around 80% of New Yorkers.

Every generation, it seems, convinces itself it possesses the best technocrats and formula to properly control economic activity to make it fairer and decent. Mamdani is just another in a long line of politicians who play the role.

But Trump? He should know better.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books — the most recent, “How To Kill a Republic,” available now.

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

8. “Because we do need to address the issue of immigration and the challenge we have of undocumented people in our country. We certainly don’t want any more coming in.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

a. President Donald Trump, 2026, about Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro

b. President Barack Obama, 2011, about Libya’s Muammar Gadda

5. “We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked and circumventing the line of people who are waiting patiently, diligently and lawfully to become immigrants in this country.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), 2005

6. “Real reform means stronger border security ... putting more boots on the southern border than at any time in our history and reducing illegal crossings to their lowest levels in 40 years.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026

b. President Barack Obama, 2013

7. “Illegal immigration is wrong, plain and simple. ... People who enter the United States without our permission are illegal aliens and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... Until the American people are convinced that we will stop future ows of illegal immigration, we will make no progress on dealing with the millions of illegal immigrants who are here now. ... When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combatting illegal immigration. If you don’t think it’s illegal, you’re not going to say it. I think it is illegal and wrong.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), 2008

9. “All Americans ... are rightly disturbed by the large numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. ... We are a nation of immigrants. But we are also a nation of laws.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. President Bill Clinton, 1995

10. “I think we can enforce our borders. I think we should enforce our borders.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2018

b. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), 1994

11. “If making it easy to be an illegal alien isn’t enough, how about o ering a reward for being an illegal immigrant? No sane country would do that. Right? ... If you break our laws by entering this country without permission and give birth to a child, we reward that child with U.S. citizenship.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), 1993

12. “A biometric-based employment veri cation system with tough enforcement and auditing is necessary to signi cantly diminish the job magnet that attracts illegal aliens to the United States.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009 Hint: If it’s not too late, consider betting on “b.” Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. To nd out more about Larry Elder, or become an “Elderado,” visit www.LarryElder.com. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

4. “The United States and the world faced a choice. (The dictator) declared he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats and threatened to go door to door to in ict punishment. In the past, we have seen him hang civilians in the streets and kill over a thousand people in a single day. It was not in our national interest to let that (massacre) happen. I refused to let that happen.”

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009

COLUMN

Richard “Zack”

Eugene Zachary

Sept. 16, 1955 – Jan. 25, 2026

Richard “Zack” Eugene Zachary, 70, of Asheboro, died Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Randolph Health in Asheboro. A funeral service will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel. Zack was born on September 16, 1955, in Alamance Co., the son of the late Thomas Delton Zachary and Marie Parris Zachary. Zack had a passion for anything with a motor. He loved motorcycles and enjoyed

Ronald Phillip “Ronnie” Hutson

April 24, 1950 – Jan. 25, 2026

Ronald Phillip “Ronnie” Hutson, 75, of Franklinville, North Carolina, passed away on January 25, 2026, at his home.

Ronnie was born in Asheboro, NC, on April 24, 1950, to James Phillip Hutson and Ruth Jarrell Hutson. Ronnie grew up in Hogeye in Asheboro, where he made lifelong friends. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War and worked in machine and electrical repair and maintenance for many years.

Ronnie loved the outdoors, sports, shing, visiting the beach or mountains, baking the best chocolate cakes, and roughing it at Portsmouth Island. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially the grandchildren. He was a member of Whites Memorial Baptist Church, where he faithfully attended with his wife. Ronnie will be remembered for his steadfastness, resilience, kind soul, and most of all, his love for his family, which was a true re ection of God’s love.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ruth Hutson, his sister, Etta Hutson Roberts, and his brother, James Edward Hutson.

Ronnie is survived by his wife, Lisa Hutson, of the home; children, Joshua Hutson and Rachael Hodge (Bryan); stepchildren, Jonathan Anderson (Kenzie) and Hannah Anderson (Isaiah); grandchildren, Layla, Lacey, and Chase Hutson, Lyli and Dawson Anderson, and Maverick Kimes; sisters, Judy Greene and Elaine Boggs; brother-in-laws Steve Roberts and Mark Bowman, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Visitation will be held at Whites Memorial Baptist Church, 2930 Whites Memorial Road, Franklinville, NC 27248, on Wednesday, February 4, at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. with Reverend Alan Ritter o ciating. Burial will follow at Whites Memorial Baptist Church Cemetery.

obituaries

xing and collecting old cars.

He worked formerly at Cox’s Harley Davidson of Asheboro and currently at AutoZone. Zack also loved to go shing in his spare time. Most of all, Zack deeply loved and cared for his family, especially his grandkids.

He adored his great-grandchild, Kendall, whom he called “Boogie Bear”. Zack was a big animal lover and loved to cut a rug every chance he got. He enjoyed working on pickup trucks and talking about 18-wheelers with his grandson-in-law, Jacob.

In addition to his parents, Zack was preceded in death by his sister, Shirley Zachary Jordan.

He is survived by his wife, Lisa Zachary; daughter, Casey Nicholson; sister, Lynn Zachary Hedrick; brothers, James Zachary, Gary Zachary; grandchildren, Casha Cook and husband Jacob, Piper Jock, Abel Jock, Noah Brown; and great-grandchild, Kendall Cook. In addition to his family, he is survived by his “adopted grandson”, Jaheim Covington.

The family will receive friends from 1-2:45 p.m., Saturday, prior to the service at Ridge Funeral Home.

Frances Ellis

Feb. 20, 1938 – Jan. 27, 2026

Frances Hicks Ellis went Home to be with Jesus on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Durham, North Carolina, to Alfred and Hazel Hicks.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Judy Carol Carter; grandson, Joseph Lynn Perry Jr.; and ve brothers.

Frances was a Christian who loved her Lord and enjoyed sharing her testimony when you visited her. When her health was good, she was an active member in Tyson’s Creek Baptist Church and the W.M.U., as well as the Bereavement Committee.

She enjoyed taking food to anyone in need. She was a great cook, a hard worker, and always had a beautiful garden. When a neighbor or a friend passed away, she was usually the rst one to visit or deliver food. She was also a caregiver and was always there to serve and help anyone who needed her. She was a great mother, nannie, friend, and neighbor to us all, and always enjoyed someone’s company.

She is survived by her husband Dink, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage. She is also survived by her children, daughter, Diane Ellis; son, Gary Ellis (Angela); her grandson, who she adored, Heath Ellis (Judy); Godson, Casey Duckworth (Jamie) and special friends, Lynn Glasser and Debbie Wilkie. She also had many nieces and nephews who loved her and called her “Nannie”.

The Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Tyson’s Creek Baptist Church, with a visitation from 1-1:45 p.m. and the service starting at 2 p.m. with Rev. Scott Walker and Rev. David Hicks presiding. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. The family will receive friends after the service, which will be located in the basement of the church.

In lieu of owers, the family requests memorials be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105 or at stjude.org.

L. T. “Rusty” Hammond Jr.

Dec. 29, 1939 – Jan. 27, 2026

The Honorable L. T. “Rusty” Hammond Jr. died January 27, 2026, at Hospice House in Asheboro. He was 86 years old.

A lifelong Tar Heel, Democrat, and resident of Randolph County, Rusty was born December 29, 1939, and grew up in Randleman. He graduated from Randleman High School and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a sports reporter and sports editor for The Daily Tar Heel, and where he met his wife, Alice. They were married for 65 years.

Rusty graduated from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 1963 and entered the private practice of law in Asheboro with his father, L. T. Hammond Sr. Rusty was rst elected as a North Carolina District Court Judge in 1970, and served as a judge and, later, Chief Judge, until 1986. He was a member of the North Carolina Judicial Standards Commission from 1980 to 1986. Rusty returned to private practice until retiring in 2000. In retirement, he served as an emergency judge until 2009, lling in for judges around the state.

Rusty shared his lifelong love of movies through his “Mr. Movie” column in The Randolph Guide and the Randolph Hub. He shared his musical talents by singing in the chancel choirs of Central United Methodist Church and First United Methodist Church; by playing piano for Sunday School and Kiwanis; and by playing guitar and singing with children at Lindley Park Elementary School and Central and First United Methodist day schools. He enjoyed shing and gardening and was particularly proud of winning eleven ribbons in ower competitions at the North Carolina State Fair.

Rusty’s numerous other volunteer activities included: Meals on Wheels; the North Carolina Zoo; Friends of the Randolph Public Library; the Kiwanis Club of Asheboro; Hospice of Randolph Board of Directors; and the ministries of Central and First United Methodist Church. He was a dedicated blood donor, earning a 13-gallon pin from the American Red Cross.

Rusty is survived by his wife, Mary Alice (Rowlette) Hammond; his daughters, Nancy Hammond of Hyattsville, MD and Mary “Callie” Hammond of Asheboro; his sister, Martha (Hammond) Harvey of Carlsbad, CA; his granddaughters ZiZi Hammond and Isabell Hammond; his nephews Larry Cooper and Jim Cooper; his son-in-law Ken Hawes; and his brothers-inlaw Daniel Cooper and Robert Harvey. He was preceded in death by his parents, L.T. Hammond Sr. and Mary Martha “Pete” (Lineberry) Hammond, and his sister, Nancy “Nan” (Hammond) Cooper. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of owers, donations in Rusty’s memory may be made to any of the charitable, religious, and civic organizations to which he contributed so much of his time and energy.

Chestley Ronald “PaPaw” Strider

Dec. 5, 1950 – Jan. 29, 2026

Chestley Ronald “PaPaw” Strider, age 75, of Asheboro, passed away on January 29, 2026, at his home.

Mr. Strider was born in Asheboro on December 5, 1950, to William and Vivian Kinney Strider. Ronnie attended Balfour Elementary School and Coleridge Elementary School and received his GED from Randolph Community College. Ronnie served his country in the U.S. Army. He retired, after 20 years of service, from Asheboro City Schools. Ronnie loved woodworking and enjoyed making swings, clocks, and chairs. He loved working on his Red Belly tractor which he

Linda Skeen

Aug. 5, 1950 – Jan. 26, 2026

Linda Kaye Latham Skeen, 75, of Asheboro, NC, passed away Monday, January 26, 2026, at her residence. Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Terry Craig o ciating. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park.

A native of Randolph County, NC, born August 5, 1950, Mrs. Skeen was the daughter of the late Johnnie Fred Latham and Margie Kennedy Latham. She was a graduate of Seagrove High School and had a passion for reading and collecting antiques. She had worked in human resources at Klaussner Furniture and retired from Hughes Furniture in the same department. She also sold real estate for Caldwell Banker. Mrs. Skeen and her husband were the owners and operators of Piedmont Security Consulting.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Skeen was preceded in death by her husband, John Richard “Rick” Skeen, and brother, Michael Latham.

Survivors include her daughter, Tonya Skeen; son, Dustin Skeen; son-in-law, Bradly Hargett and wife Amy; brother, Bruce Latham and wife Janice; grandchildren, Darian Skeen, Daniel England, Christian Davis, Aaron Davis, Isaac Hargett, Katen Francis; great granddaughter, Serene England; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 9:45-10:45 a.m. on Thursday at Ridge Funeral Home, prior to the funeral service.

restored just before his passing. He loved taking care of his yard and garden. He loved mowing and would often mow during his grandchildren’s naptime. He loved riding the kids around on the mower. Ronnie loved to piddle outside and always stayed busy. He loved restoring cars with his son, Roger. Ronnie had a great sense of humor and loved to joke with everyone.

In addition to his parents, Ronnie was preceded in death by his infant granddaughters, Kayleigh Strider and Allie Elizabeth Strider, and his brother, Darrell Strider.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Annette McCormick Strider; sons, Je Strider (Cris), Kevin Strider (Lori), and Roger Strider (Sara); daughter, Heather Weaver (Aaron); grandchildren, Alexa, Kaitlyn, Hannah, Jacob, Courtney, Tyler, Cadance, Rosie, Eevee, Aiden, Emma, Owen and Abbie; eight great grandchildren; and brothers, Billy Strider (Carolyn) and Timmy Strider (Janice); and sisters, Phyllis Strider and Jean Strider.

The family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Kirsten Cox for her care and compassion.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 1-1:45 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro. Funeral services will follow on Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Glenn “Mac” Pugh Chapel with Pastor Clint Kearns o ciating.

Genevieve Bray

May 17, 1931 – Jan. 25, 2026

Genevieve Missouri Caviness Bray, 94, of Bennett, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Randolph Hospice House. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Pleasant Grove Christian Church with Pastor Don Edwards and Pastor Terry Warren presiding. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00-1:45 p.m. at the church prior to the service and in the fellowship hall following the committal. Joyce-Brady Chapel will be open from 1-5 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026 for friends to sign the register. Genevieve was born in Moore County on May 17, 1931, to Albert and Mattie Ritter Caviness. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Christian Church and was a custodian at Bennett School for 25 years. Genevieve was a master quilter and enjoyed cooking for her family, gardening and keeping a clean house. She loved her church and her family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Wade Bray; son, Kenneth Bray; sisters, Dorothy Comer and Lucy Martindale and brother, James Albert Caviness. Genevieve is survived by her daughter, Lois Ann Warren (Terry), Bennett; daughterin-law, Cindy Bray, of Bonlee; grandchildren, April Agan (Anthony), of Lima, Peru and Justin Bray (Emily), of Bonlee; six great-grandchildren and a host of family and friends.

In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Pleasant Grove Christian Church cemetery fund, 5946 Pleasant Grove Church Rd., Bennett, NC 27208.

Margaret Griehsbach

March 23, 1941 – Jan. 27, 2026

Margaret Ann Poteat

Griehsbach, beautiful sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at TerraBella in Asheboro.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Linda Lee Edwards

Aug. 1, 1961 – Jan. 27, 2026

Linda Lee Edwards, lovingly known as “Peanut,” graced this world with her presence on August 1, 1961, in Asheboro, North Carolina. She departed peacefully, surrounded by love, on January 27, 2026, at the age of 64, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Linda’s life was a tapestry of love, compassion, and creativity. Known for her kind heart and nurturing spirit, she dedicated her life’s work to being a caregiver, touching countless lives with her gentle care and unwavering patience. Her hands, adept at creating warmth and beauty, found joy in gardening and crochet, while her inventive spirit shone through in every craft she undertook.

An adventurer at heart, Linda cherished the simple joys of life, enjoying long car rides with the windows down, walking amidst nature’s splendor, and casting

Jerry Dell Stone Jr.

April 20, 1956 – Jan. 25, 2026

Jerry Dell Stone Jr., age 69, of Randleman, passed away January 25, 2026, at Hinkle Hospice House of Davidson, NC. He was born April 20, 1956, in Alamance County, North Carolina, the son of the late Jerry Dell Stone Sr. and Frances Stone Lowe. In addition to the passing of his parents, Dell is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon Kay Stone. Dell’s life was a testament to dedication, skill and the simple joys that lled his days. Known for his dedication and talent as an automotive mechanic, he possessed an uncanny ability to x almost anything, often lending a helping hand to those in need. His skills were not just limited to mechanics; he also found great joy in music, particularly country tunes. A talented guitar player, Dell enjoyed strumming the melodies of his favorite songs. Dell’s devotion to his beloved wife, Sharon, was evident to all. They formed a partnership that was truly inseparable. Dell will be deeply missed and is now reunited with his family and friends in Heaven.

Left to cherish his memory are his sister, Joan Owen; nieces, Michelle Rispoli and Melisa Hamm (Tony); great nieces and nephews, Mackenzie Owen, Mason Rispoli, Logan Ferguson, and Makayla Hamm; and numerous other beloved family and friends.

Mrs. Griehsbach was born in Morganton, NC, on March 23, 1941, and was the daughter of the late Carl William Poteat and Clyde Matilda Pritchard Poteat. She was a master gardener, having beautiful gardens and greenhouses. She also enjoyed needlepointing, crocheting, and playing bridge. Spending as much time as she could inspiring children’s lives made her a fantastic teacher. So much so that she became the rst female school superintendent of the Charlotte, NC, public school system.

Mrs. Griehsbach, in addition to her parents, was preceded in death by her husband, Rudolph Hermann David Griehsbach, and her sister, Doris Christine Poteat Burnette.

Survivors include her brother, whom she loved dearly, Carl Michael Poteat (Nancy) of Raleigh, many nieces and nephews, many, many friends, and her cat, “Streak.”

a line into peaceful waters. Her greatest joy, however, was found in the laughter and warmth of her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, who will forever carry her legacy of love and kindness.

Linda was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bobby Glenn Gri n and Flossie Mae Aldridge. Her legacy of love and resilience continues through her surviving family: her son Joseph Edwards and his wife Annie; her granddaughters Niasha Edwards and Shaylee Edwards; her grandson Allen Decausemaker; and her great-grandchildren Oakley and Riley. Her daughter Tonya Branch, along with her husband Artie, grandson Herman Branch and his wife Alaina, granddaughter Kristin Branch, and great-granddaughters Brinlee and Brayliegh Branch also carry forward the light she brought into the world.

Her brother Randy Gri n, sister-in-law Paula, nieces Jennifer Hinesley and Kara Boysworth, and great-nieces Chloe Morals and Madilyn Williamson will all remember Peanut with love and admiration.

In keeping with Linda’s wishes, her family will honor her memory in private. While she may have left this earthly realm, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched.

May we all strive to emulate Peanut’s unparalleled kindness, her love for the beauty of the world, and her unwavering devotion to family. Her memory is a blessing that will inspire all who knew her to live with love and purpose.

William Curtis “Bill” Brewer

March 19, 1962 – Jan. 28, 2026

William Curtis “Bill” Brewer, 63, of Bennett, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Chatham Hospital. Visitation will be at Joyce-Brady Chapel from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. The funeral will be held at Bennett Baptist Church at 2 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, with Rev. Dr. Jason Whitehurst, Rev. Tim Strider and John Phillips presiding. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1-1:45 p.m. The family will return to the fellowship hall after the committal.

Bill was born on March 19, 1962, to Bunn and Nellie Welch Brewer. He was a member of Bennett Baptist Church and retired from Georgia Paci c after 30+ years of service. He enjoyed cooking on the grill, watching sports and was a Dallas Cowboys fan. He was an animal lover and loved spending time with his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. Bill is survived by his wife, Lisa Brewer, of the home; sons, BJ Brewer and Matt Brewer (Jess), of Bennett; sisters, Iris Humble, of Bear Creek, Cheryl Brewer and Bunnie Brewer, both of Bennett and a host of cousins and friends. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Bennett Baptist Church cemetery care fund, P.O. Box 213, Bennett, NC 27208.

Catherine O’Hara, Emmy-winning comic actor of ‘Schitt’s Creek,’ ‘Home Alone’ fame, dead at 71

She was the iconic suburban mom for millions of millennials

By Andrew Dalton and Jocelyn Noveck

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Catherine O’Hara, a gifted Canadian-born comic actor and “SCTV” alum who starred as Macaulay Culkin’s harried mother in two “Home Alone” movies and won an Emmy as the dramatically ditzy wealthy matriarch Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek,” died Friday. She was 71.

O’Hara died at her home in Los Angeles “following a brief illness,” according to a statement from her representatives at Creative Artists Agency. Further details were not immediately available.

O’Hara’s career was launched with the Second City comedy group in Toronto in the 1970s. It was there that she rst worked with Eugene Levy, who would become a lifelong collaborator — and her “Schitt’s Creek” costar. The two would be among the original cast of the sketch show “SCTV,” short for “Second City Television.” The series, which began on Canadian TV in the 1970s and aired on NBC in the U.S., spawned a legendary group of esoteric comedians that O’Hara would work with often, including Martin Short, John Candy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis and Joe Flaherty.

O’Hara would win her rst Emmy for her writing on the show.

Her second, for best actress in a comedy series, came four decades later, for “Schitt’s Creek,” a career-capping triumph and the perfect personi cation of her comic talents. The small CBC series created by Levy and his son, Dan, about a wealthy family forced to live in a tiny town would dominate the Emmys in its sixth and nal season. It brought O’Hara, always a beloved gure, a new generation of fans and put her at the center of cultural attention.

She told The Associated Press that she pictured Moira, a former soap opera star, as someone who had married rich and wanted to “remind everyone that (she was) special, too.” With an exaggerated Mid-Atlantic accent and obscure vo -

cabulary, Moira spoke unlike anyone else, using words like “frippet,” “pettifogging” and “unasinous,” to show her desire to be di erent, O’Hara said. To perfect Moira’s voice, O’Hara would pore through old vocabulary books, “Moira-izing” the dialogue even further than what was already written.

O’Hara also won a Golden Globe and two SAG Awards for the role.

At rst, Hollywood didn’t entirely know what to do with O’Hara and her scattershot style. She played oddball supporting characters in Martin Scorsese’s 1985 “After Hours” and Tim Burton’s 1988 “Beetlejuice” — a role she would reprise in the 2024 sequel.

She played it mostly straight as a horri ed mother who accidentally abandoned her child in the two “Home Alone” movies. The lms were among the biggest box o ce earners of the early 1990s and their Christmas setting made them TV perennials. They allowed her moments of unironic warmth that she didn’t get often. Her co-star Culkin was among those paying her tribute Friday.

“Mama, I thought we had time,” Culkin said on Instagram alongside an image from “Home Alone” and a recent recreation of the same pose. “I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you.”

Meryl Streep, who worked with O’Hara in “Heartburn,” said in a statement that she “brought love and light to our world, through whipsmart compassion for the collection of eccentrics she portrayed.”

Roles in big Hollywood lms didn’t follow “Home Alone,” but O’Hara would nd her groove with the crew of improv pros brought together by

Catherine O’Hara, a cast member in the Apple+ series “The Studio,” poses for a portrait last March in Los Angeles.

Christopher Guest for a series of mockumentaries that began with 1996’s “Waiting for Gu man” and continued with 2000’s “Best in Show,” 2003’s “A Mighty Wind” and 2006’s “For Your Consideration.”

“Best in Show” was the biggest hit and best-remembered lm of the series. She and Levy play married couple Gerry and Cookie Fleck, who take their Norwich terrier to a dog show and constantly run into Cookie’s former lovers along the way.

“I am devastated,” Guest said in a statement to the AP. “We have lost one of the comic giants of our age.” Born and raised in Toronto, O’Hara was the sixth of seven children in a Catholic family of Irish descent. She graduated from Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Institute, an alternative high school. She joined Second City in her early 20s, as an understudy to Gilda Radner before Radner left for “Saturday Night Live.” (O’Hara would brie y be hired for “SNL” but quit before appearing on air.)

Nearly 50 years later, hernal roles would be as Seth Rogen’s reluctant executive mentor and freelance xer on “The Studio” and a dramatic turn as therapist to Pedro Pascal and other dystopia survivors on HBO’s “The Last of Us.” Both earned her Emmy nominations. She would get 10 in her career.

“Oh, genius to be near you,” Pascal said on Instagram. “Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world.”

Earlier this month, Rogen shared a photo on Instagram of him and O’Hara shooting the second season of “The Studio.” O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, sons Matthew and Luke, and siblings Michael O’Hara, Mary Margaret O’Hara, Maureen Jolley, Marcus O‘Hara, Tom O’Hara and Patricia Wallice.

Chuck Negron, voice of Three Dog Night’s ‘Joy to the World,’ dead at 83

The founding member powered hits for the top rock act of late ’60s and early ’70s

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Chuck Negron, a founding member of Three Dog Night whose lead vocals powered a string of hits including “Joy to the World,” “One” and “An Old Fashioned Love Song” for one of the top rock acts of the late 1960s and early ‘70s, died Monday. He was 83.

He died of complications from heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at his home in the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles, according to his publicist Zach Farnum. Negron also sang lead on “Easy To Be Hard” and “The Show Must Go On.” The band’s other hits include ”Black and White,” “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” ”Never Been to Spain” and “Shambala.”

In December 1972, the band hosted and performed on the inaugural edition of Dick Clark’s “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.”

By 1975, album sales had declined and the band had its last Billboard Hot 100 hit with “Til the World Ends.” Internal strife fractured the group

during a Christmas Eve party in 1997 at the Union Rescue Mission in Los Angeles.

and it fell apart the next year. In 1981, the group reunited, but Negron was dismissed in late 1985 because of recurring drug issues. In 1967, Negron joined Danny Hutton and Cory Wells to form Three Dog Night, a vocal trio with roots in R&B, rock ‘n’ roll, and urban doo wop. They found success two years later with their rst million-selling single “One,” written by Harry Nilsson. Negron engaged in heavy drug use during the band’s quick ascension to the top of the charts. He spent his fortune on drugs and even ended up on Los

Angeles’ Skid Row for a time.

After numerous stints in rehab, he became sober in 1991 and went on to have a successful solo career, releasing seven albums between 1995 and 2017. His 1999 book, “Three Dog Nightmare,” detailed his ups and downs.

After decades of estrangement between him and Hutton, the two men reconciled last year. Hutton and Michael Allsup are the lone surviving members.

Born Charles Negron II on June 8, 1942, he grew up in the Bronx singing in doo wop groups from an early age. His parents divorced when he was 2. He was recruited by California State University to play basketball, which brought him to Los Angeles, where he began working in the music industry. In his later years, Negron toured through chronic COPD for three decades. The COVID-19 pandemic sidelined him permanently.

Negron is survived by wife Ami Albea Negron and ve children, including Berry Oakley Jr., the son of Allman Brothers Band bassist Berry Oakley, who was killed in a 1972 motorcycle accident. Negron was for a time married to Julia Negron, the younger Oakley’s mother, and helped raise infant Berry Jr.

JOHN HAYES / AP PHOTO

Chuck Negron, former lead singer of Three Dog Night, sings to a crowd

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

STATE & NATION

How Super Bowl halftime show evolved from pageantry to pop culture’s biggest stage

From marching bands to global spectacles drawing

130 million viewers

By Jonathan Landrum Jr. The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Once upon a time, the Super Bowl halftime show belonged to marching bands and pageantry. But these days, it belongs to global pop stars, cinematic production and moments that ripple beyond the stadium.

Over the years, the league’s brief intermission has transformed into one of entertainment’s biggest stages, hosting era-de ning performances from Prince in the rain to Rihanna’s record-setting return, Usher’s tightly choreographed showcase and Kendrick Lamar’s layered, visually driven storytelling.

What began as intermission ller has evolved into a global spectacle, rivaling the NFL’s championship game itself for attention from more than 100 million viewers worldwide.

That evolution continues this year as Bad Bunny prepares to take the halftime stage, placing Latin culture and Spanish-language music at the center of America’s most-watched television event.

“The halftime performance has come a long way,” said Dan Marino, the Hall of Fame quarterback who played 17 seasons with the Miami Dolphins and competed in the 1985 Super Bowl. As an NFL analyst, Marino’s had a front-row

RUSTY

Michael Jackson performs during the halftime show at the Super Bowl in 1993.

seat to several halftime shows.

“Not a lot of people really watched it,” he continued. “But now, people love to watch the halftime show.”

That shift did not happen overnight. For decades, the halftime show re ected the NFL’s family-friendly image, built around marching bands, drill teams and patriotic spectacle. As the Super Bowl grew into an uno cial national holiday — and a global broadcast event — the league began rethinking the power of those 12 to 15 minutes, gradually turning the break into a cultural platform capable of launching careers, shaping narratives and, at times, sparking national conversation.

Last year, Lamar used the halftime stage as a narrative space, weaving choreography, costuming and staging to explore themes of identity, power and perception. The performance stayed within league parameters

while still drawing broad interpretation and debate over its imagery and tone.

Lamar’s show became the most-watched halftime performance on record, drawing roughly 133.5 million viewers, surpassing Usher’s 2024 performance, which reached about 129.3 million. That number from Lamar’s set is about six million more than Fox’s broadcast of the Philadelphia Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

“I think the live element is pretty exciting for people because it’s a massive production and there’s so many moving pieces,” said actor Scarlett Johansson, who doesn’t consider herself a football enthusiast. But she’s intrigued by the unpredictability of the halftime show like Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction,” Lady Gaga dropping from a stadium roof and Rihanna’s pregnancy reveal.

“You kind of watch with nervous excitement,” Johansson said. “You know at any moment something could maybe go wrong. That’s why it’s so fun to watch it because you’ve got all this anticipation. The production is so huge and so many people have come together to create this one moment. It’s kind of awesome.”

Kris Jenner agrees, calling the halftime show a “giant surprise.”

“The production level and how quickly they put it together as they’re breaking into commercial and come back with this fabulous, epic show,” said Jenner, the matriarch of “The Kardashians” reality television show. “Through all the years and technology, it gets better and better. It’s so exciting to watch and see what they come up with next and who is going to perform. It’s such a big deal.”

Usher said his appearance with the Black Eyed Peas during the 2011 Super Bowl taught him not to “take the moments for granted because you only get 13 of them.”

His show in 2024 was vastly di erent from the NFL’s rst Super Bowl halftime show in 1967, which featured marching bands from the University of Arizona and Grambling State University, a historically Black college, along with hundreds of ying pigeons, thousands of balloons and two soaring men wearing jetpacks.

After the inaugural Super Bowl, the NFL kept bringing back other marching bands, drill teams, signed Chubby Checker and Up with People, an organization that stage positive thinking through dance and song performances. However, none of those acts were considered huge draws.

But as the Super Bowl’s popularity soared and game day emerged as an uno cial holiday in the U.S., the NFL wanted the halftime show to grow in the same capacity. The league tapped New Kids on the Block and Gloria

Punxsutawney Phil said to have seen shadow, forecasting 6 more weeks of wintry weather

Tens of thousands gathered at Gobbler’s Knob for the famous forecast

By Mark Scolforo and Tassanee Vejpongsa The Associated Press

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — Punxsutawney Phil is said to be predicting six more weeks of wintry weather after he saw his shadow Monday.

His annual prediction was translated by his handlers at Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania.

The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club says that when Phil is deemed to have not seen his shadow, that means there will be an early spring. When he does see it, it’s six more weeks of winter.

Phil tends to predict a longer winter far more often than an early spring.

It’s already been a long, cold winter across much of the United States, and on Monday, Punxsutawney Phil’s handlers were poised to announce whether the weather-predicting groundhog says there’s more of the same to come.

When Phil is said to have seen his shadow upon emergence from a tree stump in rural Pennsylvania, that’s considered a forecast for six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, an early spring is said to be on the way.

Tens of thousands of people were on hand at Gobbler’s Knob for the annual ritual that goes back more than a century, with ties to ancient farming traditions in Europe. Punxsutawney’s festivities have grown considerably since the 1993 movie “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray. Lisa Gibson was at her 10th Groundhog Day, wearing a lighted hat that resembled the tree stump from which Phil

emerges shortly after daybreak.

“Oh man, it just breaks up the doldrums of winter,” said Gibson, accompanied by her husband — dressed up as Elvis Presley — and teenage daughter. “It’s like Halloween and New Year’s Eve all wrapped up into one holiday.”

Gibson, a resident of Pittsburgh, was rooting for Phil to not see his shadow and therefore predict an early start to spring.

Rick Siger, Pennsylvania’s secretary of community and economic development, said the outdoor thermometer in his vehicle read 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius) on his way to Gobbler’s Knob.

“I think it’s just fun — folks having a good time,” said Siger, attending his fourth straight Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney. “It brings people together at a challenging time. It is a unifying force that showcases the best of Pennsylvania, the best of Punxsutawney, this area.”

Last year’s announcement was six more weeks of winter, by far Phil’s more common assessment and not much of a surprise during the rst week of February. His top-hatted handlers in the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club insist Phil’s “groundhogese” of winks, purrs, chatters and nods are being interpreted when they relate the meteorological marmot’s muses about the days ahead.

AccuWeather’s chief longrange weather expert, meteorologist Paul Pastelok, said early Monday some clouds moved into Punxsutawney overnight, bringing urries he called “micro akes.”

Pastelok said the coming week will remain cold, with below-average temperatures in the eastern United States.

Phil isn’t the only animal being consulted for long-term weather forecasts Monday. There are formal and informal Groundhog Day events in many places

Estefan the rst two years of the ‘90s. Then it saw a huge breakthrough when Michael Jackson headlined the 1993 show at the Rose Bowl in Southern California, where the King of Pop notoriously moonwalked across the stage and performed hits including “Billie Jean,” “Black or White” and “Heal the World.”

Jackson’s stellar performance opened the door for other stars like the Rolling Stones, Diana Ross, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira who are eager to perform. The NFL handles production costs and expenses for performers — who don’t get paid — but the exposure to hundreds of millions of people worldwide is considered priceless.

Some notable examples include U2’s remembrance of the 9/11 victims; Beyoncé’s unapologetic Blackness and political activism through her Black power anthem “Formation”; and the rst show to feature hip-hop artists led by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg in 2022.

Snoop praised NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Jay-Z for pushing the halftime show forward. The league worked with Roc Nation to help its Inspire Change initiative, created by the NFL after an agreement with a coalition of players who demonstrated during the national anthem to protest social and racial injustice in this country.

“Shout out to Jay-Z for changing the climate. Roger Goodell for giving him an opportunity,” Dogg said. “This is music. The music that dictates the world is what’s performing at halftime now. They’re starting to understand that it’s about what those players want to hear, what those fans want to hear, and what’s universally e ective.”

Snoop added: “It has no color on it now. Pop used to have a color on it. Now pop is popular. So, the most popular music is the music that we make. It makes sense to put those people on there that make that music.”

Groundhog Club handler A.J. Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather-prognosticating groundhog, during the 137th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on Monday.

in the U.S., Canada and beyond. Groundhog Day falls on Feb. 2, the midpoint between the shortest, darkest day of the year on the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It’s a time of year that also gures in the Celtic calendar and the Christian holiday of Candlemas.

BARRY REEGER / AP PHOTO

KENNEDY / AP PHOTO

RandolpH SPORTS

Patriots push toward special season

The Providence Grove boys’ team is bene tting from a veteran lineup in conference play

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

CLIMAX — Members of the Providence Grove boys’ basketball team sense something brewing this winter.

“It de nitely feels di erent to be winning and expecting to win,” senior swingman Will Dabbs said. “Most of us are seniors, and we all needed to lock in more.”

That has happened for the Patriots as they’ve hit a groove, seeking to post their rst winning record in four years. Actually, they’re aiming for more than that as they sit atop the Central Carolina 3A Conference.

“We expected going in to be really good,” senior guard Andrew Thomas said. “We’re really developing chemistry.”

The Patriots are halfway through the conference schedule without a league loss. The only time that Providence Grove has won an outright boys’ basketball conference title came four years ago when Thomas’

“We obviously knew we had that talent. At rst, we didn’t develop it, and then we really started to gure it out.”

Andrew Thomas, Providence Grove guard

older brother, Luke Thomas, was a senior on that team.

“It’d be huge,” Andrew Thomas said. “We all want it really bad.”

And it certainly seems with-

County teams hold high seeds for state duals in wrestling

A revised schedule has pushed the tournament’s start until next week

Randolph County sta

THREE WRESTLING teams from Randolph County hold the top three seeds for the Class 3A East Region bracket for the dual team state playo s. Trinity, Wheatmore and Eastern Randolph will be host schools for the rst and second rounds in the rescheduled tournament. If they advance to the regional semi nals and nals, there will be at least one intracounty clash.

Uwharrie Charter Academy, which has won state championships in each of the past three seasons in the former Class 1A, is the No. 1 seed in Class 4A East Region. A revised tournament schedule because of wintry weather closing schools means there will be no meets contested this week.

Instead, the rst and second rounds will be held Feb. 10-12, with the regional semi nals and nals Feb. 16 -18. The state nals are reset for Feb. 22 — a

RANDOLPH RECORD FILE PHOTO

Michael Shropshire, a reigning individual state champion, will look to help Uwharrie Charter Academy to another dual team state title.

Sunday and the day following the individual state championships in Greensboro. Here’s a rundown of brackets involving area teams.

• Trinity won the Class 2A state title — under the previous four- classi cation set-up in 2024 — and the Bulldogs have rolled in most of their meets this season. That included a vic-

tory at Wheatmore in the Central Carolina 3A Conference.

Joining Trinity on the rst day of competition in Class 3A East Region will be No. 16

seed Farmville Central, No. 8

seed Northwood and No. 9 seed Heide Trask. In the Wheatmore bracket,

See WRESTLING, page B2

in reach despite absorbing losses in the rst four games of the season.

“It’s de nitely a goal we’ve had from the beginning of the season,” Dabbs said. It has taken time to adjust this season, which for several players on the team was launched just days after the end of their football season.

“It’s a collective team effort all around,” coach Shane Worth said. “It’s a group that has brought into what we want to do.”

Worth said despite a senior-heavy roster there hadn’t been much continuity. Gabe

McKoy is back with the Patriots after playing a year ago for Chatham Charter, while Cam Jones is a transfer from Eastern Randolph.

“Just getting back into the groove, it took some time,” Dabbs said of McKoy’s return. There’s an emphasis on guards making a di erence to make up for a lack of size.

“That’s one thing we don’t have,” Worth said. “Move the ball, move without the ball and attack the rim when shots go up.”

With four players averaging in double gures — led by Dabbs at 18.8 points per game — there are options.

“We’re hitting shots,” Thomas said. “We run four guards and

See PATRIOTS, page B2

Asheboro to compete in boys’ volleyball

The number of schools participating in the sport has been rising

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — Boys’ volleyball is being o ered at Asheboro as a competitive sport beginning this month.

“It is probably the fastest-growing boys’ sport,” athletics director Wes Berrier said.

Nearly 100 boys showed up at a meeting when the Blue Comets were gauging interest from students. The start of practices for the season will correspond with the beginning of the spring sports season later this month.

The sport isn’t sanctioned by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, but it has been on that group’s radar. Berrier said the NCHSAA might be overlooking the sport a bit.

Asheboro’s coach is Nick Neighbors, who has been an assistant coach for the girls’ volleyball team. The Blue Comets’ rst match comes March 18 at

Greensboro Page followed the next night by the home opener against Jordan-Matthews. Berrier said matches could be added to the slate prior to the listed rst match. The regular season runs through the end of April.

Other opponents for Asheboro include Northern Guilford, Greensboro Smith, Lexington, West Forsyth, Triad Math and Science, and Southwest Guilford. Some of those teams have elded teams in recent years. Jordan-Matthews is entering its third season. Without formal conferences because of sporadic participation among schools in the region, Berrier said the North Carolina Volleyball Coaches Association has overseen scheduling. Meanwhile, the NCHSAA has identi ed girls’ ag football as a rising sport and has been in discussions about adding that to its o erings among championship sports. Berrier said Asheboro has explored that as a strong possibility for its students as well.

“We’re all in about bringing girls’ ag football,” he said.

PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD

Providence Grove’s Andrew Thomas goes up for a shot against Randleman’s Pacey Wagner during a boys’ basketball game earlier this season.

Bella Byman

Randleman, girls’ basketball

The senior guard has been among the leaders for the Tigers this season.

She’s often the primary ballhandler in Randleman’s o ense. This marks the third season in a row that Byman rates among the top three scorers on the team, gaining all-conference recognition as a sophomore. After a week with no games because of wintry weather, Randleman remains in third place in the Piedmont Athletic Conference.

During the past fall, Byman was on the All-PAC team for girls’ tennis.

Snotherly helps 20-win team at High Point

The former Eastern Randolph standout is in her rst season with the Panthers

Randolph Record sta

HIGH POINT — Brecken Snotherly has made an impact in her rst season on the High Point women’s basketball team.

The Eastern Randolph graduate has averaged 6.1 points per game for the Big South Con-

ference leaders. The Panthers are 20 -2 after winning again Sunday.

Snotherly, a junior guard, started in 18 of the team’s rst 22 games. She racked up a season-high 14 points in last week’s 87- 66 romp at Charleston Southern for her fourth double- gure output in a ve-game span.

Snotherly played in 53 games across the past two seasons at East Tennessee State before transferring.

Hurricanes score 3 times in nal 2 minutes, stun Mammoth in 5-4

win

I

A proud, lifelong resident of

Carolina became the third team in history to have the historic rally

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — In many ways, last Thursday’s game wasn’t one Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will want to play on a loop at a family gathering.

His wipeout in the neutral zone early in the second period allowed Utah winger Kailer Yamamoto to score his rst of two goals and tie the game after Carolina dominated the opening 20 minutes.

Then with just 13 minutes left in the game, Yamamoto pestered the Hurricanes defenseman into a turnover and a goal by Michael Carcone to give the visiting Mammoth what seemed like a nail-in-the-cofn two -goal lead.

But Gostisbehere — returning to the lineup after missing the last ve games — and the Hurricanes not only fought back, but they also pulled o one of the best rallies in NHL history.

Andrei Svechnikov, Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal scored three times in 89 seconds, with Staal’s goal coming with just under 30 seconds remaining, to turn a multigoal de cit into a 5- 4 Hurricanes win at Lenovo Center.

“Just forget,” Gostisbehere said of moving past his miscues, “or score right after so you forget about it.”

It was just the third time in league history that a team trailing by two goals with under two minutes remaining ended up winning in regulation.

The rally started with Gostisbehere and Svechnikov.

With Carolina on a four-minute power play due to a high sticking penalty by Barrett Hayton and Brandon Bussi (21 saves) on the bench for an extra attacker, Gostisbehere shot wide, but the puck hit the end boards and popped right to Svechnikov. He banged it into the vacant net for his second goal of the night and 20th of the season — matching last season’s total.

Gostisbehere, who had scored his seventh goal of the year on the power play to tie the game in the second peri-

PATRIOTS from page B1

we’re all real quick. We’re generating o ense.”

Dabbs, a third-year starter, and Jones have both connected on more than 40 shots from 3-point range, and Thomas also is an perimeter threat. Dabbs came o a strong junior season.

“It just transferred over from last season, and that came with con dence,” he said. “We’ve just all been playing our game. It took us a while to play with each other.”

Despite a four-game winning streak in December, Providence Grove entered 2026 with a 5-7 record.

“That had us down,” Dabbs said. “We had to step up in some way. We want some of those games back.”

Worth said early losses weren’t devastating because the Patriots were matched up with several larger schools that had recent success.

“I wanted to play tougher competition,” he said.

WRESTLING from page B1

the second-seeded Warriors take on No. 15 seed Bartlett Yancey, while seventh-seeded East Davidson and No. 10 seed South Lenoir also are set to tangle.

Third-seeded Eastern Randolph draws Pender, with Pasquotank and Spring Creek also at that site.

Also in Class 3A East, fth-seeded Providence Grove meets No. 12 seed North Moore at fourth-seeded McMichael, which is to open vs. No. 13 seed Ayden- Grifton. • The Class 4A East Region

od, got his second of the night 22 seconds after Svechnikov’s goal.

With Bussi again on the bench for a sixth skater, Jackson Blake zipped a diagonal pass to Gostisbehere at the right point for a one-timer that hit the cross bar and went in to tie the game.

“It is always about your next shift, good or bad,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said.

“You score a goal, you don’t sit there patting yourself on the back. You’ve got to go do something about it. The same thing if you give up a goal. Ghost has been around. I don’t think he gets too ustered.”

Then the Hurricanes seized the momentum to get the winner.

Defenseman Jalen Chateld took a shot from the outside edge of the right circle. Jordan Martinook tipped the shot, and the puck went to Staal at the left post, where he knocked it in for his 12th goal of the year.

“We were just kind of riding the wave,” Staal said. “But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked. To get those three goals that quickly and in that short period of time to win the game was really cool.”

Gostisbehere and Svechnikov each nished with three points.

“You saw him tonight,” Sta-

al said of Svechnikov. “He was not only scoring goals, but he was physical, he was hard, he was skating well. And he’s got his strength back and his speed. … He’s the player that we all know he can be. And this year he’s been solid all throughout.”

And despite struggling much of the night on the power play, Carolina managed to score two key goals on ve opportunities.

“It’s sticking with it,” Gostisbehere said. “The entries weren’t beautiful, but at the end of the day, when you get two goals on power play, you know it’s going to help you win.”

And it did the Hurricanes extended their point streak to six games and further tightened their grip on the Metropolitan Division lead on Whalers Night.

“It’s always nice to score goals, especially game winners,” Staal said. “It’s making memories, and I love the game, I love being a part of of nights like this, and you want more of them. You’re chasing them, and you’re chasing those memories.

“And to do it alongside these guys in this room, the friends, and battle with each other is what I live for. It’s what I do this job for, and tonight was one of the good memories.”

“Sometimes it pays o .” Now the focus is on conference play — and hopefully beyond.

“Here recently we have really been feeding o each other’s

bracket pits UCA vs. Salisbury in the rst round, with First Flight and Bunn also competing there. No. 14 seed Southwestern Randolph is slated to go to third-seeded Central Davidson, where Washington and Anson also convene. No. 15 seed Randleman clashes with the host school at second-seeded Eden Morehead, with Ledford and Southwest Onslow also there. The other Class 4A East Region host is fourth-seeded North Pitt.

• In Class 6A, Asheboro is the No. 13 seed in the West Re -

intensity,” Thomas said. “We’re getting hot right before playo s. We obviously knew we had that talent. At rst, we didn’t develop it, and then we really started to gure it out.”

gion, with a rst-round matchup with host and fourth-seeded Piedmont. Southeast Guilford and Western Guilford are the other teams at that site. Competition was supposed to begin Saturday with the rst and second rounds, but because of forecasts of wintry weather, those rounds were initially pushed back to Tuesday night before the entire time frame was revised. Brackets came out last Friday, a day later than initially scheduled. Meanwhile, the girls’ individual regionals scheduled for this weekend are postponed to Feb. 10 -12.

PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD Randleman’s Bella Byman goes up for a shot last month.

PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD

Providence Grove’s Gabe McKoy, taking a shot against the defense of Randleman’s Jackson Cook in November, has made an impact during his return to the Patriots.

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Hurricanes center Jordan Staal celebrates his game-winning goal against the Mammoth with forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) during Carolina’s 5 - 4 win last Thursday in Raleigh.

pen & paper pursuits

this week in history

Mary, Queen of Scots, beheaded, The Beatles hit U.S., Baltimore in ames

FEB. 5

1917: Congress passed the Immigration Act of 1917 over President Woodrow Wilson’s veto, sharply restricting Asian immigration and requiring literacy tests for immigrants.

1918: During World War I, more than 200 people were killed when the Cunard liner SS Tuscania, carrying American troops to Europe, was torpedoed by a German U-boat o the coast of Ireland.

1971: Apollo 14 astronauts Alan Shepard and Edgar Mitchell stepped onto the moon in the rst of two lunar excursions.

FEB. 6

1778: During the American Revolutionary War, the United States won o cial recognition and military support from France with the signing of the Treaty of Alliance in Paris.

1862: During the Civil War, Fort Henry in Tennessee fell to Union forces.

1921: “The Kid,” Charlie Chaplin’s rst feature-length lm, was released across the United States.

1952: Britain’s King George VI died at age 56. He was succeeded by his eldest daughter, 25-year-old Queen Elizabeth II.

FEB. 7

1964: The Beatles were met by thousands of screaming fans at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport as they arrived to begin their rst American tour.

1904: The Great Baltimore

Fire began; one of the worst city res in American history, it destroyed more than 1,500 buildings in central Baltimore. 1943: The U.S. government announced that wartime rationing of shoes made of leather would soon take e ect, limiting the number of pairs a person could buy each year.

FEB. 8

1587: Mary, Queen of Scots, was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle in England after being implicated in a plot against her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I.

1693: A charter was granted for the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg in the Virginia Colony.

1910: The Boy Scouts of America was incorporated by William D. Boyce, inspired by the British Boy Scout movement.

FEB. 9

1825: The House of Representatives elected John Quincy

Adams president after no candidate won a majority of electoral votes.

1943: The World War II Battle of Guadalcanal in the southwest Paci c ended with an Allied victory over Japanese forces.

1950: In a speech in Wheeling, West Virginia, Republican Sen. Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin charged that the State Department was riddled with communists.

1964: The Beatles made their rst live American television appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” broadcast from New York on CBS.

FEB. 10

1763: The Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Seven Years’ War and transferring most of France’s Canadian territory to Great Britain.

1936: Nazi Germany’s Reichstag passed a law granting the Gestapo secret police sweeping authority, exempt from judicial review.

1962: On the Glienicke Bridge, the Soviet Union traded captured U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers for Soviet spy Rudolf Abel.

FEB. 11

1847: American inventor Thomas Alva Edison was born in Milan, Ohio.

1937: A six-week sit- down strike against General Motors ended after the company agreed to recognize and bargain with the United Auto Workers.

1975: Margaret Thatcher was elected leader of Britain’s opposition Conservative Party, setting the stage for her rise to prime minister in 1979.

AP PHOTO

American inventor Thomas Alva Edison, best known for inventions such as the phonograph, was born Feb. 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio.

CHARLES TASNADI / AP PHOTO

The Beatles face the media on arrival at JFK Airport in New York on Feb. 7, 1964. The British rock ’n’ roll group was also greeted by a screaming crowd estimated at 5,000.

In ‘A Poet,’ Colombian farce of literary failure, stubborn belief

The Spanish-language lm is now in theaters with English subtitles

By Jake Coyle

The Associated Press

IN SIMÓN MESA Soto’s “A Poet,” Oscar Restrepo (Ubeimar Rios) is a failed Colombian writer who keeps a photo of the author José Asunción Silva above his mantle. Silva died at age 30, and even Oscar would admit his own career would be a lot better if he had died young, too.

Mid-aged in Medellín, Oscar is unemployed, divorced and living with his mother (Margarita Soto). His case isn’t one of misunderstood genius, either. Oscar is prone to self-made disaster. A more successful friend, Efrain (Guillermo Cardona), calls him “a walking problem.”

“You’re a poem,” Efrain tells him. “A pretty sad one.”

But in the pantheon of sad-sack protagonists, Oscar is a triumph. Rios, a nonprofessional actor who squints behind thick glasses and whose arms hang stubbornly low from his hunched shoulders, creates in Oscar a gure of farcical perfection: a tortured artist, equal parts comedy and tragedy.

There’s little that’s lyrical

or beautiful about Oscar’s life.

This is a guy who, on a rare visit to his teenage daughter (Alisson Correa), asks if he can borrow $10. At the same time, Oscar is a stout believer in the grandest ideals of art. Give him a drink, or a microphone, and he’ll soon be rhapsodizing about the power of “poesía.” For someone one step from the gutter, he’s comically high minded. But it’s been decades since he was published. He declares: “I’m a poet.” His sister corrects: “You’re unemployed.” Yet Oscar manages to land a job teaching at a local high school.

The students mostly laugh at him, but Oscar believes one, a soft-spoken young woman named Yurlady (Rebeca Andrade), shows tremendous potential.

Yurlady, herself, doesn’t have any real literary ambitions. But Oscar, resolving to mentor her, helps her apply to Poetry Viva, a workshop for young writers run by Efrain, a smooth talker acclaimed for his social issues writing. He’s the central foil to Oscar — a pompous but savvy achiever who urges Yurlady not to submit her simple from-the-heart poems but something about racism or poverty that will win over liberal-minded European judges.

In this, Soto’s lm is an iron-

“You’re a poem. A pretty sad one.”

Guillermo Cardona as Efrain

ic allegory about art worlds beyond poetry. “A Poet” premiered at last year’s Cannes Film Festival, winning an award in the Un Certain Regard section. Soto rst broke out in Cannes with a prize-winning short in 2014. In the intervening years, as a Colombian lmmaker, he’s surely encountered some stereotypical expectations.

But while “A Poet” might remind you of some other lms — one would be Cord Je erson’s “American Fiction” — it is, like Oscar, steadfastly its own thing. Filmed on grainy 16mm, it’s even rough and dirty around the edges, as if the movie is wearing its protagonist’s clothes.

But if Soto’s lm is loose and gritty, its satire is remarkably precise. This is a farce of creative life where the only pure artistic intention is a joke. Success belongs to hypocrites like Efrain. Yurlady’s working class family sees only a chance for money. But Oscar, for all his foolishness, is at least uncompromising. He’s wrong about almost everything, except what really counts.

After 200 years, Farmers’ Almanac bets on digital reboot, new owner

The annual periodical has been in continuous publication since 1818

By Patrick Whittle

The Associated Press

PORTLAND, Maine — The Farmers’ Almanac isn’t going out of business after all, but it is leaving Maine for the bright lights of New York City and a new owner. Beloved by farmers and gardeners, the almanac was rst printed in 1818 and — like the arguably more famous Old Farmer’s Almanac — relies on a secret formula of sunspots, planetary positions and lunar cycles to generate long-range weather forecasts.

It’s been acquired by Uno cial Networks, a digital publisher focused on skiing and outdoor recreation. That means the almanac will keep operating despite announcing in November that its 208-year run was coming to an end.

A new Farmers’ Almanac website will be “a living, breathing publication with fresh, daily content” and there are plans to bring back a print edition, said Tim Konrad, founder and publisher of New York-based Uno cial Networks.

“It felt wrong to stand by while an irreplaceable piece of our national heritage disappeared.”

Tim Konrad, Uno cial Networks founder and publisher

have sometimes chafed at the publications’ predictions. Studies of their accuracy have found them to be a little more than 50% accurate. That is about on par with random chance.

The deal will prioritize “preserving and sustaining the iconic publication,” according to a statement from Unofcial Networks and Peter Geiger, the almanac’s longtime publisher.

The Farmers’ Almanac was founded in New Jersey before moving its headquarters to Lewiston, Maine, in 1955.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac is based in New Hampshire. Over the years, scientists

“I saw the announcement that one of America’s most enduring publications was set to close,” Konrad said, “and it felt wrong to stand by while an irreplaceable piece of our national heritage disappeared.”

But Geiger, whose family had the Farmers’ Almanac for more than 90 years, said they’re “going out a winner” by having predicted a cold and snowy 2026. “For more than 200 years, the values and wisdom of the Farmers’ Almanac have been protected and nurtured by four owner-publishers,” Geiger said. “I am grateful to have found the right next custodian in Tim Konrad. I am also con dent he will honor its heritage and carry it forward for generations to come.”

Uno cial Networks was started in 2006 by Konrad and his brother John in a California basement, according to the company’s website.

1-2 SPECIAL VIA AP

Ubeimar Rios plays failed writer Oscar Restrepo in “A Poet.”

ROBERT F. BUKATY / AP PHOTO

A copy of the nal edition of the Farmers’ Almanac is displayed in Alexander, Maine.

famous birthdays this week

Tom Brokaw hits 86, John Grisham turns 71, Tina Louise (“Gilligan’s Island”) turns 92

The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.

FEB. 5

Tony-winning playwright John Guare is 88. Football Hall of Famer Roger Staubach is 84. Film director Michael Mann is 83. Racing Hall of Famer Darrell Waltrip is 79. Actor Barbara Hershey is 78. Actor- comedian Tim Meadows is 65.

FEB. 6

Actor Mike Farrell is 87. Former NBC News anchorman Tom Brokaw is 86. Singer Fabian is 83. Filmmaker Jim Sheridan is 77. Tennis Hall of Famer Manuel Orantes is 77. Actor Kathy Najimy is 69. Actor- director Robert Townsend is 69. Rock singer Axl Rose (Guns N’ Roses) is 64.

FEB. 7

Author Gay Talese is 94. Sen. John Hickenlooper (D - Colo.) is 74. Actor James Spader is 66. Country singer Garth Brooks is 64. Actor- comedian Eddie Izzard is 64. Actor- comedian Chris Rock is 61. Actor Ashton Kutcher is 48.

FEB. 8

Composer- conductor John Williams is 94. Broadcast journalist Ted Koppel is 86. Actor Nick Nolte is 85. Comedian Robert Klein is 84. Actor-rock musician Creed Bratton is 83. Actor Mary Steenburgen is 73. Author John Grisham is 71.

FEB. 9

Artist Gerhard Richter is 94. Nobel Prize-winning author J.M. Coetzee is 86. Singer-songwriter Carole King is 84. Actor Joe Pesci is 83. Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz is 83. Author Alice Walker is 82. Actor Mia Farrow is 81.

Saturday.

JOEL C. RYAN / INVISION / AP PHOTO Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses turns 64 on Friday.

FEB. 10

Opera singer Leontyne Price is 99. Actor Robert Wagner is 96. Olympic swimming gold medalist Mark Spitz is 76. Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman is 71. Basketball Hall of Fame coach John Calipari is 67. Filmmaker Alexander Payne is 65. TV host-political commentator George Stephanopoulos is 65. Actor Laura Dern is 59.

FEB. 11

Actor Tina Louise

(“Gilligan’s Island”) is 92. Musician Sergio Mendes is 85. Actor Philip Anglim (“The Thorn Birds”) is 74. Singer Sheryl Crow is 64. Actor Jennifer Aniston is 57.

ADAM HUNGER / AP PHOTO Chris Rock turns 61 on

JOHN LOCHER / AP PHOTO Singer-songwriter Carole King turns 84 on Monday.

the stream

“Splitsville,”

‘Splitsville,’

Thursday.

‘Puppy Bowl,’ Keke Palmer, J. Cole, Nick Jonas drops new solo album

A television adaptation the 80s dark comedy “The Burbs” lands on Peacock

The Associated Press

THE GOOFY AND wry relationship comedy “Splitsville” landing on Hulu and fresh albums by J. Cole and Nick Jonas 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: Keke Palmer starring in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Tom Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock, gamers getting fast and bloody samurai action with Nioh 3 and Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” returning for Season 4.

MOVIES TO STREAM

One of last year’s funniest original movies, the goofy and wry relationship comedy “Splitsville,” is streaming on Hulu starting Thursday. Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin, the duo behind “The Climb,” bring the audience along on a metaphorical (and literal) roller coaster of a comedy about open relationships, divorce and human mistakes, in which they star opposite Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona. In his review, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle wrote that, “though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s,” adding “the performer here who would have been most at home in that bygone comedy heyday is Johnson.”

Also coming to Hulu on Thursday is James L. Brooks’ “Ella McCay,” a starry political dramedy with Emma Mackey playing an ambitious and idealistic lieutenant governor who has to take over for her boss. The lm was a major op with audiences and critics during its theatrical run. The AP’s Jocelyn Noveck, in her review, called it “ba ingly disjointed, uneven, unfunny and illogical,” adding that Mackey is the only reason to watch the lm. Filmmaker Rory Kennedy

(“Downfall: The Case Against Boeing”) tells the story of Judit Polgár, the Hungarian girl who dreamed of conquering men’s chess and defeat champion Garry Kasparov, in “Queen of Chess.” The documentary just premiered at the Sundance Film Festival but will already be available to stream on Net ix on Thursday.

MUSIC TO STREAM

Nick Jonas, the youngest of the Jonas Brothers trio and fresh o a successful stadium

run with his siblings, will release his rst solo album in just under ve years on Friday titled “Sunday Best.” The rst taste arrived in the form of lead single “Gut Punch.” It is smooth adult pop — as is his bread and butter — easy listening for those in need of a love song. Also on tap: the innovative rapper and producer J. Cole returns with his seventh studio album, “The Fall- O .” Some fans theorize it may be his nal record — and with good reason. The music video for “Disc 2 Track 2,” released in January,

begins with a note from Cole describing that he knew “in my heart I would one day get to the nish line.” That track recalls Nas’ 2001 hit “Rewind,” which may o er a tease as to what the album may sound like: a love letter to hip -hop, and the career it has given Cole.

SERIES TO STREAM

It may be cold outside, but there’s a heatwave on Bravo as the reality series “Summer House” returns for a 10th season. The show features Manhattanites sharing a shore house in the Hamptons, although recent seasons have also followed the gang when they’re back in New York during the week. It’s streaming now on Peacock.

Net ix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer” is back for Season 4 beginning Thursday. Based on novels by Michael Connelly, the series follows talented Los Angeles attorney Mickey Haller (played by Manuel García-Rulfo) as he takes on high-pro le defendants. This season Haller is the one who needs a strong defense when he’s falsely accused of murder. “Puppy Bowl,” the annual TV event promoting animal adoption, airs its 22nd iter-

“Though there are elaborately choreographed long takes that smack of contemporary moviemaking, ‘Splitsville’ belongs more to a screwball tradition stretching back to the 1930s.”

Jake Coyle, AP Film Writer

ation on Sunday. “Puppy Bowl XXII” will simulcast across Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV, HBO Max and discovery+. Another call-to-action special, the “Great American Rescue Bowl” also takes place Sunday. This one highlight both adoptable dogs and cats and will be available on Great American Pure Flix, Great American Family, and GFAM+.

Palmer stars in a TV adaptation of the 1989 Hanks movie “The ‘Burbs” for Peacock. All eight episodes drop Sunday. Palmer and Jack Whitehall play a couple who move to suburbia with their new baby to live a nice, quiet life. The neighborhood seems less idyllic once the wife becomes xated on one of her neighbors, whom she connects with a decades-long missing person case.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Koei Tecmo’s Nioh series has built a cult audience among gamers who like their samurai action fast and bloody. Nioh 3, from Tokyo -based developer Team Ninja, adds some twists. Tokugawa Takechiyo is about to be appointed shogun when his jealous brother unleashes a horde of yōkai — ghouls, demons and other supernatural creatures drawn from Japanese folklore. Takechiyo can ght back with brute-force samurai skills, or switch to more acrobatic ninja tactics, all in a vast open world that promises more freedom than previous installments. Take up arms Friday on PlayStation 5 or PC.

NEON VIA AP

a comedy starring Michael Angelo Covino, Kyle Marvin, Adria Arjona and Dakota Johnson, lands on Hulu on

RICHARD VOGEL / AP PHOTO

Manuel Garcia-Rulfo returns as Los Angeles attorney Mickey Haller in Season 4 of “The Lincoln Lawyer.”

20TH CENTURY STUDIOS VIA AP

Emma Mackey portrays a determined lieutenant governor in James Brooks’ drama “Ella McCay.”

HOKE COUNTY

Happy trails

Plows are hard to come by in North Carolina during a once-in-a-decade snowstorm, especially on residential side streets, but Hoke County residents made do the best they could this week.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Signs of forced entry found at Arizona home of “Today” show host Guthrie’s mother Tucson, Ariz. Investigators have found signs of forced entry at the Arizona home of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother. That’s according to a person familiar with the investigation who spoke Tuesday to The Associated Press. Meanwhile, the host asked for prayers to help bring back the 84-year- old, whom authorities believe was taken against her will. The sheri said Nancy Guthrie must be found soon because she could die without her medication. Investigators also found evidence showing there was a nighttime kidnapping. Several of Guthrie’s personal items, including her cellphone, wallet and her car, were still at the home.

NASA delays astronauts’ lunar trip after hydrogen leaks mar fueling test

Cape Canaveral, Fla.

NASA’s long-awaited moonshot with astronauts is o until at least March because of leaking hydrogen fuel. The space agency announced the news Tuesday following a critical fueling test of its giant moon rocket in Florida. Hydrogen seeped from the base of the rocket during Monday’s dress rehearsal, which went into overtime Tuesday because of all the problems. O cials say the delay will allow the launch team to conduct another practice countdown before committing four astronauts to humanity’s rst moonshot in more than half a century.

FirstHealth breaks ground on $50M Hoke hospital expansion

The project will add 24 inpatient beds and a new two-story tower to the Raeford campus

North State Journal sta RAEFORD — FirstHealth of the Carolinas broke ground last Thursday on a $50 million expansion project at Moore Regional Hospital’s Hoke Campus. The project includes a two-story, 35,280-square -foot hospital tower with 24 new inpatient beds and a 15,560-square-foot addition to the existing medical o ce building. Construction is expected to be completed in April 2027, with the rst patients welcomed in July.

Carolinas

“MRH-Hoke has served this area since 2013, and this new investment ensures that we can continue to meet the needs of this growing community in Raeford, Hoke County and beyond for years to come,” said Mickey Foster, CEO of FirstHealth.

The expansion follows an emergency department expansion completed in 2022.

Matt Prestwood, president of MRH-Hoke, said the project is about more than expanding the hospital’s footprint.

“The people of MRHHoke truly de ne this hospital, and today is an inspiring day for them as well because they show up each day to care for their neighbors with compassion, expertise and a deep sense of responsibility to the people we serve,” Prestwood said. “We

are proud to be a part of Hoke County and energized by what lies ahead.”

emerge as new population boom states; a ordability, lifestyle drive growth

The Carolinas overtook Florida and Texas as top destinations for Americans on the move

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. — Move over Florida and Texas. The United States has new hot spots for growth, and they both have Carolina in their name. North Carolina last year attracted more new residents, 84,000 people, from other parts of the country than any other state, a title held by Texas in 2024 and Florida in the two years before that. South Carolina had the highest overall growth rate last year at 1.5%, a distinction among states held by Florida in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau gures released this past week. Domestic migration, or peo -

ple moving within the U.S., slowed in Texas. The 67,300 domestic migrants heading to the second most populous state year over year barely squeaked by South Carolina, which had the third highest number of domestic migrants at 66,600.

The appeal of Florida, the nation’s third most populous state, dimmed. It dropped to No. 8 for state-to-state migration, as more U.S. residents preferred to move elsewhere, including Alabama.

Sabrina Morley and Steven Devereaux sold their Tampa-area house last year, moved out of Florida and landed outside Valencia, Spain. Growing up in the 1990s, they both enjoyed Florida’s diversity and being able to run around freely outdoors. But in recent years, as they planned to have children, they had grown wary of the state’s costs, regular threats of mass shootings at schools, the quali-

ty of education and political divisiveness. They are expecting a daughter in the spring.

“I had a pretty good childhood, but I don’t think we’d be able to give our child the same quality of life because of the cost of living, food quality, and guns have become more prevalent,” Devereaux said. “We think where we are now, it’s the best decision we could make to give any future children the best quality of life.”

Younger folks and nice areas

North Carolina state demographer Michael Cline credited the state’s growth to high-paying jobs in banking and tech, the topographical diversity and having smaller big-cities than Florida and Texas.

“North Carolina is attracting younger folks because we have so many nice areas in North

Carolina — the mountains and beaches and lakes in between — that we’re bene ting from younger people who decided they can work from anywhere and would rather be in a nice area,” Cline said. “One of the things about North Carolina, our cities are not huge, and that may be attractive to folks, too.”

Last year’s changes among the states were signi cant because population growth brings more taxpayers, economic dynamism and demand for goods and services. It also signals potential changes in the nation’s political landscape after the next census in 2030, with certain states gaining or losing clout in Congress and the Electoral College.

In the next few years, domestic migration is going to play a larger role in states’ growth

THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COURTESY

Members of the Moore Regional Hospital Hoke Campus board and FirstHealth leadership broke ground last Thursday on a $50 million expansion project in Raeford.

or population decline. That is because the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown has contributed to a signi cant reduction in migration from abroad, which had been the prime driver of growth in most states for the rst half of this decade.

Without immigration growth, the U.S. population will start shrinking in ve years as deaths outpace births, according to the Congressional Budget O ce.

Pandemic boom peters out

Despite the comparative year-over-year slowdown in domestic migration, Texas’ overall growth of 391,000 people and Florida’s overall growth of 196,000 people were still the two highest in the U.S. last year. In Florida, it was driven by international migration, and in Texas by international migration as well as births outpacing deaths. Both states boomed during the early part of the decade, when pandemic-era lockdowns and remote work encouraged residents from other states to move to Florida and Texas, where coronavirus restrictions were more lax.

“The sharp domestic migrations they observed during the pandemic have now petered out, especially for Florida, at the same time that immigration is being diminished,” said Brookings demographer William Frey.

Demographers in Florida and Texas said they were not entirely sold on the accuracy of the Census Bureau’s migration numbers, which are the hardest variables to pin down because they uctuate the most year to year, although they did

Chamber celebration

On Jan. 29, the Raeford-Hoke Chamber of Commerce brought back its Annual Member Banquet at the Robert A. Wright Building. The event celebrated its members and honored several with awards, including Rising Star, Nonpro t of the Year, Legacy Business and Community Support. The Raeford City Council — pictured left to right, Shirley Hart, Mayor John K. McNeill III, Ricky Sandy, Wayne Willis, Jackie McLean and Johnny Boyles — was in attendance.

not question the rigor of the bureau’s work. The bureau uses data from the IRS and its American Community Survey to calculate migration, although the ACS data lags by a year and requires statisticians to project the data forward.

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida uses a method di erent from the Census Bureau’s to calculate growth — electrical customer data, said research demographer Richard Doty.

There are no de nitive explanations for why domestic migration to Florida went from almost 319,000 people in 2022 to 22,500 people in 2025. Doty said some factors might include the state no longer being the bargain it once was, a series of hurricanes and return-to-o ce employer mandates.

“The cost of housing, in particular, is driving young people and retirees to other states,” he said. “Also, insurance is higher in Florida than most other states.”

When asked about the decline, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press secretary, Molly Best, noted in an email that Florida had a signi cant in ux of new residents during the pandemic. It remains a top-ranked placed to live, she said.

The Texas economy has been growing, but that is not the only thing that in uences the in ow of potential migrants. Conditions outside the state also do, Texas state demographer Lloyd Potter said in an email.

“If jobs are plentiful, living is a ordable, and the overall quality of life is good, they will be less likely to move for an opportunity outside that community,” Potter said.

ELAINA J. MARTIN FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

| DAVID HARSANYI

Price controls won’t work any better for Republicans than it does Democrats

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

DEMONIZING GREEDY BANKERS and landlords is the last refuge of the poorly polling politician.

And, as a ordability remains a leading issue among voters, the Trump administration has regularly used rhetoric and ideas that mirror those of progressive Democrats like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Take the president’s recent idea for capping credit card interest rates at 10%. Or rather, the idea that’s already proposed in a bill sponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). “They’ve really abused the public,” the president said of credit card companies. “I’m not going to let it happen.”

This probably feels good to hear. But if you nd an APR on a new credit card o er “predatory,” de nitely do not sign up for it. You don’t owe the bank anything, and it doesn’t owe you.

An interest rate, though, re ects risk. It’s the entry price for obtaining credit. If you have a good credit score, you get lower rates and vice versa.

Capping the rate won’t eliminate credit risk factors, though it will likely shrink available money for people who need it most: lower-income and young workers, or anyone else trying to build up their credit. Lots of entrepreneurs and small-business owners also rely on credit cards to tide them over for a season or help with up-front capital.

And those who are denied cards will still need funds. They’ll inevitably seek out other means of borrowing, probably at even higher rates. Maybe they’ll go to payday loans and cash checking places. Maybe they’ll take second mortgages. Maybe they’ll go to the black market.

There are those who argue that Americans already borrow far too much and that limiting access to credit would be good for them. Rest assured, these nannies almost surely own their homes and cars — purchases that become even more prohibitive for people unable to improve their credit scores.

Trump likes to explicitly threaten or jawbone companies into doing his bidding. Bank of America, for example, is reportedly considering o ering a credit card with interest capped at 10% to placate the administration.

Well, there’s no federal cap on what APRs banks can o er on credit cards. If providers want to undercut competition, nothing is stopping them. Banks are businesses, after all, not charities.

But if banks lose out charging riskier customers lower interest rates to get on the good side of the administration, they’ll simply raise fees elsewhere, pull back on rewards and nd other creative ways to make their reliable consumers pay.

Price xing never alleviates cost — it merely displaces it.

Take Mamdani as he “cracks down,” as one

12 Question quiz: What ‘fascist’ ‘xenophobe’ ‘tyrant’ said this?

We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked.

1. “I’m really good at killing people. Didn’t know that was going to be a strong suit of mine.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. President Barack Obama, 2012

2. “But, let me tell you, we can build a fence 40 stories high — unless you change the dynamic in Mexico and — and you will not like this, and — punish American employers who knowingly violate the law when, in fact, they hire illegals. Unless you do those two things, all the rest is window dressing.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.), 2006

3. “Today, I will issue a national security memorandum directing every federal department and agency to do even more to stop the ow of narcotics — including fentanyl — into our country. It will increase intelligence collection on tra ckers’ evolving tactics to smuggle narcotics into our country. And it will help our law enforcement personnel seize more deadly drugs before they reach our communities.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. President Joe Biden, 2024

a. President Donald Trump, 2026, about Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro

b. President Barack Obama, 2011, about Libya’s Muammar Gadda

5. “We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked and circumventing the line of people who are waiting patiently, diligently and lawfully to become immigrants in this country.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), 2005

6. “Real reform means stronger border security ... putting more boots on the southern border than at any time in our history and reducing illegal crossings to their lowest levels in 40 years.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026

b. President Barack Obama, 2013

travel magazine referred to it, on “junk fees” in city hotels.

“Junk” is just a description of a cost that consumers and politicians have arbitrarily decided shouldn’t be paid. But they will be. Hotels will almost inevitably raise prices elsewhere or decrease services to make up for it.

Economic magical thinking never dies, however, because it’s tethered to envy and anger rather than rational thinking. Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

And there is no more convenient villain than a faceless pro t-mongering landlord.

Take another price control policy championed by Mamdani: rent control, a practice that’s been failing to lower housing costs since Roman times, at least.

A slew of studies and empirical evidence nds that rent control doesn’t work. The vast majority of economists, both on the right and left, believe it’s a bad idea. Still, most polls nd that rent “stabilization” is supported by around 80% of New Yorkers.

Every generation, it seems, convinces itself it possesses the best technocrats and formula to properly control economic activity to make it fairer and decent. Mamdani is just another in a long line of politicians who play the role.

But Trump? He should know better.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books — the most recent, “How To Kill a Republic,” available now. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

8. “Because we do need to address the issue of immigration and the challenge we have of undocumented people in our country. We certainly don’t want any more coming in.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), 2008

9. “All Americans ... are rightly disturbed by the large numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. ... We are a nation of immigrants. But we are also a nation of laws.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. President Bill Clinton, 1995

10. “I think we can enforce our borders. I think we should enforce our borders.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2018

b. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), 1994

Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. To nd out more about Larry Elder, or become an “Elderado,” visit www.LarryElder.com. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

4. “The United States and the world faced a choice. (The dictator) declared he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats and threatened to go door to door to in ict punishment. In the past, we have seen him hang civilians in the streets and kill over a thousand people in a single day. It was not in our national interest to let that (massacre) happen. I refused to let that happen.”

7. “Illegal immigration is wrong, plain and simple. ... People who enter the United States without our permission are illegal aliens and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... Until the American people are convinced that we will stop future ows of illegal immigration, we will make no progress on dealing with the millions of illegal immigrants who are here now. ... When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combatting illegal immigration. If you don’t think it’s illegal, you’re not going to say it. I think it is illegal and wrong.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009

11. “If making it easy to be an illegal alien isn’t enough, how about o ering a reward for being an illegal immigrant? No sane country would do that. Right? ... If you break our laws by entering this country without permission and give birth to a child, we reward that child with U.S. citizenship.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), 1993

12. “A biometric-based employment veri cation system with tough enforcement and auditing is necessary to signi cantly diminish the job magnet that attracts illegal aliens to the United States.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009 Hint: If it’s not too late, consider betting on “b.”

COLUMN

Some companies tie AI to layo s, but reality more complicated

Firings may be attributed to AI to show how “tech-savvy” companies are

By Matt O’Brien

The Associated Press

THE ONE THING N. Lee

Plumb knows for sure about being laid o from Amazon last week is that it wasn’t a failure to get on board with the company’s arti cial intelligence plans.

Plumb, his team’s head of “AI enablement,” says he was so proli c in his use of Amazon’s new AI coding tool that the company agged him as one of its top users.

Many assumed Amazon’s 16,000 corporate layo s announced last week re ected CEO Andy Jassy’s push to “reduce our total corporate workforce as we get e ciency gains from using AI extensively across the company.”

But like other companies that have tied workforce changes to AI — including Expedia, Pinterest and Dow last week — it can be hard for economists, or individual employees like Plumb, to know if AI is the real reason behind the layo s or if it’s the message a company wants to tell Wall Street.

“AI has to drive a return on investment,” said Plumb, who worked at Amazon for eight years. “When you reduce head count, you’ve demonstrated efciency, you attract more capital, the share price goes up.”

“So you could potentially have just been bloated in the rst place, reduce head count, attribute it to AI, and now you’ve got a value story,” he said.

Amazon said in an emailed statement that AI was “not the reason behind the vast majority of these reductions.”

“These changes are about continuing to strengthen our culture and teams by reducing layers, increasing ownership, and helping reduce bureaucracy to drive speed and ownership,” it said.

Plumb is atypical for an Amazon worker in that he’s also running what he describes as a “long shot” bid for Congress in Texas, on a platform focused on stopping the tech industry’s reliance on work visas to “replace American workers with cheaper foreign labor.”

But whatever it was that cost Plumb his job, his skepticism about AI-driven job replacement is one shared by many economists.

“We just don’t know,” said Karan Girotra, a professor of management at Cornell University’s business school. “Not because AI isn’t great, but because it requires a lot of adjustment and most of the gains accrue to individual employees rather than to the organization. People save time and they get their work done earlier.”

“When you reduce head count, you’ve demonstrated e ciency, you attract more capital, the share price goes up.”

N. Lee Plumb, former Amazon employee

If an employer works faster because of AI, Girotra said it takes time to adjust a company’s management structure in a way that would enable a smaller workforce. He’s not convinced that’s happening at Amazon, which he said is still scaling back from a glut of hiring during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A report by Goldman Sachs said AI’s overall impact on the labor market remains limited, though some e ects might be felt in “speci c occupations like marketing, graphic design, customer service, and especially tech.” Those are elds involving tasks that correlate with the strengths of the current crop of generative AI chatbots that can write emails and marketing pitches, produce synthetic images, answer questions and help write code.

But the bank’s economic research division said in its most recent monthly AI adoption tracker that, since December, “very few employees were affected by corporate layo s attributed to AI,” though the report was published Jan. 16, before Amazon, Dow and Pinterest announced their layo s.

San Francisco-based Pinterest was the most explicit in asserting that AI drove it to cut up to 15% of its workforce. The social media company said it was “making organizational changes to further deliver on our AI-forward strategy, which includes hiring AI-pro cient talent. As a result, we’ve made the di cult decision to say goodbye to some of our team members.”

Pinterest echoed that message in a regulatory disclosure that said the company was “reallocating resources to AI-focused roles and teams that drive AI adoption and execution.”

Expedia has voiced a similar message but the 162 tech workers the travel website cut from its Seattle headquarters last week included several AI-speci c roles, such as machine-learning scientists.

Dow’s regulatory disclosures tied its 4,500 layo s to a new plan “utilizing AI and automation” to increase productivity and improve shareholder returns.

Amazon’s 16,000 corporate job cuts were part of a broader reduction of employees at the ecommerce giant. At the same time as those cuts, all believed to be o ce jobs, Amazon said it would cut about 5,000 retail workers, according to notices it sent to state workforce agencies in California, Maryland and Washington, resulting from its decision to close almost all of its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores.

That’s on top of a round of 14,000 job cuts in October, bringing the total to well over

30,000 since Jassy rst signaled a push for AI-driven organizational changes. Like many companies, in technology and otherwise, but particularly those that make and sell AI tools and services, Amazon has been pushing its workforce to nd more e ciencies with AI.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said last week that 2026 will be when “AI starts to dramatically change the way that we work.”

“We’re investing in AI-native tooling so individuals at Meta can get more done, we’re elevating individual contributors, and attening teams,” he said on an earnings call. “We’re starting to see projects that used to require big teams now be accomplished by a single very talented person.” So far, Meta’s layo s this year have focused on cutting jobs from its virtual reality and metaverse divisions. Also driving job impacts is the industry shifting resources to AI development, which requires huge spending on computer chips, energy-hungry data centers and talent.

Jassy told Amazon employees last June to be “curious about AI, educate yourself, attend workshops and take trainings, use and experiment with AI whenever you can, participate in your team’s brainstorms to gure out how to invent for our customers more quickly and expansively, and how to get more done with scrappier teams.”

Plumb was fully on board with that and said he demonstrated his pro ciency in using

Amazon’s AI coding tool, Kiro, to “solve massive problems” in the company’s compensation system.

“If you weren’t using them, your manager would get a report and they would talk to you about using it,” he said. “There were only ve people in the entire company that were a higher user of Kiro than I was, or had achieved more milestones.”

Now he’s shifting gears to his candidacy among a eld of Republicans in the Houston area looking to unseat U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw in the March primary.

Cornell’s Girotra said it’s possible that increasing AI productivity is leading companies to cut middle management, but he said the reality is that those making layo decisions “just need to cut costs and make it happen. That’s it. I don’t think they care what the reason for that is.”

Not all companies are signaling AI as a reason for cuts. Home Depot con rmed on Thursday that it was eliminating 800 roles tied to its corporate headquarters in Atlanta, though most of the a ected employees worked remotely.

Home Depot’s spokesman George Lane said that Home Depot’s cuts were not driven by AI or automation but “truly about speed, agility” and serving the needs of its customers and front-line workers.

And exercise equipment maker Peloton con rmed on Friday that it is reducing its workforce by 11% as part of a broader cost-cutting move to pare down operating expenses.

Integrity Open Arms Residents of the Month

Integrity Open Arms Employee of the Month

Robert General has been a resident at Open Arms since August 2021. He was born in South Carolina, relocated to Richmond Virginia and later moved to North Carolina. Robert enjoys BINGO, church and knitting. He is a joy to have here at Open Arms Retirement Center.

Jermaine Moore

Jermaine is a talented cook who does a wonderful job. He’s always joking around with the residents, keeping everyone full, happy, and smiling. We appreciate him so much for all his hard work.

Mrs. Florence Herbert has been a resident here since May 2021. She moved to North Carolina from Pennsylvania to escape the bad weather. Florence enjoys word searches, BINGO, watching TV and spending time with her friends on the Special Care Unit at Integrity Open Arms.

Mrs. Betty Purcell is from Raeford, North Carolina. She moved into our assisted living this past June. Besides being the mother of two, she worked for many years at Burlington Mills. Betty enjoys church, watching youtube and doing word searches.

or

MARK LENNIHAN / AP PHOTO

The Amazon logo is displayed at a news conference in New York in 2011.

HOKE SPORTS

Local high school softball schedules

The rst games will be played on Feb. 21

North State Journal sta LOCAL SOFTBALL schedules for the 2026 season have been nalized and released.

Hoke had its best season in a decade last year and will be looking to build on the progress in a new conference and with a new classi cation. Here is the schedule for the Bucks.

HOKE COUNTY

Last season: 17-7, 9-3

Feb 21 vs. RCA

Feb. 25 vs. Gray’s Creek

Feb. 27 vs. Seventy First

March 3 vs. St. Pauls

March 5 vs. Whiteville

March 6 at St. Pauls

March 9 at Red Springs

March 11 vs. Scotland

March 12 at Seventy-First

March 18 vs. Lumberton

March 19 vs. Red Springs

March 24 at Overhills

March 25 at Scotland

March 27 vs. Overhills

March 31 vs. Pine Forest

April 1 vs. Purnell Swett

April 2 at Pine Forest

April 14 vs. Richmond

April 16 at Lumberton

April 17 at Richmond

April 21 at Pinecrest

April 22 at Purnell Swett

April 24 vs. Pinecrest

April 28 at Jack Britt

May 1 vs. Jack Britt

Hoke meets on the mound during last season’s conference tournament.

Hurricanes score 3 times in nal 2 minutes, stun Mammoth in 5-4 win

Carolina became the third team in history to have the historic rally

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — In many ways, last Thursday’s game wasn’t one Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will want to play on a loop at a family gathering.

His wipeout in the neutral zone early in the second period allowed Utah winger Kailer Yamamoto to score his rst of two goals and tie the game after Carolina dominated the opening 20 minutes.

Then with just 13 minutes left in the game, Yamamoto pestered the Hurricanes defenseman into a turnover and a goal by Michael Carcone to give the visiting Mammoth what seemed like a nail-in-the-co n two -goal lead.

But Gostisbehere — returning to the lineup after missing the last ve games — and the Hurricanes not only fought back, but they also pulled o one of the best rallies in NHL history.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Machai Brown

Hoke

County, boys’ basketball

Machai Brown is a junior for the Hoke County boys’ basketball team.

The Bucks got a win over Jack Britt last week, and Brown came up big. He scored 11 points on 3-of-6 shooting with a 3-pointer. He also had four rebounds, two assists and three steals.

For the season, he is third on the team in scoring, leads Hoke in assists and steals and is the second most-accurate 3-point shooter.

“Just forget,” Gostisbehere said of moving past his miscues, “or score right after so you forget about it.”

It was just the third time in league history that a team trailing by two goals with under two

Andrei Svechnikov, Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal scored three times in 89 seconds, with Staal’s goal coming with just under 30 seconds remaining, to turn a multigoal de cit into a 5-4 Hurricanes win at Lenovo Center.

minutes remaining ended up winning in regulation.

The rally started with Gostisbehere and Svechnikov.

With Carolina on a four-minute power play due to a high sticking penalty by Barrett Hayton and Brandon Bussi (21 saves) on the bench for an extra attacker, Gostisbehere shot wide, but the puck hit the end

See CANES, page B2

COURTESY ACHAI BROWN / HUDL

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Hurricanes center Jordan Staal celebrates his game-winning goal against the Mammoth with forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) during Carolina’s 5-4 win last Thursday in Raleigh.

SIDELINE REPORT

PGA

Rose sets scoring record, goes wire to wire at Torrey Pines

San Diego Justin Rose is the rst wire-to-wire winner at Torrey Pines in 71 years. Rose nished with a 70 to break the tournament scoring record set by Tiger Woods in 1999. He nished at 23-under 265. Rose started with a six-shot lead and never let anyone get any closer. Tommy Bolt in 1955 was the last player to win this tournament from start to nish without ties. Rose now moves to No. 4 in the world at age 45.

NBA NBA suspends 76ers’ George 25 games for violating anti-drug policy

Philadelphia

Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers was suspended 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. The league did not disclose the substance involved. George released a statement saying he took something that was “improper.” He apologized to the team and its fans, saying he takes “full responsibility for my actions.” This is George’s rst violation. The suspension will cost him approximately $11.7 million of his salary.

BOXING

Miller’s hairpiece knocked upward by punch, then thrown into crowd

New York

Jarrell Miller was hit with such a good punch it knocked his hair o . Heavyweight Kingsley

Ibeh landed a punch in the second round that knocked Miller’s head backward, and his hairpiece popped upward from the front, revealing a large bald spot that covered most of his head. Miller nished the round with the hairpiece, then ripped it o in his corner between rounds and tossed it into the crowd at Madison Square Garden. Miller won by split decision, then rubbed the top of his head while doing a celebratory dance.

LeBron’s All-Star streak at 22 years

Duren, Powell, Johnson, Murray, Holmgren, Avdija are rst-time All-Stars

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

LEBRON JAMES IS an All-Star again, extending his record streak of selections.

James was a pick for the 22nd consecutive year, one of 14 players who were announced Sunday as reserves for the Feb. 15 midseason showcase that’ll take place at the Los Angeles Clippers’ arena in Inglewood, California.

James is the All-Star record holder in a number of categories. Among them: his still-active streak of consecutive selections, along with 20 All-Star appearances and 434 points in those contests.

The Los Angeles Lakers star was not chosen as a starter this season in the process that includes voting from fans, media and other players. NBA coaches choose the reserves and, if necessary, Commissioner Adam Silver will select any additional players necessary for the All-Star rosters should someone need to be replaced because of injury.

James did not play in last season’s All-Star event because of injury.

The reserves from the Eastern Conference: Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell, New York’s Karl-Anthony Towns, Indiana’s Pascal Siakam, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes, Detroit’s Jalen Duren, Miami’s Norman Powell and Atlanta’s Jalen Johnson., a former Duke Blue Devil

And from the Western Conference, along with James: Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards, Denver’s Jamal Murray, Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren, Houston’s Kevin Durant, Phoenix’s Devin Booker and Portland’s Deni Avdija.

CANES from page B1

boards and popped right to Svechnikov. He banged it into the vacant net for his second goal of the night and 20th of the season — matching last season’s total.

Gostisbehere, who had scored his seventh goal of the year on the power play to tie the game in the second period, got his second of the night 22 seconds after Svechnikov’s goal.

With Bussi again on the bench for a sixth skater, Jackson Blake zipped a diagonal pass to Gostisbehere at the right point for a one-timer that hit the cross bar and went in to tie the game.

“It is always about your next shift, good or bad,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said.

“You score a goal, you don’t sit there patting yourself on the

Duren, Powell, Johnson, Murray, Holmgren and Avdija were rst-time selections. This season’s All-Star Game has a tournament format — U.S. vs. The World, with three teams of at least eight players going head to head in 12-minute games. Each team is guaranteed two games in the round-robin event, with the best two meeting again in a championship game.

Starters previously announced

The players chosen last month as starters: Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, Boston’s Jaylen Brown, Detroit’s Cade Cunningham, Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey, New York’s Jalen Brunson, Golden State’s Stephen Curry, the

back. You’ve got to go do something about it. The same thing if you give up a goal. Ghost has been around. I don’t think he gets too ustered.”

Then the Hurricanes seized the momentum to get the winner.

Defenseman Jalen Chateld took a shot from the outside edge of the right circle. Jordan Martinook tipped the shot, and the puck went to Staal at the left post, where he knocked it in for his 12th goal of the year.

“We were just kind of riding the wave,” Staal said. “But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked. To get those three goals that quickly and in that short period of time to win the game was really cool.”

Gostisbehere and Svechnikov each nished with three points.

Lakers’ Luka Doncic, Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Denver’s Nikola Jokic and San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama. Antetokounmpo will miss a few weeks with a calf injury, so it would seem unlikely that he plays. Silver would pick a replacement for Antetokounmpo if he pulls out.

Brown, Cunningham, Maxey, Brunson and Curry would gure to be part of the two U.S. teams. Doncic, Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic and Wembanyama would play for the World team.

The “starter” designation is a bit of a misnomer, since there will be at least 15 players who start for the three teams. By NBA rule, 10 players are chosen as o cial starters and the 14 others will be listed as reserves.

“We were just kind of riding the wave. But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked.”

Jordan Staal, Hurricanes captain

“You saw him tonight,” Staal said of Svechnikov. “He was not only scoring goals, but he was physical, he was hard, he was skating well. And he’s got his strength back and his speed. … He’s the player that we all know he can be. And this year he’s been solid all throughout.”

And despite struggling much of the night on the power play, Carolina managed to score two key goals on ve opportunities.

Coaches

Detroit’s J.B. Bickersta will coach one of the All-Star teams. Either San Antonio’s Mitch Johnson or Denver’s David Adelman will coach another — that will be decided by results of games on Sunday — and the NBA has not revealed how the coach of the third team will be decided.

Bickersta earned his nod because the Pistons lead the Eastern Conference. Johnson or Adelman will go by having the best record in the Western Conference among eligible coaches; Oklahoma City’s Mark Daigneault coaches the team with the West’s best record, but he cannot coach the All-Star Game this year because he coached at the event last season.

“It’s sticking with it,” Gostisbehere said. “The entries weren’t beautiful, but at the end of the day, when you get two goals on power play, you know it’s going to help you win.”

And it did the Hurricanes extended their point streak to six games and further tightened their grip on the Metropolitan Division lead on Whalers Night.

“It’s always nice to score goals, especially game winners,” Staal said. “It’s making memories, and I love the game, I love being a part of of nights like this, and you want more of them. You’re chasing them, and you’re chasing those memories.

“And to do it alongside these guys in this room, the friends, and battle with each other is what I live for. It’s what I do this job for, and tonight was one of the good memories.”

BRANDON DILL / AP PHOTO

Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) shoots between Memphis Grizzlies defenders earlier this month.

Melinda (Lynn) Helt Guin

Nov. 19, 1964 – Jan. 24, 2026

Melinda (Lynn) Helt Guin went to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 61 on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

She was born on November 19, 1964, in Cumberland County, to the late James Helt and Betty Helt Coxe.

Melinda loved her plants, her many cats and feeding the wildlife in her backyard.

She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Donald Ray Guin Sr.; her mother, Betty Helt Coxe (Macky Coxe); her sons, Donald Ray Guin Jr. and David Adam Guin; her grandchildren, Jonathan Guin and Lexi Guin; her brothers, Robert Helt and Sam Helt; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Crumpler Funeral Home, 131 Harris Avenue, Raeford, NC, at 3 p.m. with Pastor Roger Burns O ciating.

obituaries

James Jackson

April 4, 1947 – Jan. 26, 2026

James Jackson, 78, of Shallotte, passed away Monday, January 26, 2026, at SECU Hospice of Bolivia.

Mr. Jackson was born April 4, 1947, the son of the late Coy Jackson and Louise Bozeman Jackson. He worked in construction for many years until his health declined. Mr. Jackson enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and watching NASCAR racing on television. He could be seen most days proudly wearing his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt’s hat displaying the number 3. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Coy Jackson Jr. and Mitchell Jackson.

Survivors include his daughter, Nikki Jackson of Supply; sons, James Jackson Jr. of Maxton and Doyle Jackson of Supply; two sisters, Patsy Hess of Raeford and Nancy Baker of Raeford; several grandchildren; and a few great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at two-thirty in the afternoon at Crumpler Funeral Home in Raeford with Pastor Roger Burns o ciating.

The family will receive friends from 2-2:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

Willie Blue

April 24, 1955 – Jan. 26, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr. Willie Blue, who departed this life on Tuesday, January 26, 2026.

The sta and management of the funeral home extend their sincere condolences to the Blue family during this time of profound loss. We respectfully ask that family, friends, and the community keep the family lifted in prayer as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date once nalized.

Ellis DeWayne Love Jr.

Sept. 21, 1988 – Jan. 27, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr. Ellis Love, who departed this life on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

The sta and management of the Doby Funeral Home extend their sincere condolences to the Love family during this time of profound loss. We respectfully ask that family, friends and the community keep the family lifted in prayer as they mourn the loss of their loved one. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date once nalized.

Joann McRae

Sept. 27, 1945 – Jan. 29, 2026

Ms. Joann McRae, age 80, went home to rest with her Heavenly Father on January 29, 2026. The Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 4, at 1 p.m. at Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church. Joann will be greatly missed.

Catherine O’Hara, Emmy-winning comic actor of ‘Schitt’s Creek,’ ‘Home Alone’ fame, dead at 71

She was the iconic suburban mom for millions of millennials

By Andrew Dalton and Jocelyn Noveck

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Catherine

O’Hara, a gifted Canadian-born comic actor and “SCTV” alum who starred as Macaulay Culkin’s harried mother in two “Home Alone” movies and won an Emmy as the dramatically ditzy wealthy matriarch Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek,” died Friday. She was 71.

O’Hara died at her home in Los Angeles “following a brief illness,” according to a statement from her representatives at Creative Artists Agency. Further details were not immediately available.

O’Hara’s career was launched with the Second City comedy group in Toronto in the 1970s. It was there that she rst worked with Eugene Levy, who would become a lifelong collaborator — and her “Schitt’s Creek” costar. The two would be among the original cast of the sketch show “SCTV,” short for “Second City Television.” The series, which began on Canadian TV in the 1970s and aired on NBC in the U.S., spawned a legendary group of esoteric comedians that O’Hara would work with often, including Martin Short, John Candy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis and Joe Flaherty.

O’Hara would win her rst Emmy for her writing on the show.

Her second, for best actress in a comedy series, came four decades later, for “Schitt’s Creek,” a career-capping triumph and the perfect personi cation of her comic talents. The small CBC series created by Levy and his son, Dan, about a wealthy family forced to live in a tiny town would dominate the Emmys in its sixth andnal season. It brought O’Hara, always a beloved gure, a new generation of fans and put her at

the center of cultural attention. She told The Associated Press that she pictured Moira, a former soap opera star, as someone who had married rich and wanted to “remind everyone that (she was) special, too.” With an exaggerated Mid-Atlantic accent and obscure vocabulary, Moira spoke unlike anyone else, using words like “frippet,” “pettifogging” and “unasinous,” to show her desire to be di erent, O’Hara said. To perfect Moira’s voice, O’Hara would pore through old vocabulary books, “Moira-izing” the dialogue even further than what was already written. O’Hara also won a Golden Globe and two SAG Awards for the role.

At rst, Hollywood didn’t entirely know what to do with O’Hara and her scatter-

shot style. She played oddball supporting characters in Martin Scorsese’s 1985 “After Hours” and Tim Burton’s 1988 “Beetlejuice” — a role she would reprise in the 2024 sequel. She played it mostly straight as a horri ed mother who accidentally abandoned her child in the two “Home Alone” movies. The lms were among the biggest box o ce earners of the early 1990s and their Christmas setting made them TV perennials. They allowed her moments of unironic warmth that she didn’t get often. Her co-star Culkin was among those paying her tribute Friday.

“Mama, I thought we had time,” Culkin said on Instagram alongside an image from “Home Alone” and a recent recreation of

the same pose. “I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you.”

Meryl Streep, who worked with O’Hara in “Heartburn,” said in a statement that she “brought love and light to our world, through whipsmart compassion for the collection of eccentrics she portrayed.”

Roles in big Hollywood lms didn’t follow “Home Alone,” but O’Hara would nd her groove with the crew of improv pros brought together by Christopher Guest for a series of mockumentaries that began with 1996’s “Waiting for Gu man” and continued with 2000’s “Best in Show,” 2003’s “A Mighty Wind” and 2006’s “For Your Consideration.”

“Best in Show” was the big-

“Mama, I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you.”

Macaulay Culkin

gest hit and best-remembered lm of the series. She and Levy play married couple Gerry and Cookie Fleck, who take their Norwich terrier to a dog show and constantly run into Cookie’s former lovers along the way.

“I am devastated,” Guest said in a statement to the AP. “We have lost one of the comic giants of our age.” Born and raised in Toronto, O’Hara was the sixth of seven children in a Catholic family of Irish descent. She graduated from Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Institute, an alternative high school. She joined Second City in her early 20s, as an understudy to Gilda Radner before Radner left for “Saturday Night Live.” (O’Hara would brie y be hired for “SNL” but quit before appearing on air.)

Nearly 50 years later, hernal roles would be as Seth Rogen’s reluctant executive mentor and freelance xer on “The Studio” and a dramatic turn as therapist to Pedro Pascal and other dystopia survivors on HBO’s “The Last of Us.” Both earned her Emmy nominations. She would get 10 in her career.

“Oh, genius to be near you,” Pascal said on Instagram. “Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world.”

Earlier this month, Rogen shared a photo on Instagram of him and O’Hara shooting the second season of “The Studio.”

O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, sons Matthew and Luke, and siblings Michael O’Hara, Mary Margaret O’Hara, Maureen Jolley, Marcus O‘Hara, Tom O’Hara and Patricia Wallice.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Catherine O’Hara, a cast member in the Apple+ series “The Studio,” poses for a portrait last March in Los Angeles.

STATE & NATION

How Super Bowl halftime show evolved from pageantry to pop culture’s biggest stage

From marching bands to global spectacles drawing

130 million viewers

By Jonathan Landrum Jr.

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Once upon a time, the Super Bowl halftime show belonged to marching bands and pageantry. But these days, it belongs to global pop stars, cinematic production and moments that ripple beyond the stadium.

Over the years, the league’s brief intermission has transformed into one of entertainment’s biggest stages, hosting era-de ning performances from Prince in the rain to Rihanna’s record-setting return, Usher’s tightly choreographed showcase and Kendrick Lamar’s layered, visually driven storytelling.

What began as intermission ller has evolved into a global spectacle, rivaling the NFL’s championship game itself for attention from more than 100 million viewers worldwide.

That evolution continues this year as Bad Bunny prepares to take the halftime stage, placing Latin culture and Spanish-language music at the center of America’s most-watched television event.

“The halftime performance has come a long way,” said Dan Marino, the Hall of Fame quarterback who played 17 seasons with the Miami Dolphins and competed in the 1985 Super Bowl. As an NFL analyst, Marino’s had a front-row

RUSTY KENNEDY / AP PHOTO

Michael Jackson performs during the halftime show at the Super Bowl in 1993.

seat to several halftime shows.

“Not a lot of people really watched it,” he continued. “But now, people love to watch the halftime show.”

That shift did not happen overnight. For decades, the halftime show re ected the NFL’s family-friendly image, built around marching bands, drill teams and patriotic spectacle. As the Super Bowl grew into an uno cial national holiday — and a global broadcast event — the league began rethinking the power of those 12 to 15 minutes, gradually turning the break into a cultural platform capable of launching careers, shaping narratives and, at times, sparking national conversation.

Last year, Lamar used the halftime stage as a narrative space, weaving choreography, costuming and staging to explore themes of identity, power and perception. The performance stayed within league parameters

while still drawing broad interpretation and debate over its imagery and tone.

Lamar’s show became the most-watched halftime performance on record, drawing roughly 133.5 million viewers, surpassing Usher’s 2024 performance, which reached about 129.3 million. That number from Lamar’s set is about six million more than Fox’s broadcast of the Philadelphia Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

“I think the live element is pretty exciting for people because it’s a massive production and there’s so many moving pieces,” said actor Scarlett Johansson, who doesn’t consider herself a football enthusiast. But she’s intrigued by the unpredictability of the halftime show like Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction,” Lady Gaga dropping from a stadium roof and Rihanna’s pregnancy reveal.

“You kind of watch with nervous excitement,” Johansson said. “You know at any moment something could maybe go wrong. That’s why it’s so fun to watch it because you’ve got all this anticipation. The production is so huge and so many people have come together to create this one moment. It’s kind of awesome.”

Kris Jenner agrees, calling the halftime show a “giant surprise.”

“The production level and how quickly they put it together as they’re breaking into commercial and come back with this fabulous, epic show,” said Jenner, the matriarch of “The Kardashians” reality television show. “Through all the years and technology, it gets better and better. It’s so exciting to watch and see what they come up with next and who is going to perform. It’s such a big deal.”

Usher said his appearance with the Black Eyed Peas during the 2011 Super Bowl taught him not to “take the moments for granted because you only get 13 of them.”

His show in 2024 was vastly di erent from the NFL’s rst Super Bowl halftime show in 1967, which featured marching bands from the University of Arizona and Grambling State University, a historically Black college, along with hundreds of ying pigeons, thousands of balloons and two soaring men wearing jetpacks.

After the inaugural Super Bowl, the NFL kept bringing back other marching bands, drill teams, signed Chubby Checker and Up with People, an organization that stage positive thinking through dance and song performances. However, none of those acts were considered huge draws.

But as the Super Bowl’s popularity soared and game day emerged as an uno cial holiday in the U.S., the NFL wanted the halftime show to grow in the same capacity. The league tapped New Kids on the Block and Gloria

Punxsutawney Phil said to have seen shadow, forecasting 6 more weeks of wintry weather

Tens of thousands gathered at Gobbler’s Knob for the famous forecast

By Mark Scolforo and Tassanee Vejpongsa The Associated Press

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — Punxsutawney Phil is said to be predicting six more weeks of wintry weather after he saw his shadow Monday.

His annual prediction was translated by his handlers at Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania.

The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club says that when Phil is deemed to have not seen his shadow, that means there will be an early spring. When he does see it, it’s six more weeks of winter.

Phil tends to predict a longer winter far more often than an early spring.

It’s already been a long, cold winter across much of the United States, and on Monday, Punxsutawney Phil’s handlers were poised to announce whether the weather-predicting groundhog says there’s more of the same to come.

When Phil is said to have seen his shadow upon emergence from a tree stump in rural Pennsylvania, that’s considered a forecast for six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, an early spring is said to be on the way.

Tens of thousands of people were on hand at Gobbler’s Knob for the annual ritual that goes back more than a century, with ties to ancient farming traditions in Europe. Punxsutawney’s festivities have grown considerably since the 1993 movie “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray. Lisa Gibson was at her 10th Groundhog Day, wearing a lighted hat that resembled the tree stump from which Phil

emerges shortly after daybreak.

“Oh man, it just breaks up the doldrums of winter,” said Gibson, accompanied by her husband — dressed up as Elvis Presley — and teenage daughter. “It’s like Halloween and New Year’s Eve all wrapped up into one holiday.”

Gibson, a resident of Pittsburgh, was rooting for Phil to not see his shadow and therefore predict an early start to spring.

Rick Siger, Pennsylvania’s secretary of community and economic development, said the outdoor thermometer in his vehicle read 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius) on his way to Gobbler’s Knob.

“I think it’s just fun — folks having a good time,” said Siger, attending his fourth straight Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney. “It brings people together at a challenging time. It is a unifying force that showcases the best of Pennsylvania, the best of Punxsutawney, this area.”

Last year’s announcement was six more weeks of winter, by far Phil’s more common assessment and not much of a surprise during the rst week of February. His top-hatted handlers in the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club insist Phil’s “groundhogese” of winks, purrs, chatters and nods are being interpreted when they relate the meteorological marmot’s muses about the days ahead.

AccuWeather’s chief longrange weather expert, meteorologist Paul Pastelok, said early Monday some clouds moved into Punxsutawney overnight, bringing urries he called “micro akes.”

Pastelok said the coming week will remain cold, with below-average temperatures in the eastern United States.

Phil isn’t the only animal being consulted for long-term weather forecasts Monday. There are formal and informal Groundhog Day events in many places

Estefan the rst two years of the ‘90s. Then it saw a huge breakthrough when Michael Jackson headlined the 1993 show at the Rose Bowl in Southern California, where the King of Pop notoriously moonwalked across the stage and performed hits including “Billie Jean,” “Black or White” and “Heal the World.”

Jackson’s stellar performance opened the door for other stars like the Rolling Stones, Diana Ross, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira who are eager to perform.

The NFL handles production costs and expenses for performers — who don’t get paid — but the exposure to hundreds of millions of people worldwide is considered priceless.

Some notable examples include U2’s remembrance of the 9/11 victims; Beyoncé’s unapologetic Blackness and political activism through her Black power anthem “Formation”; and the rst show to feature hip-hop artists led by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg in 2022.

Snoop praised NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Jay-Z for pushing the halftime show forward. The league worked with Roc Nation to help its Inspire Change initiative, created by the NFL after an agreement with a coalition of players who demonstrated during the national anthem to protest social and racial injustice in this country.

“Shout out to Jay-Z for changing the climate. Roger Goodell for giving him an opportunity,” Dogg said. “This is music. The music that dictates the world is what’s performing at halftime now. They’re starting to understand that it’s about what those players want to hear, what those fans want to hear, and what’s universally e ective.”

Snoop added: “It has no color on it now. Pop used to have a color on it. Now pop is popular. So, the most popular music is the music that we make. It makes sense to put those people on there that make that music.”

Groundhog Club handler

A.J. Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather-prognosticating groundhog, during the 137th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on Monday.

in the U.S., Canada and beyond. Groundhog Day falls on Feb. 2, the midpoint between the shortest, darkest day of the year on the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It’s a time of year that also gures in the Celtic calendar and the Christian holiday of Candlemas.

BARRY REEGER / AP PHOTO

Carolina Vista in Pinehurst felt more like a Colorado vista on Sunday afternoon, with a once-in-a-decade snowfall blanketing everything in sight.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Signs of forced entry found at Arizona home of “Today” show host Guthrie’s mother Tucson, Ariz. Investigators have found signs of forced entry at the Arizona home of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother. That’s according to a person familiar with the investigation who spoke Tuesday to The Associated Press. Meanwhile, the host asked for prayers to help bring back the 84-year- old, whom authorities believe was taken against her will. The sheri said Nancy Guthrie must be found soon because she could die without her medication. Investigators also found evidence showing there was a nighttime kidnapping. Several of Guthrie’s personal items, including her cellphone, wallet and her car, were still at the home.

NASA delays astronauts’ lunar trip after hydrogen leaks mar fueling test Cape Canaveral, Fla. NASA’s long-awaited moonshot with astronauts is o until at least March because of leaking hydrogen fuel. The space agency announced the news Tuesday following a critical fueling test of its giant moon rocket in Florida. Hydrogen seeped from the base of the rocket during Monday’s dress rehearsal, which went into overtime Tuesday because of all the problems. O cials say the delay will allow the launch team to conduct another practice countdown before committing four astronauts to humanity’s rst moonshot in more than half a century.

Carolinas emerge as new population boom states; a ordability, lifestyle drive

The Carolinas overtook Florida and Texas as top destinations for Americans on the move

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

ORLANDO, Fla. — Move over Florida and Texas. The United States has new hot spots for growth, and they both have Carolina in their name.

North Carolina last year attracted more new residents, 84,000 people, from other parts of the country than any other state, a title held by Texas in 2024 and Florida in the two years before that. South Carolina had the highest overall growth rate last year at 1.5%, a distinction among states held by Florida in 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau gures released this past week. Domestic migration, or people moving within the U.S., slowed in Texas. The 67,300

MARY CONLON / AP PHOTO

Children walk through a sports eld in Independence Park under the skyline of Charlotte last March.

domestic migrants heading to the second most populous state year over year barely squeaked by South Carolina, which had the third highest number of domestic migrants at 66,600.

The appeal of Florida, the nation’s third most populous state, dimmed. It dropped to No. 8

Brothers carry on family tradition of serving others

Giving back to the community through faith and friendship

By Bob Wachs For Chatham News & Record

WHAT DO ROADSIDE trash, popsicles and basketball have in common?

They’re all part of some of what Siler City brothers Ronnie and Billy Siler Jr. do to serve their hometown and community.

The two, both in their early 70s and born 18 months apart, say in addition to being broth-

ers they’re also best friends — “always have been,” Billy said — and that makes what they do special to them.

For starters, they recently received a plaque from the state of North Carolina recognizing 25 years of “distinguished service” in the state’s “Adopt a Highway” trash and litter removal program. Today, that program has more than 120,000 participants overseeing 10,000 miles of state roads, collecting millions of pounds of trash annually.

“We do four miles,” Ronnie

for state-to-state migration, as more U.S. residents preferred to move elsewhere, including Alabama.

Sabrina Morley and Steven Devereaux sold their Tampa-area house last year, moved out of Florida and landed outside Valencia, Spain. Growing up in the

growth

1990s, they both enjoyed Florida’s diversity and being able to run around freely outdoors. But in recent years, as they planned to have children, they had grown wary of the state’s costs, regular threats of mass shootings at schools, the quality of education and political divisiveness. They are expecting a daughter in the spring.

“I had a pretty good childhood, but I don’t think we’d be able to give our child the same quality of life because of the cost of living, food quality, and guns have become more prevalent,” Devereaux said. “We think where we are now, it’s the best decision we could make to give any future children the best quality of life.”

Younger folks and nice areas

North Carolina state demographer Michael Cline credited

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Winter lane

See CAROLINAS, page A2

BOB WACHS FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Ronnie Siler, left, poses with his brother Billy Jr..

2.5.26

THURSDAY FEB. 5

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North State Journal

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Trip Ho end, Publisher

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FRIDAY FEB. 6

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Weekly deadline is Monday at noon

SILERS from page A1

said, “two miles on both sides of the road” — U.S. 64 (East 11th Street in town) from the bridge on the east side of Siler City over 421 to the bridge over North Second Avenue near the highway patrol station. “We do it four times a year; some of the timing depends on the weather,” Billy said. That stretch of road is dedicated to the memory of their parents — Billy Sr. and Marie Siler. It’s the third di erent sign that has been up through the years. The rst went up in 1998 when Ronnie, who was on sta at the Randolph County Correction Center in Asheboro, secured one in memory of their grandfather, Herman Siler.

“I got it as a surprise for our father,” he said. “One day when I came home from work, I said to my father, ‘Let’s go for a ride.’ So we headed west toward Asheboro. When we got to the patrol station, we turned around and headed back the other way so the sign would be on Daddy’s side, and he said to me, ‘Why are you turning around?’ I said, ‘Daddy, look at that sign.’ He said, ‘What sign?’ and then he saw it, and I wouldn’t take anything for his reaction. He started crying, and when we got home, he called his brothers in Washington, D.C., and told them and one of them said, ‘I’m coming down this weekend to see it’ and he did.”

When Billy Sr. died in 2005, the brothers had the sign changed to one in memory of their father. The current one reads, “In Loving Memory of Billy and Marie Siler,” erected after Marie’s death. While memories are a big part of their service to the community, it’s not the only thing driving the pair; the present is also a big deal for them. To that end, they’re the driving force behind the open gym for basketball play at Ernest Ramsey Gym on Wednesdays and Sundays from 6 to 9 p.m.

CAROLINAS from page A1

the state’s growth to high-paying jobs in banking and tech, the topographical diversity and having smaller big-cities than Florida and Texas.

“North Carolina is attracting younger folks because we have so many nice areas in North Carolina — the mountains and beaches and lakes in between — that we’re bene ting from younger people who decided they can work from anywhere and would rather be in a nice area,” Cline said. “One of the things about North Carolina, our cities are not huge, and that may be attractive to folks, too.”

Last year’s changes among the states were signi cant because population growth brings more taxpayers, economic dynamism and demand for goods and services. It also signals potential changes in the nation’s political landscape after the next census in 2030, with certain states gaining or losing clout in Congress and the Electoral College.

In the next few years, domestic migration is going to play a larger role in states’ growth or population decline. That is because the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown has contributed to a signi cant reduction in migration from abroad, which had been the prime driver of growth in most states for the rst half of this decade.

Without immigration growth, the U.S. population will start shrinking in ve

“We try to represent the right direction and be conscious of right and wrong.”

Ronnie Siler

“We had been renting it,” Billy Jr. said, “to start with for people over 40 but there weren’t all that many that age playing. So the town board approved having it open for younger folks, so now they sponsor it and we don’t have to pay rent.”

So while there’s free play and pick-up games, there are still some rules.

“No cussing allowed,” Ronnie said, “and no rough play. We try to represent the right direction and be conscious of right and wrong.”

Billy echoed that attitude, noting, “If someone gets rough with us, we try not to get back at them. But we tell them if you want to get rough, don’t cry when you get it back. They’re surprised that even though we’re in our 70s that we can do that.”

Their goal with play at the gym is more than 3-pointers, layups, dunks and defense. In a nod to their mother and father, Billy said, “We’re trying to help kids and young men learn respect.”

Ronnie said, “We know we had direction and discipline from our parents. A lot of kids today don’t have it; that’s one reason prisons are overcrowded.”

And while the Siler brothers have a keen interest in young folks, they also have a heart for older people. For the past 13 years, they’ve been coming every Sunday to Siler City Center, a care facility for the aged and people in need, to distribute popsicles to the 150 people who live in the building. For residents needing help eating the cold treat, the brothers often feed them.

years as deaths outpace births, according to the Congressional Budget O ce.

Pandemic boom peters out

Despite the comparative year-over-year slowdown in domestic migration, Texas’ overall growth of 391,000 people and Florida’s overall growth of 196,000 people were still the two highest in the U.S. last year.

In Florida, it was driven by international migration, and in Texas by international migration as well as births outpacing deaths. Both states boomed during the early part of the decade, when pandemic-era lockdowns and remote work encouraged residents from other states to move to Florida and Texas, where coronavirus restrictions were more lax.

“The sharp domestic migrations they observed during the pandemic have now petered out, especially for Florida, at the same time that immigration is being diminished,” said Brookings demographer William Frey.

Demographers in Florida and Texas said they were not entirely sold on the accuracy of the Census Bureau’s migration numbers, which are the hardest variables to pin down because they uctuate the most year to year, although they did not question the rigor of the bureau’s work. The bureau uses data from the IRS and its American Community Survey to calculate migration, although the ACS data lags by a

MONDAY FEB. 9

In a note to the brothers, Genesis Director of Social Services Lisa Miller called those visits “a gift” for the residents.

“They have felt this is their mission, and along with the popsicles, they interact with the residents and spread their own joy,” she wrote.

Here again the brothers remember the example their parents set before them years ago.

“Mama and Daddy were coming there in the 1970s,” they said.

“We go now for the human interaction as well as the popsicles. Many of them,” Billy said, “just want a human touch.”

Ronnie notes that while they go to all ve halls and all residents are appreciative, “the residents in the memory care hall seem to be the most appreciative. It may be that the popsicles jog a childhood memory. Their faces just light up.”

The brothers said it’s their intention and desire to continue the activities.

“We did get it from our parents,” they said. “It’s all we’ve ever known.

“Daddy worked at Kellwood as well as serving churches — some with black and white members — as a pastor and district and state leader. Some of the churches he served — seven as a pastor and 18 as a church planter — were a long way from here. We’d leave home early in the morning and sometimes get there before the members.”

So while they have a lengthy past, Ronnie and Billy know the direction they want to continue traveling.

“We know we’re far from perfect,” they said almost at the same time, “but what we’re doing isn’t about us. It’s about God and the community. God’s been good to us.

“Daddy used to tell us years ago it’s God rst, others second and we’re third.

“That’s what we try to do.”

year and requires statisticians to project the data forward.

The Bureau of Economic and Business Research at the University of Florida uses a method di erent from the Census Bureau’s to calculate growth — electrical customer data, said research demographer Richard Doty. There are no de nitive explanations for why domestic migration to Florida went from almost 319,000 people in 2022 to 22,500 people in 2025. Doty said some factors might include the state no longer being the bargain it once was, a series of hurricanes and return-to-o ce employer mandates.

“The cost of housing, in particular, is driving young people and retirees to other states,” he said. “Also, insurance is higher in Florida than most other states.”

When asked about the decline, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ press secretary, Molly Best, noted in an email that Florida had a signi cant in ux of new residents during the pandemic. It remains a top-ranked placed to live, she said.

The Texas economy has been growing, but that is not the only thing that in uences the in ow of potential migrants. Conditions outside the state also do, Texas state demographer Lloyd Potter said in an email.

“If jobs are plentiful, living is a ordable, and the overall quality of life is good, they will be less likely to move for an opportunity outside that community,” Potter said.

TUESDAY FEB, 10

moore happening

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County.

Feb. 5

Movie: Hamnet

3-5 p.m.

Explores the love story behind Shakespeare’s classic Hamlet. Tickets are $12.50 each.

Sunrise Theater 250 NW Broad St. Southern Pines

Feb. 5-7

Moore County Historical Association: Shaw House and Property Tours

1-4 p.m.

The Moore County Historical Association’s grounds and properties are open for tours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons. Tours are free and open to all ages. Enjoy learning about the impressive history of Moore County.

Shaw House 110 Morganton Road Southern Pines

Feb.

7

Village Valentine Market

9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

More than 30 local vendors and food trucks will gather at The Fair Barn. Stroll through, have a look around and perhaps you will nd the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for that special someone.

200 Beulah Hill Road South Pinehurst

Feb.

11

Dementia Caregiver Support Group

1 p.m.

Caregivers receive education and support along with strategies for caring for family members and other loved ones su ering from dementia. The group is led by Pat Soler and Dale Krech, certi ed facilitators through the Dementia Alliance of NC. Contact Kelly Pritchard at 910-715-4224 for more information.

Shadowlawn Room Clara McLean House 20 First Village Drive Pinehurst

THE CONVERSATION

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

| DAVID HARSANYI

Price controls won’t work any better for Republicans than it does Democrats

Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

DEMONIZING GREEDY BANKERS and landlords is the last refuge of the poorly polling politician.

And, as a ordability remains a leading issue among voters, the Trump administration has regularly used rhetoric and ideas that mirror those of progressive Democrats like New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Take the president’s recent idea for capping credit card interest rates at 10%. Or rather, the idea that’s already proposed in a bill sponsored by Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.). “They’ve really abused the public,” the president said of credit card companies. “I’m not going to let it happen.”

This probably feels good to hear. But if you nd an APR on a new credit card o er “predatory,” de nitely do not sign up for it. You don’t owe the bank anything, and it doesn’t owe you. An interest rate, though, re ects risk. It’s the entry price for obtaining credit. If you have a good credit score, you get lower rates and vice versa.

Capping the rate won’t eliminate credit risk factors, though it will likely shrink available money for people who need it most: lower-income and young workers, or anyone else trying to build up their credit. Lots of entrepreneurs and small-business owners also rely on credit cards to tide them over for a season or help with up-front capital.

COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

And those who are denied cards will still need funds. They’ll inevitably seek out other means of borrowing, probably at even higher rates. Maybe they’ll go to payday loans and cash checking places. Maybe they’ll take second mortgages. Maybe they’ll go to the black market.

There are those who argue that Americans already borrow far too much and that limiting access to credit would be good for them. Rest assured, these nannies almost surely own their homes and cars — purchases that become even more prohibitive for people unable to improve their credit scores.

Trump likes to explicitly threaten or jawbone companies into doing his bidding. Bank of America, for example, is reportedly considering o ering a credit card with interest capped at 10% to placate the administration.

Well, there’s no federal cap on what APRs banks can o er on credit cards. If providers want to undercut competition, nothing is stopping them. Banks are businesses, after all, not charities.

But if banks lose out charging riskier customers lower interest rates to get on the good side of the administration, they’ll simply raise fees elsewhere, pull back on rewards and nd other creative ways to make their reliable consumers pay.

Price xing never alleviates cost — it merely displaces it.

Take Mamdani as he “cracks down,” as one

12 Question quiz: What ‘fascist’ ‘xenophobe’ ‘tyrant’ said this?

We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked.

1. “I’m really good at killing people. Didn’t know that was going to be a strong suit of mine.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. President Barack Obama, 2012

2. “But, let me tell you, we can build a fence 40 stories high — unless you change the dynamic in Mexico and — and you will not like this, and — punish American employers who knowingly violate the law when, in fact, they hire illegals. Unless you do those two things, all the rest is window dressing.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.), 2006

3. “Today, I will issue a national security memorandum directing every federal department and agency to do even more to stop the ow of narcotics — including fentanyl — into our country. It will increase intelligence collection on tra ckers’ evolving tactics to smuggle narcotics into our country. And it will help our law enforcement personnel seize more deadly drugs before they reach our communities.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. President Joe Biden, 2024

4. “The United States and the world faced a choice. (The dictator) declared he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats and threatened to go door to door to in ict punishment. In the past, we have seen him hang civilians in the streets and kill over a thousand people in a single day. It was not in our national interest to let that (massacre) happen. I refused to let that happen.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026, about Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro

b. President Barack Obama, 2011, about Libya’s Muammar Gadda

5. “We simply cannot allow people to pour into the United States undetected, undocumented, unchecked and circumventing the line of people who are waiting patiently, diligently and lawfully to become immigrants in this country.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2025

b. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), 2005

6. “Real reform means stronger border security ... putting more boots on the southern border than at any time in our history and reducing illegal crossings to their lowest levels in 40 years.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2026

b. President Barack Obama, 2013

7. “Illegal immigration is wrong, plain and simple. ... People who enter the United States without our permission are illegal aliens and illegal aliens should not be treated the same as people who enter the U.S. legally. ... Until the American people are convinced that we will stop future ows of illegal immigration, we will make no progress on dealing with the millions of illegal immigrants who are here now. ... When we use phrases like undocumented workers, we convey a message to the American people that their government is not serious about combatting illegal immigration. If you don’t think it’s illegal, you’re not going to say it. I think it is illegal and wrong.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009

travel magazine referred to it, on “junk fees” in city hotels.

“Junk” is just a description of a cost that consumers and politicians have arbitrarily decided shouldn’t be paid. But they will be. Hotels will almost inevitably raise prices elsewhere or decrease services to make up for it.

Economic magical thinking never dies, however, because it’s tethered to envy and anger rather than rational thinking. Thomas Sowell points out that the typically “mundane” explanations for economic activity are “far less emotionally satisfying than an explanation which produces villains to hate and heroes to exalt.”

And there is no more convenient villain than a faceless pro t-mongering landlord.

Take another price control policy championed by Mamdani: rent control, a practice that’s been failing to lower housing costs since Roman times, at least.

A slew of studies and empirical evidence nds that rent control doesn’t work. The vast majority of economists, both on the right and left, believe it’s a bad idea. Still, most polls nd that rent “stabilization” is supported by around 80% of New Yorkers.

Every generation, it seems, convinces itself it possesses the best technocrats and formula to properly control economic activity to make it fairer and decent. Mamdani is just another in a long line of politicians who play the role.

But Trump? He should know better.

David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of ve books — the most recent, “How To Kill a Republic,” available now. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

8. “Because we do need to address the issue of immigration and the challenge we have of undocumented people in our country. We certainly don’t want any more coming in.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2019

b. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), 2008

9. “All Americans ... are rightly disturbed by the large numbers of illegal aliens entering our country. ... We are a nation of immigrants. But we are also a nation of laws.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. President Bill Clinton, 1995

10. “I think we can enforce our borders. I think we should enforce our borders.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2018

b. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), 1994

11. “If making it easy to be an illegal alien isn’t enough, how about o ering a reward for being an illegal immigrant? No sane country would do that. Right? ... If you break our laws by entering this country without permission and give birth to a child, we reward that child with U.S. citizenship.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2017

b. Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), 1993

12. “A biometric-based employment veri cation system with tough enforcement and auditing is necessary to signi cantly diminish the job magnet that attracts illegal aliens to the United States.”

a. President Donald Trump, 2020

b. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), 2009 Hint: If it’s not too late, consider betting on “b.” Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk-show host. To nd out more about Larry Elder, or become an “Elderado,” visit www.LarryElder.com. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN

Some companies tie AI to layo s, but reality more complicated

Firings may be attributed to AI to show how “tech-savvy” companies are

By Matt O’Brien

The Associated Press

THE ONE THING N. Lee

Plumb knows for sure about being laid o from Amazon last week is that it wasn’t a failure to get on board with the company’s arti cial intelligence plans.

Plumb, his team’s head of “AI enablement,” says he was so proli c in his use of Amazon’s new AI coding tool that the company agged him as one of its top users.

Many assumed Amazon’s 16,000 corporate layo s announced last week re ected CEO Andy Jassy’s push to “reduce our total corporate workforce as we get e ciency gains from using AI extensively across the company.”

But like other companies that have tied workforce changes to AI — including Expedia, Pinterest and Dow last week — it can be hard for economists, or individual employees like Plumb, to know if AI is the real reason behind the layo s or if it’s the message a company wants to tell Wall Street.

“AI has to drive a return on investment,” said Plumb, who worked at Amazon for eight years. “When you reduce head count, you’ve demonstrated efciency, you attract more capital, the share price goes up.”

“So you could potentially have just been bloated in the rst place, reduce head count, attribute it to AI, and now you’ve got a value story,” he said.

Amazon said in an emailed statement that AI was “not the reason behind the vast majority of these reductions.”

“These changes are about continuing to strengthen our culture and teams by reducing layers, increasing ownership, and helping reduce bureaucracy to drive speed and ownership,” it said.

Plumb is atypical for an Amazon worker in that he’s also running what he describes as a “long shot” bid for Congress in Texas, on a platform focused on stopping the tech industry’s reliance on work visas to “replace American workers with cheaper foreign labor.”

But whatever it was that cost Plumb his job, his skepticism about AI-driven job replacement is one shared by many economists.

“We just don’t know,” said Karan Girotra, a professor of management at Cornell University’s business school. “Not because AI isn’t great, but because it requires a lot of adjustment and most of the gains ac-

“When you reduce head count, you’ve demonstrated e ciency, you attract more capital, the share price goes up.”

N. Lee Plumb, former Amazon employee

crue to individual employees rather than to the organization. People save time and they get their work done earlier.”

If an employer works faster because of AI, Girotra said it takes time to adjust a company’s management structure in a way that would enable a smaller workforce. He’s not convinced that’s happening at Amazon, which he said is still scaling back from a glut of hiring during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A report by Goldman Sachs said AI’s overall impact on the labor market remains limited, though some e ects might be felt in “speci c occupations like marketing, graphic design, customer service, and especially tech.” Those are elds involving tasks that correlate with the strengths of the current crop of generative AI chatbots that can write emails and marketing pitches, produce synthetic images, answer questions and help write code.

But the bank’s economic research division said in its most recent monthly AI adoption tracker that, since December, “very few employees were affected by corporate layo s attributed to AI,” though the re -

port was published Jan. 16, before Amazon, Dow and Pinterest announced their layo s. San Francisco-based Pinterest was the most explicit in asserting that AI drove it to cut up to 15% of its workforce. The social media company said it was “making organizational changes to further deliver on our AI-forward strategy, which includes hiring AI-pro cient talent. As a result, we’ve made the di cult decision to say goodbye to some of our team members.”

Pinterest echoed that message in a regulatory disclosure that said the company was “reallocating resources to AI-focused roles and teams that drive AI adoption and execution.”

Expedia has voiced a similar message but the 162 tech workers the travel website cut from its Seattle headquarters last week included several AI-speci c roles, such as machine-learning scientists.

Dow’s regulatory disclosures tied its 4,500 layo s to a new plan “utilizing AI and automation” to increase productivity and improve shareholder returns.

Amazon’s 16,000 corporate job cuts were part of a broader reduction of employees at the ecommerce giant. At the same time as those cuts, all believed to be o ce jobs, Amazon said it would cut about 5,000 retail workers, according to no

tices it sent to state workforce agencies in California, Maryland and Washington, resulting from its decision to close almost all of its Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh stores.

That’s on top of a round of

14,000 job cuts in October, bringing the total to well over 30,000 since Jassy rst signaled a push for AI-driven organizational changes.

Like many companies, in technology and otherwise, but particularly those that make and sell AI tools and services, Amazon has been pushing its workforce to nd more e ciencies with AI.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said last week that 2026 will be when “AI starts to dramatically change the way that we work.”

“We’re investing in AI-native tooling so individuals at Meta can get more done, we’re elevating individual contributors, and attening teams,” he said on an earnings call. “We’re starting to see projects that used to require big teams now be accomplished by a single very talented person.”

So far, Meta’s layo s this year have focused on cutting jobs from its virtual reality and metaverse divisions. Also driving job impacts is the industry shifting resources to AI development, which requires huge spending on computer chips, energy-hungry data centers and talent.

Jassy told Amazon employees last June to be “curious about AI, educate yourself, attend workshops and take trainings, use and experiment with AI whenever you can, participate in your team’s brainstorms to gure out how to invent for our customers more quickly and expansively, and how to get more done with scrappier teams.”

Plumb was fully on board with that and said he demon-

strated his pro ciency in using Amazon’s AI coding tool, Kiro, to “solve massive problems” in the company’s compensation system.

“If you weren’t using them, your manager would get a report and they would talk to you about using it,” he said. “There were only ve people in the entire company that were a higher user of Kiro than I was, or had achieved more milestones.”

Now he’s shifting gears to his candidacy among a eld of Republicans in the Houston area looking to unseat U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw in the March primary.

Cornell’s Girotra said it’s possible that increasing AI productivity is leading companies to cut middle management, but he said the reality is that those making layo decisions “just need to cut costs and make it happen. That’s it. I don’t think they care what the reason for that is.”

Not all companies are signaling AI as a reason for cuts. Home Depot con rmed on Thursday that it was eliminating 800 roles tied to its corporate headquarters in Atlanta, though most of the a ected employees worked remotely.

Home Depot’s spokesman George Lane said that Home Depot’s cuts were not driven by AI or automation but “truly about speed, agility” and serving the needs of its customers and front-line workers.

And exercise equipment maker Peloton con rmed on Friday that it is reducing its workforce by 11% as part of a broader cost-cutting move to pare down operating expenses.

MARK LENNIHAN / AP PHOTO

The Amazon logo is displayed at a news conference in New York in 2011.

MOORE SPORTS

Local high school softball schedules

The rst games will be played on Feb. 21

North

PINECREST

Last season: 6-17, 3-9

Feb.

Feb

Feb.

Feb.

March

March

March

March

March

March 18 vs. Lee County

March 19 at Southern Lee

March 24 at Jack Britt

March 26 vs. Western Harnett

March 27 vs. Jack Britt

March 30 at Montgomery

March 31 vs. Overhills

Apr. 2 at Overhills

Apr. 13 vs. Montgomery

Apr. 14 at Pine Forest

Apr. 17 vs. Pine Forest

Apr. 21 vs. Hoke County

Apr. 24 at Hoke County

Apr. 28 at Richmond

Apr. 30 vs. Richmond

May 1 vs. Richmond

UNION PINES

Last season: 18-10, 10-3

Feb. 26 vs. Heritage

Feb 27 vs. Grace Christian

March 3 at West Johnston

March 5 vs. Richmond

March 6 vs. West Johnston

March 10 at South Johnston

March 12 vs. Overhills

March 13 vs. South Johnston

March 16 vs. Pine Forest

March 17 vs. Harnett Central

March 20 at Harnett Central

March 23 at Pine Forest

March 24 at Southern Lee

March 27 vs. Southern Lee

March 30 at Overhills

March 31 vs. Western Harnett

Apr. 2 at Western Harnett

Apr. 13 at Richmond

Apr. 14 vs. Triton

Apr. 17 at Triton

Apr. 21 at Lee County

Apr. 22 at Apex

Apr. 24 vs. Lee County

Apr. 28 vs. Scotland

NORTH MOORE

Last season: 15-8, 9-6

Feb 27 at Western Harnett

March 3 at Grace Christian

March 10 at Jordan-Matthews

March 13 vs. Jordan-Matthews

March 17 vs. Chatham Charter

March 18 vs. Western Harnett

March 24 vs. Northwood

March 27 at Northwood

Apr. 10 at Chatham Charter

Apr. 14 at Eastern Randolph

Apr. 15 vs. Montgomery

Apr. 17 vs. Eastern Randolph

Apr. 21 at Southwestern

Randolph

Apr. 24 vs. Southwestern Randolph

Pinecrest softball poses for a team photo at the end of last season.

Hurricanes score 3 times in nal 2 minutes, stun Mammoth in 5-4 win

Carolina became the third team in history to have the historic rally

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — In many ways, last Thursday’s game wasn’t one Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere will want to play on a loop at a family gathering.

His wipeout in the neutral zone early in the second period allowed Utah winger Kailer Yamamoto to score his rst of two goals and tie the game after Carolina dominated the opening 20 minutes.

Then with just 13 minutes left in the game, Yamamoto pestered the Hurricanes defenseman into a turnover and a goal by Michael Carcone to give the visiting Mammoth what seemed like a nail-in-the-co n two -goal lead.

But Gostisbehere — returning to the lineup after missing the last ve games — and the Hurricanes not only fought back, but they also pulled o one of the best rallies in NHL history.

Andrei Svechnikov, Gostisbehere and Jordan Staal scored three times in 89 seconds, with Staal’s goal coming with just under 30 seconds remaining, to turn a multigoal de cit into a 5-4 Hurricanes win at Lenovo Center.

“Just forget,” Gostisbehere said of moving past his miscues, “or score right after so you forget about it.”

It was just the third time in

league history that a team trailing by two goals with under two minutes remaining ended up winning in regulation.

The rally started with Gostisbehere and Svechnikov.

With Carolina on a four-minute power play due to a high sticking penalty by Barrett Hayton and Brandon Bussi (21 saves) on the bench for an extra attacker, Gostisbehere shot wide, but the puck hit the end boards and popped right to Svechnikov. He banged it into the vacant net for his second goal of the night and 20th of the season — matching last season’s total.

Gostisbehere, who had scored his seventh goal of the year on the power play to tie the game in the second period, got his second of the night 22 seconds after Svechnikov’s goal.

With Bussi again on the bench for a sixth skater, Jackson Blake zipped a diagonal pass to Gostisbehere at the right point for a one-timer that hit the cross bar and went in to tie the game.

“It is always about your next shift, good or bad,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said.

“You score a goal, you don’t sit there patting yourself on the back. You’ve got to go do something about it. The same thing if you give up a goal. Ghost has been around. I don’t think he gets too ustered.”

Then the Hurricanes seized the momentum to get the winner.

Defenseman Jalen Chat eld took a shot from the outside edge of the right circle. Jordan Martinook tipped the shot, and

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Kingsley Donaldson

Union Pines, boys’ basketball

Kingsley Donaldson is a senior for the Union Pines boys’ basketball team.

The Vikings got a win over South Johnston last week in between snowstorms, and Donaldson had a huge game. He hit 4 of 8 from beyond the 3-point line and 9 of 15 overall from the eld to pour in 34 points. He added 10 rebounds, ve o ensive boards and a pair of steals.

For the season, he is the No. 8 scorer in the NCHSAA, all classi cations. He’s also sixth in rebounding.

“We were just kind of riding the wave. But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked.”

Jordan Staal, Hurricanes captain

the puck went to Staal at the left post, where he knocked it in for his 12th goal of the year.

“We were just kind of riding the wave,” Staal said. “But obviously, things weren’t clicking and it nally clicked. To get those three goals that quickly

and in that short period of time to win the game was really cool.”

Gostisbehere and Svechnikov each nished with three points.

“You saw him tonight,” Staal said of Svechnikov. “He was not only scoring goals, but he was physical, he was hard, he was skating well. And he’s got his strength back and his speed. … He’s the player that we all know he can be. And this year he’s been solid all throughout.” And despite struggling much of the night on the power play, Carolina managed to score two key goals on ve opportunities.

“It’s sticking with it,” Gostisbehere said. “The entries weren’t beautiful, but at the end of the day, when you get two goals on

power play, you know it’s going to help you win.”

And it did the Hurricanes extended their point streak to six games and further tightened their grip on the Metropolitan Division lead on Whalers Night.

“It’s always nice to score goals, especially game winners,” Staal said. “It’s making memories, and I love the game, I love being a part of of nights like this, and you want more of them. You’re chasing them, and you’re chasing those memories.

“And to do it alongside these guys in this room, the friends, and battle with each other is what I live for. It’s what I do this job for, and tonight was one of the good memories.”

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Hurricanes center Jordan Staal celebrates his game-winning goal against the Mammoth with forward Nikolaj Ehlers (27) during Carolina’s 5-4 win last Thursday in Raleigh.

Carl Goldston Jr.

Sept. 27, 1934 – Jan. 25, 2026

Mr. Carl Goldston Jr., 91, of West End, North Carolina, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at FirstHealth Moore Regional in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

Please keep the family and friends of Mr. Carl Goldston Jr in your thoughts and prayers.

Carl Lee Goldston Jr., fondly known by his daughter as “her little rubber band man,” and to his grands as “Birdie”, was born on September 27, 1934, to the late Janie Bell Hu Goldston and Carl L. Goldston Sr., in Eagle Springs, NC. Mr. Goldston took his ight on January 25, 2026, at Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, NC.

Mr. Goldston was a member of Pleasant Hill Free Will Baptist Church for many years. In 1955, he was united in marriage to Mary McLean Goldston. To this union, three girls were born.

Mr. Goldston was employed with Carthage Fabric Mills in Carthage, NC for many years until his health declined and was medically retired. Mr. Goldston loved art and did beautiful freehand pictures. He loved shing and Sadie was his shing buddy. Every time he would go, she thought she was supposed to go with him. Most of the time, she was right there with him. He had a love for yard work, gardening and just being outside; he always kept everything well-groomed in the yard. Even though he had many health challenges in his later years, he always bounced back and didn’t complain. That’s why he was called our little rubber band man.

Mr. Goldston was predeceased by his entire family of siblings, William Henry, Vivian Morrison, Helen Goldston, Novella Moore, Lillian Bowden, Jessie Lee and Alice Goldston, two daughters, Doris Jeanette Simmons, and Debrah Jane Thomas and one grandson, Theodore Daniel “Danny” Harris Jr.

Mr. Goldston leaves to cherish his memory, one daughter, Sadie (Diane) McLauchlin and her husband, Henry of Killeen, TX; four grandchildren, Larry Scott Patterson (Karla) of Wake Forest, NC, Nicholas Pratt (Stephanie) of Seven Lakes, NC, Daryl McLauchlin of Killeen, TX, and Belinda Clark of Pinehurst, NC. A bonus granddaughter, Kendra Myers of Mt. Airy, NC; seven great-grandchildren: two greatgreat-grandchildren. A special niece who was so good to him, Sarah Alford of Pinehurst, NC, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

Kimberly Ann Matthews

July 18, 1964 – Jan. 24, 2026

Kimberly Ann Matthews (née Ru ennach), age 61, of Seven Lakes, passed away on January 24, 2026.

Kimberly was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She spent 34 years married and dedicated much of her life to raising her three daughters, who were always the center of her world. Her love for her family was unconditional, and nothing brought her more joy than time spent with her grandchildren.

Kimberly was strong in her faith and lived it daily through service, kindness, and devotion to her church. She was an active member of the Sacred Heart church community, generously volunteering her time in various programs and also worked as an assistant in the preschool. Later in life, she proudly earned her associate’s degree and went on to create and lead programming for the Moore County Libraries, combining her love of learning, children, and service.

She is survived by her daughters: Stephanie Czarcinski of Charlotte, married to Kyle; Megan Fackler of Leland, married to Jonathan; and Samantha Greene of Charleston, married to Brandon. She was a proud grandmother to Evelyn, Jack, Madison, Matthew, and baby Greene. Kimberly is also survived by her mother, Kathleen Ru ennach, and her siblings Amy, Joseph, and Danny. She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Ru ennach, who passed in 2007.

Kimberly will be remembered for her strength, her deep love for her family, and the way she showed up for the people she cared about. Her legacy lives on through her children and grandchildren who will carry her love with them always.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 2, from 5-7 p.m. at Boles Funeral Home in Southern Pines. A Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, February 3, at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Saint Anthony’s Cemetery, with a reception afterwards.

In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Sacred Heart’s Preschool Program in Kimberly’s memory.

Sylvia Jean Shiver Gallagher

Nov. 3, 1940 – Jan. 23, 2026

Sylvia Jean Shiver Gallagher, age 85, of Carthage, NC, and formerly of Pompano, FL, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Due to the inclement weather, graveside services have been moved to 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Red Branch Baptist Church Cemetery in Carthage, NC. Any additional updates will be posted here.

A native of Broward County, Florida, she was the daughter of

William Luther Moses

Aug. 6, 1930 – Jan. 29, 2026

William Luther Moses, age 95, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at FirstHealth Hospice House in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

Bill was born on August 6, 1930, in Tarboro, NC, to the late Talmage Owen Moses Sr., and Eula Strickland Moses. After graduating from Wake Forest College in 1955 with his Degree of Juridical Science, he married the love of his life, JoAn Mauney. Together, they had four wonderful children. As a lawyer, Bill specialized in real estate law. His passion, however, was his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed many things in life, especially serving his church and community, boating, sailing, photography, shing, water skiing, traveling with his family and friends, listening to classical music, and home handyman projects.

Bill is survived by his wife of 69 years, JoAn Moses; his daughter, Sara (Allan) Inman of Raeford, his twin sons, Robert (Sheryl) Moses of Poquoson, Virginia, John Owen Moses of Orlando, Florida, and his youngest son, James Mauney Moses of Greenville; his grandchildren: Austin Wood, Tyler Moses, Olivia Moses, Victoria Moses, Aidan Moses, Jared Moses, and Holt Moses; great-grandson, McKennon Wood.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 6, at 2 p.m. Eastern at the Chapel of the Pines in Seven Lakes, NC, located at 581 Seven Lakes Drive, Seven Lakes, NC 27376. A visitation will precede the service at 1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

the late Edgar and Ruth Sandlin Shiver. Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, John Gallagher, and a brother, Phil Shiver. She is survived by her four sons, Michael Gallagher and wife Jennifer of Shingleton, MI, Mark Gallagher and wife Debbie of Carthage, NC, Shawn Gallagher of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Jared Gallagher and wife Ti any of Carthage, NC; sister Coral Tribble of Carthage, NC; brother Larry Shiver of Crawfordville, FL; granddaughter Jessica Gallagher, step granddaughter Crystal, and great granddaughter Isabella Montoya (daughters of Mark & Debbie). She was a Wife, a Mother, a Grandmother, and a Sister and was great at all of them. She always took care of us and was always there to console us when we were sad, as well as to celebrate with us when things were good. She defended us to a fault, even when we were wrong, which was often. She will be greatly missed, but we know where she is, and she wouldn’t come back if she could. She is renewed and with family that preceded her, and we will see her again.

Elaine Moore Stewart

Jan. 8, 1945 – Jan. 22, 2026

Elaine Moore Stewart passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Gordons Hospice House, Statesville, NC. Elaine was a lifelong resident of Moore County. She was a 1964 graduate of Elise High School. She was a homemaker who loved caring for her home and family. She loved baking and crocheting and used those talents to make gifts for her family and friends. Elaine was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. Elaine was very proud of all her children and grandchildren. She was a daughter of the late Alton Benjamin and Vinia Allen Moore and was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, C J Stewart; a brother, Nehemiah Moore; and a sister, Ester Moore. Elaine is survived by children; Wendy Stewart Pruitt (Mark) of Reidsville, NC, Seth Stewart (Christine) of Mocksville, NC, Marshall Stewart (Diane) of Statesville, NC, Martha Stewart Tolksdorf (Axel) of Greensboro, NC, Mark Stewart (Lisa) of Concord, NC; 11 grandchildren: Collin and Ivy Claire Pruitt, Luke Stewart, Matthew, Jacob, and Benjamin Stewart, Challie, Caroline, and Camilla Tolksdorf, Gezadiah and Serenity McCorkle; brothers: Alan Moore, Laddie Moore; many nieces, nephews and friends.

The body will lie in state on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kennedy Funeral Home, Robbins, NC. Interment will take place at Browns Chapel Christian Church Cemetery.

Mona Maxine Johnson

March 30, 1934 –Jan. 25, 2026

Mona Maxine Johnson, 91, of Southern Pines, passed away on January 25, 2026, at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital

She was born on March 30, 1934, to the late Sidney and Hazel Downey in Missouri. Mona loved her family and worked as a Homemaker caring for her two sons, Dale and Larry.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 63 years, Ralph E. Johnson, her eldest son, Dale Curtis Johnson, and her great-granddaughter, Charlotte Reese Johnson.

Mona is survived by her loving son, Larry and RaVonna (Ronnie) Johnson of Pinehurst, NC; two grandsons, Michael and Brandi Johnson of Bakersville, CA, Robert and Heather Johnson of Jacksonville, NC; and greatgranddaughter, Aubrey, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of Mona’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Pinehurst United Methodist Church: 4111 Airport Road, Pinehurst, North Carolina. Pastor Jabe Largen is o ciating.

John

Peter Rooy Jr.

July 22, 1934 – Jan. 29, 2026

John Peter Rooy Jr., age 91, of West End, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at his home, with his wife by his side.

John was born in Montclair, New Jersey, on July 22, 1934, to the late John Rooy Sr., and Blanch Decker Rooy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Toni Marie Jackson. He leaves behind his loving wife, Giselle Esehberger Rooy.

John proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. He was a loving husband, father and friend and will be greatly missed.

He will be laid to rest in New Jersey at a later date.

Coy Scott McNeill

Oct. 26, 1959 – Jan. 25, 2026

Coy Scott McNeill of Pinehurst, NC, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, after a short battle with cancer. He was 66 years old.

Coy was born and raised in Asheboro, NC, where he developed a love of the woods, sports, music and community. He graduated from Asheboro High School in 1978, where he played quarterback on the football team, was an American Legion Baseball player, and made many lifelong friends. Coy graduated from High Point College in 1982, where he was a member of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. He and the love of his life, Cindy, rst met as students at High Point College. After reuniting decades later, they were married in the college chapel on May 20, 2006, surrounded by family, friends and countless fraternity brothers and sorority sisters.

After college, Coy worked in sales for Grogan Paper & Packaging Inc. He and Cindy also spent nearly 15 years working in furniture sales for John-Richard at the High Point Market before retiring to Pinehurst in 2020. However, Coy’s true passion was forged in a small cabin in the woods in Montgomery County, where he spent his free time deer hunting. Coy’s love of the land, and the preparation and process of hunting, were just as important as the act itself, though nothing brought him greater joy than scoring a big buck.

Coy never met a stranger and was known for his gregarious and congenial personality. He found pleasure in stepping away from the rush of busyness to appreciate simple, everyday moments. Coy loved sitting on the beach in Wrightsville; playing guitar; shagging to beach music with Cindy; walking his chihuahua “girlfriend” June Bug; bass shing; playing golf at Pinewild Country Club; attending family reunions; volunteering at First Baptist Church of Pinehurst; traveling to the Gulf Coast of Florida; reconnecting with old friends and making new ones along the way.

After an unexpected diagnosis of terminal cancer in December 2025, Coy faced his nal weeks with dignity, humor, and faith, which sustained him. He was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

Coy was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Betty and Samuel McNeill, who instilled his faith in God and love of deer hunting and country cooking. He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy McNeill; sister, Joanna Mason; brother, Mark McNeill; sisters-in-law Libby McNeill and Becky Owen; brothers-inlaw Gary Mason and Joe Owen; nieces Katie Molina (Michael) and Allison Koontz (Wesley); and nephew Caleb Mason (Dana); father-in-law, William Burbage; stepchildren, Lindsay Mathews (Dave), Jackson Sams, and Adam Sams; step-grandchildren, David and Russ Mathews; and many grand nieces and nephews, cousins, and other extended family members and friends.

A funeral service to honor Coy’s life will be held Friday, February 6, 2026, at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Pinehurst, 7373 NC-211, West End, NC. Reception to follow. In lieu of owers, please consider a donation in Coy’s memory to First Baptist Church of Pinehurst, PO Box 5941, Pinehurst, NC 28374.

Daniel Eugene Shorts

Oct. 28, 1985 – Jan. 27, 2026

Mr. Daniel Eugene Shorts, 40, of Cameron, North Carolina, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at his residence.

Daniel Eugene Shorts, age 40, a beloved resident of Cameron, North Carolina, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. He was born in Red Lion, Pennsylvania, and later made North Carolina his home, where he built a life centered on faith, family, and love.

Daniel was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother who cherished his loved ones deeply. He was a man of strong faith, guided by his favorite scripture, John 3:16 — “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” His faith shaped the way he lived, loved, and served others.

Known as the life of the party, Daniel had an incredible sense of humor and an infectious laugh that could light up any room. He loved shing and the beach, where he found peace and joy, and he was always willing to help anyone in need—never hesitating to lend a hand, o er encouragement, or show up when it mattered most.

He is survived by his wife, Erica Shorts; his children, Jaylen Shorts (21), Jayson Shorts (19), Rylee Shorts (3), and Franklin Lamanac (4); his stepdaughter, Dixie Munger (14); his mother, Karen Squalls; his brother, Ryan Coleman (Melanie); his sisters, Jessica Williams (Jeremy), Amanda Sanders (Jeremy), and Melissa Shorts; along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to McLeod Funeral Home, 310 Courtland Drive, Sanford, NC 27330 (919292-6565). Service details, including visitation and memorial information, will be shared by the funeral home.

In lieu of owers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a fund established in Daniel’s memory to support his children.

Charles Kersey

“C.K.” Smith Jr.

April 24, 1944 – Jan. 30, 2026

Charles Kersey “C.K.” Smith Jr., 81, of Southern Pines, passed peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family on Friday, January 30, 2026. A celebration of his life will be held at the First Baptist Church, 200 E. New York Ave., Southern Pines on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11 a.m. Full obituary to follow.

Doris McAlpin

July 26, 1934 – Jan. 24, 2026

Doris McAlpin, age 91, and a longtime resident of Gulfport, MS, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 24, 2026, in Pinehurst, NC.

Mrs. McAlpin was born to James and Hallie Thompson in New Era, Louisiana. She met her future husband, Malcolm, in Alexandra, Louisiana, and they married on June 27, 1953. After the births of their sons in Natchez, MS, the family moved to Gulfport in 1962. Doris and Malcolm opened their own tire company, Discount Tire Center, in 1963. After closing the business in 2021, Doris moved to Pinehurst, North Carolina, to live with her youngest son and daughter-in-law in 2025.

Doris was a long-time member of Burton Memorial United Methodist Church in Gulfport, where she also served as a Youth Sunday School teacher and as an active member of the Bible study group. In her spare time, Doris enjoyed attending to her garden.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Malcolm, and her siblings: Ester Lee Thompson Greene, James Thompson Jr, and Lester Thompson.

Doris is survived by her sons: Malcolm McAlpin III (Marsha) of Houston, TX, and Michael McAlpin (Deirdre) of Pinehurst, NC; ve grandchildren: Ryan McAlpin (Annette), Nicholas McAlpin, Sara McAlpin Helwig (Adam), Jennifer McAlpin, and Erin McAlpin Shi (Kevin); and six great-grandchildren: Zachary, Timothy, Ashton, Madison, Salem McAlpin and Claire Helwig. Her legacy lives on through her family.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, MS. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. with the service following at 10 a.m.

She will be laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery in Gulfport.

The family asks that memorials be made to Burton Memorial United Methodist Church, 2419 22nd Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501.

Catherine O’Hara, Emmy-winning comic actor of ‘Schitt’s Creek,’ ‘Home Alone’ fame, dead at 71

She was the iconic suburban mom for millions of millennials

By Andrew Dalton and Jocelyn Noveck The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Catherine O’Hara, a gifted Canadian-born comic actor and “SCTV” alum who starred as Macaulay Culkin’s harried mother in two “Home Alone” movies and won an Emmy as the dramatically ditzy wealthy matriarch Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek,” died Friday. She was 71.

O’Hara died at her home in Los Angeles “following a brief illness,” according to a statement from her representatives at Creative Artists Agency. Further details were not immediately available.

O’Hara’s career was launched with the Second City comedy group in Toronto in the 1970s. It was there that she rst worked with Eugene Levy, who would become a lifelong collaborator — and her “Schitt’s Creek” costar. The two would be among the original cast of the sketch show “SCTV,” short for “Second City Television.” The series, which began on Canadian TV in the 1970s and aired on NBC in the U.S., spawned a legendary group of esoteric comedians that O’Hara would work with often, including Martin Short, John Candy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis and Joe Flaherty.

O’Hara would win her rst Emmy for her writing on the show.

Her second, for best actress in a comedy series, came four decades later, for “Schitt’s Creek,” a career-capping triumph and the perfect personi cation of her comic talents. The small CBC series created by Levy and his son, Dan, about a wealthy family forced to live in a tiny town would dominate the Emmys in its sixth and nal season. It brought O’Hara, always a beloved gure, a new generation of fans and put her at the center of cultural attention. She told The Associated Press that she pictured Moira, a former soap opera star, as someone who had married rich and wanted to “remind everyone that (she was) special, too.” With an exaggerated Mid-Atlantic accent and obscure vocabulary, Moira spoke unlike anyone else, using words like “frippet,” “pettifogging” and “unasinous,” to show her desire to be di erent, O’Hara said. To perfect Moira’s voice, O’Hara would pore through old vocabulary books, “Moira-izing” the dialogue even further than what was already written. O’Hara also won a Golden Globe and two SAG Awards for the role. At rst, Hollywood didn’t entirely know what to do with O’Hara and her scattershot style. She played oddball supporting characters in Martin Scorsese’s 1985 “After Hours” and Tim Burton’s 1988 “Beetlejuice” — a role

she would reprise in the 2024 sequel.

She played it mostly straight as a horri ed mother who accidentally abandoned her child in the two “Home Alone” movies. The lms were among the biggest box o ce earners of the early 1990s and their Christmas setting made them TV perennials. They allowed her moments of unironic warmth that she didn’t get often.

Her co-star Culkin was among those paying her tribute Friday.

“Mama, I thought we had time,” Culkin said on Instagram alongside an image from “Home Alone” and a recent recreation of the same pose. “I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you.”

Meryl Streep, who worked with O’Hara in “Heartburn,” said in a statement that she “brought love and light to our world, through whipsmart compassion for the collection of eccentrics she portrayed.”

Roles in big Hollywood lms didn’t follow “Home Alone,” but O’Hara would nd her groove with the crew of improv pros brought together by Christopher Guest for a series of mockumentaries that began with 1996’s “Waiting for Gu man” and continued with 2000’s “Best in Show,” 2003’s “A Mighty Wind” and 2006’s “For Your Consideration.”

“Best in Show” was the biggest hit and best-remembered lm of the series. She and Levy play married couple Gerry and Cookie Fleck, who take their Norwich terrier to a dog show and constantly run into Cookie’s former lovers along the way.

“I am devastated,” Guest said in a statement to the AP. “We have lost one of the comic giants of our age.”

Born and raised in Toronto, O’Hara was the sixth of seven children in a Catholic family of Irish descent. She graduated from Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Institute, an alternative high school. She joined Second City in her early 20s, as an understudy to Gilda Radner before Radner left for “Saturday Night Live.” (O’Hara would brie y be hired for “SNL” but quit before appearing on air.)

Nearly 50 years later, hernal roles would be as Seth Rogen’s reluctant executive mentor and freelance xer on “The Studio” and a dramatic turn as therapist to Pedro Pascal and other dystopia survivors on HBO’s “The Last of Us.” Both earned her Emmy nominations. She would get 10 in her career.

“Oh, genius to be near you,” Pascal said on Instagram. “Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world.”

Earlier this month, Rogen shared a photo on Instagram of him and O’Hara shooting the second season of “The Studio.”

O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, sons Matthew and Luke, and siblings Michael O’Hara, Mary Margaret O’Hara, Maureen Jolley, Marcus O‘Hara, Tom O’Hara and Patricia Wallice.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Catherine O’Hara, a cast member in the Apple+ series “The Studio,” poses for a portrait last March in Los Angeles.

STATE & NATION

How Super Bowl halftime show evolved from pageantry to pop culture’s biggest stage

From marching bands to global spectacles drawing

130 million viewers

By Jonathan Landrum Jr.

The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Once upon a time, the Super Bowl halftime show belonged to marching bands and pageantry. But these days, it belongs to global pop stars, cinematic production and moments that ripple beyond the stadium.

Over the years, the league’s brief intermission has transformed into one of entertainment’s biggest stages, hosting era-de ning performances from Prince in the rain to Rihanna’s record-setting return, Usher’s tightly choreographed showcase and Kendrick Lamar’s layered, visually driven storytelling.

What began as intermission ller has evolved into a global spectacle, rivaling the NFL’s championship game itself for attention from more than 100 million viewers worldwide.

That evolution continues this year as Bad Bunny prepares to take the halftime stage, placing Latin culture and Spanish-language music at the center of America’s most-watched television event.

“The halftime performance has come a long way,” said Dan Marino, the Hall of Fame quarterback who played 17 seasons with the Miami Dolphins and competed in the 1985 Super Bowl. As an NFL analyst, Marino’s had a front-row

RUSTY KENNEDY / AP PHOTO

Michael Jackson performs during the halftime show at the Super Bowl in 1993.

seat to several halftime shows.

“Not a lot of people really watched it,” he continued. “But now, people love to watch the halftime show.”

That shift did not happen overnight. For decades, the halftime show re ected the NFL’s family-friendly image, built around marching bands, drill teams and patriotic spectacle. As the Super Bowl grew into an uno cial national holiday — and a global broadcast event — the league began rethinking the power of those 12 to 15 minutes, gradually turning the break into a cultural platform capable of launching careers, shaping narratives and, at times, sparking national conversation.

Last year, Lamar used the halftime stage as a narrative space, weaving choreography, costuming and staging to explore themes of identity, power and perception. The performance stayed within league parameters

while still drawing broad interpretation and debate over its imagery and tone.

Lamar’s show became the most-watched halftime performance on record, drawing roughly 133.5 million viewers, surpassing Usher’s 2024 performance, which reached about 129.3 million. That number from Lamar’s set is about six million more than Fox’s broadcast of the Philadelphia Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

“I think the live element is pretty exciting for people because it’s a massive production and there’s so many moving pieces,” said actor Scarlett Johansson, who doesn’t consider herself a football enthusiast. But she’s intrigued by the unpredictability of the halftime show like Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson’s infamous “wardrobe malfunction,” Lady Gaga dropping from a stadium roof and Rihanna’s pregnancy reveal.

“You kind of watch with nervous excitement,” Johansson said. “You know at any moment something could maybe go wrong. That’s why it’s so fun to watch it because you’ve got all this anticipation. The production is so huge and so many people have come together to create this one moment. It’s kind of awesome.”

Kris Jenner agrees, calling the halftime show a “giant surprise.”

“The production level and how quickly they put it together as they’re breaking into commercial and come back with this fabulous, epic show,” said Jenner, the matriarch of “The Kardashians” reality television show. “Through all the years and technology, it gets better and better. It’s so exciting to watch and see what they come up with next and who is going to perform. It’s such a big deal.”

Usher said his appearance with the Black Eyed Peas during the 2011 Super Bowl taught him not to “take the moments for granted because you only get 13 of them.”

His show in 2024 was vastly di erent from the NFL’s rst Super Bowl halftime show in 1967, which featured marching bands from the University of Arizona and Grambling State University, a historically Black college, along with hundreds of ying pigeons, thousands of balloons and two soaring men wearing jetpacks.

After the inaugural Super Bowl, the NFL kept bringing back other marching bands, drill teams, signed Chubby Checker and Up with People, an organization that stage positive thinking through dance and song performances. However, none of those acts were considered huge draws.

But as the Super Bowl’s popularity soared and game day emerged as an uno cial holiday in the U.S., the NFL wanted the halftime show to grow in the same capacity. The league tapped New Kids on the Block and Gloria

Punxsutawney Phil said to have seen shadow, forecasting 6 more weeks of wintry weather

Tens of thousands gathered at Gobbler’s Knob for the famous forecast

By Mark Scolforo and Tassanee Vejpongsa The Associated Press

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — Punxsutawney Phil is said to be predicting six more weeks of wintry weather after he saw his shadow Monday.

His annual prediction was translated by his handlers at Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania.

The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club says that when Phil is deemed to have not seen his shadow, that means there will be an early spring. When he does see it, it’s six more weeks of winter.

Phil tends to predict a longer winter far more often than an early spring.

It’s already been a long, cold winter across much of the United States, and on Monday, Punxsutawney Phil’s handlers were poised to announce whether the weather-predicting groundhog says there’s more of the same to come.

When Phil is said to have seen his shadow upon emergence from a tree stump in rural Pennsylvania, that’s considered a forecast for six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, an early spring is said to be on the way.

Tens of thousands of people were on hand at Gobbler’s Knob for the annual ritual that goes back more than a century, with ties to ancient farming traditions in Europe. Punxsutawney’s festivities have grown considerably since the 1993 movie “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray. Lisa Gibson was at her 10th Groundhog Day, wearing a lighted hat that resembled the tree stump from which Phil

emerges shortly after daybreak.

“Oh man, it just breaks up the doldrums of winter,” said Gibson, accompanied by her husband — dressed up as Elvis Presley — and teenage daughter. “It’s like Halloween and New Year’s Eve all wrapped up into one holiday.”

Gibson, a resident of Pittsburgh, was rooting for Phil to not see his shadow and therefore predict an early start to spring.

Rick Siger, Pennsylvania’s secretary of community and economic development, said the outdoor thermometer in his vehicle read 4 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius) on his way to Gobbler’s Knob.

“I think it’s just fun — folks having a good time,” said Siger, attending his fourth straight Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney. “It brings people together at a challenging time. It is a unifying force that showcases the best of Pennsylvania, the best of Punxsutawney, this area.”

Last year’s announcement was six more weeks of winter, by far Phil’s more common assessment and not much of a surprise during the rst week of February. His top-hatted handlers in the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club insist Phil’s “groundhogese” of winks, purrs, chatters and nods are being interpreted when they relate the meteorological marmot’s muses about the days ahead.

AccuWeather’s chief longrange weather expert, meteorologist Paul Pastelok, said early Monday some clouds moved into Punxsutawney overnight, bringing urries he called “micro akes.”

Pastelok said the coming week will remain cold, with below-average temperatures in the eastern United States.

Phil isn’t the only animal being consulted for long-term weather forecasts Monday. There are formal and informal Groundhog Day events in many places

Estefan the rst two years of the ‘90s. Then it saw a huge breakthrough when Michael Jackson headlined the 1993 show at the Rose Bowl in Southern California, where the King of Pop notoriously moonwalked across the stage and performed hits including “Billie Jean,” “Black or White” and “Heal the World.”

Jackson’s stellar performance opened the door for other stars like the Rolling Stones, Diana Ross, Jennifer Lopez and Shakira who are eager to perform.

The NFL handles production costs and expenses for performers — who don’t get paid — but the exposure to hundreds of millions of people worldwide is considered priceless.

Some notable examples include U2’s remembrance of the 9/11 victims; Beyoncé’s unapologetic Blackness and political activism through her Black power anthem “Formation”; and the rst show to feature hip-hop artists led by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg in 2022.

Snoop praised NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Jay-Z for pushing the halftime show forward. The league worked with Roc Nation to help its Inspire Change initiative, created by the NFL after an agreement with a coalition of players who demonstrated during the national anthem to protest social and racial injustice in this country.

“Shout out to Jay-Z for changing the climate. Roger Goodell for giving him an opportunity,” Dogg said. “This is music. The music that dictates the world is what’s performing at halftime now. They’re starting to understand that it’s about what those players want to hear, what those fans want to hear, and what’s universally e ective.”

Snoop added: “It has no color on it now. Pop used to have a color on it. Now pop is popular. So, the most popular music is the music that we make. It makes sense to put those people on there that make that music.”

Groundhog Club handler

A.J. Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather-prognosticating groundhog, during the 137th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, on Monday.

in the U.S., Canada and beyond. Groundhog Day falls on Feb. 2, the midpoint between the shortest, darkest day of the year on the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It’s a time of year that also gures in the Celtic calendar and the Christian holiday of Candlemas.

BARRY REEGER / AP PHOTO